Schiit Mjolnir 3 Impressions

Actually, would you indulge? I'm actually not sure which you think is the Bentley and which the Viper.

I was pretty clear I thought MJ3 > FV, but in retrospect, maybe I should have asterisked myself by reminding people that I was listening to FV on the nerfed SE outputs from Yggdrasil and the non-nerf bal outputs on MJ3.

 

I don't disagree with this at all. FV is a different animal with a different purpose. FV is WAYYYYYYY more polite than MJ3. MJ3 is going to have more authority and slam. Both those have their strengths, but I prefer MJ3 over FV myself.

 

They aim for very different things I think. At the risk of sounding like I’m avoiding to make a statement, some context: I’ve long given up on having gear that reproduces music “realistically”. Everything I’ve had adds an opinion to music. If you want realism go to the concert hall and listen without amplification.

So, here’s how I think about it: the FV embraces distortion and warmth and gives you a fun and slam-full presentation of the music. I want to Rock n’ Roll with it. The MJ3 aims for intensely focused details. It seems to try very hard to keep everything evenly well represented. This may be why the DCA Stealth is where it’s at for me so far. I feel more air around everything with the MJ3. And the latter seems to have gone for even depth in the soundstage, and succeeded.

Which one is better? I can’t tell you. It’s definitely a “better at what and which mood am I into at the moment” type of thing.


Edit: I have a different take than @Azimuth : I find FV slams more, whereas MJ3 hits with articulated (and powerful) precision.

 

Man, so many good high powered SS amps to choose from these days. Black Widow, BHA-1, DSHA-3F, Ragnarok 1, Jotunheim 2, Mjolnir 1, Mjolnir 2 (hybrid, I know), and now Mjolnir 3. Although only one in that list is still in production (or will be for one last run). I have had at least all of these in my house, except for the DSHA-3F, but I did have the predecessor, the Black Diamond for a short time. I currently own a Mjolnir 2 and I have the Black Widow (although that will be on to its new owner at the end of the week).

So…what about the Mjolnir 3? Yea, okay. It is nuanced and soulful and refined and true blackground like it has been written about. Transients are fast without being zippy, good laying and separation. Here is a quick rundown from me:

Source: Metrum Baby Ambre -> Theta DS ProBasic II -> Freya N
Headphones: HD650, HD600, HD800, LCD-2 pre-fazor

I will first say that Freya N in 1x buffer mode was slightly hazy. Running in passive fixed this up and sounded more like when the DAC was plugged directly in.

As much hype as this amp has received, it did not wow me at first. However, spending some time with it has proven that it is quite a performer of an amp that is worthy of a successor to Mjolnir 2. Mostly what @purr1n is mostly correct, so I don’t want to echo or just copy/paste, but I will try to hit the highlights.

• It does take time to warm up. Like half an hour was not enough after it first arrived. I would say it took, 3-4 hours to really open up. After being off for the weekend, maybe like 2 hours. (the big heat sink fins read about 56°C in my infrared temp meter, so be careful)..
  
  
• It is a warm amp. Not just in temperature, but audio warmth as well. It is one of its big strengths and weaknesses. Too much warmth on a warm chain, might be too much. I can sound thick at first listen, but once you get used to it, you realize the clarity in the rest of the spectrum. It benefits from lively sources for sure. It was almost a bit too warm for my Theta DAC and HD650’s, but I could still appreciate its nuance and refinement. It was just missing that last bit of air. The low end punch has excellent layering with good control and texture. Yes, it does have more bass slam than Mjolnir 2. I can see how it could be fine for Yggdisrail A1 or A2, but maybe not a great match for LiM or Gungnir A1 depending on headphones. Synergy is important. al
  
  
• It is not quite as loud as Mjolnir 2.To match volume, the MJ2 volume knob is at 3’oclock when both are being fed from the Freya N. Meaning that the volume is all the way up on the MJ3 and to achieve the same volume, the MJ2 has to be turned down a bit. But yes, the first thing that hits you is the bass punch and bass refinement as well as the overall refinement and smoothness (after a good warmup time).
  
  
• Headstage, yes it is smaller than Black Widow. Some people do care about this. It might be close enough for some, but I know not all. It is however wider and more layered than Mjolnir 2.
  
  
• It has slam and authority. It is not like Folkvanger at all. That amp was dainty and polite. FV is dynamic and not held back, just not a rockin' slammin' amp that makes no apologies. Mjolnir 3 OTOH has dynamics and slam, speed, and nuance that lives up to its namesake. I would take this over Folkvanger anyday. It is fast. It is still crazy fast and uncongested with the most complex passages I can throw at it.
  
