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REVIEW: Decware Select Zen CSP2 Tube Headphone Amp - Page 5

post #61 of 463
1/19/09 at 11:29am
What is the round silver thing next to the transformer, looks like a pot without a knob, is that for tube bias?
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post #62 of 463
1/19/09 at 11:32am
Thread Starter 
The trim pots are to adjust the output level for the line outs when using it as a preamp.
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post #63 of 463
1/19/09 at 11:46am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Skylab View Post
The trim pots are to adjust the output level for the line outs when using it as a preamp.
Very smart, thanks. Nice review.
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post #64 of 463
1/26/09 at 11:19pm

My CSP2

I bought my CSP2 last year and have enjoyed it a lot. I use it mostly as a preamplifier, and it takes DECWARE'S TABOO amplifier to a new level. The Von Schweikert speakers disappear and you might think I have floor standers in here. Those little screws that increase the voltage that the poster immediately above referred to are useful to "dial in" the sound you prefer.

As for tubes, I am using a Mullard PCC88 in front, some Russian 6N1P's in back with an RCA 5U4GB rectifier.

In the Taboo I am using a Mullard CV4024 (12AT7) in front, with Sylvania 6BQ5's in back and an RCA 5U4GB rectifier.

I totally agree with Skylab's comments at the beginning of this thread regarding the CSP2 as a headphone amplifier.

I have spoken to Steve Deckert many times and he never seems to be in a hurry to end the call. What a nice, knowledgeable man.
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post #65 of 463
6/29/09 at 4:01am
I have a question, on the Decware CSP2 amplifier, it says that it has a user adjustable gain for each channel.

It that the same thing as adjusting the bias?

What do you actually have to do to adjust it?
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post #66 of 463
6/29/09 at 9:16am
Thread Starter 
No, it has nothing to do with setting bias. It truly sets the gain of the input, so that you can account for source inputs of various levels. It's a nice feature.

I have continues to enjoy the CSP-2 more and more. It is a very fine amplifier, and with SinglePower amps not being readily available, it is the tube amp I most recommend in the $1000 and under price class.
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post #67 of 463
8/20/09 at 11:12pm
Nice review Skylab! I have my eye on one of these. Trying to decide whether to buy a used one that's an older CSP chassis upgraded to CSP2 that would need to have headphone jack added or if I should just buy new from Steve.
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post #68 of 463
8/20/09 at 11:16pm
Thread Starter 
The CSP-2 is really a nice amp. I recently ordered a different wood base for mine - will post some pics soon - looks even nicer. Also got some NOS Mullard tubes to use as well, now that the CSP-2 is in daily use
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post #69 of 463
8/20/09 at 11:47pm
I agree with Skylab, this might be the best tube amp in it's price point. I have very much enjoyed my time with mine.

Skylab, how much did a new base cost you? I've been thinking about trading out mine.
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post #70 of 463
8/20/09 at 11:51pm
Thread Starter 
The base I ordered, a dark red mahogany, was $150. Looks beautiful. Will post pics tomorrow.
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post #71 of 463
8/21/09 at 12:39am
Sounds nice, looking forward to seeing it.
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post #72 of 463
8/21/09 at 5:15pm
Thread Starter 
Here it is:

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post #73 of 463
8/21/09 at 5:43pm
Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. Congrats Skylab! This amp is still on my list.
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post #74 of 463
8/21/09 at 6:01pm
The new base looks great!

BTW, does yours have a power switch? Mine does not, and it frustrates me. How do you handle it?
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post #75 of 463
8/21/09 at 6:10pm
Thread Starter 
Thanks guys

Yes, mine does have a power switch, right behind the transformer.
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