If I understand this correctly, the Saga has two outputs and they are both live all the time? I was hoping to use this to switch output between headphones and speakers but it doesn't sound like that's possible.
Schiit's Saga Preamp Impressions
- Thread starter CarlosUnchained
- Start date
Mike Foley
500+ Head-Fier
Saga arrived today. It's fantastic!
Mike Foley
500+ Head-Fier
With regard to headphones, could a headphone amp be connected to the second set of pre-outs, with h/phone amp volume on maximum, leaving Saga to control the headphone volume level?
limelake
100+ Head-Fier
I don't see why not, I use my Valhalla 2 wide open connected to my SAGA for volume control....no problems....same for my Vali 2. Dead silent with no music ! Works great.
Robert Wortman
100+ Head-Fier
As far as I know, the outputs are tied together. There is no way to switch between them without modifying and voiding your warranty. I use a switchbox. Not for HP's but it would work the same way.
I am thinking about getting one of these to run between my CD/SACD player and my McIntosh C27 preamp. The Sega seems like an inexpensive way to add remote volume control to my system. I could use the unit in place if the McIntosh but it sure doesn't look as cool.
Sorry for the probably noob question but what benefit would the saga give me (if any) in my existing system, or a preamp in general?
Currently got a bimby and Valhalla 2 strictly for headphone use. I do not connect any speakers.
What would a preamp do for me?
The reason I'm looking at the saga is the remote control. Would leave the Valhalla 2 at full volume and control it with the saga's remote.
Currently got a bimby and Valhalla 2 strictly for headphone use. I do not connect any speakers.
What would a preamp do for me?
The reason I'm looking at the saga is the remote control. Would leave the Valhalla 2 at full volume and control it with the saga's remote.
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CarlosUnchained
100+ Head-Fier
Mostly convenience. The preamps were conceived for 2 channel power amps, these didn't have (and some still doesn't) volume control and only have one input.
So with the Saga you'd get: volume control, several inputs, remote and tube buffer in active mode (color the sound).
Even with a 2 channel system, the Valhalla can be used as a preamp, which is very convenient.
The decision is yours.
Personally I wouldn't spend that much just to have remote control when you are literally wired to the Valhalla by your cans. You can't go that far from it.
Thanks for your reply. I'm about 3M away from the Valhalla 2 so a remote would be very convenient.
I hope that schiit starts adding remote control support to all products from now on
I hope that schiit starts adding remote control support to all products from now on
Unless Schiit decided to use a relay stepped attenuator to every amps they have, remote control would not be viable.
Mike Foley
500+ Head-Fier
Earlier I asked if Saga works with external phono stages. It does, with both my old Cambridge Audio 640P and a new Mani, within certain limits.
Using MC on both stages was disappointing, with a lack of gain and consequently a bit of audible noise when volume was turned up to a realistic level (about three quarter turn). Music was clear enough, but lacking dynamics. Maybe a higher output MC cartridge would be better, but realistically not many people are going to use a high end MC with either of these phono stages.
MM, Ortofon 520 Mk2, worked perfectly. No noise at listening levels, 12 o'clock volume, and the full 'oomph' of the music was restored. Slightly higher output from Mani, but the 640P was fine too. I'm sticking with Mani, because it looks cute!
Using MC on both stages was disappointing, with a lack of gain and consequently a bit of audible noise when volume was turned up to a realistic level (about three quarter turn). Music was clear enough, but lacking dynamics. Maybe a higher output MC cartridge would be better, but realistically not many people are going to use a high end MC with either of these phono stages.
MM, Ortofon 520 Mk2, worked perfectly. No noise at listening levels, 12 o'clock volume, and the full 'oomph' of the music was restored. Slightly higher output from Mani, but the 640P was fine too. I'm sticking with Mani, because it looks cute!
liquidsmote
100+ Head-Fier
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It's been a while since I've posted to this thread, but wanted to add a few updates:
1) The Saga has functioned flawlessly on a near daily basis
2) Sound quality is phenomenal ... I couldn't be happier
3) The Schiit Mani pairs very well with the Saga. Astounding stereo separation and soundstage. Very detailed sound!
4) I have to update my tube-rolling post but I've finally found "the one." Raytheon 6SN7GTB has been hands down the best sounding tube I've rolled in. I picked up a few spares ... and they are consistently good. The USA and Japan made are essentially sonically identical.
5) I'm still integrating my HTPC with the Saga ... I really like being able to adjust my subwoofer volume independently of the Cronus using the Saga!
1) The Saga has functioned flawlessly on a near daily basis
2) Sound quality is phenomenal ... I couldn't be happier
3) The Schiit Mani pairs very well with the Saga. Astounding stereo separation and soundstage. Very detailed sound!
4) I have to update my tube-rolling post but I've finally found "the one." Raytheon 6SN7GTB has been hands down the best sounding tube I've rolled in. I picked up a few spares ... and they are consistently good. The USA and Japan made are essentially sonically identical.
5) I'm still integrating my HTPC with the Saga ... I really like being able to adjust my subwoofer volume independently of the Cronus using the Saga!
Mike Foley
500+ Head-Fier
Nice looking system.
What differences have you found in sound with the new tube? I'm still using the stock valve, and to be honest can't hear any difference between direct mode and tube mode!
I'm delighted with both Saga and Mani too.
And here's my Schiit heap.
What differences have you found in sound with the new tube? I'm still using the stock valve, and to be honest can't hear any difference between direct mode and tube mode!
I'm delighted with both Saga and Mani too.
And here's my Schiit heap.
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Robert Wortman
100+ Head-Fier
It's been a while since I've posted to this thread, but wanted to add a few updates:
1) The Saga has functioned flawlessly on a near daily basis
2) Sound quality is phenomenal ... I couldn't be happier
3) The Schiit Mani pairs very well with the Saga. Astounding stereo separation and soundstage. Very detailed sound!
4) I have to update my tube-rolling post but I've finally found "the one." Raytheon 6SN7GTB has been hands down the best sounding tube I've rolled in. I picked up a few spares ... and they are consistently good. The USA and Japan made are essentially sonically identical.
5) I'm still integrating my HTPC with the Saga ... I really like being able to adjust my subwoofer volume independently of the Cronus using the Saga!
How do you play records with the tonearm zip tied to the rest?
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