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Trouble operating new ZDSD (Read 14696 times)
Geno
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Trouble operating new ZDSD
09/15/18 at 18:36:29
 
All,

I just got a ZDSD, and am having trouble. I have a CD Transport connected to it, and it plays through it with no problem. But no matter how I have it set, I cannot get the ZDSD to play or record with either a SD card or USB drive connected. When I hit play or record, I get a pop up box that says, “Caution - Cannot play while input monitoring”.  I have put IN MONITORING to ON and OFF both, but no bananas.   Also, with the CD Transport off, the ZDSD info button stays RED.
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Jeff of Arabica
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #1 - 09/15/18 at 19:07:06
 
Hi Geno,

Lets see I can help troubleshoot here.  

EDIT:  Disregard my prior comment on the USB port as it CAN be used to playback files on a drive.  It cannot however be used to connect a phone or streaming device unless is acts like a USB prior.  Sorry for any confusion prior.  

They should play with no issues.  What is the file format of the files stored on the SD card?  Did you check the manual to make sure that the file format is compatible?  

Let us know and we will go from there.
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Jeff of Arabica
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #2 - 09/15/18 at 19:16:54
 
It might be wise to restore to factory defaults just to make sure there is no software setting stuck:  

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Jeff of Arabica
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #3 - 09/15/18 at 19:20:18
 
With the INFO light red, it means there is an alert.  When you press the INFO button, what does it read?
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Geno
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Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #4 - 09/15/18 at 20:00:30
 
Thanks Jeff.  I restored to factory defaults. That helped more than anything.  The red info alert is “digital input is unlocked”.

I have the settings such that I am able to record a CD now.

The files I am trying to listen to on SD and USB are FLAC.
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Geno
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Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #5 - 09/15/18 at 20:08:25
 
Red info is “Digital input has no signal” when inserting an SD CARD with Flac files and the Track info shows all 0’s.
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Jeff of Arabica
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #6 - 09/15/18 at 20:20:02
 
Ok, that explains it.  the ZDSD does not playback FLAC files - only PCM type and DSD.  

Not sure if you have the Tascam manual, but you can download it here.  It is pretty informative and thorough

https://www.tascam.eu/en/docs/DA-3000_Manual_RevB.pdf
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Geno
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Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #7 - 09/15/18 at 20:24:32
 
Looks like the accepted format for playback is BWF.  I’ve been using a computer as my player, thus the FLAC files. Do you know the best way to convert FLAC to BWF?  Looks like BWF is a WAV ext.
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(2)SE84UFO(Balanced Monoblocs) OR Sansui AU-222
Crown sub amp
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Jeff of Arabica
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #8 - 09/15/18 at 20:40:18
 
The only difference between the BWF and WAV files is the header information.  You can convert to .WAV as well.  There are plenty of tools online that can do this.  I personally have not used one, but I bet someone here has and can chime in.  

I am sure you can use Pro Tools.  It is $29.99/mo for the subscription.  Depending on how many you need to convert, you could subscribe for a month and hammer it out.  They also have a free trial.  But Im sure there are other and maybe even some free ones.  
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Jeff of Arabica
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Posts: 968
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #9 - 09/15/18 at 20:45:31
 
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Geno
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Without music, life
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Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #10 - 09/15/18 at 20:56:31
 
Thanks for your help Jeff. I will find the best (and cheapest😊) way to convert. In the meanwhile, I have a bunch of DSD files that I will put on the SD cards I have.

Thanks again for the unit. It is sounding mighty good!

Regards, Geno
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(2)SE84UFO(Balanced Monoblocs) OR Sansui AU-222
Crown sub amp
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Geno
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Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #11 - 09/15/18 at 23:46:29
 
For anyone that might have the same issue, I use JRiver media player for my computer files. Under Tools, there is a converter that converts FLAC files to WAV so that the ZDSD can play them.
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(2)SE84UFO(Balanced Monoblocs) OR Sansui AU-222
Crown sub amp
Cambridge Audio CXN(ModWright) • ZBIT
SL-1210MK5(KAB Mods) Soundsmith Aida MKll cart • Darlington Labs MP-7
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Geno
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Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #12 - 09/18/18 at 16:37:04
 
All,

Does anyone have any tips on getting optimal settings on this unit?  There are a lot of different ways you can go.

I am using an SE84UFO and Decware DM947's with it.

My main complaint is the output level when playing off of an SD card or USB. There is a tremendous amount of gain when compared to the milder level of a CD played through it.

I have the output set to -14dBFS, but understand that for maximum density, it should be closer to -20dBFS. At these levels, if I turn the volume past 9 o'clock, it is way too hot, whereas, with a cd player, the level is milder even at 12'oclock.

