Sweet machine Steve!  I look forward to receiving it.

Ordered.

Boy, am I glad I did not waste countless hours and money, on Computer Audio facilitating!  

Quote:


I love the user interface of JRiver MC 20, the playback preferences, the tweaking, DSP and all the other features that are included.  There is a visual sense and feel to JRiver with album artwork, liner notes, playlists, etc., etc. that makes it more interesting to me and that I don't want to give up.

Also a computer will still be required to transfer music to the memory cards and USB sticks.  First you'll have to rip your CD's to a hard drive, then rip it back to USB/Memory sticks, or you could rip it directly to a USB/Memory stick, but then you are limited to space if you have terabytes worth of music like I do.  You should also use specific software to make sure you are ripping bit perfect lossless files such as FLAC or other lossless/uncompressed file formats ~ so it's not like it bypasses the use of a Mac or PC altogether ... it only bypasses the playback chain if memory cards are used instead of files being read through something like a PC/JRiver/DAC combo.

Other than that it looks like an interesting piece of equipment and coming from Decware I have little doubt that it will sound good.  Had this product had a USB or even SPDIF inputs, it would have been something that I would more likely consider ... just not my cup of tea if it's limited to memory cards and USB sticks, etc.

Edit: it looks as if I misread and it does have SPDIF inputs, so the possibility of using in a Windows interface is there as long as the drivers are available.

Hmm, I see I was mistaken on the inputs ~ thanks Lon.  If there are Windows drivers for it there may be hope for people who like to use playback interfaces such as JRiver. At any rate the price is pretty darn good for state of the art DSD playback.

I want it for its best attributes:  CD Redbook via BNC Input, Upsampling an Steve's Adjustable Output Stage. Playing with the rest of its capabilities comes much later.

I also have the best of both options, running it direct into my ZMA with the Adjustable Output Driving the ZMA with Authority and through my CSP3 to ZMA.

It will have big shoes to fill however. The fixed gate array sound of my Chord is truly exceptional. If it can match the Chord via direct to my ZMA and/or through my CSP3 to ZMA.....it will be a keeper.

Once it passes this litmus test....then I will explore recording some Vinyl and put some Flash Drive through it an SD cards too from Rips an Downloads.

I have no problem with the restocking fee an shipping round trip on my dime....if it does not work out.

Note: Steve addressed the issue of Voltage Output that the PS Audio DSD lacks when running direct into the ZMA. Kudos Steve..... .

Back in 1995, I purchased my Audio Alchemy Front End. The 3.0 DAC has adjustable voltage output (internal) that enabled me to drive my SE84CS (purchased in 2001) DIRECT. Furthermore, although not a direct input from DAC obviously, the CSP3 is adjustable for voltage output. I think you're all understanding the importance of adjustable voltage output.... . Once again, Kudos Steve. Plus, the addition with valid Upsampling for Redbook...I rest my case. It still needs to beat my Chord as stated in previous reply. Fun, to have in the Listening Room!


Listening Room:
Room Treatments from Michael Green & Home Brew
Sony as Transport
Illuminati D-60

Chord Chordette QuteHD DAC  vs. Decware DSD DAC / Recorder

Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware CSP3 w/Jupiter Caps (NOS/Platinum/Telefunken 6922 / E88CC for input tube)
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware Zen Mystery Amplifier (NOS/Platinum/Matsushita / National PCC88 / 7DJ8 in A12 an B12 inputs)
Kimber Select KS3035 Speaker Cable
Vintage Polk SDA1 Speakers in Stereo (91db)
XLO Pro Power Cords to CSP3 & ZMA
PS Audio P3 Power Plant / Pangea AC-9SE from wall to P3
(Front End an CSP3 Regenerated/116, 118 an 120v are used/Multiwave off...ZMA on HC Output)

Decware SE84CS (w/NOS Svetlana SV83's from 1980's-not the New Sensor knock-offs) & Decware Super Zen CKC...when SE Pentodes run in Triode/Decware Style...needs to be in the System!

Decware New SET Mono's pending..... .

Good points Lon. For me, I have enjoyed the output voltage usage on my CSP3 so much; I have to try this direct approach. I like my Chord better than the PS Audio DSD. So, I returned the PS. The Decware DSD has big shoes to fill against my giant killer Chord Chordette QuteHD (Redbook vs Redbook) and my Cabling.  Will see....fun!

Yes, I really haven't felt the need to have high-efficiency speakers. I am in love with the Decware speakers with omni-directional drivers, and they are not fatiguing.

The "high output thing" goes beyond just aiding lower powered amps. It also adds a sort of natural compression that I sometimes like but for the most part don't, I'd rather have the signal from the source less jacked up. I find it mostly depends on interconnects: the more transparent and clear the interconnect, the more I do NOT want high output applied to the signal from my source. We all have different tastes here as well though.

I bet you like the new Decware source--what I understand as the difference in taste we have it should fall right in your direction based on my experience with Decware sources. Will look forward to hearing your impressions, as always.

