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Fantasy or reality? Inexpensive solid state preamps that get you 80% there?

Recently, I posted asking about solid state preamps in the $4k region. I got some really good suggestions. Much appreciated. I have that list saved in a folder and will consult it.

I'm still a bit shy about spending $4k. So, lately, I've found myself reading about Schiit Saga and Freya S preamps. Why? Well, the idea of a non-tube preamp still appeals to me but these are much, much less expensive. 

I'm wondering if anyone has done some comparing of Schiit's Saga and Freya solid state preamps? Have you tried either of these preamps and come to some conclusions about their sonic worth compared to other more expensive solid state preamps? Were they worth it? Were they just a waste of time for you?

In brief:

Schiit Saga S vs. Freya S?
Schiit Saga or Freya vs. more costly solid state preamps?

The ultimate reason for asking is that this is a hobby where it's easy to plunk down small amounts of money (relatively) thinking that one can get 80% of what they want only to find that there's really no free lunch. If that's the case, I'll just keep saving for something better (Pass, Ayre, etc.). If not, I might just try a Saga or Freya (or something else — Parasound used? Etc.)

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jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

There is a Hafler DH 110 preamp on EBay for $325 + $32 shipping. Why spend more? I have one in my collection of preamps. Sonically as good as any four-figure preamp - contrary to what the "golden ears"  crowd claims.

jlchen's avatar
jlchen
8 posts
 

A simple question but no simple answers, I afraid.

In the audiophile world, you get what you paid most of the time. However, the higher cost it goes the diminish return rule will dominate. I believe you will get 80% of the functions in a budget level SS preamp. The only question is if you will be happy to settle on 80% of the performance.

May be your implied question is this one: Is preamplifier not so important in the audio system, that you can put a small percentage of budget in it and not affecting much of the overall performance?

wolf_garcia
6,695 posts
 

I have an original series Freya and don't know why everybody doesn't have one of these (now Freya +). The tone with great sounding NOS tubes is amazing (my preference is NOS GEs), it has plenty of amp driving gain especially in tube mode, and its two other modes are always there to keep the tubes honest...the tube mode sounds simply more detailed for my tastes and my primary amp these days is a Pass XA-25 witch itself is extremely detailed. The Schiit stuff is generally excellent, USA made, and hard to beat. 

yyzsantabarbara
4,794 posts
 

The Benchmark LA4 gets me to 100% of reference levels.

I sold the following preamps in the last 2 years and kept the LA4:

  • Coda 07x
  • Topping pre90
  • Schitt Freya+

I liked all 3 above to some degree but had complaints with some aspect of their sound. With the LA4, I feel I do not have a preamp and what matters is my source and amp. No complaints with the LA4. I may get a second one if my next 2nd system DAC is not as good as rumored direct to amp.

mbmi's avatar
mbmi
550 posts
 

Audio GD Vacuum HE1- XLR / with it’s own regenerative power supply. Nothing can touch this monster under 10 grand US....... cost $3,500 and you’ve got a piece that you keep forever. The most musical pre amp for your money available out there.

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