I hate the Schiit Freya tube preamp because it's so good.

[@embracethenoise]

Just wanted to thank you, Thomas, for always being the most pragmatic audiophile there is. It was this video that sold me, finally, on the Schiit Freya+ to partner with my Nord Three (dual Purifi 1ET400A) and I couldn't be happier. Even with stock tubes the combination is perfect for me. Side note: Looking forward to trying a set of GTBs with it too. Thanks again!

[@aldig3935]

This is the most practical sounding audiophile i heard.

[@kevonmanuel]

Yes he is.. We just have to change his mind on cables though.

[@mumulove]

Are you listening in audiophile quality HiFi?

[@dewasealamtunggal7843]

Schiit is good....i haved used schiit mani phono pre amp before...wowww...amazingg...schiit had a good product, no doubt about it

[@darylloth3237]

@@kevonmanuel It's very easy to change a rational person's mind when confronted with indisputable evidence. If the OP hasn't heard a difference between exotic cables and excellent, reasonably-priced cables on the various high end systems owned by him or his friends, then an appreciable difference probably doesn't exist. It's quite a simple concept. It seems to me that the "night and day" differences that some people claim to hear with exotic cables MUST be plainly audible to a person of this OP's experience. Some people´s perceived differences between certain cables are much more easily explained using psychological rather than physical phenomena. Occam's razor. I will be a True Believer™ in exotic cables when someone publishes the first properly controlled, scientifically designed double-blind listening test (that is able to be replicated) and which shows a consistent, significant difference in sound. Why hasn't a study like this been done when it is SO easy to set up and not terribly expensive? The answer is plainly obvious to a thinking person. Remember, as in any debate, the skeptics or non believers don't have to prove a point: They are not making any claims. The True Believers™and the manufacturers are afraid of the inevitable results of such a test. The manufacturers have everything to lose. They are very astute marketers and understand consumer psychology. It is not how I would do business but at least no one is doing anything illegal.

[@kohnfutner9637]

You haven't watched many of his videos I take it.

[@herrtrigger7220]

The 2 guys that founded Schiit were the top brains at Theta Digital and Sumo, among other companies. They don't make 'good' components that will blend into the field like Parasound, Emotiva, Rotel, NAD. Their MO is affordable giant killers. Lots of companies say that but Schiit walks the walk

[@SoundHobbit]

Compare this to PLD2000 and you will get the ideea with Parasound vintage line. 👍

[@Vince-jj8qs]

I have one of the Schiit DACS. Outstanding.

[@cameronkrause4712]

Sumo amps where better boat anchors than amplifiers!

[@Coneman3]

Heard an ugly at Hifi show, sounded amazing.

[@DuzBee]

90% - “Once it’s good enough, it comes down to a question of taste”... Truer words in the audiophile world have never been spoken before. So many people will push their opinion on you in forums, but the truth is they are pushing their taste on you chasing the last 10% Fantastic review.

[@billjundt4475]

Thomas, great review. Can you provide me with the exact tubes you ended up with ? You mention "I got great results using GE tubes made in Canada. GTA and GTB." I would like to order these as well, but looking for the exact numbers so I too can order. Thanks again.

[@whynotwas]

I wish every single audio review was in this style. Perfect Thomas.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the compliment Philip.

[@phoebus]

@@ThomasAndStereo How come the tubes and the controls in the video are sometimes on the left side of the chassis and other times they are on the right?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@phoebus The selfie camera on my phone flips things around.

[@phoebus]

@@ThomasAndStereo I thought it was probably a image flipping thing happening. Was the pre amp you reviewed the Freya or the Freya +?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@phoebus Freya, first gen.

[@mariuspessah2991]

What an honest and insightful review . Surprising in this day and age when better is measured by price . My only complaint is not informing us as to name of his upgraded tubes as I am a tube guy !

[@m.9243]

LOL! Thomas, you have just explained to me what is the meaning of "love - hate" relationship! Great stuff! Keep it up, I really enjoy your sense of humor.

[@ronbo7]

I have owned this preamp for over a year now. Run it in passive mode (bypass the tube gain stage) and it sounds incredible. The fewer electronics you have in your signal path, the purer and sweeter the sound. The volume control on this preamp is exceptional.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks Ron, perhaps I should give it a try in passive mode, I never did and many say it's pretty good.

[@tonipinto228]

No es verdad . Con tubo suena mejor

[@cnhhnc]

"GOOD enough!" You're talking my language, Thomas! Couldn't agree with you more. Getting that 90+% is enough for me. May have to check this out. Nice review!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, there is a 15 day return policy but check if u have to pay shipping.

[@groovediggers2761]

Schiit Audio gear is good enough for me too. Their Freya preamp mated to a pair of their new Aegir amps, run in mono sounded great at Axpona last week.

[@markwasilow2757]

@@groovediggers2761 Do your Aegir's hum and buzz up close?

[@markwasilow2757]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thomas, How did you end up with a left handed Freya+? Tubes on the left. I want one! Also, do you know if a single Aegir will drive a set of Elac UB52's?

[@thomasmleahy6218]

@@markwasilow2757 Do they have him and buzz?? Do they??

[@akr01364]

A little trick that I've developed over the years with tubes is that if you coat the prongs with a bit of silicone grease with a cotton swab. It helps to keep the socket lubricated so they go in and out more easily and it resolves a lot of the conductivity issues with the sockets. Reducing noise rather a lot more than you'd think it should.

[@BetterISupposeYeah]

That sounds interesting. will try.

[@pauls2099]

Better option would be dielectric grease. Available at any auto parts store. Much more conducting than silicon

[@akr01364]

@@pauls2099 which is a form of silicon grease

[@IronHorsey3]

Audible or just a nice idea?

