currently own a vpi scout, looking to upgrade

Call Harry and ask about upgrades. There are several of interest.

I always wondered about the motor.

My experience as a long-time VPI Scout Signature owner strongly suggests that the most effective upgrade would not be a new TT, but rather a VPI SDS motor controller (highly worthwhile!). Assuming your speakers and amp(s) are top-of-the-line, other possibilities, depending, are a better cart and/or phono stage, and balanced AC (Equi=Tech) for your entire system. Only then, when all of those items are addressed (to the tune of maybe $6000++), might a more expensive and perhaps better TT make some noticeable audio difference and, hopefully, an improvement.

OTOH, if one just wants to show off how much money one can spend...

I'd buy a used Basis and dump the amateur turntable.

Buy what you want and let me take that VPI POS shit off your hand for a grand. I will dispose of it properly