CD / SACD players and transports — Soulnote S-3

The S-3 is an accomplished CD/SACD player from Soulnote, a well-established Japanese manufacturer known for uncompromising, distinctively engineered digital and analogue electronics, built with an exceptionally wide bandwidth. The S-3 brings Soulnote's more accomplished current engineering to disc-based digital source playback.

Key specs that matter

Frequency response for both CD and SACD spans an exceptionally wide 2Hz to 150,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB - a remarkable range extending far beyond typical disc-player specifications. Output level is 5.6V balanced or 2.8V single-ended. Output impedance is a substantial 5,000 ohms on both connections. Signal-to-noise ratio is a strong 110dB for both formats, with total harmonic distortion plus noise at 0.008%. At 454 x 174 x 393mm and 27kg, the S-3 represents a serious commitment reflecting Soulnote's uncompromising Japanese engineering standards.

Sound and use context

Expect exceptionally clean disc playback reflecting the strong 110dB signal-to-noise figure combined with the exceptionally wide 2Hz-150kHz bandwidth, consistent with Soulnote's broader distinctively engineered philosophy.

Pairing

Soulnote's own amplifier catalogue offers natural, brand-coherent pairings within the same broader catalogue.

Alternatives

Other manufacturers' comparable CD/SACD players offer alternatives for buyers wanting to compare measured performance at a similar price point.