Preamplifiers — Soulnote P-3

The P-3 is an accomplished preamplifier from Soulnote, its output stages built according to the balanced Type-R feedback-free scheme first used in the Soulnote S-3 SACD player, with the design following strict "dual mono" principles throughout. The P-3 brings Soulnote's most storied Japanese engineering to a serious, feedback-free preamplification format.

Key specs that matter

Four balanced and four single-ended analogue inputs are provided, with three balanced and one single-ended output. Output impedance is a low 6.8 ohms on both connections. Frequency response spans an exceptional 2Hz to 1,000,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Total harmonic distortion plus noise is an exceptionally low 0.0015%. At 454 x 174 x 430mm and 25kg, the P-3 maintains a substantial preamplifier chassis reflecting Soulnote's considered dual-mono, feedback-free engineering.

Sound and use context

Expect exceptionally clean, uncoloured amplification reflecting the exceptional 1MHz upper bandwidth combined with the exceptionally low 0.0015% distortion, with the feedback-free Type-R output stage - first proven in the S-3 SACD player - delivering a distinctive circuit topology.

Pairing

The low 6.8-ohm output impedance makes the P-3 compatible with a wide range of power amplifiers, and Soulnote's own S-3 SACD player shares the same Type-R output-stage philosophy.

Alternatives

Soulnote's own broader preamplifier catalogue offers related alternatives within the same considered feedback-free engineering philosophy.