2. amps-preamps
  3. 146549-83849

Did I just make my audio system too sensitive after adding a Herron VTPH-2A preamp?

I’ve added the Herron VTPH-2A preamp to my system and in comparisson to the my previous Tube Box DS phono stage it really exposes so much more of the instruments playing in each track. The clarity and dynamic responce is astounding, so revealing is the Heron that I actually hear much more imperfections. I’m not a golden ear, au contraire - I’m losing my hearing.
I’m questioning if audio tolerances have been affected so much that vinyl grooves, dust and static are more susceptible to be heard? Or is it something else that I’m missing downstream that ’just isn’t right’.

My system consists of the following components:

Upgraded Technics 1200 MKII Turntable,
Herron VTPH-2A Phono Preamp,
Sym Audio Moon Neo 350P Preamp,
OPPO UDP-205,
Bryston 4B3 amplifier,
Bryston Model T Signature speakers

joyofsound

Showing 1 response by dwette

dwette
155 posts
 
The Herron is a wonderful phonostage and the end game in that component for me (and everything around it has been upgraded since I bought it). While it is very revealing of a great source, it will expose flaws if the source isn’t right (table/arm/cartridge/cable). That’s not specific to the Herron but true in general as you work your way up the audio component ladder to better gear.

I’m using mine with a Clearaudio Ovation table w/Universal arm and Dynavector XV-1s cartridge: it is dead quiet and sounds delicious.
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