[@akr01364]

@@pauls2099 don't use normal dielectric or silicone grease. I failed to mention this: the normal stuff plasticizes over time and loses its conductivity. Becoming an insulator instead of a conductor. The one I've used for years is called, ahem, Super Lube. It doesn't plasticize like the others.

[@1980JPA]

I have it, and absolutely love it. running through 2 vidars bridged. I love it.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

This is not a review unit sent to me, I bought it used with my own money. I forgot to mention, this tube amp does have microphonic issues, some tubes we tried sounded microphonic. I got great results using GE tubes made in Canada. GTA and GTB. (That is all that is written on it, no idea what they are) The Freya has the new sound, lean and clean so we found good match with tubes that are 'meaty' sounding.

[@tothemax324]

Hi Thomas the GTA has a faster startup time, GTB slower controlled for longevity, no sonic difference, hope this helps

[@keeferdog5617]

Do you think a warm, laid back, SPONGY and yes, colored tone is achievable with this preamp with the right tubes, Thomas???

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@keeferdog5617 Oh, good question, my friend never tried to tune it that way, I have to ask him. I think his rule is that neutral sounding gear is easier to tune it to color sounding. While color sounding gear is harder to fine tune it to neutral.

[@keeferdog5617]

Thomas & Stereo Sure, good point. That makes sense. Thanks for the quick reply. I’m looking for a good, inexpensive tube preamp to pair with a rather forward amp (Emotiva) and an extended, dare I say bright Focal (al/mag tweet) speakers. So you see the need for a pre to take the edge off the high end (if possible- I know...lose the high gain, forward amp) Always look forward to seeing your vids. Thanks

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@keeferdog5617 Oh, Focal. My favorite bright speaker. I had the Emotiva XPA5 before and those amps are very clear so if you add a freya in, that also is very clear, then you might need to change the tubes to 'roll off' tubes if it sounds too bright. You see, the older tubes will 'round' off the edges but the newer tubes don't necessary do that.

[@danbuffington75]

4:46 "Good enough." That is the real holy grail.

[@errantball2012]

This is the most entertaining, yet serious review, thank you!

[@blathum9]

Thomas I really appreciate your expression GOOD ENOUGH it just make so much sense.

[@thomshere]

Great video thanks! I really appreciate your honesty in your videos.

[@druidworks]

This helped me a lot for my current setup. Investigating more now to see if this may fit my needs.

[@michaelbreunig2001]

Thanks for the insight, since I have had the opportunity to do any comparisons. Great job, really enjoy your videos.

[@maxbrinckman8355]

Just ordered one, going to try it with my forté F5 power amp. Love your videos Thomas. Best hifi channel around.

[@theaudiocircle]

I bought mine almost a year ago, and until tonight I have the chance to open the box. We'll see what happens.

[@herrtrigger7220]

Wow, how did you resist? You have better discipline than me

[@theaudiocircle]

@@herrtrigger7220 I honestly don’t know... I was really busy with work and when I got home every night I thought about that box, every single night. Until the day of the comment above... and I have not stopped using it ever since, such a great piece! It just makes everything sound better and my Heresys love it.

[@Leeloo102007]

I've had an all Schiit sytem for 2 years now (their middle products, all SE). All I can say is that I've never had such a good system in my home. And I've been doing this for 20 years... Audio came a long way. Regarding cables, sorry... , I do like them and they do make a difference, they just don't have to cost so much, and IME all "audiophile" cables color the sound in a way or another. I use Canare (pro cable) for all my analog connections, and Supra for my PCs. Thanks for the review Thomas! :-)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats and I have now heard a few of their product and the things I heard so far are pretty good.

[@Leeloo102007]

Yeah, so far I haven’t been disappointed with Schiit. Even their entry level products are really good. I have the Fulla and at 100 usd it is a solid audio product. I’m now looking to upgrade my system with their higher end DAC, the Yggdrasil, Freya and a second Vidar for a balanced dual mono setup. Should be interesting.

[@StephenLaneHPTek]

I can only give my Freya good reviews. Ive got a complete Schiit System a Freya, Gungnir and 2 x Vidars running through a set of Wilson Watt Puppy 7 speakers. The sounds is amazing. In comparison, I also have a Mark Levinson system where the price comparison is probably 8 x the cost of the Schiit System but can barely tell the difference between the two. Granted the Mark Levinson system is nearly 20 years old but damn, the Schitt system does well for its price point. Im all for Schiit, they have done a good job!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Wow, that is quite an unusual setup! Wilson puppy with entry level priced gear. However, I get what you mean and glad you are enjoying your current setup. I don't know what kind of music you listen to but I wonder if the difference between the budget and high end will show up more in complexe music such as classical music where you need very good control and dynamic range. I just a vidar yesterday and can't wait to try it.

[@StephenLaneHPTek]

@@ThomasAndStereo Yes it is a unique pairing. The Schiit vs Levinson system seems to perform equally when playing a wide range of music. I enjoy a lot of contemporary classical music. I am still yet to pick a complex piece where the Levinson system sounds bigger and more revealing. I can certainly say though that the 2 x Vidars with balanced interconnects is significantly more impressive than a single Vidar. Ill be interested to hear what you think of it. Enjoy and keep up the great videos. I wish I had friends with big impressive systems as you do!

[@bongofury3176]

Hiya Thomas, I hope you are good. I 've been trying to get a Freya Plus since this video. Always out of stock in the UK. Last week the Saga Plus came into stock infront of my very eyes so I bought it immediately. Replaced a 23 year old Linn Kolektor solid state preamp. Instantly more soundstage, more transparency, more depth, more detail, more music. Highly recommended even with the stock tube. I have a PsVane blue bulb tube coming....happy listening from Derbyshire

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats. Yeah once you introduce tubes into the system, it does add to the soundstage.

