Schiit Freya +

@mdrone I recall you asking about the Audio Mirror preamplifier in the past. That unit is leagues above the Freya+. I’ve owned the Freya as well as the Freya+. While the Freya+ was an improvement, it is still fairly fatiguing and isn’t even close to the best in terms of coherence. For a similar price, look for a preowned Rogue 99 Magnum preamp. It has a similar circuit design with four 6SN7, but it uses very good parts and it’s performance is a significant step above.

FWIW I don’t think the Freya+ punches above its price point in any way aside from the convenience of switching between passive, JFET and tube. 

I sort of concur. It’s flexibility at the price point is enticing for a new audiophile. I bought mine just to hear for myself. Going to keep it for a desk top system.

I really didn't like this preamp BUT find me one preamp with great tubes like the 6SN7 that has balanced inputs/outputs for under $1k. 

Blisshifi.  

Yes I was inquiring of Audio Mirror.  I am a little concerned about buying from a boutique firm; which might not survive if Vlad retires etc.

Just look at Black Cat Cables.

I rechecked Rogue; any thoughts on the RP 5 series?

I have not tried that series of Rogue electronics, unfortunately. That said, it’s a 12au7 preamp. One recommendation, if you are capable of spending ~$3K on a preamp, is to look for a preowned PS Audio BHK preamplifier. Along with Vlad’s, it was the best preamp I’ve ever used in its price range. You can use it with 12au7, 6922 variants, and with an adapter even 6SN7. I tried many other preamps from Audio Research, Viva Linea, McIntosh and others and only owned two preamps that beat it (Modwright LS-36.5 DM, and the T+A P 3000 HV / SDV 3100 HV).