2. amps-preamps
  3. 159032-110858

PS Audio BHK versus Herron VTSP-3A(ro2)

I'm currently using a Herron VTSP-3A(r02) pre amp.  I purchased a used mint condition BHK on agon; it arrived today.

My first impressions: With the BHK, streaming SQ is noticeably better than with the Herron. I'm using a DirectStream Sr. DAC. Playing vinyl with the BHK, the Herron sounds noticeably better. I'm using a Herron VTPH-2A phono pre.

All things being equal, when playing vinyl with the Herron/Herron combination, the sound is much stronger and fuller than when streaming the same CD quality song using the Herron/DSD combination.  With the BHK, its the exact opposite, that is, the BHK/DSD streaming sound is stronger than the BHK/Herron vinyl sound.  In both cases, I can increase the volume to achieve about the same sound. 

Playing vinyl, I prefer the Herron/Herron vinyl SQ.  For streaming, I prefer the BHK/DSD SQ.  I am a bit disappointed in the BHK/Herron vinyl sound. Even when I turn up the volume, it lacks the full bodied Herron/Herron sound.  Before I get too excited, I'm going to try different loading plugs to see if that helps. Any other ideas are welcomed.

128x128oldschool1948
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
All too many A/B listening tests are skewed by mismatched volume levels.  As just said, unless the spls are pretty closely matched, comparative listening like this won't tell you too much.
oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948 OP
503 posts
 
I do have an spl, but I am not looking for scientific proof.  In this case, my ears tell me there's a big difference in the sound with the BHK.  There's also a difference with the Herron, but it's not as much and it is in reverse.  My concern is the BHK vinyl sound is a bit hollow when compared to the Herron at all volume levels.

Since I'm using XLR cables with the DSD and RCA cables with the Herron, I expected there to be a difference.  I believe with XLR it is +6db.  I don't expect them to match when I switch inputs.  I do want a fuller more robust BHK vinyl sound. 

I'm not having buyer's remorse.  Overall, I like the BHK for many reasons.  I'm 72.  As I get older, I stream more than I play vinyl.  But, when do, I want that Herron sound.  I've got some tinkering to do with Herron loading plugs to see if that improves things.
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum
1,406 posts
 
I am using both Herron pieces with a 15 foot run of RCA interconnects to my LTA UL No Problem!
oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948 OP
503 posts
 
@dodgealum Thanks for the feedback on the RCA length.  
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