2. amps-preamps
  3. 174386-145450

Recommendation for replacement of Freya +

In one of my systems, it does double duty of 2 channel and HT. I have a Lexicon RV-6 for HT and then I was using my Freya + for 2 channel. The main issue is that I use the same speakers for both systems so I use Home Theater Bypass. The Freya doesn’t have what I would call a true version and you have to turn the volume control all the way up on the Freya to get the full signal in bypass.

I get a nasty hum once it’s turned all the way up and it’s driving me mad!

Looking for a replacement pre-amp that has HT bypass, a remote, and balanced input and output for around $1k used. I’ve seen Parasound P6, Emotiva XSP for around that price but looking for other options.

Greatly appreciate any input or recommendations.

 

blkwrxwgn
reubent
7,093 posts
 

If it were me (it's not), I would not want my tubes being powered-up when listening to HT (which could be often, depending on your (you're families) watching habits.

A great, but not inexpensive, option might be a Backert Labs Rhumba 1.3 pre-amp. Reviews are very good. And, to engage HT bypass, you power off the pre-amp. No hours put on the tubes when watching HT.

Of course, before spending any additional money on a different pre-amp, I would want to insure the noise was caused by the existing pre-amp and is not coming from the HT electronics.

Post removed 
blkwrxwgn OP
240 posts
 

People worry about their tubes being used too much????

I don’t really get that, people buy used tubes, tubes used to be what drove TV’s!  Never been a concern for me at all. I in fact keep my Freya on all the time. 

reubent
7,093 posts
 

@carlsbad 

But my guess is you've thinking of your kids watching TV 20 hours a day.  

That was my primary concern.

@blkwrxwgn 

My other concern about tubes was the mention of a tube integrated amp. If it has tubes in the amp section, they do not last nearly as long as pre-amp tubes. Also, if it is left on all the time, or most of the time, there is some risk of fire while unattended. I know it's not necessarily a great risk, but I've read multiple posts over the year about burning tube amps.

I've had tube pre-amps, amps and integrated amps. Always like the SQ of tubes, but I'm done with bottles. I "settled" on a solid state integrated amp a few years ago and couldn't be happier.

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