2. amps-preamps
  3. 136743-92196

Herron VTPH-2A phono preamp owner's advice.

Okay members, I couldn't stand the suspense any longer. I had to find out for myself if the stellar reviews on the VTPH-2A are overblown or indeed honest. I ordered a unit yesterday and it is on Herron's schedule to be built. Hopefully I'll see it sooner rather than later. Anyways, the question I have deals with tubes. I've never owned any tube equipment, only solid state. Does anyone have a clue as to how long the stock tubes should last? I know that folks will want me to tube roll and there will be tons of advice on which tubes to purchase. I plan on following the advice from Herron and simply stay with the stock tubes.
professorsvsu
bpoletti
1,004 posts
 
@dwette 

I use only the tubes provided by Keith.  I have not found the need to use anything different.  I keep in touch with Keith and he lets me know if he has found something better.  I get my VTPH-2a to him for the change. When he works on a unit, it includes a listening session to make sure all is OK. 

I have never even had the case open for a look.
dwette
77 posts
 
@bpoletti thank you for the feedback. 
Keith also encourages me to keep them as is, at least until the unit is broken in [again] (I agree with that). Sometimes I like to try different things, then I settle on something and usually do nothing else to my system for years.
bpoletti
1,004 posts
 
I am breaking in a VTPH-2A that just got a few tweaks (full upgrade previously completed and broken in).  Minor changes but I can hear the unit breaking in again.  It just takes a little time.  I'm using stock tubes and grinning ear-to-ear.    
More to discover