^ I agree on Pass. My first the Threshold Stasis 3, then the Aleph 3 and 5, then the great X150 (probably the best used 'cheapish' general amp one could locate).
The P and L and Xono and others have been great preamps, LS's, and phono stages as well. I've 'slummed' for 20+ years with the Pass designed GFP-750, which died (accidental).
Retired now, so the budget has taken a hit, so the Freya looks like a good choice to go w/ my X-150, Schiit Gumby. Been using the Ragnarok as a line stage, so the Freya will be a step up.
In terms of Schiit, like to see them make an amp that runs class A up to 25 watts, and A/B up to 100+. The Vidar (in mono) and Ragnarok do not handle loads under 4 ohms.
In terms of tubes. I like them in pre-amps (ARC SP-15 onward) but never could stomach tube amps - even very expensive ones in the bass, and retubing cost? My lord...
The P and L and Xono and others have been great preamps, LS's, and phono stages as well. I've 'slummed' for 20+ years with the Pass designed GFP-750, which died (accidental).
Retired now, so the budget has taken a hit, so the Freya looks like a good choice to go w/ my X-150, Schiit Gumby. Been using the Ragnarok as a line stage, so the Freya will be a step up.
In terms of Schiit, like to see them make an amp that runs class A up to 25 watts, and A/B up to 100+. The Vidar (in mono) and Ragnarok do not handle loads under 4 ohms.
In terms of tubes. I like them in pre-amps (ARC SP-15 onward) but never could stomach tube amps - even very expensive ones in the bass, and retubing cost? My lord...