Herron VTPH-2


I've read the reviews and searched the archives but thought I'd reach out to the "community" for any additional input on this phono preamp. It would replace a Whest PS.30 in my system. I'd like to try tubes as long as it is quiet and neutral. Thoughts?
dodgealum

Showing 6 responses by dodgealum

Curb;

Glad you are enjoying the Herron. Based on the posts, reviews and talking to Keith I decided to buy one a few months ago and got to compare it with my Whest PS.30 before I sold it. First off, I'd like to second your comment about working with Keith. He is patient, willing to share his expertise and has been very supportive following the sale. I had an issue with one of the tubes and he was very responsive. As to the sound, I could not be happier. The VTPH-2 does everything I want a phonostage to do--quiet, natural, neutral, grainless, dynamic and quick with exceptional inner detail. On Keith's recommendation for a budget cartridge I'm running an AT OC9MLII (on my Scout) and cannot believe what is possible with such a relatively modest cartridge. In comparison with the Whest PS.30, it really wasn't even close. The Whest, though a very nice unit, sounds quite dry and lifeless by comparison. As to the styling, I think the piece is beautiful in an understaded way. It matches my Modwright gear perfectly right down to the blue LED's.
Just what I am looking for--thanks guys. I want to try tubes BUT want it to be super quiet and very neutral, which just a hint of bloom and dimensionality that tubes often bring. Sounds like the Herron is the ticket. As to the styling, I actually like the look of the thing--basic and purposeful with out a lot of "eye candy"!
Interesting. How do you think the Herron linestage mates with the Modwright? I have gotten best results when the preamp or linestage is matched with an amp from the same manufacturer. This was true with my old Audio Research set up as well as my Modwright stuff. Perhaps a pair of Keith's monoblocks to go with the Herron linestage?
You might want to check out the new Modwright LS100 which I believe has input seleet on the remote. From what I've read this is a very nice and competitively priced linestage that can be ordered with a built in phonostage. Of course, if you have the Maya coming then then that may not be the way to go. In any case, best of luck with whatever direction you go.
Kclone:

I could not figure out how to send you a PM on this god forsaken new Audiogon interface. As I am now using the Herron VTSP-3A with a Modwright KWA150SE I would be interested in hearing more about the impedance mismatch you experienced. If you know how to PM, please send me one. If not, a comment here would be appreciated.

Thanks.