A10 vs ZO vs E11; Recommendations? - Page 2

Not to completely hijack this thread, but what do people think about using the ZO WITH the E11? Is there a benefit, or would it just be a confusing muddy signal?

 

For reference, my source is a Clip+, and listening to M50. I just got the E11, and really love the current sound - but I'm always open to even more improvement...

I would assume that if you use place the e11 after the ZO (i.e., source-->ZO-->e11-->phones), the e11 will reduce the overall sound quality. Here is my reasoning:

 

The power output from the e11 is actually less than the ZO's rated output capability

 

Since the ZO already has an amp, you would be theoretically "double-amping" (except that in reality you could call it half-amping in a way, because your sending a higher power signal into a lower power device) which effectively degrades the sound improvement from the ZO       

 

I thought I read somewhere (perhaps in the ZO initial impressions thread?) about using it after the amp - that is:

 

source--->e11--->zo--->headphones

 

At least, that's what I was planning to try. Though, it may not be worth it...

I would highly recommend against that, as the output from the e11 would significantly overdrive the ZO's input, and could possibly cause damage to the ZO.

OK - I'll keep away from that combo. I'm actually a little relieved to hear it - that means I can actually be happy with my current setup for a little bit before the next (inevitable) upgrade!

what volume control thing is best to use for the zo?

Not sure, but I think a few in here have been using the one from Shure and/or Westone.

Yes the Shure and Westone inline volume controls work. If you are using inconjunction with a line out, just be aware the volume dials move very easily and volume is probably doubled or more with the zo.

Two ZO users with the FX700s...How do the JVCs fare with them? Not looking for a bast boost but a more forward midrange would be nice. Also take it EQu/Equalizer do a fine job at controlling volume levels with their gains?

I use the zo on the lowest couple of steps with the JVC's. It doesn't really affect the midrange (negatively or positively). I use Equalizer to sweeten vocals.

EQu loses gain but let you raise it. Equalizer doesn't lose gain when applying a curve. I find Equalizer much easier to use and it works better in the background without skipping while multitasking.

^ Ditto with shane.  With the ZO and the FX700, I use anything from 0 to 3, occasionally 4 "levels" or clicks.  At level 0, the bass boost itself isn't very prevalent, sounds more like a clean boost/amplification across the whole spectrum.  After the first click or two is where the bass enhancement comes in, well the whole spectrum too really, just the bass being more noticeable.

 

Unfortunately, if you're just looking for a mid boost, probably won't be the ends to a means for you, as if anything, I think the slight warmth boost and bass enhancement would give the illusion of a slight mid bass bleed, if anything.  Not saying it does, but if it were to lean on a scale, that's the way it would go versus elevating, forwarding, and/or sparking up the mids.

Simply put, the zo just makes both my JVC's and W4's sound better. I'm going to pick up a 6th gen nano to use with it for the ultimate portable 'rig'.

True.  I used to carry the Leckerton around with me with the clip (and sometimes with the ZO) for my portable rig (cafes/libraries/etc...), but nowadays, I find myself just grabbing the clip and the ZO and it's pretty much good to go as far as sound satisfaction goes. 

 

Also contrary to my first impressions, and maybe it could be brain burn in, but the ZO, on lower levels, actually is quite enjoyable with the dark sounding SM3's as well, so double fist pump.

*Fist pumps*  This thing is like a drug lmao.  Once you get a taste, it's nice to always have for some odd reason.  It really does have great synergy on the go.