Schiit Audio has long been a value leader in the world of audiophile equipment, known for offering high-quality gear at very approachable price points. Founded in 2010 by Jason Stoddard and Mike Moffat, the company quickly carved out a niche with its humorous brand name and no-nonsense approach to audio. Schiit’s products often deliver exceptional sound quality, while eschewing the bells and whistles of more expensive competitors. Instead, the brand focuses on core performance, robust design, and a touch of humor that has endeared it to casual listeners and audiophiles alike.
Enter the Schiit Saga 2, which the company boldly describes as “literally the highest price-for-performance preamp” they’ve ever created. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the Schiit Saga (read a review of the Schiit Saga+ preamp here), this updated version aims to refine the listening experience further, while maintaining its position as a disruptor in the audiophile space. But does it live up to the lofty expectations set by its creators? Stay tuned as we dive deeper into what makes the Schiit Saga 2 tick and whether it truly delivers on its promise.
What Makes the Schiit Saga 2 Preamp Special?
- The Schiit Saga 2 is designed to cater to a wide range of audiophile preferences and setups through its dual operating modes: passive and active. In passive mode, the signal travels directly through the audiophile preamp without any additional gain or processing, making it ideal for those who value transparency and minimal coloration in their audio. Meanwhile, the active mode engages a fully discrete, Class-A, zero-feedback gain stage. This versatility allows users to experiment and choose the mode that best suits their system or personal taste, making the Saga 2 a flexible centerpiece for any audio setup.
- Compatibility is key for any preamp, and the Saga 2 delivers by offering both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs. Balanced connections are ideal for reducing noise and interference in setups with longer cable runs or environments prone to electromagnetic interference. Meanwhile, the RCA outputs ensure compatibility with traditional audio equipment. This dual-output design ensures the Saga 2 can integrate seamlessly into a variety of systems, whether you’re using it with a high-end amplifier, powered bookshelf speakers, or even other Schiit components.
- At the heart of the Schiit Saga 2’s performance is its 64-step relay-switched stepped attenuator, a standout feature that ensures precise volume control and excellent channel balance. Unlike traditional potentiometers, which can degrade over time and introduce signal distortion, this relay-based design uses discrete thin-film resistors to maintain purity in the audio signal. Every adjustment you make is executed with precision, preserving the integrity of the music. This attention to detail in volume control is particularly appealing to audiophiles, as it eliminates one of the common weak points in audio equipment.
- While its primary role is as a preamp, the Saga 2 also incorporates a headphone amplifier powered by an OPA1656-based booster. Capable of delivering up to 150 megawatts of power, this feature adds versatility to the unit, allowing it to double as a high-quality headphone amplifier. Whether you’re using efficient headphones for casual listening or diving into detailed critical listening sessions, the Schiit Saga 2’s headphone amp provides a robust and engaging audio experience. This dual functionality makes it an excellent option for those who want to simplify their setup without compromising on performance.
- The Schiit Saga 2 comes with a surprisingly nice remote that feels as premium as the preamp itself. Crafted from what looks like a single, solid milled piece of aluminum with a slot for the electronics, it has a satisfying heft and durability that’s rare in audio remotes. Functionally, it allows users to switch inputs, adjust volume, and toggle between modes with ease, all while maintaining the preamp’s hallmark precision and signal integrity. It’s a thoughtful addition that combines practicality with a sense of refined design.
- The Schiit Saga 2 stereo preamp also comes with a $50 (retail) remote option called Forkbeard which is module that can be installed at the time of purchase or later. Audiophiles can then use an app to track all sorts of details from volume and headroom. It adapts to the performance of the power amp and is pretty cool. Forkbeard is available on nearly 10 of Schiit’s components ranging in price to as high as $1,999 and includes a DAC, a few preamps and even some Schiit power amps.
Why Should You Care About the Schiit Saga 2 Stereo Preamp?
The Schiit Saga 2 offers a compelling combination of performance and affordability, making it a noteworthy option in the preamp market. Key to its appeal is the inclusion of a relay-based stepped attenuator, a feature rarely seen in this price range. This design ensures precise volume control and excellent signal integrity, minimizing distortion typically associated with traditional potentiometers. The flexibility of passive and active modes further enhances its utility, allowing users to choose between a direct, uncolored signal path or the subtle gain provided by its discrete Class-A, zero-feedback gain stage. For systems that require adaptability or for users who enjoy tailoring their audio experience, these options make the Saga 2 versatile and practical.
In a broader context, the Schiit Saga 2 exemplifies Schiit’s approach to product design: focusing on core functionality and minimizing unnecessary extras. Its minimalist build is durable and well-executed, reflecting a priority on longevity and reliability. For those evaluating cost-to-performance ratios, the Saga 2 stands out as a very strong contender, especially in a market where many alternatives at this price point may compromise on features or build quality. Its focus on delivering key audio performance metrics makes it a logical choice for discerning listeners looking to maximize value without sacrificing sound quality.
Things You Might Not Like About the Schiit Saga 2 Stereo Preamp
- While Schiit’s design philosophy favors simplicity and functionality, the plain-looking aluminum chassis of the Saga 2 may strike some as too utilitarian. It lacks the polished or premium visual appeal found in some competing products, which could be a drawback for users who value their audio gear as much for aesthetics as for performance.
