Equalizer in a Hi Fi system

There is simply nothing made anywhere from pro audio or home audio that comes close to ease of tonal tweaking provided by the excellently designed Max...a great item that's I've used for far more than 20 minutes (a few months actually), and it's performed brilliantly. Great reviews generally everywhere, including from me. It cuts  and boosts wherever I need it to, looks great, makes no noise. I've used pro EQ for many decades in studios, live concert mixing, and home recording and the Max fits in my hifi system beautifully. Nothing will replace it anytime soon.

Agreed, but there is not a single thing the Max does BETTER. except for the remote, which can be huge for some 

Not considering remote, Skyline is just as easy to use, sounds completely transparent, and honestly gives a more hi fi take on bass and treble with more flexibility there. I’d say with 2 db cuts here and there and not much boost elsewhere the two units sound very similar. They are set up similarly as well. Both simple to use. But if you wanna add fun factor V shape for average older and newer rock recordings then Skyline wins. 

It basically comes down to remote vs better V or U shaped sound signature versatility 

I've yet to find an equalizer that doesn't add hiss or noise. I am familiar with the Schiit equalizer you mentioned.  I tried one and got rid of it the same day!  It had to be placed far away from other components or it would cause hum.  It also put out excessive audible noise/ hiss whenever you turned the dials too far clockwise.  If noise and hiss is a concern to you, a digital equalizer would be the answer, but those are very expensive and not really a necessity if your equipment and your room are right.