[@bongofury3176]

@@ThomasAndStereo Update - definitely get a PSVane blue bulb tube - superb and not crazy money. I am loving this preamp. Now also have tube headphone amps and tube phono stage. Tubes are the way. Took 30 years of solid state to realise...

[@DaveTheBird]

I thought from the title that it was click bait, till I saw it was by Thomas, so I watched, great video again.

[@trekjudas]

Now we're talking! This thing was made for me!

[@Dieselmateo]

Great video Thomas. Just in time Im getting my Freya and Aegir amps soon!!

[@willmac5642]

2x Aegir or just the one? Curious as to how much power those badboys consume

[@Dieselmateo]

a pair of course to run my 88db efficient speakers

[@BastianUllr]

@@Dieselmateo The power bill!!!!

[@bstarkey54]

To save me a lot of time and expenses could you let us know which tubes you settled on that you liked? Love the review. I like the honesty that is shown in your reviews. I'm considering purchasing this product but want to order tubes at the same time so I don't have to wait once I get the preamp. Thanks!

[@stephen9463]

The best, actually helpful, real and memorable audio reviews. You always kill!

[@Beyondabsence]

Hi Thomas, this is Gus. Glad to see you with a Shiit product. I have the Schiit Mani pre amp and it's very good as well. PS: I got a pair of Focals 716 floorstanding. I know you've told me about the Buchardt bookshelf. Since I have the focal 706, I found an amazing deal for a pair of the 716. Very happy. I have now a very satisfying system. Stopped thinking about more gear. Enjoying music, music! Still watch your videos. Gratitude to you, always.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

if you liked the 706 sound, then 716 forsure will work for you. Congrats.If you like bass and ever come across a 836v at a good price, you should check it out. Glad you are enjoying your system and thanks for dropping by.

[@Beyondabsence]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks for your feedback. My living room is small and I live in an apartment. The 716 has a good enough bass for jazz and classical. Now, with this video about the preamp, it made me think of it ( lol). I have a Musical Fidelity M2si integrated. Very nice sound. Do you think a preamp like this one would be a good addition ?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't think it's a good idea because your amp does not have the ability to just use the amp section. So you will be going thru 2 preamps if you want to add a freya in. What you have is already very nice.

[@Beyondabsence]

@@ThomasAndStereo I see. Unless I replace the Schiit Mani for the Freya in between my turntable and the musical Fidelity, which does not have phono stage?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, the Freya does not have phono stage so you can't use it that way.:(

[@orisher11]

Love your honesty. 👍🏻

[@jamesallan729]

I used black glass Ken-Rad VT231’s in the gain position, CBS/Hytron 5692’s in buffers. WOW.smooth with GREAT bass. Better than my ARCSP6B, almost as good as my CarySLP05. I could happily live with my Freya+ forever

[@scottlowell493]

Schiit does not aim to provide a super "tubey" sound like you get from traditional romantic amps. They are also NOT aiming for cost-is-no-object. Tube rolling can either make it more of what it is (Russian NOS) or more romantic (Mullard, for ex) to tailor to a different taste. COSTLY tube amps usually come with costly tubes. No way to meet a price point. The bottom line is that the amp provides a GREAT level of performance and quality for the money. The guys at Schiit audio designed amps like the andromeda, which can power the 2 ohm Apogee Scintilla. They KNOW how to make great products. To make it a boutique amp they just need 4 things: 1. CNC milled case 2. More costly tubes 3. Boutique-friendly name. Maybe a French moniker like "Merde" instead. 4. A Penny & Giles heavy duty volume potentiometer. And maybe a pointless backlit VU meter.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Haha, love the 'Merde' joke. That is so funny. Well said what you wrote and yup, 100% true.

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

I finally ordered the Freya Plus due to your video here ! For 950.00 pus tax plus shipping plus decent 6sn7 4 x tubes total $1038.00US thanks Thomas !

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I hopeeeeeeeeeeeeee you like it!

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

@@ThomasAndStereo i'm sure I will like it Thomas , I mean 1k for a tube Pre-Amp with many balanced inputs and outputs and a remote !! Thats kind of un heard of today . And i will evaluate performace on pricepoint of course. But I listened carefully to all your videos about the Freya thats how i made my choice . But my last preamp i bought not counting the Emotiva Pt100 new was the Parasound P3 Back in 09 or 2010 that one was 799.00 new but preamps jumped up in price alot with Parasound ! Can't wait to try the 6sn7 ! Hopefully you have reccomendation for tube rolling !! I know about the tungsol/Sylvania NOS is suppose to be good

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

Ohhh boy !!! Freya plus Vidar completely different sound than the Doge ! There will be a comparraion !

[@orwhat24]

Interesting video: The discussion of threshold is interesting. I always think of it as a scatter graph of price and quality; we all just move up the price axis to our pain point.

[@whayneneal]

Thanks for the review. I'm just getting started in this and I'm seriously considering one of these with the Vidar amp for my first 2.1 system. I'm still researching speakers and subs. There are so many options it's crazy.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes, I heard the vidar and will be borrowing it maybe next week, sounded ok when I heard it last time.

[@markboyd934]

whayneneal after watching this video I am considering the same setup. Want to do two Vidar’s for mono block power. Good luck to you on your purchase.

[@tallpaull9367]

Freya and Crown XLS1502 combo sounds like it could be 90% there too. That would be an interesting test for a killer system on a budget

[@Jfwr2010]

Hi Thomas, great review! I too have stepped into the Schiit...I've recently purchased the Modi 3 DAC to use with my Chromecast Audio streamer. I think it's really good...I have a Musical Fidelity VDACII on my CD Player and there's no comparison, the Modi 3 is superior in every way, so I bought a second one. Very happy with them...($99) btw!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice.I had some musical Fidelity gear in the past and really liked them too. Never tried the entry level dac from Schiit though.

