What phono preamp are you using?

I’m using a Gold Grace F-9 cartridge with a Soundsmith nude Ruby OCL stylus.

I’m very excited to be getting a brand new Herron VTPH-2A phono preamp within the next several weeks!

@pesky_wabbit, initially I had no idea what it was. I was interested in bidding on a Denon DP-62L turntable and the cartridge wasn't mentioned in the listing. I messaged the seller who told me it was an F-9. I found out about it when I looked it up. My high bid accounted for both TT, cart, and some wiggle room. My winning bid was half the value, essentially I either got the TT or cart for free. It's one of my best eBay purchases ever. Obviously, I had no idea how old the original stylus was so I ordered the Soundsmith replacement. I bought a record through Discogs and Michael Fremer happened to be the seller. He told me that I was wise to pair it with the Soundsmith nude Ruby OCL stylus. He said he has the exact same setup. I've been extremely pleased with it. Now it's time to see what the Herron VTPH-2A will add.

@vinylvalet, Thanks! I’m really excited to get a new unit directly from Keith!

Keith knew that I’ve wanted one since last year. He called me Wednesday and said that he found some spare parts in his inventory and if I was interested, he could make me one. Of course, I said YES Please!

@vinylvalet, @larsman, @vinylzone, thanks guys, I really appreciate it!

Since resurrecting my stereo from a 15-year hibernation three years ago, I’ve had the joy of a 14-year-old kid with his first stereo! It’s been a crazy ride with constant upgrading of all components in my system.

With the Herron, my feet touched the bottom of the rabbit hole and I can finally climb out.

Later this month I’ll be putting in NAT Audio Generator monoblocks, a Symmetrical line stage, and of course the Herron. I’ll finally have enough quality hardware to power the Magico A3s to reveal the potential I heard while auditioning them.

I’m looking forward to relaxing and listening to quality vinyl!

First night listening to the Herron VTPH-2AE in the system. Everyone told me that I needed to add a phono preamp to the system and now I know why. Amazing separation of all the instruments! I'm hearing things that I've missed before. All I can say is wow! It's going to be a blast listening to all of my albums again. 

Listening to Led Zeppelin III UK first pressing at the moment. Zeppelin isn't known for quality recording of their music, at least the early albums. The Herron really improves this album!