In this Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review, we will share all the details about this notable product. It is a well-balanced, high-end and remote-controlled preamp. It allows you to shift between differential buffer, passive, and tube gain modes.
Moreover, you will enjoy excellent controls of a 128-relay-switched step-attenuator volume control panel with top-notch channel matching.
We will discuss its features, design, specifications, and how it works and performs in this Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review. If you want to know more about it, continue reading to see what Schiit has to offer,
Schiit Freya+ with LISST Packaging
Schiit products ship within a spacious cardboard box that sports the signature minimalistic design of the company. Although simple, the box displays an aesthetic sense of elegance and refinement.
Each stack includes the corresponding power cords suitable for various regions (UK, US, Australian, or Euro). Below are the package inclusions:
- Freya+
- Power cord
- LISST Tubes x4
Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review – Design and Functionality
In this Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review, our unit features a premium black colour and LISST tubes. It sports a brushed aluminium chassis for the DAC and amp.
Like their budget-friendly offerings, the design of the Freya+ shows the commitment of the company to craftsmanship and high-end aesthetics. Notably, it features a fastener-less chassis, presenting a refreshed and more streamlined appearance.
The Freya+ boasts a slender and sophisticated profile. However, its weight, attributed to its thick aluminium construction and densely packed interior, offers a sense of sturdiness. It ensures that the product remains firmly anchored, even when subjected to the heft of audiophile-grade power cables.
The Freya+ features an updated tube stage incorporating noise-cancelling semi-circlotron output buffers with DC heaters. This enhancement results in a substantial noise reduction of up to 20 dB.
Furthermore, the new JFET buffer enables the conversion of single-ended signals into balanced ones. It allows the product to accommodate the use of multiple sources.
A noteworthy addition is the tube shutdown mode. It is a valuable feature that completely powers down the tubes when unused. It not only improves the signal-to-noise ratio but also extends the lifespan of the tubes.
Lastly, an exciting feature is the motorised, remote-controlled potentiometer. It adds convenience and a touch of sophistication to the Freya+ in a home environment.
We noticed the front part of this product while writing our Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review. Here, three LEDs indicate the activated mode: Buffer, Tube, and Mute.
On the right-hand side, you will find the mute and output select buttons for turning the mute function on/off. It also helps facilitate the transition between different output stages, including passive, differential buffer, and differential tube gain.
The potentiometer provides a satisfying tactile experience for adjusting the volume. The remote control has an infrared sensor that sits on its far right.
The Freya+ features a balanced and single-ended input and output on its rear. These allow you to link several sources, whether RCA inputs or external amplification outputs. Next to these are its power outlets and switch
Key Features of the Schiit Freya+ with LISST
Is the Freya+ better than its predecessor and other tube preamps? We will discuss its primary features to learn what makes it an excellent preamp.
Manufactured and Designed in California
Schiit sends all parts of the Freya+ to US companies for manufacturing. From boards and chassis to transformers, you can ensure these are quality-made and built to last.
Whisper-Silent Tube Stage + Tube Shutdown
With the Freya+, you can enjoy the audio of a tube preamp without the hiss and hum of classic designs. It makes tube modes ultra-quiet with semi-circlotron, noise-cancelling output stages and DC heaters. Plus, the tubes switch off when not in use, so the tube heater and high-voltage rails disappear too.
This tube shutdown feature helps preserve the lifespan of expensive tubes.
Schiit Freya+ with LISST – Also Works Without Tubes
Schiit ships the Freya+ with or without tubes. If you want to include tubes, you can choose NOS 6N8S, 6SN7 or LISST. The latter is included in the package of our preamp for this Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review.
The Excellent 128-Step Relay-Switched Volume + Remote Control
The relay-switched stepped attenuator for volume adjustment has multiple benefits. Unlike a potentiometer, it offers optimal channel matching and almost unmeasurable distortion. This volume knob is simple and does not have confusing additional buttons and screens.
The motorised potentiometer also adapts to the remote control settings for your convenience.
Yes, Remote Control Included
The remote control makes managing your audio gears more convenient. You can instantly adjust the volume, mute, and switch input/output.
The Perfect Companion of Schiit DACs
We tested the Freya+ with Schiit DACs for this Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review. We had an enjoyable user experience since we created a remote-controlled system. Stack the Freya+ with the Yggdrasil+ or Gungnir Multibit for convenience without compromise.
