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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.)

128x128hilde45
hilde45's avatar
hilde45 OP
5,051 posts
 

@yogiboy Thanks. That may be a viable route after all my searching/thinking.
@ditusa  Appreciate it! Yes, at $1k Schiit might be it. Now it’s head to head against Van Alstine. Hmmm. Schiit Freya+ vs. Van Alstine RB -- quite the contest.
@audphile1 There’s no chance I’m selling both tube preamps. My tube preamp is quite amazing. Custom built with great parts and inspired by a classic deHavilland model with outstanding 6SN7 tube. But having an SS preamp to match the Pass is interesting. Some don’t think that Pass preamps are really all that great. Many spending in that region much prefer Ayre, and I’d be inclined to try Ayre, first.
@bosssound I like the design and features of Parasound a lot. If I was spending $4k, though, I’d look at Ayre, first.

The Emotiva looks interesting, too.

jordi's avatar
jordi
110 posts
 

Wow 80% I was thinking maybe 78% but I want 100% so since I have that I’ll pass

jl35
4,048 posts
 

The Pass preamps got much better starting with the XP series… you’re really at the point where there are many good choices and it’s simply personal preference… I’m lucky to be able to have the Freya for a second system but it’s far from a replacement for the XP-22

jfuquay
113 posts
 

I’m going to say that getting to 80% is fairly easily done in electronics, especially solid state. I don’t think there are that many secrets in circuits or components, having built five DIY amps and preamps, mostly Pass designs. But I don’t think many folks are here for 80%. Those small improvements that add realism start getting expensive, but are worth it to the right listener. The real issue is whether your personal sound preferences are satisfied. To use your own examples, apparently a lot of folks really like the Freya, some the tubes and some the solid state circuit. That’s preference, and as nearly as I can tell has little to do with price. My own practice is to find makers who share my preferences and try them first. Joining a local audiophile club is a great way of getting exposure to other sound preferences and zeroing in on your favorite. Cheers.

decooney
2,180 posts
 

@jl35 " it’s simply personal preference…"

Exactly. When I was exploring XP10/XP12, and XP20/XP22, I asked Nelson about running my Cary SLP-98 tube preamp or the SLP-05 paired up with one of the .5 or .8 Pass series amps - he shared in reply "we have many customers using your same tube preamp with our amps". So the preference comment is spot on imo, and while experiences seem to vary greatly with us all.

@hilde45 If I were in your shoes, I’d pick up a spare Linlai 6SN7 for your custom tube preamp, pair it with your Pass SS or QS tube amps, and call it a day.

i.e. Nelson likes tubes too in a preamp, another preference, with his own flat-tube version right here in a DIY preamp kit, supplied by Nelson: Korg Nutube dual triode kit. Well under your 1k state budget, at $299 for the kit. Several have tried it and like it pretty well. I’d put it up against many preamps already mentioned here.

 

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