OWNER’S MANUAL MODEL ZP3 REV. DATE 2/2016
!
SIGNAL TUBES
!
The ZP3 is delivered with a factory tube compliment that is reference grade with hand
selected and section matched 12AX7’s for perfect channel balance.
!
When replacing the 12AX7’s always specify tubes with matched sections. A 12AX7 is
a dual triode where there are actually two individual triodes inside a single glass tube.
These individual triodes are used for both channels which is a huge advantage in that it
becomes impossible to have two different signatures between the two channels.
!
It is important that the signatures and characteristics perfectly match between the
channels because that is what helps achieve a huge and well focused sound stage.
Using 8 pin octal tubes, such as 6SN7’s which is a popular alternative in many phono
stages make it cumbersome to replace tubes since you have to find two that exactly
match and then hope each tube wears at exactly the same pace, which they won’t.
!
Since you can’t ruin the imaging or sound stage of the ZP3 when rolling tubes like is
possible with designs using separate tubes per channel, it makes it easy to experiment
with different tubes. You’ll find the differences between some tubes are not unlike the
differences between cartridges.
!
If you’re going to explore some “tube rolling” as we like to call it, you should begin with
the front input tube (12AX7). This particular tube has the biggest effect on how your
ZP3 sounds, and the biggest effect on noise as well. Getting a hand full of different
12AX7’s and simply trying them one at a time in the front tube location can be a very
interesting experience as you explore just how much and how each one can change
the sound.
!
When changing tubes, be sure to turn the ZP3 off and wait at least 60 seconds before
removing the tubes. Of course at the same time your turn off your ZP3 you want to
make sure the volume on your amplifier or preamplifier is all the way down!
!
The ZP3 runs comparatively low voltages on the tubes which enhance tube life. Again
this is outside the norm, but the lower voltages create better liquidity in the sound and
more space and air. That said, the tubes should be replaced every couple years with
regular use. It’s a good idea to have a complete tube compliment on hand.
!
Every 6 months install the new tubes to see if there is any change in performance. If
there is a noticeable improvement with the new tubes it means one or more of your
other tubes is getting tired. If there is no difference, restore the original tubes and try
again in another 6 months.
!
!
!
www.decware.com