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Thread: TAD and Zesto preamp
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October 13, 2013, 04:45 PM #1
TAD and Zesto preamp
I've read some nice reports on the Zesto preamp with TAD speakers. I'm currently happy with what I'm hearing but I'm curious if the Zesto in my setup would enhance my listening experience and be to my liken. I'm currently running MSB S200 amplifier, MSB Diamond dac with their transport and the TAD R1. I'm using the dac's preamp as pre. Currently it's a fully balanced system. My amps input impedance is listed below. So I think it's a match, what do you think? I'm not sure what their true floating balance means compared to a fully balanced system. I think I need to fine one to demo in my system?
MSB S200 Inputs Imedance:
True Balanced (XLR)
Input Impedance 36kOhm
Single-Ended (RCA)
Input Impedance 18kOhm
ZESTO Output Impedance:
150 ohm output zesto
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JohnGryphon Essence stereo amp and preamp/dac Hurricane power cords
Fyne Audio F1-10, Lumin T2, Moon 260 Transport
Shunyata Research Everest, Sigma V2 XC,
Shunyata Research Sigma USB and Ethernet
Argento Audio speaker cables and interconnects
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October 13, 2013, 05:09 PM #2
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
John,
Output impedance wise, I think you will be fine. I love what tubes do for my TADs. I think you might like it too.Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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October 13, 2013, 06:30 PM #3
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Real nice tubey sounding gear like Zesto (and I'm sure CJ) was nice on the TAD's. Added some meat to the bones and softened the higher notes a bit. I thought the Zesto gear sounded better on the TAD's then the actual TAD gear. And the Zesto owners are the salt of the earth kind of people.
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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October 13, 2013, 07:01 PM #4
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
John, I'd be real curious to hear your impressions if you do. I still like the sound of SS over tubes in general, but Joe's recent posts and the feedback from RMAF really has me thinking.
Do you guys think starting with just a tube Pre would be a decent place to start?
Allen
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October 13, 2013, 07:17 PM #5
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Can't take advise from me cause I think tube everything. Lmao!!
But I've heard some real nice setups that had big ss amps and tube preamps and phonostages
And created a great mix almost everytime. Bob runs that absolare pre with the goldmund and it sounds awesome!!Steve
TUBES & VINYL
Is there anything else?
Rega/Ortofon/Viva 300b/KR
Music Reference 2A3
Altec/JBL
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October 13, 2013, 07:24 PM #6
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Allen,
I have to tell you the past few days I've been running the EAR 868 tube pre into my Dartzeel amp and let me tell you it sounds frigging awesome! I am so torn about getting rid of these things (the TADs ).
Steve,
You are a smart man and know exactly what sounds great. And, YES! Bob's setup is stunning!!!!!Last edited by joeinid; October 13, 2013 at 07:27 PM.
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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October 13, 2013, 07:55 PM #7
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Gryphon Essence stereo amp and preamp/dac Hurricane power cords
Fyne Audio F1-10, Lumin T2, Moon 260 Transport
Shunyata Research Everest, Sigma V2 XC,
Shunyata Research Sigma USB and Ethernet
Argento Audio speaker cables and interconnects
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October 13, 2013, 08:08 PM #8
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Joe, totally trust your ears, that's why I'm even considering tubes!
I say keep the TADs until you hear something that totally blows it away. I think at these levels, you aren't necessarily trading up, just trading for different.
Agreed. There's not a lot of dealers that carry this stuff any more. I miss Soundex in PA. They had EVERYTHING!
Keep us posted, John. Very interested in your journey...
Allen
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October 13, 2013, 08:27 PM #9
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Speaking of Journeys what's the ETA on your TAD journey?
Gryphon Essence stereo amp and preamp/dac Hurricane power cords
Fyne Audio F1-10, Lumin T2, Moon 260 Transport
Shunyata Research Everest, Sigma V2 XC,
Shunyata Research Sigma USB and Ethernet
Argento Audio speaker cables and interconnects
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October 13, 2013, 09:12 PM #10
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Good question, not sure. I should ping Sanjay. But I still need to sell some gear to fund the speakers, so I'm in no rush.
Allen
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October 13, 2013, 09:32 PM #11
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Allen, what amp are you running these days? Is it the Rowland or do I remember you saying something about having Krells now?
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkDoug
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October 14, 2013, 07:53 AM #12
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
John, I agree with Joe. I think adding tubes in the chain will be a great sounding combination with the TAD's !!
Mark
Kharma DB9 Signature
Pass Labs XP32......incoming
Pass Labs X350.8
Esoteric N-05XD
VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
Manley Chinook Phono Pre
Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
Kharma Elegance speaker cables
Kharma Elegance interconnects
REL Subs
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October 14, 2013, 07:01 PM #13
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October 14, 2013, 07:49 PM #14Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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October 14, 2013, 08:08 PM #15
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October 14, 2013, 08:12 PM #16
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
If you can not get your hands on one, I may have another one available from the first batch for you to try
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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October 14, 2013, 08:24 PM #17
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Allen, it might worthwhile to listen to a Rowland Corus. I'm sure you've already thought of that.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkDoug
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October 14, 2013, 08:51 PM #18
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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October 14, 2013, 09:15 PM #19
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
I'm trying to see if I can get my hands on a used Coherence II or a Criterion, both battery powered. I missed my chance two or three times on Agon. They are supposed to be fabulous!
