Herron VTSP-2a vs EAR 324

Thanks for the info. I've tried all the options. I don't think it's uncommon to not hear a difference. Some cartridges are affected more than others.

Ended up sticking with the 324 over a few tube phonos (all in the same price range.) Not 100% satisfied because the mids aren't quite as silky smooth and the imaging isn't as cohesive but I really missed the bass when I swapped the 324 out.

Never ending quest.

Final report, in case anyone is following it. I enjoyed the EAR 324 for a couple months but the more I listened, I realized I just wasn't happy with the presentation. Vocals were more out front than I prefer and guitars were not as present, a bit muted even. Dynamics and bass are excellent however so I moved up to a Lamm LP2, which seems to be giving me everything in a much more pleasing presentation. Hard to beat tubes in in a phono preamp.

@dhcod, will you be selling the EAR?

Already gone. I sold it for more than I paid for the first time every in my life! Ebay in like 3 hours.