Hi Jim -
There are tons of posts on the advatages of one over the other - I personally recomend the piston type compressor. We replaced the vane compressors with pistons about 3 years ago and are very happy with the outcome. They require less maintenance, operate at a higher psi, generally are more efficient, depending on what hp, and we have had far fewer warranty claims. We have actually gone to a 2 year warranty on our compressor and components due to the performance.