Forums - Print Page

Forums
https://www.decware.com/cgi-bin/yabb22/YaBB.pl
EQUIPMENT FORUMS >> ZSTAGE >> Add additional inputs to ZStage?
https://www.decware.com/cgi-bin/yabb22/YaBB.pl?num=1622133351

Message started by Tommy Freefall on 05/27/21 at 17:35:51

Title: Add additional inputs to ZStage?
Post by Tommy Freefall on 05/27/21 at 17:35:51

I seem to recall this being asked before, but I couldn't find the thread.

Is it possible to add an additional pair of RCA inputs to the ZStage so that it can accommodate two sources?

Title: Re: Add additional inputs to ZStage?
Post by rrwwss52 on 05/28/21 at 16:43:00

Not a direct answer, but you could install an A/B switch prior to the input connection. I have a tube buffer with both XLR and RCA inputs, and the manufacturer cautions against connecting both simultaneously.

Title: Re: Add additional inputs to ZStage?
Post by will on 05/28/21 at 18:50:55

Tommy,

If you would like a built in setup, it is possible. Mine was an early ZStage, but it looks more-or-less like the same design as now. I have two inputs with a switch. So there are three pairs of RCAs on the back next to each other, one for output and two for input and a switch.

Years ago, but as I recall, Steve was reticent to change the design in this way, so I can't say how he would feel about it now. The most transparent way seemed to be mounting the input switch in the middle of the back, close to both input RCA pairs, and the added input RCAs are mounted between the stock RCAs and the new switch. Also this seemed to be the least confusing setup as the bias and input switches look the same but do different things, so separating them seemed good. Also, there was more room to fit it all in on the back, where the front is notably tighter inside. Having this switch on the back is not as elegant as Steve's base designs are but seemed the best solution all around, and I was perfectly fine with this setup, so Steve agreed to do it when I sent it in for some cap changes.

So if this sounds interesting, my advice would be to call Steve, and see how he feels about it.

Will

Title: Re: Add additional inputs to ZStage?
Post by Tommy Freefall on 05/28/21 at 18:57:15

Will, thanks very much for your detailed thoughts.

I'll reach out to Steve, but in the meantime, do you recall - ballpark - what he charged you for this modification?

Title: Re: Add additional inputs to ZStage?
Post by Dominick on 05/29/21 at 00:22:11

Tommy,

You really need to see the cost because the other option is to buy the ZSB switchbox. That not only gives you 4 inputs, but 2 sets of outputs. I run one set of outputs to my ZSTAGE, and the other set goes to my subwoofer.

If you have no need for the extra set of outputs, or don't feel you would ever use more than 2 sets of inputs, then the switch box has no added benefit for you.

Will’s ZSTAGE with 2 inputs is a nice feature that I could see being very useful.

Dom

Title: Re: Add additional inputs to ZStage?
Post by will on 05/29/21 at 06:03:56

Tommy,

Sorry, I could not find an email invoice, and I really can't remember enough to hazard a guess... too many things since filling my brain!