Five-Year Warranty and Easy Return Policy of the Schiit Freya+ with LISST
Schiit provides a five-year warranty for the Freya+ for its parts & labour and a three-month coverage for the tubes. The company also has a convenient return and refund policy for 15 days after receiving the product.
Specifications
- Input Impedance: 10K ohms
- Crosstalk: over 85dB, 20-20kHz
- Inputs: 2x XLR pairs plus 3x RCA pairs
- Outputs: 1x XLR pair plus 2x RCA pairs
- Power Consumption: 40W
- Size: 40.64 x 20.32 x 5.08cm + 6.35cm for tube height
- Weight: 11 lbs
Gain: 1 (0dB)
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20Khz, -0.2db | 3Hz-500KHz, -3dB
- THD: less than 0.004%, 20Hz-20KHz @1V RMS
- SNR: over 120dB, A-weighted, referenced to 2V RMS
- IMD: below 0.0055%, CCIR
- Output Impedance: 600 ohms balanced, 75 ohms SE,
- Topology: JFET differential amplifier compound pair with equalised-gm followers
Gain: 5 (14dB)
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20Khz, -0.2db | 3Hz-150KHz, -3dB
- THD: less than 0.005%, 20Hz-20KHz @1V RMS
- SNR: over 114dB, A-weighted, referenced to 2V RMS
- IMD: less than 0.006%, CCIR
- Output Impedance: 600 ohms balanced, 75 ohms SE
- Topology: differential depletion MOSFET and semi-circlotron depletion MOSFET follower stage
Hands-on with the Schiit Freya+ with LISST
The Freya+ elevates the audio prowess and user-friendliness of its forerunner. It retains the original Freya’s holographic sound quality and adds the convenience of managing multiple sources through a single preamp. Yet, there are notable distinctions between the previous and current models.
In terms of sound, the Freya+ produces a warmer tone, with vocals coming through more smoothly and a noticeable enhancement in the midrange.
Switching to tube mode alters the sound character, enriching it with a fuller, slightly more expansive quality. This mode accentuates the bass impact and gives the midrange a more robust presence. Vocals stand out more distinctly, and instruments take on a livelier feel.
The Freya+’s soundstage impresses with its three-dimensional quality, offering a clear sense of spatial separation around each note. This spatial arrangement adds a delicate reverberation and tonal coloration, contributing to an overall pleasing sound signature.
The Freya+ excels in delivering a sense of spaciousness, dynamism, and clarity. The LISST tube, in particular, provides a more intimate presentation with a wider soundstage compared to the 6SN7 tube, akin to sitting in the front row of a live concert.
The tube gain is more pronounced with sensitive audio equipment, but it remains remarkably quiet in the Freya+. This improvement addresses a common concern with the earlier Freya model, showcasing Schiit’s commitment to enhancing user experience.
In our detailed review of the Schiit Freya+ with LISST, we also focus on the user experience.
A standout feature of the Freya+ is its remote control, which significantly enhances user convenience. The preamp’s 128-stepped attenuator ensures almost perfect channel matching, and the tactile feedback from the knob is a delightful touch.
Schiit has effectively addressed the remote control issues found in the previous Freya model, implementing these improvements in the Freya+. The new version tracks the potentiometer with minimal delay.
The Freya+’s design is another highlight. Schiit has removed the old screw-in volume pot, streamlining the user experience.
Switching modes is swift and doesn’t introduce noticeable decibel changes. An added benefit is the automatic tube shutdown during inactivity, which not only ensures a distortion-free performance but also extends the tubes’ lifespan.
Schiit Freya+ with LISST Review Summary
Schiit enhanced the well-received Freya preamp by incorporating modifications requested by fans of the company. It has near distortion-free tuning and a remote control for the potentiometer, making it excellent for audiophiles. Plus, you can enjoy a tube setup and a different sound profile with the LISST tube.
The chassis of the Freya+ has a sleek appearance, making it look perfect with any audio setup. It is another impressive product from Schiit, thanks to its delightful tuning and flexibility with existing components.
We highly recommend the Freya+ with LISST to audiophiles and anyone who wants a versatile preamp. It allows you to enjoy the audio of a tube preamp without flaws like hissing and humming.
Learn more about the Freya+ with LISST when visiting the official Schiit product page.
