Original FETs on ZPA0.5 v2?

[vwdude]

Fresh: it is kind of like the output is very flat. It would be great in a competition on an RTA, but i like my music a little more dynamic.

Eric: I see what you are saying. Yes my McIntosh has dual power supplies, but it also has dual fans. It is known for running components, not for running subs.

Didn't they make a crossover card that could be added to the ZPA? I never see them for sale though. Not even sure how good they are.

I do have to say that I plan to keep both ZPAs in the car, I will make them work and they will sound better than 99% of the systems out there.

I luckily have the adjustability to make it sound how I want, I am just saying that my Mac required much less adjusting to make it work.

So are the ZX series better for components? I have heard them many moons ago running a system in my friends 96 impala. It sounded great,but it was too lo ago to compare to my stuff.

What other PG amps are good for components. I like the power that the ZPA gives. Maybe an M series? I want to keep it all class A/B and old school.

[Eric D]

You would be hard pressed to find a better PG amp than a MS2125 for components.

No fan noise, dual power supplies, no major on board processing, these are all benefits.

Yes, MS amps do use op-amps in the signal path, but there are only 3. Besides, any crossover or EQ is filled with op-amps, so it is not like you can really avoid their use.

Yes, McIntosh amps have fans, but they also have fan speed control circuits. The last McIntosh I worked on was very quiet while at idle, something which cannot be said about the ZPA amplifiers.

I personally think the new PG Elite amps are the best SQ they have to offer, both today and compared to the old school equipment. But, they are very very heavy and large. It is difficult to fit them in most installations.

Also, I don't want anyone to think I am a big fan of MS amps because I suggest the MS2125. I think the MS amps are great, but I don't like their physical design (mostly the way the board is mounted, and the loose wiring in them), as I don't think it is reliable long term. The first MS amps were designed and built in a garage, and they look the part. Later PG amps are much more refined designs.

I love the ZX line, and many people know this, but I would not argue that the ZX is better than the ZPA or even the MS. I know the ZX amps have all the features I want in an amp, and their performance and appearance meets all my requirements as well.

[vwdude]

Thanks for the info Eric D. Yes the Mac fans are very quiet.

I agree about not liking the board layout of the ms series. It's great for display but not the best for heat transfer. Same goes for the ZPA series...really bad thermal properties.

I purchased another zpa0.5 off eBay, I hope it's in great shape. The guy claimed he bought it on here. I think I will try using it in the system to run the Midbass. I'm sure I will eventually get the sound I am looking for.