  
• The highs are well controlled. With the bass, the highs are well balanced and better balanced than MJ2. It does have a more even spread with slightly rolled off in the highs.
  
  
• Slightly compressed sound that gives some softness. Like there is a slight stereo bus compressor across the whole mix, just a touch to suppress the highs a bit, but it can also sometimes make the bass slightly pillowy and snare drum hits may not hit quite as hard and may sound slightly softer. (Maybe this trait makes it sound “tube like”.
  
  
• There is no real harshness at all in this amp. It is cleaner than BW, even in PP mode. Very realistic and clean. Although drums somehow sound slightly softer than on MJ2. Some call MJ2 “steely”, but it just makes no apologies nor any favoritism to one frequency band or another. Everything is rather clean and allows for hearing deeper into the recording. No MOSFET mist, no veil, no fuzziness or distortion to speak of. Very clean and clear with true blacks. Make the MJ2 sound slightly greyer.
  
  
• Engaging the feedback really smears the highs. I did not find it gave much more power to drive my LCD-2’s and all it really did was decimate the fine details. One click back and you can instantly hear all the details return. More subtle change than you think really.
  
  
• Unbalanced inputs were not quite as clear and detailed and sounded even more rolled off in the highs than with normal balanced input, not to mention the drop in volume. And the same lack of detail and rolled off highs for unbalanced out. I would say balanced in-out to get the best of this amp.
  
  
• It has plenty of power. It powers LCD-2’s as well as HD600/650’s, although depending on source and preference, 650’s might be too thick sounding for some. But unless your headphones need a speaker amp on the norm, you should be fine. YMMV
  
  
• The transformers (or is that the choke?) hum. I did not notice until I put my ear right on the amp.
  

Overall, I think it is just as highendy as all the other amps mentioned - Mjolnir 1, Mjolnir 2, and Black Widow. I think it is more of a preference and synergy. Sometimes I preferred the BW1, sometimes MJ2, as I think all three amps are in the same league (although I know a lot of y’all have moved on from MJ2 and it’s hard and steel sound). I just mean all of the amps I mentioned have good things to bring to the table. In terms of overall detail and refinement, MJ3 takes that, but I could be happy with any one of them. And yes, MJ3 even allows more versatility with controls for turning feedback on and off and switching from single ended to push-pull.

It does layer a bit better than Black Widow. In PP mode, they sound more equal (which makes sense since BW is a no holds barred PP class A headphone amp). They both have very similar tonality, although Mjolnir 3 has more push in the mids and the BW has slightly more air on top without the slight compressive softness on the highs. But the MJ3 has a bit more layering and realism if you will - I attribute this to the well designed power supply and low noise of the MJ3.

VS Mjolinr 2, the Mjolnir 3 wins on overall plankton and clarity without harshness or haze and much better staging as well as low end presence. I am not sure if MJ2 wins out on any category because the MJ3 is more engaging and “real.” Sure, it has more air and sharper treble energy, but still though a sort of hazier lens.I think MJ2 gets a bad rap (esp. in this thread), but it still IS a high-endy amp, it has just been unseated from where it was down a rung, but don’t kick it down the stairs. I am sure Jason could have fixed the width and made MJ2 slightly less noisy, but I don’t think that is what the majority wanted and I am sure not as fun as the build of what MJ3 became.

The other amps in comparison, DSHA-3F, Rag, maybe Liquid Gold or Liquid Platinum are just different amps that serve different purposes. LP is even darker sounding, LAuX is great with planars, but also more “peaky”, DSHA-3F/Black Diamond is for the micodetail fire hose for those with Focals.

In all honesty, it sounds what I thought the Ragnarok would sound like - warm, robust, detailed, and very layered. I hate to use the word “organic”, but that is the best way to describe it. Voices sound real and not plastic and slightly colder the way they sound on the MJ2. The MJ3 certainly has more “body” and transients are slightly softer and a bit more natural than MJ2. The MJ3 reminds me of a vintage Sansui or modern Bryston amp - just BJT class A power with deep lows and power and super uncongested sound. It is very forgiving of bad recordings and still sounds great for the really good recordings.


NOTE: My personal Black Widow is a first gen (BW1) with a different more robust AMB Sigma 22 power supply that brings it to basically a BW2.

