At Parasound, we take immense pride in the precision and care with which our products are designed and appreciated worldwide. Recently, Unique Radio in the Netherlands shared an in-depth review of our Zpre3 preamplifier and Zamp v.3 amplifier, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to see our efforts resonate so well with audiophiles.
For those unfamiliar, Unique Radio is a trusted name in the audio community, renowned for its deep dives into the intricacies of high-quality audio equipment. Their glowing review highlights the thoughtfulness and performance that have come to define Parasound products since our founding in 1981. Below, we’ve summarized some key insights from their review, but we encourage you to read the original article, which can be easily translated online.
Highlights from Unique Radio’s Review
The Zpre3 Preamplifier
Described as “oerdegelijk” (solid as a rock) and thoughtfully engineered, the Zpre3 stands out for its simplicity, functionality, and robust build. Unique Radio appreciated its:
- Minimalist Packaging: Staying true to Parasound’s professional roots, the Zpre3 arrives in understated, practical packaging that prioritizes function over flair.
- Versatile Connectivity: With four RCA line inputs, a bypass input, and options for variable or fixed outputs, the Zpre3 is ready to accommodate a variety of setups, including home theater and stereo systems. Notable additions like a subwoofer output, trigger input/output, and a serial port for automation ensure it’s future-proof.
- User-Friendly Design: The compact front panel with intuitive controls and the well-designed remote make it a breeze to operate. Customizable display settings and tone adjustments further enhance its appeal.
- Headphone Output: Perfect for personal listening, the Zpre3 delivers excellent clarity and depth when paired with high-quality headphones.
The Zamp v.3 Amplifier
Unique Radio was equally impressed with the Zamp v.3, praising its enduring design and exceptional performance since its release in 2007. Highlights include:
- Robust Construction: Built to last, the Zamp features a durable chassis and a substantial toroidal transformer, ensuring reliable power delivery.
- Stereo or Mono Configurations: Flexibility to operate as a stereo or mono amplifier with adjustable input levels and trigger options.
- Impressive Power Output: Delivering 45W per channel at 8 ohms and 60W per channel at 4 ohms, or 90W in mono mode, the Zamp offers remarkable audio fidelity and dynamics.
- Thermal and Protection Indicators: The Zamp’s thoughtful design includes LED indicators for overheating or protection mode, adding an extra layer of security.
Listening Experience
Unique Radio’s test setup paired the Zpre3 and Zamp v.3 with high-end speakers and sources, including a Parasound Zcd CD player and a Bluesound Node 2 network player. They noted that the combination offered:
- Detailed and Dynamic Sound: From tight bass to crystal-clear highs, the system delivered a natural, immersive listening experience.
- Scalability: Adding a second Zamp in mono mode showcased the system’s versatility and ability to drive more demanding setups.
A Testament to Parasound’s Legacy
The review concludes with high praise for the Z Series, emphasizing its ability to deliver professional-grade sound in a compact, user-friendly package. While Unique Radio laments the discontinuation of earlier Z Series components like the Zcd and Ztuner, they commend the remaining lineup for its enduring quality and value.
Our Gratitude
We are deeply grateful to Unique Radio for their thoughtful and comprehensive review. Their expertise and attention to detail bring a fresh perspective to the Z Series, reaffirming our commitment to creating exceptional audio products.
For readers interested in exploring the Zpre3, Zamp v.3, or other Parasound products, we invite you to visit our website or your nearest Parasound dealer. Whether you’re setting up a stereo system, a multiroom installation, or a personal listening space, Parasound has the tools to elevate your audio experience.
Thank you, Unique Radio, for your unwavering support and for sharing our passion for high-fidelity sound!
Read the full review here (Google translates it easily!)
