Why not just go passive, like the TOTL Luminous Audio unit, near your budget. Do you really need additional gain ? All of the preamps mentioned have a color, which you have with your tube units. If you want clarity, ime, go passive....and even the entry level Luminous is far superior to the SYS, from my actual experience. Douk Audio makes a passive superior to the SYS. I have RGR, AGI, Hegeman, Soundcraftsmen, Hitachi, Hafler, Apt, Superphon preamps, and others, and they all are colored, sacrifice detail and neutrality vs the Luminous. Many have been modified, and still fall short, ime. What do you want ?, is the biggest question. Keep in mind, passive is not for everyone, but if the gain and impedance match, it could be the way....Just my thoughts after 50 years of this BS....lol. My best to all, MrD.
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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Now days even listening Spotify from macbook pro can give a decent music listening for many people. But we audiophiles want something more, we want to experience that realism and stereo effect that surrounds our head- da magic! Unfortunately, to create that magic involves lot of effort and money, potentially. You can be totally satisfied with schiit and other inexpensive solutions. However, more you read reviews, forums, and listen to other systems, your preferences will change and upgrade desire will start eating you from inside. |
@panerai557 I have an enviable system. It does much of what I want. This thread is about getting a SS preamp that can serve in a subsidiary way, some of the time. @mrdecibel Why not go passive? Because I tried it with an exceptional passive autoformer and the results lacked gain and robustness. They were too lifeless in my system. @avanti1960 |
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