Herron VTPH-2 MC Loading Plugs

1) Yes.

2) Yes.

3) 1% is probably a good idea, to keep the loading on the two channels matched. Also, the resistor doesn't have to be rated to handle significant power, and choosing one rated at 1/8 watt or even less would be fine. For example, if the cartridge puts out 0.5 mv a 100 ohm resistor would be dissipating (consuming) 0.0000000025 watts!

4a) I suspect so.
4b) Yes.

5) My guess is yes.

6) No. When I purchased my VTPH-2 I had Keith supply me with 1K plugs in addition to the 47K plugs he normally supplies. After performing some comparisons I ended up using no loading plugs. This is with an AT-ART9 cartridge.

Good luck. Regards,
-- Al

Thank you very much Al!

Why not just call Keith? Have him send you some. Because all that stuff matters, and Keith has good plugs, resistors... and solder, which you didn't mention but matters. Also if you tell Keith your cartridge and taste in sound he can probably recommend a couple likely values to try.

Why not just call Keith? Have him send you some. Because all that stuff matters, and Keith has good plugs, resistors... and solder, which you didn't mention but matters. Also if you tell Keith your cartridge and taste in sound he can probably recommend a couple likely values to try.

Where's the fun in that?  Keith is not responding to phone or emails (possibly due to COVD-19 situation)