Soulnote P-3 Reference Preamplifier
Best high-end preamplifier for audiophiles seeking pure, lifelike sound reproduction.
Experience music with unparalleled realism with the Soulnote P-3 Preamplifier. Engineered for dynamic performance, it features Type-R discrete non-NFB balance circuits and a complete dual monaural construction for exceptional channel separation. Its innovative GND switching input selector minimizes noise, while the high-end resistance switching volume control offers precise 0.5 dB adjustments. The robust 600 VA power supply ensures ample energy for demanding audio signals, delivering a truly live and enjoyable listening experience. Available in Premium Silver and Premium Black.
$24999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
19
/ 274
#19 in Signal Processors
Price vs Category Average
+70%
Above average
Maximum Gain
11
/ dB
Who it's for
- Listeners prioritizing expansive soundstage depth and channel isolation
- Purists demanding perfect signal integrity and channel balance
- Audiophiles seeking natural, distortion-free musical transients
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking accessible high-end audio
- Users wanting an all-in-one digital streaming solution
- Owners of less revealing or mismatched audio components
Performance breakdown
Signal Purity
Non-NFB circuitry preserves the natural integrity of every musical nuance.
Channel Separation
Dual monaural construction creates an expansive and highly precise soundstage.
Volume Precision
Resistance switching allows for granular control with exceptional sonic transparency.
Power Delivery
Massive 600 VA supply provides effortless headroom for demanding dynamic peaks.
Noise Floor
GND switching input selector effectively eliminates interference for a silent background.
Build Integrity
Floating chassis design minimizes mechanical stress for long-term component stability.
Key Specs
Maximum Gain
11dB
Total Harmonic Distortion
0.0015% (1.5Vrms)
Frequency Response
2Hz – 1MHz (±3.0dB)
Power Supply
Total 600 VA (Dual 280 VA analog transformers)
Volume Steps
144 steps in 0.5 dB intervals
Output Impedance
6.8Ω
Dimensions
454 (W) × 174 (H) × 430 (D) mm
Weight
25 kg
Features
- Type-R discrete non-NFB balance circuits
- Complete dual monaural construction
- GND switching input selector
- High-end resistance switching volume control
- Powerful 600 VA power supply
- Floating construction for stress minimization
- Optical rotary encoder for precise volume
- Supports synchronized control via UART
What customers say
Owners hold the Soulnote P-3 Reference Preamplifier in high regard, praising its transformative impact on audio systems. The core sentiment focuses on extraordinary transparency and dynamic speed, delivering a vivid live music experience. Reviewers consistently note the unit's ability to sonically disappear, revealing source material texture with startling clarity and expansive soundstaging. Build quality is universally lauded, reflecting its reference status. While the extreme price places it in the ultra high end, the consensus is that the P-3 delivers performance surpassing much costlier alternatives. Its sonic brilliance stems from a minimalist design, though some users note the simplicity of controls compared to feature rich competitors. This component solidifies its reputation as a benchmark for peak analog sound.
Know before you buy
By eliminating negative feedback (NFB), the P-3 avoids the phase distortion and timing errors often introduced by feedback loops. This results in a more natural, transient-accurate sound that feels closer to a live performance.
The GND switching system completely disconnects the ground of unused inputs. This prevents ground loops and noise interference from other connected components, ensuring the cleanest possible signal path for your active source.
Yes, the P-3 is highly versatile, featuring four XLR and four RCA inputs, along with three XLR and one RCA output. This allows you to integrate a wide variety of high-end sources and power amplifiers into your system.
While most preamplifiers use much smaller power supplies, the 600 VA capacity in the P-3 provides massive headroom. This ensures that even the most dynamic musical peaks are handled with total stability and zero strain.
The P-3 uses a high-end resistance switching volume control that offers 144 steps in 0.5 dB increments. This allows you to dial in the exact listening level you need with extreme precision and perfect channel balance.
The floating construction is designed to minimize mechanical stress and vibrations from the chassis. While it performs best on a stable, vibration-free audio rack, the internal design is already optimized to isolate the sensitive circuitry from external resonance.
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