No Rowland dealers near me to hear their new stuff. Did you hear the Aeris DAC, Mike?
Thanks, Joe! May take you up on it. But if I'm using on the TADs even just for fun, I may wait for the DC protected one!
Allen
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October 14, 2013, 09:30 PM #20
TAD and Zesto preamp
I demoed zesto pre and impedance wise it worked fine driving my Tad Cr-1. Sonically it was not as impressive as Vac or aesthetix or even first sound. I agree the zesto people r lovely and I think their phono stage has garnered many critical reviews. Personally after I got after the unique look further inspection reveal a mediocre construction that to my eye and use lacked a true stable thick walked construction. Plus the remote is really cheap looking. For 7500 I would rather have EAR Joe raves about. I also demoed Rowland Aeris(very impressive) and both 525 and 625. I would stick with any of their non class D amps. Aeris does not have USB. Good luck.
NickNick
Main system :TAD CR1 speakers, Viola Labs Symphony amp,Pass XP-20 preamp., MSB Discrete DAC with twin power supplies and V2 Renderer module, Gigafoil V4 inline ethernet filter with uptone LPS-1 power supply with Ghent audio Gotham 2.1mm to 2.5mm cable and AG diamond ethernet cable, Sonicorbitor Roon Audiophile 6 TB network server-player , MG Audio Design Planus III jumpers & speaker cables, Zitron Cobra power cords, Shunyata Hydra AV, and acoustic zen absolute copper IC,. Room treatment ASC tower traps, Vicoustic absorber premium cinema wall and ceiling panels, and MSR acoustic trifusser side wall panel
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October 14, 2013, 09:35 PM #21
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.
Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE
NAD C 658 streamer.
First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)
Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.
Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.
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October 14, 2013, 10:27 PM #22
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Gryphon Essence stereo amp and preamp/dac Hurricane power cords
Fyne Audio F1-10, Lumin T2, Moon 260 Transport
Shunyata Research Everest, Sigma V2 XC,
Shunyata Research Sigma USB and Ethernet
Argento Audio speaker cables and interconnects
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October 14, 2013, 10:47 PM #23
TAD and Zesto preamp
Loved sound of first sound plus just a single tube per channel. But no remote which is a must for me. Vac great sound but 12 tubes and remote has motorized non digital volumn control that was just not too precise. I was constantly having overshoot. Pass does everything well and at the time of purchase I had Wilson watt puppies which had less sonic issues compared to cr-1. Currently I love my pre and amp after I did some room treatment. If I could add just a little air of a Vac without compromising bass And did not have to contend with Too many tubes and their labor I would consider a hiss free tube amp. Ear, Zanden or maybe Gat( although if lacks xlr) may b considered down the road
NickNick
Main system :TAD CR1 speakers, Viola Labs Symphony amp,Pass XP-20 preamp., MSB Discrete DAC with twin power supplies and V2 Renderer module, Gigafoil V4 inline ethernet filter with uptone LPS-1 power supply with Ghent audio Gotham 2.1mm to 2.5mm cable and AG diamond ethernet cable, Sonicorbitor Roon Audiophile 6 TB network server-player , MG Audio Design Planus III jumpers & speaker cables, Zitron Cobra power cords, Shunyata Hydra AV, and acoustic zen absolute copper IC,. Room treatment ASC tower traps, Vicoustic absorber premium cinema wall and ceiling panels, and MSR acoustic trifusser side wall panel
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October 14, 2013, 10:56 PM #24
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
Don't ignore the D'Agostino preamp guys....it's a killer good preamp and looks great too.
Another to consider is the Mcintosh C500T.
What about the CJ GAT?My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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October 15, 2013, 04:36 PM #25
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
If I were to add a preamp and take a leap of faith it would definitely be the Zesto. Because it's has been demoed with TAD speakers continuously for the last two years with both SS and it's own tube amp of late. Also quite a few reviews from regular folks as well as reviewers have been extremely positive.
JohnGryphon Essence stereo amp and preamp/dac Hurricane power cords
Fyne Audio F1-10, Lumin T2, Moon 260 Transport
Shunyata Research Everest, Sigma V2 XC,
Shunyata Research Sigma USB and Ethernet
Argento Audio speaker cables and interconnects
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October 15, 2013, 04:58 PM #26
Re: TAD and Zesto preamp
My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481
"We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."
Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.
https://suncoastaudio.com/
Phone: 941-932-0282
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
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Ok, thanks very much for the quick response.
Esoteric DAC type, DSD or PCM?