Schiit Sys

[Superman541]

I took the preamp clear out of my system. My iPod/computer/TV now goes through this passive preamp and directly to the power amp. Way better sound. I am a believer in passive preamps now. Some of you know I am an electronics idiot but I am reminding the rest now. My new question:

Is there any device I can add to my system to improve sound? Again, I am using iPod/computer/television > Schiit Sys > tube preamp. Is my system maximized except for upgrading the components mentioned in the previous sentence?

(my computer and TV get their signals from Wifi. Comcast and Amazon Music.

 

[Artie]

I assume you mean "tube power amp" where you say preamp. I have the Sys too. I do like putting the Loki in front of it for a little tone tailoring when needed. The new Lokius gives a little more control. It depends on what you think you might be missing.

 

[Superman541]

Yes, I meant tube power amp.

Thank you for the input. That, and the absence of other input, suggests an answer to my question: This system may be maximized already (except for improving the components such as the speakers, the power amp and the sources). That is.....the absence of an active preamp may be the cleanest strategy. Except, as you say, in instances where I might want "something else" such as bass boost or whatever. This is interesting. I am learning. My system sounds better if I remove from it any and all of the preamps I own.

 

[StimpyWan]

While not as inexpensive as a Sys, the Schiit Saga+ offers passive and active modes, plus a tube active choice as well. The Saga+ also has multiple inputs and outputs, and relay-switched remote volume control too. I love my Saga OG. It's not going anywhere!

 

[sqlsavior]

Believe your ears. From a high-fidelity standpoint, about the only thing that will beat a potentiometer for clarity IME is using an autoformer or transformer volume control with a tap for each volume setting. The likelihood of active circuitry beating a pot for clarity depends on serendipity, stars aligning, Fortuna smiling, etc.

One word: 'stats
Or, two words: electrostatic loudspeakers.

Have fun!

 

[Wolverine]

I don't see where you mentioned what speakers you are using. If you are looking to improve your sound quality I would start there and work backwards through the system.

 

[ouimetnick]

While not as inexpensive as a Sys, the Schiit Saga+ offers passive and active modes, plus a tube active choice as well. The Saga+ also has multiple inputs and outputs, and relay-switched remote volume control too. I love my Saga OG. It's not going anywhere!

I have the Saga+ and love it. Really a big fan of the ability to adjust the volume with the remote. I’ll take it over my Hafler DH-101 any day.

 

[Akustic]

The SYS can definitely be improved upon ...
Passives are about the quality level of that pot and those connectors and switches ...

This $99 SMD/DACT passive was way way more detailed and neutral than the Alps pot in the SYS ...
The SYS is retired to the pile of "It will come in handy some day" gear ..

https://www.ebay.com/itm/193766368408?hash=item2d1d602498:g:PCsAAOSwqOZgFPfM

Also try some different connecting cables between the passive and the amp ...
Amazon is a great cable source because they can be easily returned if not an improvement.

 

[twiiii]

If you wnt better more accurate sound get rid of the tube amp. If you like the colorization fine. But I would prefer to have a great tube pre-amp and an outstanding SS power amp. You won't have to be replacing tubes every 6 months that way. Yes tubes in power amps need to be replaced that often. Owned tubes back in the 60's and 70's before the decline of tubes. And even back then when great tubes were available in mass tubes for Power amps needed replacing every 6 months. Not all of them, but when you don't have a Distortion analyzer set up if you want the best consistant performance you replace your tubes every 6 months. Now I will say my system was in use 8 hours a day back then 5 or 6 days aweek. I might have been in school at the time but my Dad and mom listened to the system when they were home, too. TVs back then were referred to as idiot boxes and were only turned on for the news and a few serious programs.