JOMAN
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Today I had an interesting experience that relates to your question although it is not specifically with respect to a ZStage. I have a ZDSD that has a transformer coupled output that can give "full voltage of professional balanced output", -9dBFS up to -20dBFS.
Initially the ZDSD was connected to a my CSP3 and indeed I was able to add weight and presence by adjusting the gain and increasing the density.
Next I added the ZROCK, updated to the ZROCK2 and now to the ZROCK with the Mundorf A-mods. When I added the ZROCK I found that it had an even a more profound effect relating to weight and presence to the point that I had to dial back the voltage output setting on the ZDSD because I was getting distortion at times. As you dial up the ZROCK there is an increase in gain as well. I also had to adjust the gain structure on the CSP3.
Today I removed the CSP3 so that I could send it in for the A-mods with the Mundorf caps. It was a no brainer after getting the A-mods with Mundorfs on the ZROCK. I decided to run the ZDSD/ZROCK2 directly into my SE84UFO25 because it has volume pots.
I had even more detail and after dialling up the voltage output on the ZDSD, even greater hit, without the CSP3. At first it was impressive and I started to wonder if I needed the CSP3. After not too long a period the hit began to wear on me and I realized that something was missing. That is when, for the first time I began to understand what the CSP3 was contributing. Something that I could never be without. Something more than the option to roll tubes as I have done.
Without the CSP3 the presentation was coming at me like a wall instead of a structured layered sound stage. A stage where the instruments and vocalists had separation or a structure that gain increase alone was not able to give. A level of engagement and emotion was missing. That is what I believe that the CSP3 was doing even without the mods. When I asked Steve about what I could expect from the CSP3 once the A-mods were completed, he said that the A-mods would do wonders for the CSP3's sound and imaging. Imaging that I was already missing even without the mods!
I hope this helps in some way. AND... all I have to ask Steve after this experience is; although the CSP3 is just starting it's journey to you, is there some way that I could get it back tomorrow with the mods of course???
Never mind, no need to answer ::).
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