The SOULNOTE Phono Equalizer E-3 was developed exclusively for DS Audio optical cartridges (no MM/MC input) and will be available in Premium Silver / Premium Black. Official launch in August 2024.
Completely Balanced Non-Feedback New Type-R Circuit
We have newly developed a dedicated discrete non-NFB balanced amplification circuit (New Type-R Circuit) for optical cartridges. This single-ended design operates with both the voltage amplification and output stages referenced to GND, eliminating the need for push-pull or bias circuits. From input to output, the signal only passes through four transistors. This highly simplified non-NFB circuit preserves the freshness of the music signal, excelling in the transient response provided by the optical cartridge.
Powerful Triple Power Transformer Supply
The New Type-R Circuit features three transformers: two large transformers dedicated to the independent left and right channels, and one for the LED power supply of the optical cartridge. This configuration provides the 19W phono amp with a power capacity equivalent to a 500W power amplifier, ensuring robust and stable music reproduction. Additionally, a newly developed toroidal transformer with a copper short ring is used as the analog power transformer, reducing noise caused by leakage flux and enhancing fine detail expression.
Compatible with Separate Power Phono Cables
The XLR input terminal is compatible with the “Separate Power Phono Cable” developed by DS Audio and Uesugi Laboratory. By separating the paths of the delicate phono signal and the LED current, the S/N ratio and dynamics, which are the characteristics of optical cartridges, are further enhanced.
High-Speed Non-Feedback Power Supply
The rectifier capacitors use specially selected high-voltage, low-capacity, low-multiplier foil filter capacitors. The number of capacitors is optimized to reduce the load on the power transformer, further improving the effective regulation of the super-powerful power transformer. Additionally, the rectifier diodes are the latest SiC diodes with enhanced surge current capability, creating the most robust and high-speed power supply configuration imaginable. Each of the two main power transformers has its own independent, high-quality large power relay as a power switch, positioned without fixation. Therefore, the power switch on the front panel is dedicated to the control sub-transformer system. Separating the power switches for each power transformer is highly beneficial for sound quality.
Non-Fixed Structure
The amplifier block, terminals, AC inlet, top cover, and bottom cover are all floating and non-fixed.
RSR-2-12D (Reference Soul Note Relay)
This is a customized ultra-low-loss glass tube sealed reed relay that performs nearly as well as a mercury relay. It has been fine-tuned to the point where it is indistinguishable from wire in terms of sound quality. In the E-3, RSR-2-12D relays are used for all relays that the audio signal passes through.
Ultra-High Precision Naked Foil Resistors
Based on ultra-high precision foil resistors with excellent temperature characteristics, typically used in satellite applications, we have customized them for superior sound quality. To eliminate damping and coloration from molds or dips, they have been left naked, resulting in the development of our highest quality resistors. In the E-3, all resistors affecting sound quality use these ultra-high precision naked foil resistors.
Specifications
Input:
- 1 (XLR)
- 1 (RCA) (Do not connect both simultaneously)
- Dedicated for DS Audio Optical Cartridges
Output:
- 1 Balanced (BAL)
- 1 Unbalanced (UNBAL)
Input Sensitivity (1kHz):
- 50mV
Rated Output (1kHz):
- 2.54V (balanced)
- 1.27V (unbalanced)
Maximum Output (1kHz):
- 12V (balanced)
- 6V (unbalanced)
Gain (1kHz, balanced input):
- 34dB (balanced)
- 28dB (unbalanced)
RIAA Deviation:
- ±0.2dB
THD (1kHz with 20kHz LPF):
- 0.03% (balanced 2.54V)
Power Supply Voltage:
- AC 100V 50/60Hz
Power Consumption:
- 19W
Maximum Dimensions:
- Main Unit: 454(W) × 189(H) × 407(D) mm (including spikes)
Weight:
- Approximately 27kg
Accessories:
- Spikes
- Spike base board
- Spacers
- Power cable
JAN Code:
- Premium Silver: 4580197837871
- Premium Black: 4580197837888