[@jeremiahchamberlin4499]

Thanks for the review, you answered exactly my question about the Freya. I think I’m going for the Freya+. And you’re right, there doesn’t seem to be a lot out there on Schiit equipment, or at least I haven’t found it. Thanks again for the honest, straight-up review.

[@Zockopa]

Personaly im having problems categorising this unit as a preamp. Except the - nicely done - attenuator and a rather limtied array of in and outs its just a selectable bufferstage (JFet or valves) to massage the input signal.

[@gr0nky]

I applaud this review sir. I like the angle you’re coming from and how at some point it’s about perception and personal taste. Bravo!!!

[@MichaelLivingston-me]

I've always liked the sound from good tube preamplifiers. I've not been one that wants to put up with a tube power amp though, no matter how good it sounds. Chances are it will stay that way for about 2 years or less, then it will be time to at least replace the output stage. I no longer have access to a good tube tester, so it's one of those things where I break out the test equipment and observe what's going on. Sometimes you can get away with a bias adjustment. The latest more sophisticated tube amps adjust the bias dynamically. Give me a solid state amplifier along with a tube preamp, and I'm happy. Next, gotta look into those new LRS speakers from Magnepan.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well, if I use a tube setup, then I usually keep the preamp tube and power amp solid state. Tubes are really easy to maintain these days.

[@badnewsbruner]

I agree. The only time I personally use a tube power section is in guitar amps.

[@mochipepper]

Thomas,, I just bought a Freya Plus preamp based on your recommendation (6/20/2021). It's my first tube gear, was little nervous about handling tubes. But the sound was just glorious and so different from my solid state amp alone. Only been about 30 hours, so the sound should improve if anything. Thanks for your straightforward and practical advice.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you are enjoying it.

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

I bet it would would sound great on rp600m for a budget set up 2.0 and a good power amp

[@christopherkent6512]

And yet another unbiased and great review, really appreciate your honesty. I am thinking about a new pre so this is very timely. Thanks again.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Wait for my Topping Pre 90 review too.

[@christopherkent6512]

@@ThomasAndStereo hi, thank you for the heads up on this. I am not desperate just yet but want to be sure that when I do spend the money it is based on “good authority” and unbiased opinions. I was also thinking Premaluna....?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Or Doge 8, depends on your budget.

[@TravelandAudio]

Hi Thomas, I got my Schiit Freya +(the new version) 2 weeks ago and I've been doing some tube rolling. It came with stock Tung-Sol made in Russia, but I got some extra tubes to try and see the difference. I bought RCA, which seen great but a little brighter, I also bought Tung-Sol from the 1950's made in USA and the sound is more balanced that the RCA. Now I am waiting for the more expoensive and sought after Sylvania 6sn7GT from 1952 (Nick named big boys). I like the older tubes better and I compare this preamp to my friend's Conrad Johnson and Audio Research, which are way more expensive and the Freya + sound cleaner and has more of a 3-D sound that the more expensive ones. I also bought the Schiit mani as a phono preamp. Schiit has comed to embarrass companies making way more expensive gear! This tube preamp is really clean sounding, I don't understand when people mention noise or microphonics, there's zero noise through my speakers even with the older tubes. People also mentions tape hiss coming from cassettes and reel to reels, I have zero of that. It could be that I am using high-end decks, high quality tape and I also have a power conditioner!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad that the Freya is really working out for you. I really like it too and I now have the Vidar to try it together with. So did the Sylvania meet your expectations?

[@TravelandAudio]

@@ThomasAndStereo I think they give you a little more detail and balanced sound, but a little too neutral for my taste, the sound is very warm, a lot of bass and deep frequencies, but I like high frequencies more. Any descent tube from General Electric, CBS, Sylvania, Tung-Sol and RCA can achieve great sound for a lot cheaper. I am waiting for a new pair of Sylvanya's coin-base, let me see how those sound.

[@hughjanus1135]

What power conditioner and dac do you have?

[@JohnMartin-vc5dj]

I have 4 matched 1954 NOS Mullard 6SN7 tubes and am saving for the Schiit Frya+ cheers John

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, let me know how it sounds!

[@billwillard9410]

Schiit now offers the Freya S (no tubes, has passive and active modes) for $599, and the Schiit Freya +, (adds the tube mode) for $899.

[@travismcgee100]

Thank you for your well-informed opinion. I had already ordered a Freya+ when I found your video (it hasn't arrived yet), but it is very reassuring to hear you mention similar good qualities that others have mentioned--especially "soundstage" and "holographic."

[@cosmonaut9942]

I have the freya and a Cary SLP 98P preamp. The Cary blows the schiit away, no contest. But, I bought the freya mostly for it's remote and use it with a two watt tube amp. NOS Brimar tubes sound the best, although Sylvania NOS from the '50s sound nice. I agree that you get what you pay for. It's great for $700. It doesn't compare to a high end tube preamp like my Cary no matter how good the tubes are. I am a tube roller and am very familiar with all types of tubes having played electric guitar for 50 years. The best tubes being made today are being made in China. Shuguang black treasure tubes are fantastic.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Then you fall in that 10% of the people who i mentioned that can hear a big difference. i get you 100%. i have some shuguang anniversary tubes too, strangely, i never used it on the freya, i should give it a try someday

[@MrPompanoman]

I am currently using a music reference rm5 mk3 I purchased for like 350. thirty years ago the best preamp I have ever had but a week ago I isolated it with a 2 inch thick piece of bamboo with sixteen sorbathane feet and it revieled its self wow more detail just beautiful I always liked this preamp but now I love it I wish I knew the difference isolation could bring to my sound system years ago.

