If you are completely happy with your amp-speaker combo then I would look to your vinyl playback system as the next move, given your dedication to and enjoyment of the format. Your Herron will make the best of anything you put in front of it so money is your only constraint. I recently moved from a top flight VPI to an idler-type (inner rim drive) table with a top notch arm and cartridge and experienced an enormous leap in performance. Like you, I spin records almost exclusively for long, serious listening sessions. I can’t tell you what an unexpected surprise it has been to change my vinyl playback system and reap such huge sonic dividends.
Dedicated Vinyl system next upgrade?
Hi. I love my system. I really do. I love vinyl and listen to vinyl nearly exclusively via “appointment listening”. I do Sometimes stream and listen while I walk or while working but I love just sitting and listening to my stereo. I believe I’ve arrived regarding finally achieving a great set up and have experienced that vinyl “magic” that audiophiles obsess over. I understand that limitations exist and a great stereo will reveal the quality of a recording - good or bad. The law a diminishing returns regarding upgrading is something I’m mindful of. I don’t have endless funds to spend on upgrades. My question is - what should I consider upgrading next? Should I ditch the integrated amp considering I’m using an external phono stage? Or should I go with a better integrated amp? Or should I look at a better cartridge? Do I upgrade my turntable or just the tonearm? Do I upgrade the power cable on my amp?
Here’s what I’m currently working with - and thanks for your thoughts/suggestions!
Clear Audio Concept Turntable
W/ Hana SL cartridge
Herron Audio VTPH-2a Phono Stage
Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II integrated power amplifier
Kimber Kable speaker wire and interconnects (I forget which model - an entry lever set - nothing crazy)
Bowers and Wilkins 805 D3 stand mount loud speakers
Set of two stereo REL S/510 subs
Here’s what I’m currently working with - and thanks for your thoughts/suggestions!
Clear Audio Concept Turntable
W/ Hana SL cartridge
Herron Audio VTPH-2a Phono Stage
Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II integrated power amplifier
Kimber Kable speaker wire and interconnects (I forget which model - an entry lever set - nothing crazy)
Bowers and Wilkins 805 D3 stand mount loud speakers
Set of two stereo REL S/510 subs