Herron VTPH-2A vs Rogue Ares Magnum


Hello all!

For some time I've been thinking of buying "my last phono stage". Not necessarily in a literal sense, but I'm sure you get my point: a really good phono stage that'll keep me happy for years. The VTPH-2A and the Ares Magnum are the two I've boiled it down to, both because they're priced at levels I'm comfortable paying and because every review I've read has been overwhelmingly positive.

The thing is, while I can hear the Ares (non-Magnum) for myself, I can't hear the VTPH-2A and I have a sneaking suspicion the latter is the better phono stage (based entirely on what I've read).

So the question is: have any of you guys and girls hear both of these and can you give me an opinion on the two? I'd be very grateful for any insight you can supply.

- B
agrippa
^ standard, with the blue Cinemag and some very nice NOS tubes. It is an exceptional phono pre, but that Herron was a significant upgrade. It's so darn musical!
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UNCLE! I’ve read these glowing Herron phono stage reports for too damn many years now. I just called up Keith to place my order. Many thanks for your impressions, @jmolsberg!