Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Half-width size is desirable for storage, as two units can fit side-by-side on a typical hifi shelf
- Strong dynamic profile, dimensionality, and power for most performance speakers on the market
- Bass is much more controlled, and leading edges are significantly more defined, compared to the previous version
- Vocals feel lifelike and tangible
- Possesses a nice overall tone and a well executed lack of dryness or 'thin' character
Product Considerations
- A single Aegir 2 box delivers audiophile fun with efficient setups, but shines best in a dual mono two amp situation
- The top of the unit does heat up slightly with use
- May not be the perfect choice for high demand electrostatics
- Requires a balanced connection from the pre amp to bring out the best from the setup
- Takes a little longer to boot up compared to the original Aegir
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Schiit Vidar: The Aegir 2 has a sound that is more rich and thick, but still defined
- Vs Aegir G1 (original): The Aegir 2 has increased dynamics and low end control compared to the original
Takeaway: The Schiit Audio Aegir 2 is a fun power amplifier that offers a strong dynamic profile and nice overall tone. It brings dimensionality and sufficient power for most performance speakers, making it an enjoyable addition to any audiophile setup.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Aegir 2F
reviews
[{"title":"Review: Schiit Audio Aegir 2","link":"https://audio-head.com/review-schiit-audio-aegir-2","source":"AudioHead","datePublished":"2024"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
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Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Power Output Stereo, 8 Ohms: 30W RMS per channel
- Power Output Stereo, 4 Ohms: 50W RMS per channel
- Power Output Mono, 8 ohms: 100W RMS
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20Khz, -0.1db, 3Hz-550KHz, -3dB
- THD: <0.005%, 20Hz-20KHz, at 20W RMS into 8 ohms
- IMD: <0.005%, CCIR, at 20W RMS into 8 ohms
- SNR: >122db, A weighted, referenced to full output
- Damping Factor: >10 into 8 ohms, 20-20kHz
- Gain: 12 (22dB)
- Input Impedance: 22k ohms SE, 44k ohms balanced
- Crosstalk: >95dB, 20-20kHz
- Size: 9" x 13" x 3.875"
- Weight: 21 lbs
- Power Consumption: 250W maximum
Description
How do you improve the original Aegir? More power, lower noise floor, less heat. No-brainer, right? Well, let's throw a wrench in the works—and add Halo™. Meet Aegir 2F.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Schiit Audio offers product modularity, allowing users to upgrade individual components like DAC and USB boards within their existing devices, extending product lifespan and enhancing performance over time.
- They directly challenge industry norms by releasing new versions of flagship products (like the Yggdrasil) at lower prices than existing models.
- The brand focuses on in-house design and manufacturing, keeping production and component sourcing largely within the US.
- Schiit is known for its idiosyncratic, humorous marketing and branding. This aims to counter hifi audio pretentiousness and appeal to a broader customer base.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Modi Plus:
- Positioning: The entry-level DAC, offering a budget-friendly option for those new to high-fidelity audio.
- Description: Features Schiit's Unison USB for superior connectivity. It stands out with its ESS ES9018 DAC chip, providing a clean and detailed sound that competes with more expensive models. Compared to the Modius, it lacks balanced outputs, making it more suitable for simpler setups or smaller spaces where budget is a priority.
Modius:
- Positioning: A step up from the Modi Plus, offering balanced outputs for enhanced audio performance.
- Description: Features balanced outputs and high performance, using the ESS ES9028 DAC chip and Schiit's Unison USB. It provides a more refined sound than the Modi Plus, with better soundstage and connectivity options.
Bifrost:
- Positioning: A mid-range DAC in Schiit's lineup, offering advanced features like True Multibit technology.
- Description: Uses True Multibit architecture, providing a rich and detailed sound that surpasses the Modius. It includes Schiit's proprietary digital filter, enhancing both time and frequency domains.
Gungnir 2:
- Positioning: A high-end DAC, offering advanced features and modular design for serious audiophiles.
- Description: Uses Schiit's Multiform architecture, providing exceptional sound quality with its balanced multibit design. It includes two USB inputs and the Forkbeard system for enhanced control and future-proofing. Compared to the Bifrost, it offers more connectivity and modularity.
Yggdrasil:
- Positioning: Schiit's flagship DAC, offering the pinnacle of audio performance and modularity.
- Description: Features True Multibit architecture and proprietary digital filter, delivering groundbreaking sound quality. It offers a fully modular design, allowing for future upgrades and customization. Compared to the Gungnir 2, it provides even greater precision and detail.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
36
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
62
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
31
Founding Year
2010
Our take on the brand
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
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Our interview with the brand
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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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Schiit
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What if you spend more?