[@waltercarter6163]

It should sound like Schiit. Economist call it "diminishing returns" when you pay a lot more for just a little bit better. In high end audio equipment, diminishing returns is the rule. There is NOTHING that costs 3X more and sounds 4X better.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

True. One day in a video soon, I will present a different point of view. As all my videos, I will try to give the viewer something to think about.

[@robertharelson124]

One of the very few, honest, easy listening audio reviewers. Thank your favorite deity for Thomas & Stereo!

[@anandkrishnan7521]

Hi Thomas, very informative as ever thank you. When you get a chance may I request you do some reviews of DACs. Am looking for more reliable reviews for RME ADI 2 DAC and Mytek DACs. Would be very thankful cheers.

[@wim1983]

lol I ady bought and wait for RME ADI-2

[@bstar113]

Hello Thomas, I love you reviews. Very straight forward. No audiophile fluff, well maybe very little. All my audio life I've owned SS. Tubes never interested me. But curiosty killed this SS cat. I was using a Marantz PM8804 as a preamp after I retired my home theater for a two channel system. I gifted the Marantz to my sister along with a set of Elac UB5 speakers. Yes I love her. I'm currently using a Wyred 4 Sound rig. I have the DAC2_DSDse and a set of SX1000 monoblocks, driving the Pioneer S-1ex speakers. I love the control of the bass, and the speed of the class D amps, but I find myself wanting a deeper sound stage. Since the DAC has a volume control, I don't use a preamp. And now that I purchased a turntable I need the preamp. With it's great reviews, and great price, I ordered the Freya+. I was going to go all in with a Primaluna pre, but decided on trying the Freya. Tube rolling also interest me. What is a good resource to learn a little about differences in individual tubes sound? Thanks again Thomas for your informative reviews and your honesty. Hope to start rolling soon. Oh and I ordered the Mani phono preamp too. CHEER!!! Glenn

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats! This youtube channel spent a lot of time on it. He made a few videos. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKWvZZ1_esyZicU

[@soowat1190]

Well explained. Great video. Thanks Thomas

[@jonathanthomas4722]

Great review that still applies to the Freya+. But the board and component placement in the Freya+ is better. Also, using tube savers, or 8 pin adapters, will help 'save' the board in the long run. Tube rolling the Freya+ is just fun, too!

[@jarensonger2501]

It's so refreshing not to have some Schiity intro on a video

[@mokyingleung]

Finally I had the opportunity to listen to this amp. I now truly understand your feelings. Great amp! Great value! Great review!

[@thomasmleahy6218]

John mok. How about the PREamp??

[@mokyingleung]

@@thomasmleahy6218 I love it! Good value with balance input. Sound quality is very good.

[@alb.1911]

Thanks Thomas. The million dollar question is: what tubes are you using over the original? 😅

[@donaldmackenzie2686]

I second that, or ditto or yeah, please tell us what are the different tubes that you are using? Thank you for another honest informative video. Apparently he uses the GE 6SN7GTA or the GE 6SN7GTB. It is in the description and I have to admit I missed it myself.

[@johnwhite2576]

Yeah how can you tease like this😱

[@liberation26]

I'm not in the market for a preamp. Yet, the suspense is killing me ;)

[@audiorick841]

Man, I just got mine and the 4 months wait was sooo worth it! Thanks to you, John and Ron for the precious advice. This could not have been a better choice for me and with my system. I am putting up for sale my PS audio stellar gain cell preamp tomorrow which was over twice the price.

[@johnm3152]

Your logic is inescapable. Mr. Spock would be proud.

[@thomasmleahy6218]

Spock said "Impressive", Darth Vader said "Impressive".

[@sc51153826]

Bro, you take the words out of my mouth in every video! I have a Schiit MJ2 with non-stock tubes too, and it is really easy to find help on which tubes to try from the Schiit community online. As a "daily driver" they are perfect, they are well built and low maintenance. But you're right they are not for someone who is looking for the "old tube" sound. Finally, it was so funny how you hate to say you hate the Freya. Definitely, a love/hate situation if you have to decide what to do with something it compares closely at 3 or 5 times the price!!! (FYI, I still have mine MJ2)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Ah, good to know there is a Schiit community and people help each other out on what tubes to get. Oh, I don't have any experience with their other tube gear so I see they also don't have the 'old tube' sound. Thanks for dropping by.

[@cgambarrotti]

@@ThomasAndStereo How much do the tubes(GE GTA/GTB) you have in there now cost? I respect your opinion and would like to try them.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sorry, Clark, I don't know as it was given to me by my friends.

[@herrtrigger7220]

I share your thoughts about the 'threshold', I assume you refer to the realm of diminishing returns. And then, you make sure to show us the cool Cardas power cord going into the Freya- which costs more than the Freya.

[@nickreecy4229]

I just got a freya in this week. Happy so far....actually preferred the passive mode while listening last night, compared to other modes, but I still have stock tubes.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup, there are no set rules, whatever sounds good to you is the most important.

[@russellesimonetta3835]

I,ve been around and owned high end amps preamps and great speakers. If there is no treble or bass controls i,m not interested. I adjust to get cymbals sounding right and the bass sounding right.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Schiit also makes the Loki equalizer, it's not bad.

[@groovediggers2761]

Thomas, I purchased the Schiit Saga Preamp for $349.00. It replaced a Rogue Audio RP-1 at $1700.00. The Saga is more transparent, dynamic and has better pace, rhythm and timing . My wife and I did a lot of listening to my system with this extremely inexpensive Saga preamp (with a micro processor resistor ladder volume control mind you), and we looked at each other and both agreed that it was way better than good enough and I'm picky about sound. Schitt's the best bang for the buck in a preamp. I heard a pair of their $799.00 Aegir amps run in mono at Axpona 2019, a few days ago with the Schiit Freya, and it sounded great with a digital front end (Yggdrasil) and Salk speakers. To top it off, you get a five (5) year warranty!

