Audio Magic Pulse Gen ZX Review Part 1 & 2
Category: Accessories
The following review is for a device to tweak/mod any component that uses AC. The device is called a Pulse Gen ZX from Audio Magic. The device is designed to control self-generated EMI/RFI (noise) within a component and to also condition and stabilize current flow. The size of the device is similar to that of a deck of cards. It requires two solder connections to the incoming “hot” and “neutral” wires inside the component (either right after the IEC or captured power cord).
First, let me say that this is the easiest tweak/mod that I have ever done (requiring soldering). It’s very straight forward and the two connections will always go to the “hot” and “neutral” wires (polarity is not an issue with this device). Because of the simplicity, ease of this tweak/mod, and the possibility of cumulative gains (see below for PART 2 to verify this), I think it makes it a sensible option for many people to try, both experienced tweakers/modders and the DIY beginners. It took me less than 15min to install this device into my component.
The results that I will be sharing are based on the installation of this device into my CD/DVD player (source), as I wanted to evaluate the affects to both audio and video. I used the Eagles “Hell Freezes Over” DVD as my main source of evaluation material.
Audio: Voices, instruments and musical presentation improved. Voices became more natural and clear. Instruments sounded even better, again the naturalness and clarity was what stood out. Lastly, the air and spaciousness of the soundstage came across as more real (extending both wider and deeper). All of these things made the presentation sound more musical, natural, accurate, and closer to feeling like the real performance was occurring right there in front of me.
Video: Clarity, colors, and picture definition were noticeable improvements. Skin and flesh tones were more natural looking. Colors more true. Smoothness of images, definition, and details were all more true to life.
The ease and simplicity of this tweak/mod, along with the positive results I experienced with this device, makes the Pulse Gen ZX easy for me to recommend to others. I think it offers great value and makes for an easy way to improve the performance each individual component with the possibility of additional cumulative gains (as more are installed). My understanding is that the gains should be cumulative, with each component in the system that you install this device in.
The cost of the device is $200 (self-installation). Is it worth it? I whole-heartedly think so, because of the ease and simplicity of installation, the “DIY ease factor” for beginner tweakers/modders, and the possibility of cumulative gains.
NOTE*** I will be doing a PART 2 to this review, as I plan to install an Audio Magic Pulse Gen ZX in my S.E.T. integrated tube amp. When I do, I will be able to evaluate and verify the possible benefits of cumulative gains.
