2. amps-preamps
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Shopping for a preamp

I’m in the market for a preamp. I use a Rogue Cronus Magnum Integrated. I have been looking at phono-pre’s which is fine if I use my integrated as a line stage and power amp. I am also thinking long term so I may be best suited to buy a preamp with built in pre and add a power amp down the road. Budget is between $2,500-$4K.

I've had my eye on:

Herron VTPH2
Whest Three Signature
ARC DSPre
Pass Labs XP-15

I welcome all recommendations on those listed above as well as for other phono-pre’s or for a preamp with built in phono-pre.

My set-up:

Rogue Cronus Magnum
Zu Soul MkII
VPI Scout 1.1
Soundsmith Zephyr MkII
Zu Cabling
asp307

Showing 3 responses by czbbcl

czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
I have the Herron VTPH-2 and it is an excellent unit along with Keith providing great support. I have not heard the other units you mention. He usually offers a trial so you can listen to it in your system which is very important. I had a ARC reference (forget the exact model; $9600 list) on loan from the local ARC dealer and the Herron was very competitive with the ARC.

Good Luck
Chuck
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
The sonic character of the unit is such that it is very true to the music and the recording. Very nice frequency extension on both sides of the audio spectrum along with a nice detailed mid-range. A strong performer and very competitive with units beyond its price point. It is easy to use and set-up with little fuss along with excellent support from Keith.

Chuck 
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
The only comparison I made was with the ARC and with the Herron performing so close to this unit at basically a third of the price I didn’t need to look any further. Keith let me audition the unit in my home and it never went back.

Looks like there is a VTPH-2 on this site for sale; no affiliation. They don't come up used very often.

Chuck
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