only make the staging cleaner and higher (big problem with the Z). I agree with your point on the fader though, especially if all you have are mids and highs. As for the Bass tubes, even if the amp is internal you still have to have power to it. If you are talking about a tube without an amp then it's still not going to have much bass without a crossover (and an amp too) Just my opinion...not trying to start any wars...LOL