Any opinions on the Z-Wreck so far?

[MCK]

Just wondering what you think about the Z-Wreck based on the few clips that surfaced since it was released commercially about 10 days ago. Compared to a pure Rocket etc. Thoughts?

[Bob-I]

What're you... new?

https://tubeamparchive.com/viewtopic.php?t=12470

[redshark]

Ok I'll give it a shot!!

I haven't heard one in person but according to the information posted and after listening to the couple demos I think is similar to a rocket but with a few changes in the layout (tranformer and rectifier placement). Maybe a couple more changes that we don't know about....yet!
The idea of the switch to change voltages for the comfort or sport settings is a cool one and probably makes it more versatile.
I haven't played my rocket with a cab as good as that one (open back 2x12 with a gold and a blue) but if I did I think my rocket would sound everybit as good as that Zwreck. At least seems to have similar dynamics and be as touch sensitive.
Probably we have a better chance to tube our rockets better than the Zwreck cause it is a production amp.
I have saratov power tubes a mullard rectifier and my preamp tubes are mullard and telefunken so that will make a diference for sure.

[MCK]

What're you... new?

https://tubeamparchive.com/viewtopic.php?t=12470

Yup. Aware of earlier threads. I was hoping to get some post-release thoughts now that there are few clips out there with the production amp.

Ok I'll give it a shot!!

I haven't heard one in person but according to the information posted and after listening to the couple demos I think is similar to a rocket but with a few changes in the layout (tranformer and rectifier placement). Maybe a couple more changes that we don't know about....yet!
The idea of the switch to change voltages for the comfort or sport settings is a cool one and probably makes it more versatile.
I haven't played my rocket with a cab as good as that one (open back 2x12 with a gold and a blue) but if I did I think my rocket would sound everybit as good as that Zwreck. At least seems to have similar dynamics and be as touch sensitive.
Probably we have a better chance to tube our rockets better than the Zwreck cause it is a production amp.
I have saratov power tubes a mullard rectifier and my preamp tubes are mullard and telefunken so that will make a diference for sure.

Thanks redshark. Appreciate it. I have one on order and will be happy to post details once I receive it. I received the cab earlier this week and enjoyed playing my Express-inspired amp through it. Nicely voiced with good 3D projection but need some time for speaker break-in.

[redshark]

I would like to read a good review of this amp on the technical side. Diferences with the rocket, etc.

[M Fowler]

There are a few videos on youtube of the new Zwreck.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EApFdOW2IUQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uxu1qy3Vbd0

Relocated rectifier tube to the rear and moved the choke between the PT and OT.

I suspect Rocket type circuit redesigned for more bloom and uses a dual secondary voltage switch.

[billyz]

Some more clips of the Z wreck, from the Paisley picker.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxqXyWbw ... re=related

[Structo]

I didn't care for the tone when he turned it up.
Sounded too compressed and a lot like many other amps similar to it.

[redshark]

I agree Structo. Seems to me that the rocket has a little bit more clarity. Even when turned up. Maybe is preamp tubes, maybe he was in the higher voltage setting.

[benttop]

Another clip: http://vimeo.com/16194002

[MCK]

I agree the tubes need some attention... The tubes supplied with the amp leave some room for improvement. Yes the EL84s are somewhat NOS but that doesn't mean much does it?... The pre tubes as well as the rectifier are all current product low cost tubes. I was hoping for much better in what is now a fairly high cost premium product... Let the voicing games begin...

[redshark]

I think the russian EL84's that come with the amp are the old saratovs that most of us like with the wrecks but preamp tubes and recto if new production definitely will need to go.
They make a very big impact in this style of amp.

[MCK]

I think the russian EL84's that come with the amp are the old saratovs that most of us like with the wrecks but preamp tubes and recto if new production definitely will need to go.
They make a very big impact in this style of amp.

Thanks. That's what I thought as well. Will read up all I can on the forum to learn from the experience. Any hints on where I might want to start would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[M Fowler]

There running the 7189 tubes in the Zwreck.

Apparently new spec OT and PT don't know what exactly that means in mA on the PT and if it is at the 290 range like a Stangray or not.

I can't see why Brad P. would need an amp like this when he has the Maz, Mazerati GT, RxES and Stingray.

Mark

[GrungeMan]

There running the 7189 tubes in the Zwreck.

I can't see why Brad P. would need an amp like this when he has the Maz, Mazerati GT, RxES and Stingray.

Mark

...and a Trainwreck.

Blasphemy!

Haven't you ever heard of GAS?

Grungy