ZStage vs Eastern Electric MiniMax Pre
The MiniMax Pre's output impedance is 1.5Ω against the ZStage's 0Ω, its output voltage 2.0V RMS against 5.0V RMS, its depth 145 mm against 152 mm, and its height 115 mm against 51 mm.
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
AmplifiersTube AmplifiersPre-Amplifiers
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$600 - $815
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the ZStage
The Decware ZSTAGE is a hand-built, purist line-level tube preamp/gain stage designed to enhance the fidelity of DACs, CD players, or any line-level source. It operates in Class A with no feedback, featuring a point-to-point wiring layout, solid copper ground buss, and minimal parts (one capacitor and one resistor per channel) for exceptional transparency. It includes a bias switch for two distinct sound signatures (laid-back or aggressive), variable output up to 5 volts for added weight and punch, and supports tube rolling with various 12AU7-compatible tubes like 12AT7, 12BH7, 5751, or 12AX7. Primary use is between DAC/preamp or preamp/amp, with easy installation via single RCA input/output pairs (color-coded left/right). The chassis stays cool, suitable for unrestricted placement. Currently in production with a lifetime warranty, built to order on an accelerated schedule.
Specifications
Power Specifications
Amplification power output and characteristics
- Amplifier Class
- A
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- Output Voltage
- 5.0V RMS
- Output Impedance
- 0Ω
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Analog Inputs
- RCA
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 254 × 51 × 152 mm (W × H × D)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions