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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.)

128x128hilde45
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,450 posts
 

All of the best sounding systems I have ever used or owned , or heard had one thing in common.   A great preamp.  Usually the most expensive component in the chain.   I had a Zesto Leto for a short time and it completely elevated the performance of everything around it.  
 

Your original target price of $4k seems like a lot now but you’ll soon forget about the price if you buy something like a Backert or CJ.     Or whatever suits your taste.

I have a RME DAC that I tried running direct.   Boring.    Put a great preamp after any good DAC and Bam…. Much more realistic   I retired that DAC for a fixed output tube DAC and it is sublime 

kennyc
1,169 posts
 

preamps w positive reviews:
3.1 Icon Audio LA4 MkIII SIGNATURE LINE PREAMP- D.O.

-4.0 Rotel Michi P5 (to match their amps, DAC also good)

4.0 Supratek,

5.3 Audible Illusions L3B

5.4 First Sound Presence Deluxe MkIII-SI- Special Edition

7.2 Coda 07x FET Preamplifier.

hilde45's avatar
hilde45 OP
4,783 posts
 

@kennyc Which of those are solid state amps? All of them? I hope so, because that’s what this thread is about. And how many are around $1k or less? Thanks for your relevant input.

kennyc
1,169 posts
 

The Rotel and Coda are SS, but I was answering your initial $4k or less new or used.  I didn’t follow this thread which seems that you are now looking for SS only at $1k or less.  Good luck.

arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,549 posts
 

Need to have my B and K pro 10mc recapped and new vol pot. 
bought new in Mid 90’s great pre. 
my best is the aging Onkyo p308, simply smooth, great house sound, has depth, and always works since bought used 10+ years ago. Has a house sound which is deep, rich, and gives recordings a nice warmer rich sound, the b and k, is very neutral.

 Saved for extra year and a half, to get the Sanders sound “the preamp” with MM/MC  card. This thing is fast, or it seems to push the sound, or something, ads ZERO, house sound, it is the textbook definition of wire with gain, I always use it in stock mode. Simple, no added tone, bass, highs, anything, just allows music to hit speakers as the recording is recorded. So good in,..etc etc. 

looks classy, no strange shape, or added large knobs, just a small unit which is flawless and passes recordings through as the recording intended. 
 

 Plus Roger is a gem in the audio world, his knowledge, and no BS approach is great. 
 

wanting to get the Onkyo rehabbed soon, and use for another 20 years (I hope)

 

  not a better house sound preamp than that p308.  She is my emerald.

makes most my metal demos sound full, and listenable. Sanders plays as it is, which for acoustic, and some rock/ Dylan, eagles, sound amazing. Speakers have zero “s” swerve sounds. Took me 35+ years to achieve what some get in a single paycheck, the journey was a blast, I’m done for a while.

 

\,,/

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