[@mrmaschinaadventures]

Man, thank you, I'm so glad I read this about the Schiit Saga as well, thanks :) I want to pair up a nice high quality preamp with a Crown XLS1502 Drive Core power amp behind it. Some people think that's crazy but I know it is a high resolution Class D power amp and I'm really curious how that combo will sound, especially if its a tube preamp. Here's my latest video, too , enjoy Cheers, Mario kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3jVloxul7qCpqc

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Oh, very surprised at the Saga.I hear mixed review on it and I should try it one day. I was always interested to give Rogue Audio a try and am impressed that you prefer the Saga over it. I like the 5 year warranty part. It's amazing we live in an age we can get so amazing sound at an affordable price.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I think it should be fine. I had it with many amps and never I felt that it did not pair well.

[@DaveSchulze]

I too am amazed as a previous owner of a Rogue Perseus tube preamp. I was looking to get an RP-1, but reading up on the Saga and the Freya have me rethinking. I appreciate your comment.

[@gadmanrdh]

Best reviewer on the internet.

[@markboyd934]

Mike Gadoury I agree, although Ron @newrecordday is also very creative. I like both of them.

[@20CycleMonger]

Thomas: Great clickbait title! I like your New/Old sound definition. Wish you could provide info on the tubes you used. Ask your buddy for us :-)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, i explained a bit more in detail old sound in the prima luna video. I will check with my friend if he knows more. Right now, all I know is GE made in Canada. GTA tubes 6sN7.

[@billwillard9410]

I have the Freya+ and it came with JJ tubes which sound good. I also have GE 6SN7GTA but I liked the Sylvania GTB’s from the minute I put them in, no question. .

[@redrobbosworkshop]

You don't always get what you pay for in audio, and more expensive doesn't always mean better. So much of the high end ticket price is attached to the brand, exclusivity, over-engineered and elaborate casing etc. In this case the Schiit is focusing on the quality of the circuit and the primary components, so of course it can compete with things costing far more. The fact that Schiit change their mantra in different manuals merely reflects an understanding of audiophile gullibility ;)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well, I have been looking for stuff that will perform above it's price point and so far I have not been able to find a lot of gear that can do it. If you have a few examples, please share. When I compare gear, it has to be in the same category else the comparison is not fair. I love the Freya but at the same time, I understand it's limitation when compare to something higher end in the same category. That limitation is insignificant for many people but not all people. My point is I truly am blown away by what modern budget gear can do but at the same time, I want to acknowledge there is still a difference when compared to higher end gear.

[@aceofspades6667]

This tube preamp shines as soon as you upgrade from the stock tubes. I have this and the Lyr headphone amp and tubes are amazing to change the experience. Throw on the '75 Reflektor SWGP Silver Shields tubes and it is amazing! I use the Lyr with the bifrost to run my cans setup. I use the Freya & Aegir to power my bookshelfs. (reference 3a mm de capo)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup, changing tubes does make a difference. Thanks!

[@tjclip24]

Since we're talking about ~$1k preamps here, could you do a review of the Emotiva XSP-1?

[@HoomanR17]

Thomas, your mention of cable/cable-wars reminded me how much I'm still looking forward to your video on how your friend made the "high-end" cables!!! Hope you haven't given up on that. Great video.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Ah, that one. Everytime I mention about cables, people go to war in my comment section! I am breaking in a pair right now actually and it's one of the best speaker cable I have used. I can stop my search for speaker cables at this point. Just google on lItz cable.

[@HoomanR17]

@@ThomasAndStereo that's almost a teaser... is there a particular brand you've come to enjoy or did you make a DIY cable.. that's "good enough and cheap!"

[@ThomasAndStereo]

For me cables is system dependant. Meaning if the setup is too bright, I would use cables that are not to balance it out. So in that sense, there is no best cable. These DIY cables are expensive because LITZ cables are expensive to start with. Although I have experience the differences in cables, I usually tell people don't worry too much about it. Unless your system has a significant problem and you need cables to adjust it, I usually tell people just don't concern yourself with it as the changes is very subtle and not always for the better.

[@HoomanR17]

Thomas & Stereo very good point. appreciate that sentiment/perspective.

[@EfrainGRZ]

Hi Thomas, Do you believe that the Valhalla 2 would work as good as the Freya + using upgraded Tubes? I want to experiment with a tube preamp for my system and I like the compactness that the VALHALLA 2 offers, plus it is less expensive.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I am really picky when it comes to being specific. Just because the big brother sounds good does not mean the lower end model will too. So I have no idea.

[@richardlang5407]

I am really enjoying your videos and value your opinion. I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to my vintage Marantz model 140/3200 , Rega P3 and AR3a speakers since the mid 70’s. I am ready for a change and would like to replace my Marantz gear for either the Schiit Aegir/Freya+ OR Wilsenton R8. I listen mainly, to jazz and female vocals at mid-level volume. I would really appreciate your opinion.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

What you have to be careful is the bass on the R8 can be a bit too strong for some while the Freya + vidar has a more balanced presentation. (I have never heard the Aegir). I would say the R8 would be more holographic and tuby sounding but the Freya + vidar would have better control. Aegir, if it has the class A sound would be more 'lean' sounding. That is how class A usually sounds, they have a more linear midrange. Also, look into the Doge 10. It all depends on what you want in your system as I mentioned in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHSulqyVpNWho6c

[@tomchan2559]

Hi Thomas, thanks for this review and I will buy this pre-amp because you hated it so much. How about their new Class A Power Amp "Aegir" ? Can you do a review on it ? You know, most of us can only afford "Good Enough" LoFi Gears.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks Tom. They have a return policy so if you don't like it, you can always return it. I never tried their Aegir. The problem is that if I ask for a review sample, I don't feel as 'free' to say whatever I want as I would be if I bought it myself and review it. If I don't like it, I usually just return it without reviewing it.

