hey I am using both right now, I am using "the vest" (reason for quotes is because the brand of vest I am using is "the INcourage system" there are a few brands on the market) as a trial right now, previously I was using mostly accapella and manual percussion...
In my personal opinion, I prefer manual percussions over all physio devices including "the vest".
If you don't know much about "the vest" I'll tell you a bit about it,
Basically it is a vest that buckles up in the front, then you hook of two vacuum hoses to it, these vacuum hoses are then hoooked up to a compressor machine that looks a lot like a computer tower, the vest then inflates and deflates at different speeds and pressure all adjustable to the users preference. Usually a treatment is 30min 2x a day.
Basic theory like all devices, deep breathing in combination with positive negative pressures, works mucus from tiny airways into larger ones causing you to cough the crap out!
I have been told that people benefit most from the vest when it is used in combination with a manual device such as accapella when your using the vest , kind of a combo treatment.
Having said all that (and sorry for the length)
over the years of using all these devices (and believe me I have tried everything) I have also heard every sales pitch for each device and it comes down to , what can you benefit most from? its different for everybody!!! each CFer is an individual case with different needs so see if you repository clinic can get a hold of a vest for you to trial thats what I am doing I got it for 6 weeks free and a vest is valued at over $10'000
hope thats helps!