Coincident
Frankenstein 300B
2499
2499
/
1
Reviews
Coincident is excited to introduce the newest addition to our series of power amplifiers - the Frankenstein 300B Stereo Amplifier. The Frankenstein 300B Stereo amplifier is the stereo version of the highly acclaimed Frankenstein M300B Mono Amps. The two Frankenstein amps share the exact same mirror finish stainless steel chassis, virtually the same design and circuitry and industry breakthrough performance. The differences are the Stereo amp uses the 6SL7 input tube instead of the 6EM7 and utilizes the 5AR4 rectifier instead of the 5U4GB. Both are all hardwired share the vast majority of components. The Frankenstein Stereo 300B will be the best constructed, finest performance and best value of any single ended 300B available. It represents a breakthrough at its reasonable price point.
Coincident Speaker Technology specializes in high-efficiency speakers designed specifically for low-powered tube amplifiers, featuring unique MDF material that's more rigid than standard MDF and minimalist first-order crossovers for phase coherence. Their speakers are built with spline-joint construction and high impedance to work exceptionally well with tube amplifiers, while their low-loss design philosophy ensures minimal efficiency loss throughout the signal path.
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Product Strengths
- Extraordinary drive capabilities
- Outperforms countless amplifiers currently available, manufactured today and/or in the past, and at all price points
- Can be accurately described as a difference in kind when compared with the numerous 300B SET amplifiers of the past
- Is the finest amplifier, overall
Product Considerations
- Due to its limited power, the Frankenstein is definitely not for everyone
Takeaway: The Frankenstein amplifier has unique drive capabilities and outperforms many amplifiers on the market. It is the finest amplifier overall, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles
Video review
Our take on the brand
Coincident Speaker Technology specializes in high-efficiency speakers designed specifically for low-powered tube amplifiers, featuring unique MDF material that's more rigid than standard MDF and minimalist first-order crossovers for phase coherence. Their speakers are built with spline-joint construction and high impedance to work exceptionally well with tube amplifiers, while their low-loss design philosophy ensures minimal efficiency loss throughout the signal path.
Product Page
Product Page
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Robust, effortless power with excellent control makes it easy to drive all speakers with authority and deliver a satisfying listening experience.
- Balanced and neutral sound, with a solid low end that prevents it from sounding dull or anemic, while also ensuring it is not too aggressive to cause listening fatigue.
- Excellent timing makes music engaging and foot-tapping, and is particularly impressive with genres such as R&B and soundtracks.
- Built in the USA, it has a 5 year warranty and 15 day satisfaction guarantee
Product Considerations
- Not ideal for listeners seeking a romantic, sweet, and smooth midrange, or those who prefer a very lively sound.
- The amp required careful system matching to achieve its full potential, particularly needing a high-end preamp to unlock greater refinement and resolution.
- Bass performance might be seriously challenged by more modern amplifiers.
- There is a slight differential in gain
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Emotiva A1s, the Tyr has more bass, more clarity in the bass, and is less veiled overall
- Reminiscent of McIntosh 7270—the Tyr gives off similar 'Mac vibes'.
Takeaway:
The Schiit Tyr monoblocks deliver a lot of power and control, making music sound good with a balanced and neutral style. It's a great option for an amplifier that can handle almost any speaker and is versatile.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Product Page
Product Page
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Wotan sums up the power of Vidar and the tone of Aegier, adding its own sparkle
- The articulation in the treble was detailed, but light and airy as it should be
- Wotan was able to pull out some of the more nuanced information from audiophile classics
- With the DeVORE FIDELITY O/96, Wotan rose to the occasion with hyper-realistic imaging and instrument placement that felt three-dimensional in nature
- Wotan has the punch needed for a lively feel and the dynamic finesse necessary for more tender moments in music
Product Considerations
- Schiit amps historically struggled a bit with high-demand speakers, like electrostatic panels, but Wotan aims to address this with higher power output
- The addition of fans on the back panel may be a turn off for some
- There was a slight coil whine coming directly from the amp itself
- The ask for the Forkbeard module might be a bit much for some
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ampsandsound tube Stereo 17 "Little Nugget", the ampsandsound had more in the mids, but Wotan had an extended top end
- Vs Tyr, the new Wotan offers up the same 200 watts per channel as the former flagship monoblock Tyr, but in a dual mono configuration available in a single box
- Vs Vidar and Aegier, Wotan sums up the power of Vidar and the tone of Aegier, adding its own sparkle
Takeaway: The Schiit Wotan is a versatile amplifier with plenty of power and a balanced sound. It's a great choice for those who need more power in their system and want to explore features like adjustable feedback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
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What competes at this price?