 

I've had the opportunity to test Susvara, Utopia, and 6xx headphones with the Mjolnir 3 and the Yggdrasil A2, and the results were interesting. While Susvara and Utopia did sound pretty good, it became evident that the MJ3 might not be the ideal match for them.

I’ve fallen in love again with the 6xx paired with the MJ3 - the synergy fits in with my tastes. I suspect that the MJ3 could work equally well with some ZMF headphones. After years of exclusively listening to the HD6xx on tube amplifiers, the experience of switching to the solid-state MJ3 has left me pretty surprised. MJ3 maximizes 6xx’s lush, detailed midrange, velvety-smooth treble, and authoritative bass response (SE class A, low gain for me). An A2, 6xx, and MJ3 is all you really need, probably, if you are being sensible.

Overall, MJ3 will seems to power Susvara without any issues (no EQ, noticeable improvement with push-pull selected). The pairing showcases clarity and precision, making it possible to dissect complex musical arrangements. The sense of space is not as immersive as I have heard from this headphone, and I’m not particularly engaged.

OG Utopia on MJ3 headphone amplifier is also pretty solid. If you value pinpoint detail retrieval above all else, this pairing could be appealing. However, those who prioritize a more balanced tonal profile and a deeper, more immersive soundstage might want to consider alternative amplification options.

I was on the fence about really needing this amp and was preparing to cancel once the focal pairing impressions started coming in as underwhelming, but I’m glad about the purchase. I really love 6xx on this amp and I will be keeping it just for that. I’ll be looking out for further impressions of Atrium open for November. This is just the solid-state amp I’ve been looking for to complement my tube amps. I’m not sure what will happen to my Piety, I may hold on to it though.

 

It's probably a long shot, but has anyone tried MJ3 with LFF Code-X?

None of the tube amps I've owned thus far (including EC Studio, Studio B, DNA Stratus, etc.) seem to do justice to these hard-to-drive cans. I haven't bought any new amps in the last 2 years, but I'm tempted now that the 230V version is available. Without resorting to high-power speaker amps, could this be the ticket? I'm kinda worried that the MJ3 has a rather low output on paper, as many class A tube amps I've owned have.

 

Completely agree, I was most impressed with my JAR650 and the MJ3. Something special with that combo.

 

Funny - almost plugged the Paradox last night. Not the same apples, but just funny coincidence. Tough to find owners of both. I thought my LCD-2 sounded great with all switches down. Around the same vintage as a HE500. I'll give the Paradox a listen tonight and report my findings.

 

After robbing my 2ch. setup of Yggdrasil, I can clearly see how it moves the MJ3 into more neutral territory, but still way on the warm side of things, especially for a solid state amp.



In actuality, it probably this DAC shift gave a bite more lift to MJ2 than MJ3 in the immediacy standpoint. Either way, MJ3 is worthy and helps out with the slight grayness of Yggdrasil A1. I still probably got more overall slam and dynamics out of the Theta, but Yggdrasil A1 clearly wins out on details.

I know not many here have old Theta’s like me, but just wanted to go the extra mile and show that Yggdrasil is worthy of this amp. I was told earlier this week by someone that I have not heard MJ3 until I hear it with Yggdrasil. I disagree, but I do get its better matched synergy. Still not exactly the secret sauce I am l particularly looking for, but it is a really good amp for what it is. Not many sold state amps sound this good, just watch your synergy.

 

A bit more subjectivist impressions now that the “new toy” phase is fading.

• DCA Stealth is where it’s at. Truly made for each other at low gain, no feedback, SE Class A. Synergy is crazy good.
• Been going back and forth with the MHA200 and I find it amusing that while I still don’t pick up any roll off, MJ3 is deliberately warm. Call it the Jason House Sound if you’d like - it’s pretty darned good. If you like clinical and sterile go elsewhere, this is not it.
• Surprising synergy: Gungnir more than Yggdrasil OG A2. I think I’ve shared my impression that most headphone amps leave stuff on the table when it comes to Yggdrasil (join the BWC for maximum Yggyness), but there is something else going on here in the highs - they breathe a little bit more our of Gungnir Multibit. Go figure, I’ve no idea what data would show that is happening, but top hats and bells are where it’s more noticeable.

Accidental bouns: moved the FV to the vinyl rig, Mani2 and using Rag2 as a preamp. I hadn’t tried this with an HD 660S2. I don’t think I’m moving anything back (until Skoll arrives).

600 and 660S2 did great as well.

