Tube preamp: Cary SLP-03 vs Schiit Freya+

The problem with the Freya+ is it doesn’t really provide the sound characteristics tubes are known for. Its tube stage sounds like what you get with a tube buffer, i.e. a very slight increase in “bloom.” Doesn’t matter what tubes you roll into the Freya, the result is essentially the same. The Freya+ is wholly better as a passive pre.

I can’t speak for the Cary’s sound but I had an opportunity to buy one NIB for a steep discount. I passed on it because many owner reviews of this model around the web are unenthusiastic, and I found multiple reports of reliability issues.

Generally speaking though, from a sound quality perspective, I think you would indeed be better off buying a pre-owned preamp that once retailed for multiples of the Freya’s price. 

Is the SLP-03 balanced? I don't think so. 

I would recommend used Audio Research… or VAC. But these provide audiophile components built to the highest standards with known excellence of sound… as opposed to contemporary budget components. 
 

I have followed ARC for fifty years… recognizing their amazing performance and owning one or more components for 35 years. All my components are ARC Reference and I now enjoy what I have envied for most of my years of audio pursuit.

Thank you, helomech, for the interesting views. I am trying to find more unenthusiastic reviews of the Cary but most seem (very) positive. Of course it’s not as good as the SLP-05, nor ARC, but I have a limited budget here. And, Russ, yes, the SLP-03 is fully balanced. I have looked for the entire range of ARC preamps (that are balanced - most SP models are single ended) but the price is 1.5-2.0x my max budget… 

Regarding the Schiit, I have read indeed that it doesn’t colour the sound in the same way a lot of tube preamps might, but it does give what is often called “holographic imaging” and wider sound stage, which is probably the key part for me as long as the sound isn’t referred to as “cold”.

I also don’t want to go for Chinese, even though some models like YS Audio Experience Balanced A3 look very nice, because component quality and QC aren’t always what they should be.

The Schiit Freya + is an excellent unit. It is essentially like having 3 versions of a preamp in a single unit. There is minimal cash outlay for a unit. Resale is quick and easy if dissatisfied. Try the Freya +. Odds are, it will fit the bill. Also, it has an excellent volume control. After owning many preamps with crappy potentiometers for volume control, the Schiit is a dream come true.