This probably isn't going to help but I am using a Pass XP-20 pre with my VTPH-2A I also have experience with conrad johnson which also sounded excellent. I went with a PASS preamp for system synergy reasons as my amps are Pass XA100.5's and I could utilize the XLR interconnects between the amp(s) and pre-amp which reduced the noise floor. If I didn't have the Herron VTPH-2A I would go with a PASS phono stage but the Herron is so good that I don't feel the need to change it out. Also I utilize NOS Telefunkens in the Herron which is a nice upgrade to the stock tubes.
Preamp for Herron VTPH-2A
Ok, the eventual goal will be to try a Herron VTSP-360. However, that is not in the budget, even used, until sometime next year. So, I've decided to get an interim preamp.
I have approximately 3k to work with right now.
I'd like to hear what VTSP-2A owners are using now or have used in the past with success.
As for other suggestions, here's what I'm looking for right now.
*Needs:
Gain - I need a preamp with gain. Somewhere around 10db to 12db would be optimal.
Transparent. I'm not looking for coloration. I'd like to find one that does the best job of sounding like it's not there.
Input impedance: 47K or higher with on the SE inputs.
Line level only: No phono stage, no DAC, etc.
*Preferences:
True balanced output. Nice, but not necessary. I'd like to place the turntable in a spot where it needs approximately 25 feet of cable run between it and the power amp, but can live with it if it stays near the power amp.
Tone Control Bypass (no tone controls preferable)
Remote control: Nice , but not absolutely necessary.
*Don't care:
Tubes/Solid State. As long as it is sufficiently transparent, the tech doesn't matter.
Thanks in advance. I'm sure based on the recommendation I got for the VTPH-2A, I'll get some great suggestions.
TIA
I have approximately 3k to work with right now.
I'd like to hear what VTSP-2A owners are using now or have used in the past with success.
As for other suggestions, here's what I'm looking for right now.
*Needs:
Gain - I need a preamp with gain. Somewhere around 10db to 12db would be optimal.
Transparent. I'm not looking for coloration. I'd like to find one that does the best job of sounding like it's not there.
Input impedance: 47K or higher with on the SE inputs.
Line level only: No phono stage, no DAC, etc.
*Preferences:
True balanced output. Nice, but not necessary. I'd like to place the turntable in a spot where it needs approximately 25 feet of cable run between it and the power amp, but can live with it if it stays near the power amp.
Tone Control Bypass (no tone controls preferable)
Remote control: Nice , but not absolutely necessary.
*Don't care:
Tubes/Solid State. As long as it is sufficiently transparent, the tech doesn't matter.
Thanks in advance. I'm sure based on the recommendation I got for the VTPH-2A, I'll get some great suggestions.
TIA
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- 55 posts total
IMO, any preamp, especially any phono stage ought to come with return privilege's. If I could find a way to need this beauty, I'd beat you to it https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Luxman-CL35-MKIII-Tube-Preamp/303871182981 Transparent, love it, keep it, or send it back, cost of return shipping is not a lot to risk. Of course you could write the seller asking about transparency, the tone defeat features ... a quickie find about it https://skyfiaudio.com/products/luxman-cl-35-mk-iii |
Here is a Herron VTSP-3a-R03 within your budget: https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649717691-herron-audio-line-stage-vtsp-3a-r03/ |
- 55 posts total