 

Well - I didn't last too long last night, but I did listen this morning to the Paradox. I don't think the MJ3 made a world of a difference vs the KSA-5. Planar's are a little bit of a wash still for me with the KSA-5 vs. MJ3. The T3 vs. MJ3 is a different story though. The notes Marv made about the T3 stand regarding dynamics. I personally think whatever wattage that is coming out on the SE mode is enough for basically anything that was made with 'normal' headphones in mind.

I did try the Drop+JVC IEM collab and thought it was wonderful. No dynamic compression or any other saturation issues for me.

I have the MJ3 volume at Noon with the Freya N moving volume around with bypass and tube options.

ETA Genesis G., ETA O2, and HD660S2 have all proved to be great full-size dynamic driver headphones that pair well for my tastes. Little more bloomy and smoother with tube, but still transparent enough to not get suffocated.

I did accidently leave my room closed with the amp on all day. It really did cause the room issues trying to cool down. The radiating heat and chassis heat isn't the worst, but the Giggity Horny heat sinks are ouchy hot if you don't check-ya-self before ya burn ya self.

Smooth insinuates 'bunted dynamics' or 'missing detail' - but the MJ3 has neither issue. Easy to listen at low volume with proper mico-dynamic control. I had a feeling this amp would tickle the very missed SinglePower Supra XLR amp for me - if I swap in the DL3 dac from the current SFD-1 dac, I have no reservations in believing that is the only change I'd need to make to get back to that wheelhouse. The hum is very similar even. Would love for someone to mod the chokes on top of the chassis. :-D

 

I know this amp is happiest with balanced in and balanced out connections, but do we know if it's gimped with SE in and BAL out?

 

I haven't been too bothered between the SE and BAL output. I only have 1/4" or 2 x 3-Pin XLR for my Senny's and they seem to be just fine. I use the 600 series with the T3 and the MJ3 in SE. I will eventually get a 4-pin just-cuz, but I don't find the control of the HD800 and HD600 drivers to be lacking in anyway. Still plenty of grip & ease in SE for me.

 

Chain: roon -> Pi2AES -> AES -> Holo Audio Spring 2 KTE -> AudioQuest Mackenzie XLR

For context, most of my listening is done with McIntosh MHA150 and Woo Audio WA33. All of my MJ3 critical listening was done fully balanced with high gain and push pull on these albums:





Initial Impressions:

• Sounds strained just after powering on (this mostly goes away as it warms up)
• Detail, staging and layering are good
• Steady-handed class A sound
• Head stage is intimate
• Planar grip is good
• Forward, slightly metallic, hard timbre
• Slight mid-bass hump
• Rolls off on both ends, which is noticeable on Susvara, HE1000, Meze Elite, Caldera, Abyss
• Plenty of volume with Susvara, but too thin, bordering on harsh. Not bad with acoustic music but not great with anything that thumps.
• Not bad with AB1266 Phi TC
• Favorite pairing is the Abyss Diana Phi
• A level up from Jotunheim 2, but not a giant killer

I'm going to keep listening to get around any brain burn-in!

 

The best, hard-to-drive planars just aren't right for this and not really fair. I don't have an LCD-X or Meze Elite or Arya / HE1000etc sitting around - I imagine it is more competitive with less demanding planars. It certainly is kind of silly to waste your time with Susvara or TC with these. I'm quite pleased with Senns and will continue to enjoy that synergy for my tastes. Respectfully, this is way beyond a one level jump from Jot 2 at least with Senns in my experience which never got me high.

 

MJ2 and Jot 2 are roughly on the same plane, which is C+. With an incisive source that synergizes MJ3 is a solid B. With sources that don't work quite that well, it's B-.

 

Meze Elite is a relatively efficient / less demanding planar. If MJ3 doesn't drive it well, I'd look to synergy.

 

I had to send my MJ3 back to Schiit for a quick repair (loose xlr input).

Respectfully, the Jot and Jot 2 are two of my least favorite headphone amps ever. No matter the source, all I heard was compression and wall of sound with the Focal Elex and Senn HD 650. I'd rank the MJ3 at least 2 levels above it - but this is all a personal taste thing. Also, I'm not a planar guy - based on my memory, I know I wouldn't like the LCD2C for anything but pop with the Mj3.

I prefer the MJ3 over the Decware Taboo and the Woo 6 SE by a fairly decent margin as well. The MJ3 is actually the first Schiit amp that actually pleases me - the Lyr 3 got close.