- Despite offering balanced XLR outputs, the Saga 2 does not include balanced XLR inputs.The lack of balanced XLR inputs could limit its compatibility for users with balanced sources, as they would need to rely on single-ended RCA inputs, potentially introducing a mismatch in certain high-end setups.
Listening to the Schiit Saga 2 Stereo Preamp
To test the Schiit Saga 2, I connected it to my personal reference system, placing it between my Yamaha A-S301 amplifier and my audio sources: a Topping E30 DAC and a U-Turn Orbit Plus turntable paired with a Pro-Ject phono stage. The multiple RCA inputs made setup straightforward, and switching between sources with the included remote was both intuitive and convenient.
I began my listening test with a vinyl recording I know intimately: the Ultimate Sinatra Set, “Summer Wind.” The Schiit Saga 2 delivered clear, transparent sound, with crisp vocals that were well-isolated within the recordings. Experimenting with the two gain modes, I found that the maximum gain setting worked best for my setup, as it allowed my amplifier to reach appropriate volume levels without requiring excessive power.
I also played a vinyl pressing of Daft Punk’s Discovery Daft Punk – One More Time. The album sounded exceptional through the Saga 2, with bass lines handled with precision and authority. The highs and mids maintained a similar balance to what I expect from my digital sources, suggesting that the Schiit Saga 2 does an excellent job of preserving the integrity of the signal without introducing noticeable coloration. While listening, I took the opportunity to test the stepped attenuator. Each turn of the volume knob produced a precise, mechanical click, offering both tactile and auditory feedback that emphasized the precision of the Saga 2’s design. This feature not only made adjusting the volume engaging, but also reinforced my confidence in the durability and reliability of its components. The attentiveness required to adjust the volume felt intentional and added a level of satisfaction to using the preamp.
That said, I did notice one drawback. While the volume control is incredibly precise, the small size of the knob limits the fine control you can achieve manually. This feels like a trade-off – while the knob fits Schiit’s minimalist design language perfectly, it seems to underutilize the precision of the attenuator. It’s a minor limitation, but one worth noting for users who may prefer larger, more ergonomic controls.
Will the Schiit Saga 2 Preamp Hold Its Value?
The Schiit Saga 2 costs so very little that, even if it retained 75 percent of its value over, say, five years (an unheard-of feat), it wouldn’t matter much. The reality is that when we are done with an ultra-value audiophile product like the Schiit Saga 2, we can still sell it on AudiogoN.com or eBay and get fair percentage of our value back in return, but the $100-ish bucks back is likely better invested by using the preamp in another room/system, or giving the component to a hungry, young audiophile to help grow the passion for this hobby with a noob.
What is the Competition for the Schiit Saga 2 Stereo Preamp?
- The Topping Pre90, priced at $599 (buy at Amazon), is one of the most direct competitors to the Schiit Saga 2 in the discrete preamp market. The Pre90 is fully balanced and offers incredibly low distortion levels, making it ideal for audiophiles seeking a highly transparent signal path. Unlike the Saga 2, the Pre90 lacks a passive mode or any coloration options, focusing entirely on delivering a neutral and uncolored sound. While it excels in precision and neutrality, it doesn’t provide the flexibility to tailor the sound signature, giving the Saga 2 an edge for users who appreciate both passive and active configurations.
- The Emotiva BasX PT1, at $399, is another high-value audiophile preamp contender in this price range. Although it includes some additional features, like a built-in DAC and Bluetooth connectivity, the Emotiva PT1 is fundamentally a capable preamp with discrete analog circuitry. Its sound signature leans toward a clean and neutral presentation, but it lacks the relay-based volume control and active/passive versatility of the Schiit Saga 2. For users who value functionality and modern conveniences over purely audiophile-grade features, the PT1 is a practical alternative, but it doesn’t quite match the Saga 2’s focus on pure performance.
- The S.M.S.L. HO200, priced at $449, is a lesser-known but competitive value-preamp option. It offers balanced inputs and outputs, excellent measurements, and a discrete amplifier section. The HO200 emphasizes precision and technical performance, providing a very clean signal path similar to the Topping Pre90. However, like the Pre90, it lacks the flexibility and tonal customization of the Saga 2. For listeners who prioritize straightforward transparency over adjustability, the HO200 is worth considering.
Final Thoughts on the Schiit Saga 2 Stereo Preamp …
The Schiit Saga 2 strikes an impressive balance between performance and affordability, offering features that are typically reserved for higher-priced preamps. Its relay-based volume control and dual operating modes – passive and active – give it a level of versatility that stands out in its price range. While it may lack some of the advanced connectivity or added features found in more expensive models, it focuses on delivering clean, high-quality sound, which is exactly what a good preamp should do.
That said, the Schiit Saga 2 solid state preamp is not without limitations. For users who need balanced inputs or are looking for an all-in-one solution that includes a DAC or phonostage, this may not be the right fit. Its minimalist design and feature set are deliberate choices that prioritize core functionality, but that also means it isn’t trying to be a jack-of-all-trades. The Schiit Saga 2 stereo preamp is best suited for audiophiles who value simplicity, quality, and the ability to fine-tune their listening experience. It is products like the Schiit Saga 2 that makes getting into the audiophile hobby easier and better today than ever before.
