Herron Audio...Still in business

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.

@kolledog  If you have access to a MultiMeter (even a cheap one will do), I'd expect the input impedance of the MM version to measure 47,000 ohms, and the MC around 7,500 ohms according to Stereophile's measurements of their MC model:
https://www.stereophile.com/content/herron-audio-vtsp-1-preamplifier-vtph-1mc-phono-preamplifier-measurements-herron-vtph-1mc

If you got the MM model and need to do MC, consider adding a step-up transformer (SUT) :)

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.

@nlitworld The auto industry is not an apt comparison to high-end audio. There are usually aftermarket parts available to keep older cars running and even if not, used parts can usually be easily found given the volume of cars that are typically produced. Plus, any decent mechanic can work on a car, but competent techs who are willing and able to work on relatively low-volume, high-end audio equipment are much harder to find.

As someone who owns speakers from a defunct manufacturer I can only liken it to walking on eggshells, and I just pray I never blow a driver or a crossover component. I can assure you it’s not fun situation and therefore @lalitk brings up a very valid point and something that should be very seriously considered by any prospective buyer of equipment from a manufacturer that’s no longer in business. Herron seems a little less risky for now given the continued support by Keith, but it’s still an issue nonetheless.

Last email keith@herronaudio.com

Thanks for all the replies!

@soix ​​​​​​ almost every high end audio component made can be hard to find proprietary components like circuit boards even if the company is still in business. These companies don't generally keep a stock of this stuff for discontinued items very long.  You could just buy point to point wired tube equipment, then no problem finding all the electronic parts needed to fix it.