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The Z-DSP is a digital audio processor based on the Spin FV-1 chip. Thanks to exchangeable memory cards, you can explore tons of creative sound design techniques. One minute, the Z-DSP works as a multimode delay, while the next, it produces reverbs, pitch and modulation effects or weird granular artefacts. Thanks to voltage-controllable parameters, it is possible to use algorithms dynamically. Compared to its predecessor, the analog circuits have been completely revised. The result: Very atmospheric and rich sounding effects.
The first Z-DSP was already considered one of the best FV-1 effects of all time. With the new version, TipTop Audio wants to go even a step beyond that. The analog circuits have been completely revised to further minimize noise and distortion levels. For AD and DA conversion, the module still uses the proven 24 Bit converters with 15 kHz bandwidth. The sound of the new Z-DSP is very clean and three-dimensional. – A great starting point for all kinds of experiments.
The Z-DSP features two audio channels with analog gain stages at the inputs. The module’s feedback paths can be controlled manually and via CV signals. Thanks to corresponding audio inputs and outputs, it is possible to break the feedback channels up and add external effects. You can also do “cross patches”. – Very interesting while using the Z-DSP as a delay processor.
A Z-DSP card holds up to eight effect algorithms. You can switch between them by a pressing a button or feeding a trigger signal to the module. A control voltage may be used to change the running direction. Another CV input allows you to address algorithms directly. Each effect can be edited and modulated in three parameters. Additionally, it is possible to clock the FV-1 chip externally. A dry / wet knob is available to mix raw and processed signals. Thanks to a new equal-power circuit, crossfades are much smoother than with the first version of the Z-DSP.
The cards Dragonfly Delay MkII and The Halls of Valhalla are included with the Z-DSP. Additional effect algorithms are sold separately. The new Z-DSP is fully compatible to cards made for the first version.
The most important improvements at a glance:
New analog circuitry reduces noise and distortion
Improved immunity to noise emitted by other modules sharing the same power bus
Increased output gain to improve the signal to noise ratio
The gain potentiometers now have a logarithmic response
Originally based in California and now operating from Thailand, Tiptop has been around for over a decade, providing some of the first effects in eurorack (Z5000), a whole line of 808 and 909 drum modules, clever sequencers and affordable cases. Their Z-DSP is probably one of the best effect modules available, with countless exchangeable cards.
