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EQUIPMENT FORUMS >> ZROCK >> ZROCK3 Test & Calibration SACD/CD Recommendations?
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Message started by Sentry on 01/29/25 at 20:49:09

Title: ZROCK3 Test & Calibration SACD/CD Recommendations?
Post by Sentry on 01/29/25 at 20:49:09

Greetings All,

I just received my ZROCK3 and installed it between my ZBOX and CSP. After adjusting the output gain, I’m experimenting with the EQ switch and “Green Zone” knob. While I do hear differences with the various settings, I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for specific SACD and/or CDs for demonstrating the ZR effects?

I definitely hear changes when changing the settings; the anticipated sound isn’t always the result. For instance, the “UP” position tends to enhance rather than roll off the treble. I am hearing an expanded sound stage between 2:00 and 3:00 in the “Green Zone”.

Although my music preferences are varied, I think female vocals, small group jazz and ensemble classical music would benefit most from the ZR.

I searched most of the ZROCK threads and didn’t find any specific recommendations. So, any suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

David

Title: Re: ZROCK3 Test & Calibration SACD/CD Recommendati
Post by Lon on 02/07/25 at 00:55:12

Hi David. My ZROCK3 arrived and though it only has about three hours on it now it does sound distinctly different from the ZROCK2 (which is about four years seasoned) and it should as it has different caps, a different transformer and even different wire and a changed circuit.

I like what I hear. Worth waiting for.

I found that the up position was the "B" EQ Curve as well on mine, which differs from my ZROCK2 components. And with the down or "A" position there is definitely treble reduction. I would recommend experimenting adding the gain from the back--adding the gain as well as the EQ yields more discernible effects in my experience so far.

Ad for music. . . I would just listen to albums that you really like and see what the effect would be while manipulating the knobs, and also listen a recording that you may have found thin or wanting before and see if the ZROCK3 can flesh that out. In my case I listened to a very familiar recording, Duke Elllington "Indigos," and that is fleshed out a bit in bass and the "room sound" and I also spun a King Jazz cd of Billie Holiday--these early digital discs are really nice transfers but seem on my system to be a bit thin and edgy--twisting the knobs helped me find a more relaxed sound.

Title: Re: ZROCK3 Test & Calibration SACD/CD Recommendations?
Post by Tony Adams on 02/19/25 at 02:46:07

The Dave Brubeck Quartet’s Time Out is a great choice for small group jazz, particularly Take Five for its separation and depth. In classical ensemble, Yo-Yo Ma’s Appassionato offers beautifully layered strings that can showcase the expanded soundstage.
Chill Guy Clicker

Title: Re: ZROCK3 Test & Calibration SACD/CD Recommendations?
Post by Lon on 02/19/25 at 08:44:47

I've had my ZROCK3 for nearly 2 weeks now and I stand by my original recommendation: listen to favorite and very well-known material and you will hear the effects, and hear the effects evolve as it seasons.

Title: Re: ZROCK3 Test & Calibration SACD/CD Recommendations?
Post by Sentry on 02/20/25 at 05:23:36

Thanks for the suggestions. I use Time Out to calibrate several pieces of equipment. I also use Blues in Orbit, Diana Krall. Norah Jones and Ella. I’ve had the Indigo disc on my Wish List for months; time to order it. I have several recordings of Scheherazade, Beethoven’s Ninth, Dvorak’s Ninth, multiple chamber music recordings (including Yo Yo Ma) and overtures. The main purpose of my inquiry was to learn if there were any specific recommendations for the ZROCK3. I am very impressed with it; moving on to vinyl tomorrow.