Mark,
I just looked up your system. Have you compared the Superscoutmaster to the SME 10? I would be very interested in your impressions. I have not heard the new VPIs or compared my SME to other tables. I heard the SME 30 once in a completely different system. The VPI is a newer design and may sound close to the SME 10 and to your scoutmaster. The SME V or IV.vi arm is a big upgrade and may be worth the cost to you. SME build quality and sound are excellent, as you know, but I wonder how competitive SME is with the newer designs out there, ie. Raven AC, etc.
I like my Music Groove II phonocable, but your Nordost has me intrigued. Expensive though.