I used to own a pair of VTL 450s, great amps, only let go as I decided to move to tube pre + SS power combination, surely a very good match with the Soundlabs!
I read good things about the Herron, did you have chance to compare it to other phono stages?
How close to the speakers is your current listening position? Since you don't mind near field listening have you considered using your left wall (in case it has no windows), placing your speakers a bit closer to the wall and with proper acoustic treatment?