Blakeaudio,
Thanks for the kind words. After extensive research I found a fantastic neurosurgeon and I am confident that he will take good care of me.
If you're looking to upgrade your Scout, a discussion post here would probably bring a lot of experienced Scout owners out of the woodwork. Without any experience though, I'd guess motor first, as stable platter speed is critical to good playback. Then perhaps a VPI SDS, I'm planning on one of those down the road. I'm not sure if they are compatible, but you might consider the Mark V platter and bearing. That way you could use one of VPI's periphery ring clamps. One upgrade I am definitely going to do soon is the Black Diamond Racing isolation kit for the Scout pucks for the footers and a shelf for the motor. Oh, heres one we should both do, a good record cleaner. Im favoring the Nitty Grittys. The Scoutmaster is certainly a worthy option, but upgrading kit in bits can be a lot of fun.
I just took a look at your system, really nice choices. I love the way Kevin voices equipment at VAC. How do you like your Minimax pre? I've seen some killer deals on them with NOS tubes included here at the 'gon and have to admit that I've been quite tempted to try one when budget permits. Lovely aesthetics as well.