Background: I have used various DSP units over the years, including the TacT 2.2X, Weiss EQ1 mastering equalizer, the full SHD (with DAC) in our living-room (second) system, the Classe CP-800, and the Anthem STR preamp. Unfortunately, I haven’t used most of the specific units you listed.
My listening impression is that DSP technology (like DACs) is improving, so to minimize unwanted effects on sound quality, I’d get the most recent and powerful unit. The miniDSP SHD does its DSP at 96 kHz, 32 bits, while I believe the older miniDSP units are 48 kHz. That (and its many features) would make the SHD my choice. It sounds great in our second system, but as I’ve not run it in my main system, I can’t comment on absolute sound quality. I do participate in the miniDSP forums, and no one has complained about the sound.
The Z-Systems unit is well regarded and easier to change settings on the fly. However, it has not been made for many years, and I don’t think I’d pay the price for it, rather than get a new SHD. Z-Systems is no longer making this sort of equipment.
I hope that helps!
My listening impression is that DSP technology (like DACs) is improving, so to minimize unwanted effects on sound quality, I’d get the most recent and powerful unit. The miniDSP SHD does its DSP at 96 kHz, 32 bits, while I believe the older miniDSP units are 48 kHz. That (and its many features) would make the SHD my choice. It sounds great in our second system, but as I’ve not run it in my main system, I can’t comment on absolute sound quality. I do participate in the miniDSP forums, and no one has complained about the sound.
The Z-Systems unit is well regarded and easier to change settings on the fly. However, it has not been made for many years, and I don’t think I’d pay the price for it, rather than get a new SHD. Z-Systems is no longer making this sort of equipment.
I hope that helps!