Steve Deckert
|
I mentioned earlier that we were running out of the power transformers that we use in the ZBOX and ZSTAGE and now recently the ZROCK.
We are going to take the opportunity to make changes as we replace the current transformer design with something a little different. The new transformers will have two fundamental changes; 1) a 6.3 Volt heater configuration allowing us to change from a 12AU7 low mu tube to a 6922 medium mu tube. 2) Higher available voltage. This will have no real change on the current ZBOX, ZSTAGE, or ZROCK, but will open the door for future products that need a tad more voltage.
If you have a ZBOX or ZSTAGE and for example think it would be a good idea to "update" the power transformer to this new model, you would be wrong. Don't mess with it.
Back the ZROCK. Having several sold the feedback is fairly consistent in that everyone seems more than OK with the way it functions.
The way it functions is this: There are two EQ settings and a bypass switch. There is also an output level control. When the unit is bypassed, there is no gain. When the unit is not bypassed there is a fair amount of gain, which adds to the punch and density.
I recently sent out a coupon for ZROCK's and have quite a few on the waiting list. These people will all be getting a little surprise as I plan to send them a ZROCK2.
A ZROCK2 is simply the second and probably final version. There are two fundamental changes. 1) The amount of EQ is now variable. There will be 20 possible settings from no effect, to max effect. When in the no effect end of things, it becomes a ZSTAGE aka straight wire with gain. 2) There is no bypass switch now, because when the effect level is set to minimum there is no need to bypass. This leaves the tube stage in play at all times.
The output level control on the ZROCK becomes an effects level control on the ZROCK2. You just dial in how much bass restoration you want - on the fly - as you listen making a ZROCK2 compatible with literally all systems. Sure to be the ultimate black box we've done so far. Yes, and before anyone gets their panties in a bunch, a ZROCK can be updated to a ZROCK2 if it were needed using the original power supply allowing you to keep the 12AU7 tube that you're using. ZROCK2's will use the 6922 or 6N1P or 6DJ8 family of tubes.
|