I guess you could say Iām a bit of a Schiit head. Iāve bought the Jotunheim 2 with the multi-bit DAC, which I have been using on my driving sim nightly for around 5 years. Iāve tried probably 5 different headphone amps that failed to replace it with the only one that topped it being the much more expensive Chord Hugo TT2, which DAC and power supply are probably responsible for the win. The Jotunheim 2 lead me to buy the Vidar 2, Freya +, Loki, Modi, and Valhalla 2.
The Freya + is the only pure preamp out of that group. I liked the design of it and I thought I would enjoy changing between tubes and solid state, but there was not much difference in my system with the Vidar 2 at that time. I preferred the solid state, but donāt really feel the preamp was adding anything to my system. Iāve seen Paul discuss in his videoās how he used to think DAC to Amp was the way to go as it eliminated anything in between that could degrade the sound, however, he was shown that a good preamp can add soundstage and detail separation. I donāt understand how and Iām not sure Paul even does, but Iām not sure I was personally hearing much if any benefit from the Freya in my system, so I eventually traded it. At the same time, I did not notice any degradation from it when adding it to my system which is exactly what some people want from a preamp. So, if you are looking for volume control and additional inputs I would recommend it but I donāt think I would if you are looking to add flavor or soundstage to your sound.
I do feel like you get really good value with Schiit gear and it seems to hold its value relatively well. I did try a Topping preamp against the Schiit that supposedly measured amazingly well but I hated the Topping. That is when I learned that measurements miss a lot of the overall picture and matter less than I thought. The Schiit was clearly better than the Topping preamp, which degraded the harmonics to my ear. The Freya + also gave me the chance to directly compare tubes to solid state in a quick and convent format, which was good to experience when I was learning. Additionally, the remote was actually exactly what I like in a remote. Even with the affordable price point, it had a metal remote that was small, magnetic, and comfy in the hand. The Chord Hugo TT2ās remote is an odd cheap plastic deal at 8X the price and I think they use the same remote for the Dave, which they were selling for $14K.
If you are into modding, there are defiantly people out there modding these that like the results too.
I should say that at one point my Jot 2 did have an issue with one of the channels. I sent it back to Schiit and they sent me a new unit under warranty. I think they even paid shipping but I donāt remember for sure, I just remember I was happy with their service and it has worked for years since then. I do use it every night and have well over 1500 hours between those two. units at this point.
Overall, I do recommend them as a company as long as you understand what you are getting. They are a value focused company that gives you good sound for the money, but that probably is not going for the very best out there with exotic materials and a new innovative design, in general.
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