Интегральные усилители — Schiit Audio Ragnarok 2

The Ragnarok 2 is an integrated amplifier from Schiit Audio, built with the brand's unique Nexus current-feedback differential topology - a genuine first for Schiit - allowing single-ended inputs to convert to balanced outputs and vice versa without any gain penalty between modes. Designed and assembled in California, the Ragnarok 2 is a complete redesign rather than a mere refinement of the original Ragnarok, seamlessly serving both speakers and headphones from a single modular chassis.

Key specs that matter

Two balanced XLR and three single-ended RCA line-level inputs are provided on the Just An Amp configuration; the Fully Loaded version trades one unbalanced input for a built-in moving-magnet phono stage and USB multibit DAC handling 16, 24 and 32-bit data from 44.1 to 192kHz. Input impedance is 10k ohms. Rated output is 60W per channel into 8 ohms, rising to 100W into 4 ohms. Balanced headphone output delivers 24W into 32 ohms, 15W into 50 ohms, 3W into 300 ohms and 1.5W into 600 ohms; single-ended headphone output delivers roughly a quarter of that at each impedance. Signal-to-noise exceeds 115dB A-weighted, with distortion under 0.01% at 100W RMS into 8 ohms. Three gain settings (1x, 8x, 25x) with independently switchable headphone and speaker outputs give genuine flexibility across different transducer types. A 128-step relay-switched stepped attenuator, shared with Schiit's Freya 2 preamplifier, delivers smooth volume control with precise 0.63dB steps and excellent channel tracking even at very low levels, operated via a motorised potentiometer and included remote. Power comes from a fully linear supply with a 600VA shielded transformer and over 132,000 microfarads of filter capacitance, with the Class AB output stage running roughly 1W of Class A bias. At 13 x 3.89 x 16 inches and 32 lbs, the amplifier ships direct from Schiit with a 5-year warranty and 15-day money-back guarantee.

Sound and use context

Expect a transparent, rich and clear tonality with excellent delineation, quick transients and separation across all three gain settings, authority and ease even in the lowest gain setting, with orchestral recordings spreading well beyond the bounds of the speakers and considerable dynamic reserves left in reserve regardless of musical demands.

Pairing

The independently switchable speaker and headphone outputs plus three gain settings mean this amplifier suits an enormous range of headphone impedances and loudspeaker sensitivities from the same chassis, and the Nexus topology's seamless balanced/single-ended conversion simplifies matching volume levels across multiple different sources.

Alternatives

Schiit's broader amplifier and DAC catalogue, including standalone phono stage and DAC modules that share circuitry with the Fully Loaded Ragnarok 2's built-in options, offers separates-based alternatives for buyers wanting to build a system piece by piece rather than in this comprehensive single chassis.