2. amps-preamps
  3. 156511-138624

Schiit Freya+(Plus)

Freya+ users:

For me, sending DAC input through tube output clearly adds warmth, bloom, punch, musicality, presence.
However, when used with analog inputs (TT, FM, cassette), the tubes (current stock JJ 6SN7 supplied with the unit) sound too lush, rather over the top, sometimes frankly bloated. I mean at equal volume (not volume SETTING).

Despite balanced output to power amp, the SS buffer stage sounds inferior to pure passive mode. So it's tubes with
DAC, passive with analog, SS buffer with nothing.

Questions: (1) does my experience sound typical?
(2) should I experiment with rolling Tung-Sols or other recommended upgrade tube?
(3) does any of this bespeak some peculiarity elsewhere in the chain?

Advance thanks for diagnoses/suggestions.

hickamore
systemdecor
10 posts
 

ok, let me see if I found the correct pair of Tung Sol 6SN7 for the LEFT side from rhing:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/313513219446?hash=item48fed81576:g:AfUAAOSwZ8ZW~CRx

Here is the pair of OS GE gray plate side getter 6SN7 for the RIGHT side:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/173936316220?hash=item287f698f3c:g:90EAAOSwEFhdlMVU

 

There are so many Tung Sol tubes and GE tubes. Not to mention some GE tubes are from the 1950. Is everyone using tubes from the 50s or from current years?

hickamore OP
681 posts
 

Definitely you are overthinking, just as I was doing when I started this thread.

Like your current combo idea. Give it two weeks and see if it leaves you wanting. If you find something missing, then roll, roll, roll. The possibilities are endless and the enjoyment lies more in the process than in the end result -- assuming there could ever be an "end." As ever, it's about the journey, not the destination. 

fredcdobbs
128 posts
 

I like the preamp. I'm happy with the sound. Ditto on the Sylvania GTB. Paid $100 for a NOS pair and they pretty much transformed the preamp. They now come with Electro Harmonics tubes instead of JJ. My only complaint with Schiit equipment is it's built to  price point and the RCA inputs are not as durable if you like to change cables a lot like I do. I've had problems with the RCA inputs coming loose or losing contact. But then look at the price. For a couple hundred more you might like the Vincent 32 model preamp. Personally, I wasn't that happy with the sound of the JJ or the EH tubes. 

hickamore OP
681 posts
 

Thanks for the report. Never tried the Silvanias myself as there were tales of excessive brightness and impedance troubles. But you never know until you try, and it's not that expensive. Plainly you're right about build quality. My own approach has been to get along with the Freya, which is fun and easy, while upgrading other components, cables, conditioner, then finally decide on my "forever" tube pre. So far, so good, and I'm due for another roll now that the sound of newer gear is stabilizing after burn-in. 

systemdecor
10 posts
 

I have question about buying XLR cables. I went to Amazon and found the Amazon Basics XLR microphone cable for $7.99 each. Are those cables any good?

 

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Male-Female-Microphone-Cable/dp/B01JNLTTKS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=17E0V6PZJT9KL&keywords=xlr+cable&qid=1641006691&refinements=p_72%3A1248939011&rnid=1248937011&s=musical-instruments&sprefix=xlr+cable%2Caps%2C195&sr=1-1

 

Another question about XLR cable vs RCA cable. Does it sound any better if I use XLR cable? I have never use XLR cables before and XLR cables seem to be very popular for everyone.

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