Stone,  I have held off on going the computer - digital route because of lack of knowledge and not wanting to deal with: what computer? what software, what works with what? etc etc...this device might be the answer. I will keep an eye, and ear, out for your comments. Much of my CD and vinyl collection have been ripped to lossless WAV files on a terrabyte stand alone drive which, if I understand correctly, I'd be able to plug and play into this new decware offering....something I'd very much consider.

Lon, I reread your posts in reply #11 an #14. To remedy any issues using the higher output voltage of my CSP3, I have my ZMA turned down 40 to 45% from full. This maintains the density an weight, soundstage, imaging, tone/timbre through the ZMA. It is an incredible Amp! All the detail is still there too! Enables me to drive the ZMA loud when I want as well without fatigue.

I hear you about great Cabling. We are both on the same page. My Kimber Select 1030 IC's (2) with my Kimber Select 3035 Speaker Cable, allows me to maintain amazing musicality, running through this awesome CSP3 into my ZMA.

I do look forward to running my Decware DSD with Steve's floating transformer balanced type output design direct and also, with my CSP3.

Lon, you love what you have now and know when to stop? Heck, you have more Decware than me. (Joking with you).

All kidding aside, auditioning this DAC and the 6C33C Mono's if Steve makes um'......are going to do it for me (with intentions of owning them for a long time~restocking fee's are not fun-but it does keep the tire kicker's at bay).

Like you, I run more than one System. The Listening Room is of course my primary spot.

I am going to downsize too, a few things starting next month:  Four pair of Speakers, SS Mono-block Amps, two DACS, some Tubes (NOS SV83's), two Coax Digital Cables an probably my CKC and Zen Styx.
Read: make way for my Decware DSD/Steve's adjustable output stage an 6C33C Mono's.

I use my CSP3, ZMA an SE84CS all the time. The CKC has been sitting an should find a home elsewhere/good Karma to her an me, out there to someone else.

Yeah, you will get no argument from me about the PS Power Plants. My P3 I will not ever part with from my Listening Room.

I'm in a casual relationship with my Vinyl. My Pro-Ject Debut Carbon III, Pro-Ject Phono Box II and Record Cleaner resides in my He-Man HT Rig = fun.  I spin Vinyl on Friday early evenings, when my girlfriend comes home from work-it puts a smile on her face when she opens the door. We enjoy it together. I also just scored on some prestine Classic Rock her brother had stored away.

I do not doubt it Lon. 1 hour left on a 3 on eBay with 34 bids!

That ZP3 went for $810, a 42% discount, but the "Reserve " was not met.  I wish I needed one...I'd make an offer.  This is brand new (Dec. 2014) with Bees Wax Caps...you likely won't see another this good for years.  This is what I have...sweet!!  Mark.

I have not been tempted by High-Rez either. My Redbook has been so satisfying as well. I have enjoyed up-sampling in the past and with Steve's output transformer's/voicing, this could be something special.

If this DAC falls short of my over-achieving Chord QuteHD gate array, it will still be a keeper for my Vinyl to DSD on many multiple cards. My 430 Albums are not duplicated in my 1150 CD collection.  Of course, I will put quite a few  hours of Music lossless WAV on a SD card too/to be rotated in/on an off/out....SD card. Or create a bunch of multiple cards here too.

Excited to receive it and put my 2 cents on here.  Cheers.

She ships today!  I should have it by Thursday night. All components in my System are burned in. The ZDSD will the one that needs hours on it.

Look forward to the adjustable output stage in conjunction with my ZMA's gain control. I will be driving the ZDSD/upsampled, direct to ZMA from Redbook/CD/Coax. I enjoy my CSP3 (Jup' capped), with input tube at 10 setting and the output tubes at 8 setting. My ZMA is turned down 50 to 55% from full. This is a testament to the resolution of the ZMA and the dynamics it's providing with 91db Speakers. Testament to the CSP3 too. So, driving the ZDSD direct and then adjusted to drive through my CSP3 will be fun.

I will put 100 hours on it direct to ZMA, before using through CSP3 to ZMA.


Listening Room:
Room Treatments from Michael Green & Home Brew
Sony as Transport
Illuminati D-60
Chord Chordette QuteHD DAC
Decware DSD DAC / Recorder
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware CSP3 w/Jupiter Caps (NOS/Platinum/Telefunken 6922 / E88CC for input tube)
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware Zen Mystery Amplifier (NOS/Platinum/Matsushita / National PCC88 / 7DJ8 in A12 an B12 inputs)
Kimber Select KS3035 Speaker Cable
Vintage Polk SDA1 Speakers in Stereo (91db)
XLO Pro Power Cords to CSP3 & ZMA
PS Audio P3 Power Plant / Pangea AC-9SE from wall to P3
(Front End an CSP3 Regenerated/116, 118 an 120v are used/Multiwave off...ZMA on HC Output)

Decware SE84CS (w/NOS Svetlana SV83's from 1980's-not the New Sensor knock-offs) & Decware Super Zen CKC...when SE Pentodes run in Triode/Decware Style...needs to be in the System!

