I previously owned a Herron VTSP 1a-166 preamp and my experience echoes yours and Tenebaum, I found the preamp to be overly neutral, lacking a bit of air and dimensionality. I ended up selling it and have never looked back. I currently run an older Deja Vu Audio preamp and am very happy. I firmly believe there is no more important piece in a system than your preamp. As Chayro says above the improvement can be quite startling. I can't offer any thoughts on on the VS3a sorry.
Herron pre upgrade...
My system has evolved to a point where I am looking for some specific sonic improvements. I am a huge fan and loyal customer of Herron components. They have been the highlight of my audio purchases over the years. Recently, I had my amps upgraded to M1A's and am enjoying them. My pre is the vtsp 1a-166. The rest of my system is comprised of an Arcam CD23T cdp with Dunlavy Cantata's and mid level Morrow cables and PC's.
I am currently researching a "possible" speaker upgrade (current thread running in the speaker forum). But putting that aside, I have read tremendous things about the Herron's VTSP 3A. The improvements I am looking for I can best describe relating to instruments, most notably guitar strings and piano notes. While things sound good, they seem slightly flat to me or to fall off quickly. Overall low to mid volume performance is another trait I would like to improve. Currently, there is quite a step-up in musicality at mid+ volume levels. Often a touch higher than preferred for daily background music.
Being a hobby enthusiast at best, I would be very interested in hearing from others who may be able to help critique the components I have assembled. Any input related to the 1a vs 3a preamp would be great also. Maybe I should be considering the jump up to the 3A before moving up to another speaker.
Thanks for your time.
I am currently researching a "possible" speaker upgrade (current thread running in the speaker forum). But putting that aside, I have read tremendous things about the Herron's VTSP 3A. The improvements I am looking for I can best describe relating to instruments, most notably guitar strings and piano notes. While things sound good, they seem slightly flat to me or to fall off quickly. Overall low to mid volume performance is another trait I would like to improve. Currently, there is quite a step-up in musicality at mid+ volume levels. Often a touch higher than preferred for daily background music.
Being a hobby enthusiast at best, I would be very interested in hearing from others who may be able to help critique the components I have assembled. Any input related to the 1a vs 3a preamp would be great also. Maybe I should be considering the jump up to the 3A before moving up to another speaker.
Thanks for your time.