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Reviews For: N3ZN KEYS Model ZN-SL1

Category: Keys & Paddles

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Review Summary For : N3ZN KEYS Model ZN-SL1
Reviews: 1MSRP: see website for prices
Description:
Single fingerpiece version of the ZN-SL, single lever paddle with the same standard features incorporated in the entire ZN series line-up
Product is in production
More Info: http://www.n3znkeys.com
# last 180 days Avg. Rating last 180 days Total reviews Avg. overall rating
0015
W9OY Rating: 2008-09-13
Best Key I Own Time Owned: 0 to 3 months.
My ZN-SL1 arrived today. The key is a wonderful piece of workmanship. It is similar to the ZN-SL series except it is designed to have a single lever which makes it, in my opinion, a more responsive paddle. Iambic paddles by their nature need space between the forefinger and thumb but a single lever key has no such limitation. I have the Kent SP1 and the Begali mono simplex as well as several iambic paddles including a Graciella, N2DAN Mercury, Brown Brothers etc and this paddle has a totally different feel than any of the others. The lever arm is low mass, even lower than the Graciella. I have become sold on the idea that a single lever paddle is superior to an iambic paddle because it has less independent movement and therefore less potential for mistakes.

The paddle is surprisingly small in its footprint compared to the Kent or the Begali Mono. It is closer to my Graciella in footprint size. It is heavy and holds its position on the desk with no additional stabilization. Its action is buttery smooth but also crisp in its end point compared to the other two single lever keys. There is no mushiness in the action and the action is more finely adjustable. The other two paddles use springs and the SL1 uses magnetic force, which I prefer. Fine thread on the contact screws and magnet screws allows for very refined and precise adjustment. The lever arm is an articulated design but it is much less massive than the other 2 paddles which probably lends to the over all delicate nature of the paddle's feel. Although delicate in feel the paddle is in no way delicate. It's very solid with no perceptible vertical motion. Over all I am totally pleased.

Tony N3ZN was excellent to work with and this key was manufactured in collaboration with him. If your in the market for a single lever paddle this is the one to buy.