Tube preamp: Cary SLP-03 vs Schiit Freya+

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. 

@laimac,

The Schiit Freya+ stereo preamplifier is without doubt an excellent performer, It's three preamps in one. I use it with my solid state amps and tube amp and it sounds great with stock tubes. My speaker's efficiency is 2.7 %. In my system the Freya+ is noise and hum free. I use NOS 6sn7GT Ken-Rad (Pre-Ge) staggered plates with black carbonized glass. I think it's a great preamp, If your not listening in tube mode you can turn the tubes off. You will not find a better tube preamp that is balanced and remote controlled with a 5-Year Warranty and Easy Return Policy, and you can purchase brand new for $950.00! BTW, The Ken-Rad tubes are dated 1944, cost $300.00 so factor that into the total price and you are still under $1500.00. As for the sound of the Freya + you must try it in your rig to know if you like the way it sounds. I have no experience with the Cary SLP-03 preamp, I have never listen to one. Mike

The Freya+ is as good as it gets at even twice its price. Unfortunately it comes with some cheap JJ tubes. You have to do some tube rolling to unlock its true potential.I went with ken rad by-231tubes and they took the Freya up to a whole new level! This of course brings up the overall cost, but is worth every penny! Keep in mind that you only have to change the tubes on the right side. The ones on the left are for the cathode follower and do not effect the sound. The Sylvania 6sn7GTA tubes are also a excellent choice at a lower price point. Keep in mind that the GTA is pre 1955 and are a better choice then the GTB. One other suggestion is to use tube buffers because the Freya’s case rings like a bell and the tubes pick up the vibration. Brad