I just returned my second defective Manley Chinook

I can't believe a manufacturer would release a unit that couldn't even be transported without arriving with problems. Twice.

Sell the Manley.

Get a Herron. It works very well with most equipment.

Get a Herron and get off the upgrade merry-go-round.

Get a Herron and receive a working unit that will work without problems.

Get a Herron and get Keith Herron's personal attention and support.

Yes, everybody keeps hearing the same thing from me about Herron Audion. But I haven't read anybody that disputes anything I've written.

Yes, everybody keeps hearing the same thing from me about Herron Audion. But I haven't read anybody that disputes anything I've written.

Since you asked for it, I’ll share my experience!

I have only auditioned the Herron VTPH-2 at the agent’s showroom, and never used it in my system. However, I have 2 Herron VTPH-1 , one stock VTPH-1MC Plus, another was updated to the Plus status from the original VTPH-1MC. Yes, I liked it enough that I got 2. For that matter, I also have a VTSP-1A/166.

My following comment is based mainly on my experience with the VTPH-1MC Plus in my own system, but my impression with the VTPH-2 in the agent’s showroom was similar.

The Herron VTPH-1MC Plus is very neutral, very quiet, and certainly a bargain at it’s price range. However, for the good or bad, it lacks somewhat the tube’s warmth and tonal color. Also, when compared to some more heavily built (and more expensive) phonos, the Herron seem to lack behind a little on mid-bass and bass authority.

Of course, that is based on what I heard in my system and my personal preference, so YMMV. I have no doubt that the Herron is a good phono, but is it the only choice in its price range? I suppose it depends on your preference and matching gears.

I am not trying to talk down on Herron gears, but just want to add a more balanced view.

I have a Herron VTPH-2 and it has worked flawlessly with my Cary SLI-80F1 and now with my Pass XP-20, XA100.5 combination. I use NOS Telefunkens in it which I feel was an improvement over the stock tubes.

Before purchasing it I compared to an Audio Research reference phono stage at the time and I felt the Herron held it's own against the AR which was a 10K phono stage. So that made buying the Herron an easy choice. And Keith is there to back it up and provide support.

Chuck

John,

This is the first I have heard of the Trio, but coming from a Maxxed Out owner, I bet it is very good. I have been a fan of Kevin's work for almost 15 years.

I didn't see any mention of what a completed kit would cost.

Shakey

Rowland Cadence with Battery Power Supply is the one to go