Very excited I am.

This will be my 8th Decware Product:

SE84CS
Super Zen CKC
Zen Styx Speaker Cable with Silver Banana's
Zen Mystery Amplifier
CSP3 w/Jupiter Bee's Wax Caps
EL34 Mono-blocks with Solid State rectification
(I think you owned a pair of these Mono's too Lon-if my memory serves me correct?.....)
Torii MKIII
...I also bought a Oak base for my SE84CS...after I tried out one of Steve's tube buffers way back when... .

and now: Decware Direct Stream DAC / Recorder.

I can't wait to get her in here! I'm certainly not missing anything outside. But, I will take sub-zero lows/no snow fall and clear roads over the horrific winter my brother is having out east!  

Here is the Quick Start Guide for the ZDSD that will be shipping with each unit.  The first unit that went out did not have one, so you can get it here!

https://www.decware.com/newsite/ZDSDGUIDE.pdf

Can't wait to hear your impressions!  On my ZMA or TORII the ZDSD sounds great with the reference level set as high as it will go (-20dB).

Please keep us posted of your "holy shit" moments as they happen!

Happy listening,

Steve  :)

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/800/e_da-3000_om_vb.pdf

Steve, for playback via SPDIF input from CD Transport...using the sampling rate converter for D to A conversion (no A to D recording or D to D)....following page 22 & 23 should get me there? I suppose I'm being premature, not having the Player at hand to experiment with....but I'm curious.
Section 6/Playback does not cover this either.

I just want to burn her in running Redbook in Up-sampled, an Analog out.

Otherwise, Tascam did a good job it seems with this Manual. The Media Capacities and Recording Times chart (Page 31 in Manual) is nice, along with their PDF's.
http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/800/da-3000_tested%20media_list_r1_...

http://tascam.com/product/da-3000/downloads/

I should have her today for some evening Listening.

Not knowing that much about it either, I would assume he means through the SPDIF connection which can be upsampled to as high as 96/24.  Which in most cases is the max SPDIF can do (whereas a USB connection is much higher).

Okay, I will not need cheese with my whine  ;D !

The ZDSD has landed. Impeccably packed. She is in perfect condition an immensely beautiful an solid! Ice cold right now...so she is warming to room temp in the Listening Room per static display. Sweet Output posts on her Steve... . Furthermore, the SD card with the Otari Music contained within, came in a very nice Silver Case with the Decware upcoming 20th Anniversary Emblem on it. Very nice. The Case can hold 3 SD cards for transport/ hold.  Thanks DeVon an Steve.

Now the bad news. I have social obligations until Monday! I can't use her till then!  It will be like Edgar Allen Poe's, "Tell Tale Heart" weighing on me, until then! Okay, maybe not the best metaphor-( a little morbid) but you get what I mean.

I will follow-up with my first impressions then. I have a feeling Steve's recording through it might ruin me for anything else. But, I will have to handle it.  Till then.......... .

I carved out 3 hours this morning to hook her up. I had to do it!

Steve, I don't know what to say. The soundstage is bigger deeper wider. The tone and detail an decay of notes are just incredible. Even the tone of Floor Tom's is more there. The overall ease of...an involvement is wow...I don't know what else to say right now? This your/Output Stage with your Trannies is just so musical. The weight an bass line(s) definition is blowing me away too. You sir, know how digital to analog through output should sound! Their must be some burn in on her too. I am honored to have #0001.

I have her at -16 so far I prefer. I can play it louder than I would ever need with no compression/clipping on the meters. At any level of volume it is stunning. I have not even tried your SD card yet. I have to shut her down now until Monday. However, I want to add: I've had PS Audio's PWT with PWD, an the PS Audio DSD DAC, NADS M50, I own the Chord QuteHD, Anadio D2 and Audio Alchemy for 22 years. So, not my first Rodeo. I have also heard mega buck DACS at the Audio Society of Minnesota. I have been in this Hobby for 35 years.

Once again, this is how Digital should be reproduced. Thank you. Monday I will get to play your SD an do some Recording too, later in the week I hope. Right now though, an absolute success at Redbook playback. Purchase for this alone with your Output Stage design is so synergistic driving my ZMA direct...it is just sick.

Listening to Steve's Otari Reel to Reel to SD card DSD DSF 5.6 right now. How sweet and the ease of musicality. Depth an timbre with soundstage is so right! Very intuitive Player! ...told me to turn the In-monitoring off (even though I new that)...to play SD card.

Thanks Steve for solving issues I had with the PS Audio DSD DAC:

1) The Output volume from the PS driving direct into my ZMA was not adequate. The ZDSD has no issue with this with your adjustable Output Stage.

2) Your ZDSD has the resolution the PS DSD DAC does not have!
(See my post in: PS Audio about to....thread.)