Thanks in advance for any help.  Geno
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Cambridge Audio CXN(ModWright) • ZBIT
SL-1210MK5(KAB Mods) Soundsmith Aida MKll cart • Darlington Labs MP-7
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stone_of_tone
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #13 - 09/22/18 at 23:46:05
 
For maximum density it should be at -20 Reference Level. I use nothing else. I sometimes use -0.5 or -1.0dB Input Volume. ...but that's it. CD or SD Card.

My ZDSD is a great match in to my ZMA. I don't like Preamps. I had an CSP3 with Jupiter caps for 27 months and currently own a ARC Line Stage Class A, that is very good. However, I still prefer the tone and timbre derived from direct ZDSD Input.

YMMV......Cables, Speakers & NOS Tubes matter.

Changing to better more musical Caps in your DM947's would help too. I owned a pair and despite the decent midrange....they were to hot for me. Plus, they could not handle the density I derive from my modified Adagio's and Treble extension either.
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Room Treats-M.Green & mine
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Shunyata Z-Alpha DigPcord
Decware ZDSD DAC
Kimber Select KS1030
XLOProPcord
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Acoustic Zen Adagio/Modified
Kimber PK10 Palladian from wall
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stone_of_tone
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #14 - 09/23/18 at 02:05:18
 
....not to say the DM947's are not good with low power tube gloriousness you're running....they are good. I owned a SE84CS for 13 years of every other day pleasure - great AMP.

I would also suggest, if you have not already, get rid of the stock cord. Frankly, the ZDSD would not be in my Listening Room, playing Redbook without the Power Cord to it - I'm using....that took it to what it could be an now is. No, I should not say that....Steve's output stage is good with the stock AC Cord. My Shunyata Cord does take it way up though..... .

How does one discern a power cable to digital? You use the cable library at the CableCo. I do not work for them .... As I don't work for Steve either. I owned full boat price my KS3033 and KS3035 Speaker Cables and sold at a very fair price. Was fortunate to get my KS6063 at half of retail from the CableCo. I am so spoiled by them....(by comparison) I am putting an insurance rider on them. Anyway, upgrade that Power Cable to your ZDSD.
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Room Treats-M.Green & mine
Sony TPort
Illuminati D60
Shunyata Z-Alpha DigPcord
Decware ZDSD DAC
Kimber Select KS1030
XLOProPcord
Decware ZMA/25th Mods
Kimber Select KS6063
Acoustic Zen Adagio/Modified
Kimber PK10 Palladian from wall
to PS Audio P3
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Geno
Seasoned Member
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Without music, life
would be a mistake.

Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #15 - 09/28/18 at 03:10:55
 
Thanks Stone. I now have the reference set to -20.  But you state that in addition to that, you are adjusting the input volume?  Changing that has no effect with playback volume. The only time it has an effect is when I am recording, and then it is used to set the record level. Are we talking about 2 different things?
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(2)SE84UFO(Balanced Monoblocs) OR Sansui AU-222
Crown sub amp
Cambridge Audio CXN(ModWright) • ZBIT
SL-1210MK5(KAB Mods) Soundsmith Aida MKll cart • Darlington Labs MP-7
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stone_of_tone
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #16 - 09/28/18 at 13:09:40
 
Correct, not SD card playback. However, it does effect playing CD's from Transport via Coax. As in recording, for some CD's (bright/hot lets say), I get to keep the red out of the Graph. Very nice feature!



Room Treatments from Michael Green & my Home Brew

Sony as Transport (DVP-NS57P)
Yes, this inexpensive T-port is good...I sh__ you not!
Illuminati D-60 Digital Coax IC ~.5 meter

Shunyata Research Zitron Alpha Digital Power Cord to ZDSD {Significant}

Decware ZDSD DAC / Recorder
***************************************************************
W/Steve's Output Transformer's/kicking to the Curb quite a few superb DAC'S
***************************************************************
(@ -20 Ref Level, @ 16/192)
.....0.0, -0.5 or -1.0dB/Input Volume

WBT-0102Ag RCA Kimber Select KS1030 ~.75 meter

Decware Zen Mystery Amplifier
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Room Treats-M.Green & mine
Sony TPort
Illuminati D60
Shunyata Z-Alpha DigPcord
Decware ZDSD DAC
Kimber Select KS1030
XLOProPcord
Decware ZMA/25th Mods
Kimber Select KS6063
Acoustic Zen Adagio/Modified
Kimber PK10 Palladian from wall
to PS Audio P3
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Geno
Seasoned Member
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Without music, life
would be a mistake.

Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #17 - 10/14/18 at 19:15:24
 
Hi Stone,

My DM947’s have clarity caps. I’m not happy with what I’m hearing. You mentioned that I might try a more musical cap. Do you have a recommendation for a different cap. I don’t care that much about the cost, to a point, anyway. I just want the best sound I can get.

Thanks for you help,

Geno
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(2)SE84UFO(Balanced Monoblocs) OR Sansui AU-222
Crown sub amp
Cambridge Audio CXN(ModWright) • ZBIT
SL-1210MK5(KAB Mods) Soundsmith Aida MKll cart • Darlington Labs MP-7
Otari MX5050-Bll2 R2R
ZLC Power Cond.
Lii Audio PT-10/W-15 in open baffles
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stone_of_tone
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #18 - 10/18/18 at 22:01:32
 
I'm very happy with Mundorf MCap Supreme's.


Here are a couple Threads:

http://www.humblehomemadehifi.com/Cap.html

https://www.decware.com/cgi-bin/yabb22/YaBB.pl?num=1278958959


I have been Jonesin' to get the Below Caps....one mans opinion...in his application. Trust me, the standard Supreme is not rough....single capped! However, the Silver Oils might happen this dead cold winter!

From the Humble...Thread.....
Sound:      The MCap Supreme Silver Oil is one of my favourite capacitors! I can only underline what Mundorf states: wonderfully spacious and detailed sound reproduction, full and smooth tonal richness and diversity. This capacitor's ability to bring out the finest nuances and the subtlest distinctions make the music sound more alive and "juicy". Music detail and depth throughout from top to bottom. Very smooth and liquid. To exaggerate things: it makes a standard Supreme Cap sound slightly rough!

Oh, and make sure you order a matched pair of Caps....be firm about that!
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Room Treats-M.Green & mine
Sony TPort
Illuminati D60
Shunyata Z-Alpha DigPcord
Decware ZDSD DAC
Kimber Select KS1030
XLOProPcord
Decware ZMA/25th Mods
Kimber Select KS6063
Acoustic Zen Adagio/Modified
Kimber PK10 Palladian from wall
to PS Audio P3
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Geno
Seasoned Member
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Without music, life
would be a mistake.

Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #19 - 10/19/18 at 04:50:05
 
Great info Stone. Would I use the same value Mundorfs as the Clarity Caps that are in the DM947s now?

Thank you,  Geno
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(2)SE84UFO(Balanced Monoblocs) OR Sansui AU-222
Crown sub amp
Cambridge Audio CXN(ModWright) • ZBIT
SL-1210MK5(KAB Mods) Soundsmith Aida MKll cart • Darlington Labs MP-7
Otari MX5050-Bll2 R2R
ZLC Power Cond.
Lii Audio PT-10/W-15 in open baffles
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stone_of_tone
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Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #20 - 10/19/18 at 11:22:32
 
Good question Geno. I would ask on the Forum here elsewhere or call Steve.

I had my Adagio's done locally and all internal. Single cap each Speaker. Dude I knew and knew my level of expectation. These Speakers were absolutely transformed! Almost four years now.
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Room Treats-M.Green & mine
Sony TPort
Illuminati D60
Shunyata Z-Alpha DigPcord
Decware ZDSD DAC
Kimber Select KS1030
XLOProPcord
Decware ZMA/25th Mods
Kimber Select KS6063
Acoustic Zen Adagio/Modified
Kimber PK10 Palladian from wall
to PS Audio P3
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Geno
Seasoned Member
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Without music, life
would be a mistake.

Posts: 1988
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #21 - 10/24/18 at 02:29:12
 
Zygi got me straight. I’ve ordered the Mundorf caps. Can’t wait to hear the difference.
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(2)SE84UFO(Balanced Monoblocs) OR Sansui AU-222
Crown sub amp
Cambridge Audio CXN(ModWright) • ZBIT
SL-1210MK5(KAB Mods) Soundsmith Aida MKll cart • Darlington Labs MP-7
Otari MX5050-Bll2 R2R
ZLC Power Cond.
Lii Audio PT-10/W-15 in open baffles
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stone_of_tone
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Listen Often/Listen
Deep

Posts: 3217
Re: Trouble operating new ZDSD
Reply #22 - 10/28/18 at 14:17:19
 
Cool Geno. I should have thought to mention Zygi directly!
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Room Treats-M.Green & mine
Sony TPort
Illuminati D60
Shunyata Z-Alpha DigPcord
Decware ZDSD DAC
Kimber Select KS1030
XLOProPcord
Decware ZMA/25th Mods
Kimber Select KS6063
Acoustic Zen Adagio/Modified
Kimber PK10 Palladian from wall
to PS Audio P3
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