I have heard the Sumiko you are looking at, and IMO it is a very good table. It was in a Shindo/Devore system I have heard many times. I also think it is underpriced and should be selling for more. A very good deal packaged with the Pearwood Celebration cartridge. The fit and finish is great. The VPI table has received good reviews, I have not heard the VPI model you are considering so I can't comment.
When someone says one is better than the other they need to also be able to say they have heard both in the same system.
If you have not you should try and get a home trial of each table. It sounds like you are working with local dealers.
When someone says one is better than the other they need to also be able to say they have heard both in the same system.
If you have not you should try and get a home trial of each table. It sounds like you are working with local dealers.