3) Your ZDSD, with your Output Stage, matches the Analog ease without digital artifact (like the PS)....but with the resolution that needs to be there an is! My other DACS including my Chord QuteHD can't match this. With Redbook 16 bit / 44.1 through your Output Stage an your incredible DSF 5.6, I'm listening to right now/all the goods are delivered.

Come to Together right now over me!  ;)

Later in the week I hope to get to some DD recording and then some ADDA of my own.

Cool. Glad you are enjoying this.

I don't believe Atkinson's comment about measurements of the DS says what you think it does.

I'm hoping that LR gets a chance to hear this, I'm very interested in his impressions in comparison to the DirectStream.

No USB.

This unit had to meet two criteria for me:
1) Stellar playback of 16 bit/44.1 from CD transport. As you can read above...it does this beautifully with Steve's Output Transformers. He knows how Music should sound. This is not an up-sampling DAC for straight playback of SPDIF.

2) The unit has a built in SRC (sample rate converter). You can record at a sampling frequency that is different from the sampling frequency of the digital input source; PCM 44.1 - 192kHz. I can format a compatible SD card an cherry pick CD's from my 1150 collection, an wring some more sonics out of them. However, as stated in 1), it sounds so damn good as is-this should be an interesting comparison.

I've read some mixed bag info about ADDA for Record Albums. I might not ever do this. So, since it has met my 1) an 2) criteria-I love it.

I very much want to hear your impressions as you basically hear in the DS what I hear.

This is what Atkinson is quoted as saying on the Stereophile webpage:

In many ways, PS Audio's DirectStream DAC measures superbly well. But I was somewhat bothered by its ultimate lack of resolution with data capable of higher-than-CD resolution, which I suspect lay behind AD's finding the processor to sound "a bit rounded off" and lacking in immediacy.

It's unclear from the text whether this was his original measurements or an updated conclusion after he had been sent another unit that did measure better after the 1.21 firmware change (sounds to me from the comments it's from before 1.21). The page above with Art Dudley's comments is dated February 2015. I don't have a copy of the Stereophile issue. . . because I long ago gave up on that mag.

Actually I think that the previous 1.21 was inspired by that review; the story is (I'm a skeptic) that in correcting the measurements with new better instruments better sound quality was found. I agree that the sound was improved, I like 1.21 a lot after some time with it. It was hard for me to be decisive about the former software as I had the machine out of commission for a month.

John Atkinson's summation paragraph (page 117 March 2015 Stereophile). I've been a subscriber for 22 years an read pretty much all of JA's Follow-ups an the other Reviewer's.

He wrote: "The measurement reduction in low-frequency distortion with the v.1.2.1 firmware is dramatic, the improvement in resolution less so but still worthwhile".

Far as Redbook is concerned: I, a gentlemen on Audioshark and a Reviewer noticed the omissions in the pleasantry of its Redbook reproduction.  

......does not stop it from being a wonderful player....just me and some others hear what we don't like about it.
**********************************************************

Pal, no FLAC or MP3.
I will compare my ZDSD to my Chord for sure an with my CSP3. ABA it a few times.
I have her on right now. Steve, certainly spent some time fine tuning his Output Stage. The smoothness with the dynamic detail/all encompassing is so damn right. It grabs you without being forward or to laidback. Balanced, is so right!

Exactly Lon, as I stated it is still a wonderful Player.

I also made clear the resolution was in the higher formats. For Redbook,  made clear as well - I can find the Review and the Audioshark post to corroborate the omissions issue we had with the PS Audio DSD. It is a matter of taste though - agreed.

But consider this: and I mentioned in an above post. The ZDSD addressed the output volume direct (to ZMA) issue the PS Audio DSD has***....and it addressed/the ZDSD does what the PS Audio DSD does in neutrality (I mentioned above too a few posts up)***. The main reason I'm so estactic about it too...is this! This Output Stage for the ZDSD, is not the ZCD or ZDAC Lon? I think that is clear....with voicing from the Otari = ZDSD.

Moving on....I had put 4 hours on the ZDSD Saturday morning, an 12 yesterday. I thought it came pretty much burned in because of the musicality I was getting. Oh no, she is blooming her brains out this morning. No Hyperbole.

*** See post/reply # 46, 1), 2) and 3).

I think I get what he's saying.

This is all IMO -

The resolution the DS pulls out of CD is pretty damn amazing. I honestly rediscovered all my CDs at least *twice* with the DS.

Again, IMO -

24/88 24/96 sound good - but not much better, if at all to CD

24/192 doesn't sound like much of anything - certainly not the improvement the sampling would have you assume you'd hear.

36/384 - I think that's the correct highest resolution PCM, right? I have no source music in this format so I can't really comment.

DSD 64 Sounds good - Better than CD, but not hugely

DSD 128 Sounds pretty amazing and I've been seeking out and upgrading any albums I can in DSD 128. It's the closest to tape so far.


