I have only heard a VPI in a shop so can't really comment on them. The way I look at it you want a TT to do two things very well.
First it must spin at 33 and 45. Not, 34 or 45.5. Also it must have minimal wow and flutter, and no variation in drag caused by the variation in the groves (ie high and low frequency). This is very difficult, but is the area where Direct Drives have it all over belt drives. (Of course the uber-decks will do this no matter which method they use). The Technics SL1200 series had fabulous speed control and the new motor on the 'G' can only improve on that. VPI do have a direct drive deck but that is well into 5 figures.
Second is vibration control. I don't know which table is better at that.
As mentioned by others you have to factor in the additional costs of things like cleaning equipment (essential if you are buying second hand records), a cartridge, and a phono stage.
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