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Best Value Line Stage Tube Preamps?

Given they are all multi-input, multi-output, balanced line stage tube preamps, what are sonic benefits of a serious Rogue RP-7 or Prima Luna EVO 400 vs. the $899 Schiit Freya Plus? Currently these would feed a Parasound Halo A21 into Legacy Signature SEs, with all cables and speaker placement constant. I know the relevant mfrs/dealers all offer trial and/or return policies, but living far from any source and disliking return hassles, I'm soliciting expert opinions before (preferably, in lieu of) undertaking in-home experiments.
I know that much depends on one's own listening habits and sonic signature preferences, but surely differences in power supply, output impedances, etc. might be objective benefits to spending the 5x more coin for a bigger, badder device?
hickamore
branden_8091
60 posts
 
I've ordered a Freya+, but they're backordered for now.  I've heard one with a few different speakers and was blown away, especially with the tubes on ;)
Another to consider, a little pricier but very well built, top notch...is the Finalé Prelude.  It is hybrid...but I'm planning on auditioning one. Will only buy if it blows the Schiit out of the water. http://www.finaleaudio.com/prelude
hickamore OP
538 posts
 
branden_8091please report your findings if any.
branden_8091
60 posts
 
Will do!Won't be for about a month for the Freya...the Prelude I'm not sure, the guy who builds them said he'll let me audition one once he's got one made up.  He's been busy making other stuff lately.
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,839 posts
 
VTL
ARC ( used SP series )
Quicicksilver
Backert

you have lots of great options

if you want the free amp route, Aestmakes an awesome Integrated
hickamore OP
538 posts
 
Don't need integrated these days, but the product info is good to hold for the dreaded day when the component footprint must shrink along with its owner. Checking out the rest except ARC, which I already know, and whose company, like the few geniuses of my acquaintance still living, I will never deserve.
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