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.)
@russbutton Great ideas! Thanks. Vintage may be the ticket. I just looked up the Bryston and Hafler and Apt Holman and the reviews are over the moon. What's not clear is what kind of love/repair these might need but thank you for an interesting new angle. |
@hilde45 Any competent tech can service these things. In particular, Bryston has the world's best support for their gear with a 20 year transferable warranty. Mind you, an 80's vintage Bryston will be out of warranty, but they'll be able to service it.
Some years ago I picked up an 18 year old Bryston .5b preamp. I shipped it off to Bryston. They did the repair, threw in a new power cord (it was pig-tailed on), the shipping carton, and return shipped for free. Wow...
There's a Bryston BP6 preamp for sale on US Audiomart, for $850. Can't go wrong and it should still be under warranty.
One more thing. Bryston takes a back seat to nobody. Excellent quality.
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That is kind of the path @coltrane1 and I were going down with picking up an older Threshold or Forte Audio or Pass Labs preamp using Vintage Repair folks and/or businesses we all know like Bryston or Conrad Johnson techs to refresh them. While Schiit and a few others have picked up related customers in this space, some of these older vintage preamps can be fun and sound nice too as an option.
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