First impression: Herron VTPH-2A phono preamp

@scm My opinion and to address your comment....

I have owned all the various versions of the VTPH-1 and VTPH-2 through the current revision.  Used the same table and cartridges when upgrading from the VTPH-1MC (with the latest revisions) to the VTPH-2.  As really good as the VTPH-1MC was (and still is), there is a very nice gain in performance, not subtle, in the VTPH-2, and another not subtle improvement in the VTPH-2a (the current revision).  It is an awesome performer.  IMO, at the top of the list of phono stages.  It would be a steal at three times its price.  At its current retail price, it is outright grand larceny.  

I agree and don't see any need for me to have mm / high level inputs, either.  I haven't heard a high output cartridge that has compelled me to move in that direction and give up the AT moving coil "house sound" and performance, or the Lyra moving coil performance.  But it is a nice convenience and possibly even a simplification of manufacturing for Herron Audio.  Increases the sellability when my heirs pry my stereo from my cold dead hands and liquidate my estate and stereo gear after my death in a [hopefully] distant decade.  

@scm I don’t know what Herron uses in the VTPH-2a. He’s pretty accessible. Give him a call.

I keep all my Herron Audio units as-is based on how the Keith has designed and implemented them. If Herron changes his recommended tube complement, I will let him do the rolling using individual tubes he has tested.

I gave you my honest assessment amd experience over the last 20+ years of using VTSP-1 and -2 units.  My enthusiasm is just a reflection of my opinion of their performance.  

@beatlebum   IMO, Herron Audio has the best customer service in the industry even if a request doesn't come from the owner of a piece of Herron Audio equipment.

I am in your camp re: the VTPH-2a.  All my electronics are from Herron Audio.  Well, not my CD transport.