Schiit Lyr+ review
The review sample was kindly provided free of charge. I didn’t receive monetary or any other kind of compensation and I don’t use affiliate links.
The price of the Lyr is $599 without a tube and $649 with a premium 6SN7 tube and you can order it directly from Schiit
A Flashback
The Lyr was Schitt’s first hybrid headphone amplifier with dual triode E88CC/6922 tubes for voltage gain and mosfets for current gain.
Then came the second generation with a gain switch, new regulated high-voltage supply, DC regulated heaters and preamp outputs.
The third iteration of the Lyr saw the substitution of the dual 6922 tubes for a single 6SN7, the new Coherence hybrid topology and a modular design that allowed you to add a DAC or a phono module of your choice. This version is one of my favorite amplifiers up to date.
Lyr+
The latest iteration of the amplifier, the Schiit Lyr+, marks the fourth generation of this device. While the 6SN7 input tube remains a key component, the rest of the amplifier has undergone significant changes.
Setting it apart from other headphone amplifiers on the market, the Schiit Lyr+ boasts a unique feature – the ability to seamlessly transition between tube and solid state modes. This is made possible through the innovative Fusion Architecture™, a proprietary technology developed by Schiit.
With the Schiit Lyr+, users have the flexibility to utilize any 6SN7 type tube, ensuring a 100% tube voltage gain. Additionally, the amplifier offers the option to switch to its internal solid state gain stage, which is built upon exotic depletion-mode MOSFETs. This combination of tube and solid state capabilities provides an enhanced audio experience for discerning listeners.
The Schiit Lyr+ is essentially two amplifiers, namely a pure solid state and a tube hybrid, housed within a single unit. It offers the option to purchase the Lyr+ without a tube, catering specifically to those who prefer solid state amplification or those who already possess a collection of 6SN7 tubes. In addition to its pre-amp output, the Lyr+ boasts a 64-step relay ladder volume control, two line-level analogue inputs, and an unexpected feature – a remote control.
Appearance and user interface
The Schiit Lyr+ maintains its original design, with no changes in appearance. It features a mid-sized chassis that can be stacked with the Bifrost DAC. The front face and upper part of the chassis are made from a single piece of anodized, bended aluminum sheet, while the enclosing box is constructed from plain painted metal. The build quality is exceptional, and the Lyr+ is available in two color options: silver and black, both featuring a silver aluminum volume knob.
On the left side of the front face, you will find the input toggle button and a button for enabling the pre-amp output, followed by three notification LEDs. The volume control knob is located next to these buttons, along with a third button, two additional notification LEDs, and the 6.35mm headphone jack. Pressing the third button once toggles the gain between low and high, while a long press of four seconds switches between tube and solid state modes.
Switching modes is not an instantaneous process; instead, the amplifier goes into a muted state for approximately 20 seconds before resuming normal operation. Even when you have a tube installed and switch to solid state mode, the tube remains powered on continuously. However, if you intend to use the solid state mode for an extended period, it is advisable to remove the tube in order to prolong its lifespan.
To conveniently control all functions, the remote control comes in handy, especially when the amplifier is placed on a rack. At the rear side of the amplifier, you will find two RCA inputs, an RCA pre-amp output, the on/off switch, and the AC input.
Inside the box, apart from the AC power cord, you will also discover a metallic cover designed to protect the tube socket when it is not in use.
Associated gear
Sources used for the review included the Aune X8 XVIII DAC with the XP2 linear power supply, the Ideon Audio Ayazi MK2 DAC and Lab12 dac1 reference.
Various headphones were used including the Focal Clear Mg and Utopia 2022, HIFIMAN Arya Stealth and the Sennheiser HD8XX, Sennheiser HD660S2.
All headphone cables are from pure silver made by Lavricables.
Power output and noise floor
With 4.0WPC/50Ω available, the Schiit Lyr+ effortlessly powers the Susvara and any other headphones you throw at it, all while maintaining a cool chassis. It’s worth noting that increasing the volume is not a linear process, requiring you to go beyond ¾ to achieve truly loud levels.
However, this is a common characteristic as explained by Schiit’s technical department, where the relay remains at -40dB at noon. Unlike most volume pots that are -10dB to -20dB at noon, relays offer complete linearity and precise control at every point on the knob, albeit with a slightly different operation.