So maybe he's saying the resolution in CD is clearly improved, but the HD formats just don't seem to have the same jump in quality/resolution?

Of course, all this is even assuming the source files aren't upsampled or converted in some way. Which is hard to know the history and origin of many files. If something was recorded in 24/88 in the early days of digital recording, I'm very, very skeptical of higher resolution recordings. Hell, I'm skeptical of the original! LOL But it seems there has been a push to dump original master tapes to DSD 128 - so I'm seeing some better stuff out there all the time. Opus3 comes to mind - they have some amazing digital recordings from tape.

"The SD cards suck imo" Lon (paraphrasing). Hey, that is a pretty       up childish response. That is on YOU. Steve designed a great product with me in mind and many others.

And please stop copying an pasting for the 100th time, your canned response about the Treble cut on the Torii III. You don't own a ZMA and have never heard one.  The redundancy on that has to go, in every other one of your responses. I know I speak for many.

My points still stand about the PS Audio DSD an for Redbook too. You can rationalize things all you want. Just mine an others written an documented opinions.

Moving on, I got the ZDSD at -20 Reference Level now. Loving it!  8-)

children, children, children... "hearing" is a perception, and an "individual perception" at that.  Nobody can tell anybody else what sounds best to them - nobody.  And there is no "one" component that sounds best in all systems, all rooms, with all speakers, for all people - it does not exist.  All this is merely personal preference.  There are NO absolutes.  Everybody's hearing sensitivity is different, especially as we age.  I guarantee you that if you put a group of people age 50+ in a room, listening to a given system, everyone of them will have vastly different opinions about the overall sonic personality of the sound - too much highs, not enough, etc., etc. etc.

I happen to share Lon's opinion about the treble shunt control on the Torii  - given the following dependencies.  Steve once told me, face to face, that the Torii was designed for high-efficiency, full-range, crossoverless types of speakers.  Nearly all the speaker drivers in this category have a rising frequency response starting in the 1-2khz region.  The Torii was designed to alleviate this and to allow the frequency balance to be adjusted to a flatter response.  I have heard the ZMA Stone, and at length, and I prefer the Torii on full-rangers over the ZMA.  If I thought the ZMA sounded better on full-rangers, I'd have one.  
In over 35+ years of chasing the holy grail of audio, I have never heard a speaker that produces more life-like, realistic sound than a crossoverless, full-range, high-efficiency speaker - at any price.  This is my Opinion and my Preference - only - not anybody else.  So given my choice of speaker(for the last few years), the Torii provides the best synergy I have heard so far - to me.  If I find something that "I think" sounds better, I'll own it - $$ is not an object.  
I have never seen a musical instrument that has a crossover.  Just like the "best wire insulation" debate, no insulation is the best insulation (i.e. air), and the best crossover is no crossover.  Putting all those passive parts in series between a power amp and the actual sound transducer cannot be a good thing from any electrical engineering perspective and can only be subtractive and serve to alter the signal.
Now if you want to talk about other types of speakers, with multiple drivers and/or crossovers, less sensitive, etc.  I have found other amps to have better synergy w/them than the Torii - to my ears and preferences.

Lon it seems you've reached a level of satisfaction and contentment with your system that very few people ever do.  I congratulate you!  I'm almost there with you.  For those who are more into the constant churn of component of the month rotating thru their system, and never finding contentment and satisfaction, I do not envy you.  I, for one, would never try to tell anybody what they like, or should like, or try to convince them that my opinion about any audio component is the only opinion, or the right opinion.  That would just be insane....  This forum should only be about "sharing" impressions, opinions and preferences.... not dissing somebody for expressing their preference or opinion.  Get over yourself Stone... you're not the omnipotent being.  You don't have to share anybody's opinion or agree with them, and neither do you have the right to bash anybody for their opinion either.

I'm sure Steve's new DSD player sounds excellent!  Has anyone every heard a Decware product sound bad?    I plan on checking it out, at length at Zen later this year.  There is one "functional" requirement for me, that I don't think it has.  That being able to control it remotely from my listening chair via my iDevice.  I don't think it has this capability, but I could be wrong.  If it does, I'll probably have to have one, cause I'm sure it sounds excellent.

Just wanted to make sure about a few things as it doesn't seem absolutely clear to me ...

1. Can the ZDSD be used as a straight Windows/Mac DAC via USB?

2. If so, is the USB asynchronous and is the max resolution 32/384 and capable of processing DSD128 natively?

3. If not, then the max that SPDIF can process is only 192kHz ... is that correct?

4. Are there drivers for it and can it be used with something such as JRiver Media Center?

From the specs it seems as if USB input is not an option (unless it is a USB Hard Drive or Memory Stick, but not PC/Mac).  I don't want to copy files over to an SD card or USB HD either ... I have 2TB of hi-res music in PCM and DSD with resolution up to 32/384 stored on a Network Attached Storage device and need a PC connection via USB to access these files.  So as good as this thing must sound I would not be able to use it in the fashion I would want to.  Otherwise I would have seriously considered this as my next DAC.

