Herron VTPH-2A vs Rogue Ares Magnum

Thanks @jmolsberg - your direct comparison of Ares to Herron, in favor of the latter, was so relevant to me and finally put me over the edge to put down my cash.

I’ve been a high-fi enthusiast for over 15 years now, churned through truckloads of gear, and was genuinely stunned at what I heard last night. I heard music in a way I’ve never heard before, in any system. Easily the best headphone system I’ve heard in my life. The Ares was holding back the Shelter Accord/Stax 009/S and Stax T2 amp. The Herron blew open their potential. Musicality, detail, dynamics, and 3D soundstage all pegged to "11" out of 10. No SUT ratios to mess with, either.

I’m used to mediocre gear getting shamelessly shilled online, but that’s DEFINITELY not the case here. In fact, you guys are kinda jerks because the VTPH-2A is even better than you made it sound :)

Tonight I hope to try the Herron in my big rig, directly against my $14.4K phono stage. It’s rightfully fearing for its life right now. Wish I’d heard the Herron a year ago. There's a distinct possibility I'll own two of these soon.

Any of you guys curious or on the fence - just call Keith now, just do it.

Well little update...the VAC is still earning its place in the big rig after the first round, for now. But running at 3x the price of the Herron! Happily running in the Herron in the Stax rig, very awesome! The aforementioned hum noise appears to be some interaction with the Stax T2 amp (60dB on gain on that amp itself). The Herron has been quiet as a mouse on the other 2 rigs I've tried it. 

Gonna try again in the big rig after burn-in!

I’ll be interested to see what you have to say in a couple months. Must be pretty close.