When in solid state mode, the amplifier is completely silent, but switching to the tube mode introduces a faint hiss in the background. However, this hiss is not audible during music playback unless you are using highly sensitive earphones.
Listening impressions
Solid state mode
In solid state mode, the Schiit Lyr+ exhibits all the renowned sound characteristics and finesse of a high-quality class A amplifier, despite operating in class AB. The sound it produces is rich and commanding, with a subtle touch of warmth that doesn’t compromise on treble extension and energy.
The presentation of the sound is expansive and magnificent, with ample depth, layering, and ambient information. It creates a solid holographic relief, where each performer is accurately positioned within the vast canvas of the soundscape.
The tuning of the Schiit Lyr+ is linear, neutral, and naturally balanced. It offers exceptional transparency and crystalline clarity, while still managing to be incredibly engaging and musically captivating. The timbre it produces is remarkably natural and realistic, reminiscent of organic and analog sound. The music is reproduced in a lifelike manner, with flowing overtones and a diverse range of harmonics.
This amplifier truly connects the listener to the music, evoking deep emotional engagement and providing an immensely enjoyable experience. It allows for hours of uninterrupted listening pleasure, without the need for breaks. I can personally attest to this, as I once intended to listen to Brahms’ first symphony but ended up immersing myself in the entire cycle.
I cannot emphasize enough how authentically and accurately the instruments sounded, creating a harmonious and unified recreation of the symphony orchestra in all its grandeur.
Do not be mistaken, the Schiit Lyr+ is not a gentle, romantic amplifier that adds soft and hazy colors to the music. It is a powerful and dynamic amplifier that delivers a commanding bass, deep and expansive, yet tightly controlled and fast, with exceptional clarity and layering.
You will be able to discern the subtle nuances in the music while experiencing the striking contrast in dynamics. The Schiit Lyr+ packs a punch, almost comparable to the Mjolnir 2, creating a captivating bass presentation that complements various genres of music, from classical to contemporary.
The mid-range of the Schiit Lyr+ is truly enchanting, exuding a delightful and melodious quality. Its timbre purity allows the notes to gracefully dance around you, heightening your senses and creating a sense of realism. This creates a supernatural connection between the listener and the performers, immersing you in the music.
In terms of resolution, the Lyr+ excels in both the mid-range and treble frequencies. It articulates the nuances of the music with finesse and refinement, ensuring that every detail is captured without sounding overly analytical or sterile. It strikes the perfect balance, drawing the listener deeper into the recording.
Furthermore, the Lyr+ possesses an abundance of energy and luminosity, injecting liveliness and agility into the sound. However, it never crosses into the realm of brightness or harshness, maintaining a harmonious and enjoyable listening experience.
Gone are the days when some Schiit amplifiers leaned towards a treble-forward and metallic sound. The tuning of the Lyr+ has undergone a long refinement process, resulting in a matured and distilled sound signature. It represents the culmination of years of improvement, offering a truly exceptional audio experience.
To put it simply, the Schiit Lyr+ stands out as an exceptional solid state headphone amplifier currently available in the market. It seamlessly blends remarkable technical capabilities with unparalleled musicality, all at an unbeatable price point. In my personal view, I dare say that it surpasses any other solid state headphone amplifier ever produced by Schiit.
However, the Schiit Lyr+ doesn’t stop at being just a solid state amplifier; it also incorporates the enchanting realm of tube hybrid technology. Thus, it offers an even more captivating and magical listening experience.
TUNG-SOL 6SN7 Tube
The TUNG-SOL 6SN7 is a contemporary tube that has been carefully chosen by Schiit as the default option due to its ability to preserve the solid state sound qualities of the amplifier while adding a touch of tube magic.
But what exactly is tube magic?
Tube magic refers to the phenomenon where the sound becomes slightly more relaxed with a looser time decay and softer transients. The ambience becomes more atmospheric, as if someone has magically added a little extra vibrato to the instruments. The bass may not be as firm as in solid state mode and it may lose a bit of its dynamism, but it gains additional layers of depth and shading gradients. The timbre takes on more analog and organic-like qualities, with greater harmonic variety, while the soundstage becomes more holographic and immersive.
