Herron Audio...Still in business

Long time Herron fan here and owner of a Reference 360 linestage and VTPH-2a phonostage. I am in regular contact with Keith, whom I consider a friend, and just had an email exchange with him about a week ago. @mulveling is spot on about the reliability of Herron gear. I've owned various Herron components for well over a decade now and have never had a single issue. He runs his tubes very conservatively and the build quality of his products is off the charts. While Keith is now semi-retired from Herron Audio, I understand this decision was driven mostly by the cost and availability of carefully selected parts and his general feeling that he had pushed his most recent designs to the pinnacle of performance. As always, Keith will continue to provide exemplary service and product support for his many clients for years to come. 

“Grab them fast or run away quickly?”

Well…Couple of questions and I’m asking them out of concern,

1) why invest in a product that is no longer being manufactured,
2) and how long one can expect a support on a discontinued product due to lack of part supplies even with the best intentions to service the product.

I get the stellar brand history and support but there are plethora of great choices to consider than buying a discontinued product. I came very near to buying Herron phonostage but when news broke, I decided to look elsewhere. Just my .02 cents.

@dodgealum + 1 - I also have a 360 Line Stage and 2a phono stage and have been delighted with their performance since I got them; some of the tubes are wearing out but I've got replacements on the way. I had to contact Keith last week about the tubes and he told me the same thing about semi-retirement (that's why he took the website down, but he will still respond to emails or calls) and continued support. Superb gear - I notice that one of the audiophile vinyl places (Acoustic Sounds or one of the other ones) that also sells gear is selling Herron Audio gear, I guess the last of it.... 

@lalitk With that rationale, why would anyone invest in a tri5 Chevy or a 65 Mustang? Long discontinued but ever still popular and a joy to operate.

If the item is in good working order, has the features and function you are looking for, and is a price you are willing to buy, then why the heck not pick up something from a "high value" hifi company?

Owner decided not to sell the Herron amps, but he did sell me a VTPH-1 phono stage. From what I've read, they were available as either a MM or MC model.

The one I bought has both MM and MC listed next to the model number on the rear. Any idea how I can tell which model it is. Maybe I could ask Keith Herron, if anyone has his email address. Thanks again.