Thanks guys!

Beowulf, yes the max through SPDIF is only 192kHz. That is all I need it for. If and when I get around to its other capabilities...... eg...ADDA etc... .

Main reason I got it is to hear if Steve's implementation of everything that the new Tascam 3000 is....with his Output Transformer Stage; could beat the 3 DACS I own and the 3 others I've had in my Listening Room (3 + 3 + now 1 = 7 ...own 4). It does.  If it did not......I had no problem with boxing it up and paying freight to an from + 10%.

The 3 others I had in: NAD M51, PS Audio PWT with PWD an of course the PS Audio DSD DAC. Purchased by me an OWNED....not a stop in by a friend for one night or a visit from a Leprechaun.

I now have 31 hours on her...she is a winner. I've described a few times above about her. Steve knows what it should sound like and what he was competing against. I had high expectations and it delivered. In a couple weeks I will compare to my Chord QuteHD and run thru my CSP3 for further confirmation.

A very fair price for this unit when you consider the Ref Level gain that essentially is a Preamp from Tascam economies of scale...then out of Steve's OTStage. The PS Audio DSD is charging you $2500 for the Preamp/with inadequate output/witnessed by many, in their DAC (then $2000 for the DAC portion and $1500 for recoup of R&D passed to early adopters+including multiple firmware updates). The ZDSD has no omissions in Redbook detail either.


Listening Room:
Room Treatments from Michael Green & Home Brew
Sony as Transport
Illuminati D-60
Decware DSD DAC / Recorder (@ -18)
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware Zen Mystery Amplifier (NOS/Platinum/Matsushita / National PCC88 / 7DJ8 in A12 an B12 inputs)
Kimber Select KS3035 Speaker Cable
Vintage Polk SDA1 Speakers in Stereo (91db)
XLO Pro Power Cord to ZMA
PS Audio P3 Power Plant / Pangea AC-9SE from wall to P3
(Transport & ZDSD Regenerated/116, 118 an 120v are used/Multiwave off...ZMA on HC Output)

Yes, High End Cables matter! I am matching Steve's sound quality of the SD Card he sent. I already new that. But, nice to have further confirmation. Well, now, actually because of Steve's Output Stage with my Cables at 192. His Stage is that good. Wonderful music on the Card he sent. Thanks again Steve.

Best Speakers are between 91 an 95db. 96 to 101db = not good for the ultimate musicality.

I discussed the following with Steve yesterday before placing my order. My idea was to put an excellent albeit value minded USB to SPDIF convertor from my MAC mini to get the appropriate digital signal via SPDIF from the convertor to the ZDSD. So far what I've come up with online searches is $100 to $300 dollar units that go up to 192. That in and of itself is not DSD is my brief but incomplete understanding. Do I understand that correctly? if not lets get some in the know clarification on this. I'm not sure I understand DSD as it pertains to SPDIF. So is the only way to hear DSD files natively with the ZDSD/Tascam unit off of the SD cards? Or if your computer has a SPDIF out and you have DSD files on your hard drive will the SPDIF translate that digitally out to the ZDSD/Tascam unit as a DSD native stream? if not what can one do to make that connection so DSD can be streamed off the computer drive to the ZDSD. These relationships are cloudy to me as I do not understand the capability of the digital outputs/inputs of the Tascam, my computer, any other computer, or any of the available USB to SPDIF convertor boxes. It would be great if we could start a thread detailing these capacities and features and how they work together. Understanding this digital domain is really somehow seems critical to successfully getting to know just what exactly you are listening to. By getting the collective knowledge base out on the table maybe we can make more sense of this for digital dummies like me.

Palomino what USB/SPDIF convertor do you have?

So there is no USB/SPDIF convertor that can output the DSD/PCM stream to the SPDIF input of the ZDSD/Tascam? At least not yet.

@ Chris - I'm not sure how that would work or if its even possible ... I still see SPDIF in the chain and like LR said there is a licensing issue involved.  But interesting ...

@ Palomino - the Matrix is one overbuilt, solid chunk of aluminum!

@ LR - now begs the question ... why didn't Steve just mod out the UD-501 which is much more consumer friendly in the first place?  There must have been a reason to choose the Tascam ... perhaps because it doesn't do the converting like the Tascam does?

Quote:


A while back Steve and I were talking about how he wants to record to reel to reel and DSD in his listening room. The idea was to hear it live, knowing what it sounded like, then compared the recordings. It's also helpful when building amps to know what the original sounded like. I mentioned to Steve that I know Korg and Tascam have some DSD recorders for $1k-$2k range.

I have a feeling he was looking into this and one thing lead to another.

I've been wondering/waiting for him to figure out how to get DSD recordings to sound like his original Master Tapes - if this does it, then it's a winner even with it's very utilitarian design.

