The ZSTAGE was the first Decware component I bought five years ago. At the time I was using my ZSTAGE to feed the wired signal going from an iPod and iPhone to my SS Yamaha receiver. The beauty of the ZSTAGE with low voltage sources does wonders.
I went back-and-forth like yourself between the ZSTAGE and the ZBOX. I ultimately called Steve and his recommendation was the ZSTAGE for my purpose.
Fast forward five years to date… I am so glad I went with ZSTAGE. I am now getting ready to buy the new Teac NT-505 DAC. Even though it has balanced outputs, I can now hold off a little bit on buying the ZBIT and use my ZSTAGE to feed the signal going from my DAC to my reciever and use the increased gain the ZSTAGE offers.
In addition....I had also bought a turntable a few years back, and also use the ZSTAGE with the turntable as well. Once I move to a Decware tube amp (hopefully later this year), the ZSTAGE can feed that. It just seems that the ZSTAGE is more versatile.
Excerpt taken from the ZSTAGE OWNERS MANUAL....
Quote:USING YOUR ZSTAGE
Once you have it hooked up, simply adjust the volume by ear to the desired level. Approximately 1/2 way up is “unity” meaning it is neither adding or subtracting gain. Experiment with what sounds best.
So....if you keep the unit 1/2 way up, you will still get the benefit of the 12AU7 tube’s sound signature, just like you would with the ZBOX, with the added benefit of gain adjustability.
Definitely take Lon and Will’s advice...their input is very detailed and well deserved. Lon has used both units with solid state, so he will have a good take on your situation. If you keep going back-and-forth… My recommendation would be to then call Steve. Hope this helps.
Dom