[@TravelandAudio]

Has anybody compared this model to the the Doge 8 clarity. And how does vintatge tube preamps compare to modern Tube pre-amps in terms of sound quality? I was looking for a vintage Tube pre-amp, but most look old, rusty and the electronics look poor and old, what is the general concensus of old vs new?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I explained a bit the old vs new in the my Prima Luna review. Check it out.

[@TravelandAudio]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you Thomas. I ordered the Schiit Freya with Tung-Sol 6SN7 tubes. Did yours come with the stock Russian tubes or the Tung-Sol? I will experiment with the tubes that you recommended too! :) I was looking at the Dynaco PAS 3X, the Eico vintage amps, but the electronics and interior look too old and I'm afraid it will fail. Then I set my eyes on a used Conrad Johnson or Audio Research, but they are also old and only one transformer instead of 2 transformers like the Freya. After reading a lot of reviews and watching your video, I set my eyes on the Freya, because it is a brand new preamp and 5 years warranty!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, you have 15 days to try it and they just launched the new freya. Hope you like it.

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

So now you can try the new Freya+ and discover it outperforms or equal your x5 more expensive tube preamps ^^

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

We are talking -20dB noise level improvement..

[@tshingtenglim965]

Hi Thomas can you explain further details on the use of isolation transformer at the input your friend use with this preamp? What is it and what is it for? Is it to reduce noise from rca input and lower impedance?

[@willmac5642]

Also check out WBA from Poland. Tempted by their Firebird dual mono pre, which is same price as Freya in europe. The spec has sone advantage and some disadvantage. But they can bespoke on request to certain tubes too.

[@awdadwadwad1723]

looks good, thanks. Probably gonna try it, since Schiit is always on back order...

[@astolatpere11]

I'm saving for the Freya, to pair with the Vidar I've been using for about 3 months. Can't wait!

[@astolatpere11]

@Alex I really like the sound even though I use it with an Adcom preamp from the 90s. The Freya should be even better.

[@lynnpoole7830]

Thanks Thomas, great review.

[@ericnortan9012]

I have a RME DAC, I use it as a pre-amp, love it. Very neutral, but has a built in EQ and a couple ways to subtly change the sound. I would lick to maybe add some color to music sometime, I figure a tube pre-amp is a good way to do it.

[@dude7740]

please do a PS stellar review

[@caspar_gomez]

At the end of the last video I watched you asked us to subscribe and I almost did but thought "naaah not sure yet", I subscribed after this. All I need is good enough.

[@Dilyaev]

Wow! 137k views on a preamp video, that's lovely.

[@shogo3300]

Great honest review Thomas! I had the Freya 2 years ago, bought it, used it for 3 months, tried to like it but at the end it paled in comparison to my Modwright LS100. Passive mode was Ok, Jfet mode was preferred over passive. But 8/10 times I ended up using it in active tube mode. But like you said, its a new type of tube sound, neutral and holographic. The Modwright achieved the same but with much more weight and meatyness to the sound. The Freya sounded quite lean in comparison. My biggest quam about the Freya was the care needed to swap tubes, its so easy to put them in the wrong way and smoke it..

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Ah thanks. I have the Modwright LS100 too and yup, there is more meat to the sound. I actually let a friend did a quick AB test between the modwright and Freya, now he owns a $100k+ systems and for a quick listen, the Freya was pretty ok and as you said, leaner. For me, you belong to that 10% of the people who can hear a big difference between the both.

[@dude7740]

Dear Thomas, a review between a Freya and a ps audio stellar? I am very curious. thanks and keep it up!

[@ericfritzeen5760]

Thanks Thomas for this video. Now, could you please share the “best” tubes for this piece you have chosen?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sure. It's in the description and first pin video.

[@billybastar4022]

Hi Thomas another great review. So, two GTBs and two GTAs? Do you have a reliable source that tests for microphonics?

[@SpikeoutBattleStreet]

I'm with with you Thomas. I bought Schiit Modi 2U dac back to the day. I was disappointed by the sound quality, so I asked them if I need an audiophile grade usb cable. Schiit immediately assured me that the cheapest usb cable will do the same and any usb noise filter is bs. However, when I checked their product page, they were selling an expensive PSTY usb cable which claimed to have a thicker than normal power line and silver plated data lines. I guess this is not a normal usb cable at all in contrast to what they'd told me. Most stupid of all, Schiit was selling their own expensive audiophile WYRD usb noise filter when they said all filters are bs. My conclusion is: This Schiit company is a typical shit salesman which would say anything as long as people will be pleased and then buy their products. Ps: I watched a lot of your videos recently. You are such an open minded, reasonable and objective reviewer. Pls keep on the good works and thanks for another wonderful review.👍

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Really appreciate your support. I did not know they say those stuff, oh well. I am curious about their high end Dac though, there seems to be lots of good feedback on it. Good to know about the cheap dacs, I guess I will skip trying those then.

[@SpikeoutBattleStreet]

@@ThomasAndStereo The Modi 2U dac got a lot of positive critics too. When it comes to sound, it's really something subjective so you could still try any of their products and tell people what you think. May be I'm the one who have problem who knows. My problem is the harshness of the sound and the weak mid-range. Cheers.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@SpikeoutBattleStreet Ah, the harshness of the sound, it's actually one of my talking point comparing entry level and high end dacs. One day I will make a video on Dacs.

