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Herron VTSP-3A

Hey guys, I just got this preamp in my system and have only used it for 5 hours. However, I don't have to wait for burn in or more evaluation time to tell this compenent is absolutley outstanding. The VTSP-3A is the new version and it has over 50 changes from the VTSP-3. I got my system sounding really good before the arrival of the Herron, but the Herron has really brought my system to life. Heck, the VTSP-3A has had the most postive impact on about every aspect of sound in my system than any other electonic compenent I have ever bought. I feel like the Herron is letting me hear the potential of everything else in my system. I thought I would make this post since I'm not sure if a lot of people know about Herron. If someone is in the market for a top of the line preamp, they may want to at least consider this one. For the record, I have no affliation with the company, I'm just a VERY happy owner.
128x128kclone
kclone's avatar
kclone OP
601 posts
 
Violin, yeah from what SFlazor posted above, it sounds like the 3A is considerbly better than the 3. Let us know your thoughts after it comes in.

I have been spending some more time listening, I still can't get over how good this preamp is and I'm still using the stock power cord and I have it plugged in to the wall too. I mentioned in my initial post, the Herron pretty much ehances or improves all aspects of the sound. I would describe it as a preamp that does not have any trade offs. It has good spacing, air, warmth, soundstaging, imaging, tone, yet at the same time has outstanding frequency extension and detail.
lewinskih01
793 posts
 
Interesting thread. I've been eyeing the VTSP-2, though, that is in my short list with the Lamm LL2, First Sound Presence, and Joule LA-150, to be paired with a McIntosh MC275. Any thoughts sound-wise from experienced Herron owners who have also had First Sound and/or Lamm?

Thanks!
billspecfoc
103 posts
 
Lewinskih01, if Tvad is reading this thread, he could advise you regarding the LL2 and First Sound preamps, not sure about the Joule. IIRC, he said the LL2 is very system-dependent. If he doesn't pipe up here, you could always email him.

Bill
violin
120 posts
 
Rackon, I agree with you. Until this thread appeared I thought that I was the only one on Agon that owned any Herron gear and wondered why more people did not mention Herron Audio.
Lewinskih01, I also have a Joule Electra LA 150 II and there are differences. In my system the LA 150 has great bass and mid-range, actually a little too much warmth,IMHO to be absolutely accurate, but the top end gets constricted when called on to reproduce the treble at loud passages.I understand that the A mod to the VTSP increases it's low end and overall dynamics which I thought were pretty great before.However I cannot comment on the A mod until I get my unit back and it breaks in.
In my system, I definitely prefer the Herron even as just the 3 over the LA 150.
Carter
rossop
7 posts
 
I just updated from #3 to 3A and I must agree with Sfazor.
I was very happy with my VTSP-3 but the upgrade to 3A status has been a revelation. Greater transparency, extended dynamics and more punch in the bass are immediately apparent. I also noticed more stereo separation.
I live in Australia and it took 1 month. It cost me more in shipping than the upgrade cost so I would say it was great value.
What I like a lot is the fact you have an upgrade path from previous models and don't need to go buy a whole new unit.
Also, Herron gear is not outrageously expensive like some other more well known hi-end brands. Plus the fact that Keith Herron is always on hand with help or advice makes it a no brainer for me.
I'm a BIG fan!
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