I forgot to mention that when I live stream from the internet from high bit-rate sites I find it very easy to press the record button on the ZDSD and again capture a better recording on the memory card then if I would have highjacked it from the computer. That way even if I copy the file back to the computer from the memory card, it sounds better played back on the computer then if the computer had done the recording(hijack).

Steve

Another question for Steve, I have a usb device. Usb from computer to device and then AES/EBU from device to my current DAC and I use the Jriver remote app from my iPad. Could I use the ZDSD in this fashion for playback from server?

Yes, I'm reading an learning here too.

But heck, I like the ZDSD as a straight through DAC via SPDIF, direct to ZMA. I hooked her up to my CSP3 to ZMA....love it as well. I love my CSP3 density, voltage-gain an staging.  My Tele' input tube is blowing my mind as well in the CSP3...... .
http://www.upscaleaudio.com/telefunken-e88cc-6922/


I guess I'm a DEC-head and DAC-head:
ZDSD direct to ZMA
ZDSD to CSP3 to ZMA
Chord Chordette QuteHD to CSP3 to ZMA

Audio Alchemy DTI Pro-32/Silver Prophecy i2s ...to AA 3.0 DAC
or
Anedio D2 .....Direct to SE84CS or Super Zen CKC.

High end cable nut too - in 3 Systems  ;D

Bring on the Torii 5!   Somebody stop me! Ah, please don't-I love this hobby!

Quote:


Here is an article that gets you up to speed through 2012.

http://www.audiostream.com/content/dop-open-standard

I understand, Steve. It makes sense now. Thanks for clearing that out.

Over the weekend, I compared the ZDSD to my Chord Chordette QuteHD. I prefer the ZDSD. Proof their is a lot of something to Steve's Output Stage. Competent DAC Chips and bitchin' Clock in the ZDSD as well. However, it is Steve's implementation that opens up the sound stage with nuanced detail at 16/96 or 16/176.4, with excellent tone/timbre an imaging against the QuteHD.  I had a hunch Steve would nail the Analog output on this........ .   He did.

Without getting into more superlative adjective's/audiophile speak...I love it as a DAC. The fun to be had recording, is an added benefit. This is a great stand alone DAC I want, whether or not I do a stich of Recording fun. So, get one an put 50 hours on it and compare it to your DAC. Steve having voiced it to play with his Amps direct and I'm enjoying with my CSP3 too...she is a keeper!

Listening Room:
Room Treatments from Michael Green & Home Brew
Sony as Transport
Illuminati D-60
Decware DSD DAC / Recorder (@ -20 Ref Level @ 16/96 or 16/176.4)
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware CSP3 w/Jupiter Caps (NOS/Platinum/Telefunken 6922/CCa/7308 for input tube)
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware Zen Mystery Amplifier (NOS/Platinum/Matsushita / National PCC88 / 7DJ8 in A12 an B12 inputs)
Kimber Select KS3035 Speaker Cable
Vintage Polk SDA1 Speakers in Stereo (91db)
XLO Pro Power Cords to CSP3 an ZMA
PS Audio P3 Power Plant / Pangea AC-9SE from wall to P3
(Transport, ZDSD an CSP3, Regenerated/118 an 120v are used/Multiwave off...ZMA on HC Output)

You bet Acetone.

The P.R.a.T., with Analog ease, depth, an tone/note(s) delineation coming forth is just impressive. I am a jaded curmudgeon too. I can afford the 9k DAC down to the 2k. I've had them in here. The ZDSD is all you need.

The LPS might bring it closer Palomino. But, I tell you, I'm listening deeper into the mix with the ZDSD. The decay of notes have entrails like the visual equivalent of Halley's Comet in 1997, that entertained us across the sky-viewed through/telescope, looking wide an deep at it.

Add ZDSD to your sig. Stone. Cant wait to get mine
Thanks for the updates

@ ILance - wow a side by side comparison ... I'll be waiting for that!

Wow, looking forward to that review!

ILance, sweet! If you like the PS Audio DSD better-still for Redbook-I will have to buy another one with the latest firmware and compare again. I have my notes to go on for now. I did not like the omissions in Redbook it presented.

Nice to have two others on the Forum getting the ZDSD!  After 50 to 60 hours on her...I think you guys will like her a lot.

ILance, nice to see you're using JansZen's. Super high effish' Speaks make me want to puke. An Audible Illusions Pre....sweet classic. How does it compare to the CSP3? I'm assuming you have Jupiter Caps in it.
.....good Cables too....look forward to your impressions in due time.

Stone I have always wanted to hear the Polk SDA line. When it came out a I was a poor 20 something and could not afford. They were exotica to me back then.  ;D

stone_of_tone Quote:

You got me. There is too much. I collect old gear as a hobby which has little to to with the hair splitting effort to have ultimate fidelity. I should put together a list of what stays in the system most starting with speakers.
I have many Decware amplifiers and they go in revolving through from time to time. I also have a fetish for solid state amps and have class A designs and A/B as well. I will thin out the heard soon enough. Nothing is losing value right now though.
Zygi's HR-1 is just the best speaker I've ever had in my listening history. I'll put that sig list together soon.

