Herron VTPH-2A vs Rogue Ares Magnum

@jmolsberg (the @-mention is just not working for me, ugh),
Thanks! The result of a big one-time all-out upgrade push starting last year. Since then I've replaced/upgraded literally everything in my 2 systems except a couple sets of cables, the Koetsus, FR64fx arm, the Rogue Ares, and Stax SR-009. I'm very happy with the results, and the systems get used/enjoyed a ton! Listening time and vinyl buying have both gone way up. 

@mulveling ...please share your feedback on your newly purchased Herron VTPH-2a.  [I'm sure you have other things to do, but maybe you could pen a little review for us, lol].   I, like yourself, have been fascinated by the consistently positive reviews & comments on the Herron.   I believe it'd be a step up from my Parasound JC-3 Jr., but I've been holding off on buying the Herron, since like you, I haven't heard it in person; only the reviews from others.   Thanks and feel free to PM me with any feedback.

Will do! Happy with both of my systems as-is, so this is just experimentation for fun and to satisfy curiosity - while hoping for a potential sonic upgrade, of course. I won’t sell the Ares until I know for sure. I'm probably about 3 weeks out from receiving the Herron. 

Just picked up my brand new Herron VTPH-2A and got it initially setup. Nothing too fancy; I just ripped out the Electro Harmonix 12AT7 and 12AX7’s in favor of pairs of Telefunken smooth & ribbed plates 12AX7 (to get a bit extra gain with 4x 12AX7). I forgot I just received Mullard 12AT7 from Upscale, so I just left in the Yugo Ei 12AT7, lol. Running the Shelter Accord, MC mode, 500 ohms loading plugs.

Definitely no bad surprises or whammies from 1st needle drop. In fact, it just obviously sounds so beautiful and "right" from the very 1st note. Very detailed, dynamic, smooth and spacious. I'm pretty certain I already prefer it to the Ares Magnum haha. It seems to have woken up this still-breaking-in Shelter by the right amount. And I still have my "best" NOS tubes waiting on deck.

Keith shipped quicker than he initially quoted, and just generally was exceedingly pleasant and super to deal with! Now for some burn in, then longer term evaluations. Then it gets a shot in the big 2ch rig! Big freaking thumbs up so far, guys. Have a great weekend!

Haha, it is SO much better than the Rogue Ares Magnum. No comparison. Girlfriend agrees 110%. I may have a slight ground loop issue of some sort, but even with that it's plain just a champion.