2. analog
  3. 165113-87559

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
mulveling's avatar
mulveling
2,020 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.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,078 posts
 

@nolojunko so sorry to hear of your accident - hopefully full healing on horizon for you. IF i were you, i would auction the Herron as it has a well deserved following. My best to you.

jim

larsman's avatar
larsman
2,085 posts
 

I've got a Herron VTSP-360 line preamp and VTPH-2 phono preamp and they are both superb, and yes, Keith is great to talk to about this stuff... 

rockyboris
40 posts
 

The best piece of equipment I have is the VTPH-2, it can make a Rega sound awesome.

bobbydd OP
97 posts
 

Ended up with a pristine used ARC Reference 2 SE phono, with new tubes.  So far, I am very happy with this unit.  Bought it at about 50% of retail, still more than a new Herron, which I believe is out of production.

 

Happy listening!

More to discover