Zanden Audio: 3000 Mk2 Preamp Review

[analogsa]

Looks like this is the battery https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lithium-Ba...coding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=SA6YJ8ZRZA2ZJ4WN7J4P

 

[microstrip]

Looks like this is the battery https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lithium-Ba...coding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=SA6YJ8ZRZA2ZJ4WN7J4P

Thanks - so we now know a little more about the specific technical caracteristics of the 3000 mk2 - it uses a lithium-thionylchlorid noise source in series with the signal. Japanese designers are masters in using noise to shape the sound characteristics of their products.

 

[bazelio]

Control "circuitry" for input relays: https://www.neurochrome.com/product/selector-x4/

33x64mm of real estate, including the rotary switch. No DAC circuitry necessary.

 

[microstrip]

Control "circuitry" for input relays: https://www.neurochrome.com/product/selector-x4/

33x64mm of real estate, including the rotary switch. No DAC circuitry necessary.

An important thing in control systems is the ability to switch off, hibernating most digital systems when not actuating, and only waking up when getting a remote or button signal. Unless they are using the RF digital noise to enhance sound, Tice clock style.

 

[bazelio]

An important thing in control systems is the ability to switch off, hibernating most digital systems when not actuating, and only waking up when getting a remote or button signal. Unless they are using the RF digital noise to enhance sound, Tice clock style.

I do see additional relays which might be part of that. But we're no longer talking about input relay control. And the RF receiver itself needs to be always-on.

 

[microstrip]

I do see additional relays which might be part of that. But we're no longer talking about input relay control. And the RF receiver itself needs to be always-on.

Yes, I was considering infrared receivers. And it is also possible to design an analog receiver to trigger a switch-on comparator when it gets RF signals, avoiding any commutation when hybernating.

 

[bazelio]

The ££ has gotta go in to something, as it didn't go in to the audio circuit. But I still see most having gone in to pockets.

 

[microstrip]

The ££ has gotta go in to something, as it didn't go in to the audio circuit. But I still see most having gone in to pockets.

I can't agree with your comment. We do not know the cost of the four audio transformers and built quality seems high, components and hardware are top. Considering the small numbers produced and the usual margins in high-end, price seems in line with similar products.

A DIY minded person will always find high-end prices abusive! But IMHO as soon as we know the real world of industry and trade we become more realistic. As always, YMMV.

 

[uber2]

Zanden 3100 preamp uses Lundahls as seen in this Italian review.

https://www.audiopoint.it/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Zanden-ar387mac-6.pdf

Size and format of the transformers in 3000mk2 screams Lundahl, but one could only guess ??

 

[microstrip]

Zanden 3100 preamp uses Lundahls as seen in this Italian review.

https://www.audiopoint.it/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Zanden-ar387mac-6.pdf

Size and format of the transformers in 3000mk2 screams Lundahl, but one could only guess ??

The 3100 cost is less than half of that of the 3000mk2 , we can expect that it will have different transformers. We have to ask Marcus to lift the cover of his preamplfier audio transformers!

 

[analogsa]

I have no doubt the transformers are indeed by Lundahl. No other manufacturer offers amorhous/mu-metal units in that specific form factor. And most other manufacturers do not like using the term mu-metal when describing a core containing nickel.

 

[bazelio]

Yeah these too are Lundahls based on appearance. Zanden has painted over the poly caps, the Lundahls, and even the Kemet relays, I suppose to conceal their identities.

 

[analogsa]

Perhaps so, if you enjoy a cynical attitude It is also possible that the damping/rf blocking covers are indeed essential. These, combined with some expensive hook-up wire may really contribute towards the desired sound signature.

 

[bazelio]

LOL. Most people are skeptical. There have been all sorts of audiophile coatings, quantum stickers, other nonsense over the years. They come and go. This is paint. They left the cap leads and flyover wires unconcealed.

 

[analogsa]

Talking of capacitors, these remind me a lot of Solen. I guess cynicism is contagious.

 

[bazelio]

I'm am hoping the MK2 would use transformers good enough to not require a parafeed topology. I'd rather see no caps.

 

[microstrip]

Zanden is known since long for their excellent sounding products, that represent SOTA in this subjective hobby. We have the opportunity to analyze technically one of their top products and the main interest seems to be drifting towards speculation and insinuation. IMHO it is the best way to kill a promising thread. Can we stay factual?

 

[analogsa]

I'm am hoping the MK2 would use transformers good enough to not require a parafeed topology. I'd rather see no caps.

The mk2 transformers are certainly not gapped. Their size precludes this speculation.

 

[analogsa]

Can we stay factual?

Apart from the very nice and expensive attenuator, everything else has been masterfully obfuscated. No paint or damping materials on the pot though...

As the parts bins for the 3000mk1 and 3100 are pretty much known, is speculation really out of order?

 

[bazelio]

There's enough visual info on the main areas affecting actual sound to go beyond speculation.