Prof--congrats on the Herron purchase. I think you will enjoy. Keith is very careful about tube selection for his units so you can expect a lots of hours of musical enjoyment. I've never seriously considered rolling tubes on my unit since it sounds just the way Keith designed it to sound with the stock tubes--which is to say like music. Should you have any trouble with tubes (or anything else--or even just a question about how to get the best out of the unit) Keith will be right there for you. Have fun!
Herron VTPH-2A phono preamp owner's advice.
Okay members, I couldn't stand the suspense any longer. I had to find out for myself if the stellar reviews on the VTPH-2A are overblown or indeed honest. I ordered a unit yesterday and it is on Herron's schedule to be built. Hopefully I'll see it sooner rather than later. Anyways, the question I have deals with tubes. I've never owned any tube equipment, only solid state. Does anyone have a clue as to how long the stock tubes should last? I know that folks will want me to tube roll and there will be tons of advice on which tubes to purchase. I plan on following the advice from Herron and simply stay with the stock tubes.