SOTA vacuum or no?

Consider resale value here as well. Also, while having more flexibility in arm matching, it would be erroneous to think you could use virtually any arm with a SOTA.

That being said the SOTAs are great values. I had a NOVA Series V and enjoyed it very much.

FWIW, I have been very happy with the Souther arm mounted on my Star. Once the thing is set up (just follow the instructions and do not get in a hurry) it has its peculiarities, but is utterly reliable and makes for uncannily quiet groove noise. Be warned however, this arm is not for cartridge swappers, which is the main reason reviewers don't use it more.

I have a Basis Debut vacuum. The vacuum feature is easier to use than even a plain old clamp. Just put the record on the platter, put the center "clamp" (actually a seal) on the spindle and flip a switch. You don't even have to tighten the center clamp. With some warped records one does have to push down the edge of the record, but otherwise it is a no hassle feature.

Periphery rings are a big pain in the ass. Also, they are a disaster waiting to happen (accidentally bumping the stylus with the ring). That said, I know of a number of people who insist that the rings improve the sound even when one is using vacuum clamping (I never personally tried this).

As Larry said,the Basis IS a superb table.Not too cheap though,and worth the dough,if one has it.Yet,I'd bet the "newest" Cosmos IV is on the same playing field,meaning both tables will give one LP bliss!
As to the "ring clamp" issue.My friend uses one,and he had a "split second" disaster(actually almost on two seperate occassions)where he destroyed his Titan-i cartridge from a missed cue of his tone-arm.
Once again,like Larry stated..."an accident waiting to happen"!

Best

Here's a friendly hint for using the VPI periphery clamp - if you do it, you will never take out a cartridge. When taking the periphery clamp off of the record, simply put it over your head and wear it as a necklace until the record is turned over, or a new record is in place. The natural action is to lift the ring clamp straight up, instead of sideways which could interfere with the space that the cartridge is in. Wearing the ring clamp is comfortable if and only if you put it under a color or otherwise touching your shirt. It is a bit sharp on bare skin. Try it a couple of times and it is second nature.