[@lextr3110]

@@ThomasAndStereo nah even my emu 1212m internal soundcard killed the bifrost DS and the modi multibit ... also my friend bought an apogee duet 2 sound card and sold the modi multibit on the spot.. i also had problem with the gungnir.. i had many production problems with schiit products.. no wonder they measure like shit. my magni is noisy as hell with the knob glitchy.. i dont agree at all that you cant find low cost product that beat higher product.. its possible since when you diy your own you can do it fairly cheap.. 699$ and cant have a solid board common... this is schiit... i will never buy any schiit product again..

[@ThomasAndStereo]

ah, if you look at my past video, there are 2 exception to my statement. The first one is DIY. The 2nd one is a no name brand where a mad scientist builds something in his basement. My statement only applies to brand names. I forgot to mention that but I did in my past video. The soundcard is interesting, I have one and it's pretty good but I still hear a gap against higher end gear. Just never heard your sound card.

[@herrtrigger7220]

Why not tell us which replacement tubes you settled on? I would buy them pronto.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

it is in the description.

[@Bartmanblues]

Did your friend favour the freya over his reference Bryston 1B?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

This is what my friend told me "Freya is brighter, faster, more accurate, can sound harsh on some unselected tubes, but also can be fine tune to higher-end results. Bryston 1B is a fixed power cord unit. Cannot tune the sound by swapping cable. It has a vintage tube character, a little dark, a bit slow but very musical, would lack of "hyper" details when compared to today reference standard. Can be a good choice if someone lean towards the un-audiophine type of recording. "

[@Bartmanblues]

Thomas & Stereo Thanks for this. I own the Bryston 1B and was looking for the Freya to replace it. The Bryston is over 30 years old now so something newer would be the jolt my system needs. Not looking for a brighter character in my system so I might checkout one of the Prima Luna pre amps.

[@robwc1935]

Hi Thomas, Thanks for another great video. I very much agree with your assessment of the Schiit gear. With some tweaking Schiit gear can preform above its price. Good enough yes. I have a comment to make about the power cords and power switch. I'm using a Schiit Lyr2 and Biforst Not long ago i turned on the Schiit stack (power switch on the back). The Bifrost DAC started blinking on and off. It was the cheep power cord that was loose. No doubt over time forcing my hand in turning the power on and off had created a problem. Luckily the IEC connector was OK. After that i changed all of my power cords to Pangea Audio AC-14. Small price to pay for good tight connections. Schitt guys please move the power switch to the front !

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks Rob, I don't know the Lyr2 and Bifrotst but one day would like to , thx for dropping by.

[@torarnekvaly7753]

Hey Thomas, I love your channel! What solid state preamps do you consider better(more holographic) than this Schiit Freya? Moon preamps?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Hmm, depends on your budget. I remember my mcintosh C47 could do it. My burmester (forgot the model), the rest I will have to go check my list but most of them were not in the same price category. Depends of course on price and that is why I say the Freya can do it at such a low price.

[@dannyng5427]

I purchased the Freya+ two months ago to replace Bryston BP16. The imaging is much better than BP16, and it is airy. Recently I brought some JJ tubes from thetubestore and I found the JJ tubes can produce more bass than the stock tubes.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks Danny for sharing. There are so many tubes out there to try that I can spend years trying.

[@EnemyofCredulity]

I took the advice on the GE tubes. I bought one of these preamps and used the Tung Sol 6SN7 tubes that came with it. At first I was slightly unimpressed. My other preamp is a fully refreshed and upgraded Carver C-1. The first thing I noticed was that the instruments were better separated with my carver. I then noticed that I heard more detail with the Freya (It's actually a Freya + now). So, I ordered the GE 6SN7 GTB tubes and they did a better job of separating the instruments on my system, than the Tung Sol tubes did. I'm very happy with my purchase even though it cost 100.00 dollars more now.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Tube rolling can be addictive. Glad you are enjoying your system.

[@jeffinnh76]

Did you replace all 4 tubes with the tung sol 6sn7?

[@Bothtapes]

@@ThomasAndStereo Hi Thomas, can you tell me what tubes you ended up with being your choice....I grew up with boxes and boxes of various tubes for amps and TVs... original GEC's etc...would be nice to hear from you

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@Bothtapes nice. It is in the description box.

[@silviopimentel7247]

Awesome Thomas 👌 🙏 I want to try it. Just need to find here in Toronto

[@igaldins]

Hi Thomas. Great review! I visited my friend with a (good enough) jbl sound bar with a sub that costs 1/15 !! of my system and I asked my self the same question, is my system that costs 15 times more worth the price difference? If I will ask 100 people on the street I guess that 80% or 90% will say its not :)) I dont want to get in to tubes same as you dont want to get into power cables. Its "too much" for me :)

[@Soundfreeek]

I really enjoy your videos Thomas ! Keep up with the great content ! BTW, you just convinced me to go with the Freya+ as my next preamp to replace a (great) solid state from Canada. :)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

If you have the budget, you should wait for my Doge 8 review coming in a few months, it is truly the next level up. Thanks. They have no stock now so that is why I am holding back the review.

[@Soundfreeek]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks Thomas for the reply. I'll definitely follow your advice and wait for the review of the Doge 8 ! I am not in a rush...

[@Soundfreeek]

@@ThomasAndStereo I am looking for a great tube preamp with balanced input and output. My first choice was the Primaluna EVO 400, but difficult to find in Tokyo... :(

[@razorsedge1]

I schiited my pants over this review! I'm buying the Schitt Vidar and this amp.Thanks Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

i almost bought the vidar a few days ago!

[@razorsedge1]

@@ThomasAndStereo Imo, Schiit equals great value for the money! Take care!

[@pumareyes1]

@@ThomasAndStereo I am going to get the Vidar and Freya and combine them with my Modi.