Pro-Ject
MaiA S3
799
/
Released
2022
The MaiA S3 is the all in one solution for your hifi system. Not only the circuit design was reworked, also the case has been significantly changed and the MaiA S3 uses our new S3 case. Due to the bigger size we were able to improve the circuit board layout in terms of electromagnetical interference. With its 8 inputs you are ready for any kind of source device.
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Noted for its impossibly small and ultra-compact size, making it suitable for compact living spaces
- Offers a feature-rich design with an integrated phono stage, aptX HD Bluetooth connectivity, and additional RCA and TOSLINK digital inputs
- The unit runs cool due to its Class D amplifier design, making it energy-efficient
- Connectivity is praised, particularly the aptX HD Bluetooth, which delivers superior streaming quality
- Delivers a lively and engaging sound with excellent detail across phono and digital connections
Product Considerations
- The limited power output (23W at 8 ohms, 40W at 4 ohms) may be better suited to smaller listening spaces and efficient loudspeakers
- Some reviewers found the bass to be slightly lean, lacking heft or roundness
- The included remote control's button configuration for volume and input selection is unconventional
- The phono stage may benefit from an upgrade with an external phono amplifier for improved performance
- One reviewer found the line out voltage for the subwoofer is not strong enough to drive a powered sub
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Pro-Ject Stereobox DS2, the MaiA S3 is more affordable and has digital inputs and superior Bluetooth connectivity
- Compared to the Rega Io, the MaiA S3 has strength in depth—specifically referring to the detail across the line, phono and digital connections
- The MaiA S3 is described as more resolving and ultra clean compared to the Rotel amplifier, with the Rotel offering a slightly more colored and warm sound
- Compared to the Technics amplifier, moving to the MaiA S3 results in a faster transit response, especially noticeable in classical music, while the Technics sounds slow in comparison
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject MaiA S3 is a compact and versatile integrated amplifier that delivers impressive sound quality and a range of connectivity options, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles with limited space. It is especially appealing to vinyl enthusiasts looking for a convenient and high-performing solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Product Page
Product Page
Musical Fidelity
MX-HPA
799
/
Released
Years of experience in making high quality headphone amps have been distilled into the design of the MX-HPA. As a result, this fully-balanced headphone amp offers an awe-inspiring listening experience.
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with an elegant, minimalist aesthetic
- Fully balanced design
- Exceptional signal-to-noise ratio (>120dB 'A' weighted)
- Versatile because it automatically converts single-ended inputs to balanced signals
- Dual gain settings for versatility with virtually any headphone impedance
Product Considerations
- May be overkill for entry-level headphones
- The twin-XLR alternative is not the only means of balanced connection
Takeaway: The Musical Fidelity MX HPA is a remarkable piece of equipment that represents a significant achievement in balanced amplification design. It delivers a listening experience that is hard to surpass with technical excellence and practical versatility.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Product Page
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Topping
LA90
799
/
Released
2022
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
- Offers good instrument separation and imaging
- Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
- Compact size for an A-B amplifier
- Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections
Product Considerations
- May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
- External power supply 'brick' is large
- No remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
- The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
- The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
- Emotiva A1's have more power
Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Topping
LA90 (Discrete)
799
/
Released
2022
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
- Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
- Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
- CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool
Product Considerations
- Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
- Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
- Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
- Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
- The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage
Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Emotiva
BasX A1
569
/
Released
2024
The BasX A1 is a monoblock amplifier ideal for driving dedicated power to your most important speakers. Use the A1 as the foundation for a high-performance stereo system or to give every speaker in your system the ultimate assurance of pure channel isolation.
Emotiva is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that enables audiophiles to customize their amplifier configurations through a modular "Build Your Own" approach, using their Differential Reference design to minimize noise and distortion.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Bass performance is taut, detailed, and well-dampened
- Delivers a neutral presentation overall
- Has a solid steel chassis and milled aluminum faceplate
- The A1 is able to drive low impedance speakers with power and grandeur
- Produces 200 watts into 8 ohms and 325-350 watts into 4 ohms
- Only has a single line-level RCA-style input
Product Considerations
- Audible tweeter hiss may be present at idle, especially with highly efficient speakers
- High frequencies are not as smooth at the edges, exhibiting just faint traces of grain when listening at above-average levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel 1592 MkII amp: A1 is notably quieter and more detailed
- Vs Crown XLS Drive Core 2 amps: A1 is equally neutral in tone, has a lower noise floor, and a more consumer-friendly design
- Vs Schiit Vidar: A1 has a larger soundstage
Takeaway: The BasX A1 monoblock amplifier delivers good power and a neutral sound signature. It is a great option for those looking to expand an existing AVR or build a cost-effective hi-fi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Emotiva is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that enables audiophiles to customize their amplifier configurations through a modular "Build Your Own" approach, using their Differential Reference design to minimize noise and distortion.
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