Interestingly, with the stock tube, there is an unexpected paradox where the texture actually becomes thinner and drier, rather than more visceral and full-bodied as one would typically expect in solid state mode. Everything else remains largely unchanged and as described in the solid state sound impressions section.
So, if you are a dedicated solid state user, don’t hesitate to give the stock tube a try – you may be pleasantly surprised. The stock tube is highly recommended for those who want to experience the magic without sacrificing too many solid state technicalities and sound characteristics.
However, for hardcore tube enthusiasts, the solution lies in tube rolling…
Psvane UK-6SN7
Are you seeking an enhanced tube experience?
Embark on a journey of tube exploration until you discover your preferred one, such as the remarkable Psvane UK-6SN7. Renowned for its exceptional musicality, this tube strikes a perfect balance between musicality and technical prowess.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of this extraordinary tube, where the notes take on a subtle dimness and seem to float momentarily in the air before embarking on their inevitable journey through time and space. Harmonics become more vibrant and diverse, creating a tapestry of contrasting shades that adds an unparalleled sense of realism to the already lifelike reproduction of the musical performance.
Prepare to be captivated by the incredibly musical and organic sound this tube delivers. Its emotive and communicative qualities are particularly pronounced when listening to live recordings. Additionally, you will discover that the soundstage gains additional layers of holographic depth, natural reverb, and an immersive quality that transports you closer to the heart of the musical experience.
It is a hybrid amplifier
If you have been curious, it is important to note that technicalities remain exceptional. It should not be overlooked that the Schiit Lyr+ functions as a hybrid amplifier, meaning that the output stage holds the utmost authority in determining the quality of the technical performance. This level of performance is consistently maintained at a high standard, regardless of the type of tube utilized, and never falls below a certain threshold, which is more than satisfactory for its category and beyond.
One consequence of this hybrid design is that the input tube does not have as significant an impact on the overall sound character compared to an all tube amplifier. Consequently, a solid state essence is always present, regardless of the tube employed, and the effectiveness of tube rolling may not meet one’s expectations.
Compared to the Lyr 3
The Schiit Lyr+ can be regarded as a refined and sophisticated iteration of the Lyr 3, boasting improved technicalities. It offers a neutral and transparent sound with enhanced clarity, slightly faster and more controlled performance, and a touch of added impact and dynamism. However, it does have a drier texture and lacks the visceral quality of its predecessor. Despite these differences, the Lyr+ remains highly resolving, lucid, and maintains its engaging and organic musicality.
Now, addressing the question of whether it is worth upgrading from the Lyr 3 to the Schiit Lyr+, the answer depends on your current setup and preferences. If you have already built a synergistic system around the Lyr 3 and are satisfied with its performance, I don’t believe it is necessary to switch to the Lyr+ unless you are curious about experiencing the pure solid-state mode or anticipate needing the additional features in the future.
In the end
In simple terms, the Schiit Lyr+ is undoubtedly one of the most competitive headphone amplifiers currently available in the market. It represents Schiit’s finest creation to date, showcasing a remarkable blend of solid-state and tube hybrid amplification. This unique combination results in an incredibly captivating and musically pleasing sound signature, accompanied by impressive technical capabilities and ample power output.
Regardless of whether you prefer the solid-state or tube amplification, the Schiit Lyr+ caters to both preferences flawlessly, making it a valuable addition to any collection. In fact, its versatility may even encourage you to appreciate and enjoy the best of both worlds.
If you were to inquire about my personal opinion, without any hesitation, the Schiit Lyr+ would be one of my desert island amplifier choices. I would start by indulging in the tube mode, relishing every moment until its last breath, and seamlessly transition to the solid-state mode until rescue arrives (or not). However, upon further contemplation, it is perhaps best to leave me be, allowing me to immerse myself eternally in the blissful realm of my favorite music with this extraordinary headphone amplifier.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2023.
+ Musical and engaging
+ Organic and realistic timbre
+ Crystal clear and transparent
+ Excellent technicalities
+ Dynamic and impactful
+ Holographic soundstage
+ Tube and solid state mode
+ You can buy it with or without a tube
+ Powerful with low noise floor
+ Two analogue inputs and preamp output
+ Compact size
+ Excellent build quality
+ Remote control
+ Value
– Tube rolling is not that effective as in a pure tube amplifier
– The relay is noisy and slow
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