@goldwerger , thanks for the fine thoughtful review, and congrats on that gorgeous amp!

Thank you @David A Silva !

What a helpful and thorough review - exactly what I was looking for! Coincidently, I bought a Decware ZMF Reference OTL from Zach yesterday. I had recently bought a set of Vérité closed from Zach and was on his web site looking at headphone amps when I noticed the Decware. I called Zach and he told me that the OTL is an amazing headphone amp and comes highly recommended, so I bought it and will get it in 2 days! I would normally do a lot more research on specs/reviews, etc, but I thought I'd better pull the trigger before the inevitable buying frenzy that will no doubt occur once the masses figure out they can get a high end Decware amp in a matter of days or weeks and not years.

I'd be curious to know if you have a complete list of special features/components like you would find on a Decware product page (e.g., 25th anniversary mod details, 20 step pot, silver wire, high end caps, etc.). Also, are you aware of an owners manual available in PDF? Thanks for the great review

@ctte56 That's a fantastic amp, and the synergy with the VC is excellent. I think you will really enjoy it!

I got mine barebones as it was the first unit out before public releases, so I had no packaging or manual. I know Decware usually have manuals for their product, so hopefully this will be included (@zach915m - is there a PDF manual for this unit yet?). Meantime, if you have any question son setup, just ask me. Nothing is labeled, like all Decware products, but there if very little to know so I'm happy to help if needed.

In terms of spec, this amp does include all the anniversary mods and beyond. It's like a sooped up CSP3 and more. The volume isn't stepped, but smooth, which personally I prefer. Gives very smoot and good control of volume.

Thanks for the note, I'm really happy this was helpful. You'll have a blast!

Got my ZMF reference OTL! It arrived in perfect condition. I've got about 2 hours on it and initial reaction is really good. Of course it will take time to give the final verdict.
It did not come with a manual, but Zach told me he is making a YouTube video. It was very well packed in copious amount of bubble wrap. More to follow.

@ctte56 congrats!!
If u have any questions feel free to ping me

How much negative feedback does the circuit employ?

@Haidar I believe this has no negative feedback at all, since the Decware CSP3 has none (and this is a materially upgraded version based off that design) -- but I'd be more comfortable to let @zach915m confirm whether this is correct or not.. Zach?

Yes correct! No Negative feedback! It is built on the CSP 3 ideas, but with many more boutique parts and ideas implemented, working on a video now to go through it all.

(thanks Zach)

Great review!

Any thoughts on how it compares to the A&S Kensie Ovation, version1?

@wgkwgk thank you, much appreciated.

Unfortunately, I’ve never tried the Kenzie Ovation so I can’t offer that comparison.

Cool using the otl as a pre

Great review and style. I would love to hear the with my 6N1P 1965 black plates I have. Also the GZ34 metal base.

Thank you @jamato8

My current roll is a pair of Tung-Sol 5687 (long black plates) with adapters, RCA 6BQ7A (black plates, O getter), and GZ34 (brown base, DD getter) - love that combo!

The ultimate dream toy for the upper middle class audio hipster

@SecretAgent .. and connoisseur

Indeed

Awesome review! It's a nice touch it has a preamp as well. Although I think that quirky pointy volume 'dial' might drive me nuts.... I'd much rather have a normal knob!

thanks @tholt !

yes, quirky is a generally good description for the amp's design, but it's nonetheless a joy to listen to. In fact, you caught me as I'm listening to the OTL as pre into the Taboo as amp combo with the Caldera, and it's a heavenly combo. FWIW, this volume is actaully very smooth and comfortable to use. The amp is to my right and a bit behind me at shoulder level, and at this point my hand reaches behind without looking and works its magic on auto-pilot..