Schiit Freya 2 – Balanced Preamplifier with Five Operating Modes

American company Schiit Audio has introduced the Freya 2 preamplifier, distinguished by its ability to flexibly reconfigure the amplification circuitry. At the heart of the new model is the proprietary Fusion Architecture, which combines four vacuum tubes with depletion-mode MOSFET transistors. Users can choose between five operating modes: passive, all-tube, all-solid-state, and two hybrid configurations in which tubes are employed either for voltage amplification or current amplification. Regardless of the selected configuration, the active stages retain a Class A differential topology without global negative feedback, while the gain can be switched between 0 and 12 dB.

The Schiit Freya 2 preamplifier is equipped with four tubes from the 6SN7 family, which can be replaced with compatible alternatives. To extend tube life, the unit automatically switches off tubes that are not required in the selected operating mode, while a built-in protection system monitors their correct installation and operating parameters. Volume adjustment is handled by a 128-step relay-switched attenuator featuring discrete thin-film resistors and 0.625 dB increments. The power supply incorporates two linear sections built around C-core transformers rated at 48 VA and 24 VA, complemented by a separate regulated DC supply for the tube heaters. The audio circuitry also features polypropylene capacitors, precision resistors, and high-quality switching components.

For connecting audio sources, the Schiit Freya 2 provides two pairs of balanced XLR inputs and three unbalanced RCA inputs, while the output connections comprise one pair of XLR outputs and two pairs of RCA outputs. The signal path maintains a fully differential design throughout. The preamplifier can be controlled using the included infrared remote or via a mobile application through the Forkbeard Bluetooth module. The new model is already available to order in two finishes: the black version is priced at $999, while the silver version costs $1,049. Both versions come with a set of four vacuum tubes.