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New Herron VTPH 2A versus used Audio Research Reference 2 Phono

Have been thinking of upgrading my phono stage from my Audio Research PH3 SE.  Looking for easier cartridge loading flexibility, as well as possible upgrade in sound.  Honestly, I've been mostly happy with the current unit but feel it limits me with low output moving coils, many of which work better loaded down a little.

My current front end is a SOTA STAR III/SME V/Benz RUBY Z low output - all running into the phono stage unloaded at 47K.  Line stage is an Audio Research Reference 2 Mk II.  The rest of the system includes a Krell KSA 250 amplifier driving new Magico A5's.

A friend of mine is thinking of upgrading and thus I may have an opportunity to obtain his Audio Research Reference 2 phono (not sure if it is an SE version).  Alternatively, I've been thinking of trying a new Herron VTPH 2A.  I have NOT heard either in my system, only the former in his system.  No local dealers for the Herron, so I'd be taking a chance on it without prior audition.

The used ARC might cost a little more than a new Herron ($3650) but overall the cost difference is not much.

Anyone with experience with both?  Thoughts on which might work best for my system?  Or is there something else available at less than say $6K I should consider instead?

Thanks in advance.
bobbydd
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,841 posts
 
and since you asked, the Lamm which I also auditioned has the same positive qualities over the Herron, very close to the ARC, essentially a tie w my front end. As they should be, considering the $$
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,841 posts
 
ditto for Aesthetix, and there is a phono pre that rewards tube rolling..

Have fun, enjoy your journey, and the music.

Jim
tom2015
89 posts
 
I have not heard the ARC, but the phono pre upgrade topic has not been on my mind since I bought the Herron a few years ago.

just all around fantastic, soundstage, punch, clarity, all there. Is there different, sure, but at this price level the Herron delivers alot.


nolojunko
34 posts
 

I agree with MillerC, it is sublime.  Infinite loading is just a no compromise, no degradation dream.  I had run mine via pass amps/pres and to DeVore O/96s, through Thorens with a AT Art9.  Just as articulate as can be, and so, so customizable.   I have no idea what else I would place in my system if I didn't have this unit.  And I took a long, long time of research before I pulled the trigger.

I'll be sad when I see this unit go, because I don't know if I'll ever be able to replace it once it's gone.  Ugh.  I wish Keith would continue to make them.  If I didn't absolutely have to get rid of my entire vinyl system due to having a very bad vehicle accident, I wouldn't even consider it parting ways with it.  

mulveling's avatar
mulveling
1,774 posts
 

That’s a nice rig you’ve got. And those are 2 of the top phono stages I’d be looking at for your Benz Ruby Z, which doesn’t work well with Step-Up Transformers. I had a Herron 2A and it should do very well for your Ruby, but mine went out the door right before I got a Benz LPS in, whoops!

I also had a Reference 6 preamp and the ARC Reference series really really impressed me. If I were you I’d be highly tempted to go for the ARC if it’s either the 2SE, or a particularly sweet deal on a 2.

The only weird thing about the ARC is that its high gain is VERY HIGH if you run XLR outputs - 74dB. That’s a bit on the high side for the 0.35 mV Benz, but should be OK. Or you can run it SE. The Herron’s gain is perfectly suited to the Benz, but SE only.

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