Soulnote A-1 ver2 Integrated Amplifier
The A-1 ver 2 is Soulnote’s entry level integrated amplifier.
The original A-1 was a superb entry level amplifier but Soulnote have made some noticeable improvements with all of the Ver 2 models and the A-1 integrated is no different. Visually the ver 2 products have a bit of a facelift, they’ve lost the fluted lines and now have more in common visually with the range topping Series 3
Power output is rated at a modest 40 watts per channel into 8 ohms (rising to 8 watts into 4 ohms), it certainly doesn’t feel like it is ‘only’ 40 watts when you sit and listen to it. Standing at only 109mm tall it won’t dominate your rack or your living room.
This new A-1 ver 2 has a wonderful sense of control, timing and coherency and for the price point it is a genuinely fantastic sounding amplifier.
The build quality and finish is superb, I’d there was nothing wrong with that aspect with the original Series 1, but with ver 2 it certainly seems to have improved further.
In terms of features the A1 ver 2 remains fairly straightforward, it is an integrated amplifier there is no on-board DAC or streaming, no phono stage, no headphone socket. Soulnote have put their focus on performance as opposed to adding unnecessary functionality that often sits unused.
It comes with a remote control, there are 4 pairs of analogue inputs, 2 RCA and 2 XLR and a single pair of loudspeaker outputs
Please get in touch to arrange a listen
From Soulnote……
Full discrete non-NFB circuits
Discrete fully non-NFB circuitry is employed. A remarkably simple configuration is adopted, featuring merely a selector and volume control attached to the power amplifier. This is essential, as with SOULNOTE’s flagship integrated amplifier A-3, to preserve the freshness of the musical signal. Ultra-high-purity resistors are employed in the circuitry eliminating capacitive resonance. This ensures impedance remains constant up to high frequencies. Without limiting the bandwidth, it achieves both high-fidelity sound quality without loss of freshness and exceptional stability.
Single push-pull output stage
The single push-pull output stage employs a four-stage Darlington configuration utilizing TO-3P high-power, low-Cob transistors. This eliminates sound blurring whilst boasting formidable drive capability.
New bias circuit
Featuring a newly developed bias circuit, delivering a dramatic improvement in S/N.
High-speed discrete non-NFB power supply
A non-impregnated toroidal power transformer is adopted. By deliberately limiting the secondary output voltage (the amplifier’s maximum output), current delivery capability has been enhanced. It delivers impressive drive capability with a responsive drive, even for low-impedance modern high-end loudspeakers.
Relay-switched balanced attenuator
Volume adjustment employs a relay attenuator system in a balanced configuration. Transparency is enhanced, allowing the sound image to emerge with three-dimensional clarity. Quality at low volumes is improved, without concern for gang error. Two XLR balanced inputs are provided.
Direct mechanical grounding construction
A spike foot connects directly under the center of gravity of the transformer to straight-release harmful vibrations without interfering with the unit housing itself.
This achieves both supremely lively musical expression and high S/N.
Symmetrical chassis with resonance control
The symmetrical construction of the chassis increases rigidity balance while controlling the sharpness of resonance (Q factor). This eliminates the usual obstruction of sound containment in highly rigid systems and creates the high-resolution, lively SOULNOTE sound.