I found this quote from Paul McGowans daily blog
To be interesting:

My friend Arnie is now fascinated with listening to tracks on SD cards which he swears sound better than the same, captured from the polycarbonate discs they came from.

Looks like Steve is a trail blazer with the SD cards.

Stone, not to get too far off topic but to answer your question. My CSP3 with Jupiter caps and a Telefunkin in the input is a better preamp than the Audible Illusions and at half the price. The AI has an excellent Phono stage which is what I use it for. More tube rolling flexibility with the CSP3. The AI is hard on tubes.

I have resisted recording for 16 days of my ownership. Now, with a handle on her as a DAC play through with burn in an Steve's OT Stage, I am ready to record tomorrow an hear for myself from SD card playback. If it is like the SD card Steve sent, I am in for a treat.

Guillaume, I'm not sure about recording, but to play, you will need a USB to SPDIF converter.  This unit does not have USB or optical inputs, the two Mac digital outputs.  It would be Mac USB out --> USB/SPDIF USB input --> SPDIF output -->Decware Direct Stream.

lLance, people in the Computer Audiophile Mac community have been using SD cards for some time now.  Lots of experimentation there.  Some people even run their operating system off an SD card.  What Steve is doing is cool, just not the first.

Thanks Palomino, makes more sense now.

The next obvious question are:

1. Which USB/SPDIF USB input --> SPDIF output unit is the best money no object
and
2. Which USB/SPDIF USB input --> SPDIF output unit is the best under 100/250/500 bucks?

thank you all for advice!

Okay, I'm done (yeah, famous last words).

What I'm getting out of the ZDSD + CSP3 + ZMA...I know I can't beat.

Time to do some Spring cleaning:
Anedio D2 DAC
Super Zen CKC
Zen Styx
Chord Chordette QuteHD
Some Svetlana NOS original/not knock-off SV83's.

I will put them in the Classified's soon.

Cool, I need to dig them out an see how many pair I'm willing to part with.

Well, I finally hear what Chip Stern hears in these Speaker's. They will not be removed from the Room anytime soon.

Chip/about the Acoustic Zen Adagio's:
"these speakers are so harmonically correct and uncolored, and depict such clearly defined images across a broadly balanced, transparent soundstage that they surely rate a serious audition. Best of all, because the relationship between these underhung drivers and the amplification is so constant; because the Adagios present such an easy load to drive; they sound superb at low volumes yet you can push the piss out of them without dropping a bass bomb on your immediate neighbors or removing most of the skin on your scalp".

My sentiments exactly!


Listening Room:
Room Treatments from Michael Green & Home Brew
Sony as Transport
Illuminati D-60
Decware DSD DAC / Recorder (@ -20 Ref Level @ 16/96 or 16/176.4)
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware CSP3 w/Jupiter Caps (NOS/Platinum/Telefunken 6922/CCa/7308 for input tube)
Kimber Select KS1030 IC RCA
Decware Zen Mystery Amplifier (NOS/Platinum/Matsushita / National PCC88 / 7DJ8 in A12 an B12 inputs)
Kimber Select KS3035 Speaker Cable
***********~~************************************
Acoustic Zen Adagio/Black Pearl's (89db SPL @ 1watt/1meter)
***********~~************************************
XLO Pro Power Cords to CSP3 an ZMA
PS Audio P3 Power Plant / Pangea AC-9SE from wall to P3
(Transport, ZDSD an CSP3, Regenerated/118 an 120v are used/Multiwave off...ZMA on HC Output)


Decware SE84CS (w/NOS Svetlana SV83's from 1980's-not the New Sensor knock-offs).....when SE Pentodes run in Triode/Decware Style...needs to be in the System!

I was going to trade them back for a REL Sub. Glad I did not.

Well you gave them a shot at least.  Do you feel its hard to find a true full range speaker that is also very efficient and with a smooth impedance curve?

The Legacy Audio Aeris seems to come very close with a frequency range of 16Hz–30k (+/-2dB), 4 ohm ipednace @ 95.4dB.  They're pretty pricey though.

Beowulf, the Aeris is pricey. My SDA's seem like 95 compared to the 89 1 watt 1 meter Adagio. My sound stage depth destroy's the Adagio's too with my Vintage SDA's.

Stereophile reviewed the Tekton Enzo this month. But, they don't breathe air like my SDA's-which is my biggest criticism of high efficiency. All slam, with no nuance texture. Herb makes that clear in the review. This is why I'm firmly in the camp of those of us here that use Martin Logans, Monitor Audio, Magnepan an JansZens with our Decware.

So no, you probably can't find a flat imp. curve. No matter, it is all in how it sounds.

Their are attributes of tone with air~ air~ air ~I need with my Decware an my Speaker choices that you can't get with high eff. Speaks. You might as well use a Crown PA Amp for 95-96 or above 1 watt 1 meter Speaks, far as I'm concerned.