Better tube technology is now more accessible with the Schiit Vali 3
Schiit Audio just released a new product for audiophiles on a budget, the Vali 3 tube headphone amplifier. Priced at $149, it improves upon the earlier model, the Vali 2, with better design and sound quality. This makes it a perfect choice for anyone’s first tube amplifier.
“The big deal with Vali 3 is that it’s an even better way to try out tubes and see if they’re something you want to get into at a very low price. It’s quite simply the most serious, most capable entry-level tube hybrid amp out there.” says Jason Stoddard, founder of Schiit Audio.
“Nothing else has a serious 100V rail. Nothing else has Vali 3’s high power output. Nothing else has its extremely low noise floor. Nothing else is backed by a company that’s been around for 13 years, making things in the USA and keeping prices as low as possible.”
Schiit Vali 3 Features
The Vali 3 features advanced technology not typically found in entry-level tube amps. It mixes the warm tones of tubes with the clear sound of traditional transistors. Plus, it skips the common op-amps and uses a special feedback loop to keep the sound stable and precise.
According to Stoddard, this new headphone amp was originally created to improve just the aesthetics of the Vali line.
Compared to its predecessors, the Vali 3 has a new look with an advanced chassis design custom-stamped in California.
This chassis not only helps with heat dissipation by fully exposing the tube, inspired by Schiit’s higher-end Lyr+ amplifier. It also adds a cosmetic upgrade to the headphone amp.
But, the changes to Vali 3 eventually went beyond its appearance. Its internal parts have been entirely revamped, inspired by the Magni+ model.
This involves moving the headphone jack, tweaking the power system, and enhancing the volume switch’s accessibility, thus ensuring ease of use across multiple devices.
When it comes to compatibility, Schiit says the Vali 3 has plenty of power for harder-to-drive headphones.
The Vali 3 runs at a full 100V on the plate, much higher than other designs in its class that use only 12-48V. According to Schiit, this higher voltage lets the Vali 3’s single tube work more linearly for better sound quality.
At the same time, it keeps a low noise floor for more sensitive headphones. And, it can also be stacked with Schiit’s Modi DACs or Loki Mini equalizer for a complete desktop system.
Where to Buy
The Vali 3 is on Schiit’s website for $149. This makes it more affordable than the previous Vali 2++, which costs more than $180.
It’s available in black and silver color schemes. It also comes with a 2-year limited warranty on parts and labor, plus a 15-day return policy with a 15% restocking fee.
“Now, we can get into tons of arguments about “well, tubes don’t measure good, and therefore they are not good,” which yeah, you can accept as gospel and never question.” says Stoddard.
“Or, you can get a Vali 3, and for a hundred and a half bucks, listen for yourself, and decide if tubes are for you. The result might surprise you.”