Description
Type-R Circuit Adopted in Non-Feedback Balanced Amplifier
The output line amplifier incorporates the discrete non-feedback balanced circuit “Type-R Circuit,” which made a striking debut in the S-3, fully tuned for use in a preamplifier.
Furthermore, newly developed ultra-high-precision naked foil resistors are used. By setting the emitter resistance to 1Ω and the output resistance to 3.9Ω, it delivers an astonishing amount of detail, signal-to-noise ratio, and power amplifier-level drive capability.
High-end fixed-resistor switching volume
The best possible design and components have resulted in the creation of the ultimate volume control. Ultra-high precision naked foil resistors are used throughout. Furthermore, a newly developed ultra-low-loss custom relay, RSR-2-12D (Reference Soul Note Relay), is used for the switching relay. The volume control has 144 steps in 0.5dB increments. Even when the volume is turned down, the clarity of the sound is not lost and there is no loss of tone.
GND Switching Input Selector
One of the biggest factors that degrades sound quality is the problem of GND loops and noise interference caused by connecting multiple source devices. To eliminate this problem, we have adopted a method that switches not only the signal side but also the GND, so that the unselected device is as if its connector has been unplugged. In addition, to avoid the influence of relay contacts, we have fully adopted the RSR-2-12D for the selector.
Complete Twin Mono Construction
This system employs a so-called twin mono construction, using two identical sets of input/output terminal boards, circuit boards, power supply circuits, power transformers, relay drive circuits, and relay power supplies for each of the left and right channels. The power supply for the microcontroller, including the transformer, is also completely isolated. Furthermore, even the control signals for the relays, which are the only contact points with the signal system, are completely isolated using photocouplers.
Complete GND Isolation
By providing each of the three systems—the left and right channels and the control system—with a ceramic-insulated chassis, we have succeeded in completely isolating the three GNDs: the left and right GNDs and the control system GND. Although it is possible to connect each GND using the rear switch settings, by completely isolating the GNDs, you can experience the amazing phenomenon of “the sound field expanding in a surprisingly three-dimensional way, and all sounds beginning to sing organically.
Ultra-Powerful Power Transformer
The analog power transformer employs a large, unimpregnated toroidal transformer with 280VA on each side. Including the control system transformers, the total capacity is 600VA, the strongest in SOULNOTE history. With transformers, the perceived driving capability improves in proportion to the improved regulation brought about by the larger capacity. The driving power of the P-3 will change the grade of the power amplifier and speakers.
Transformer Vertical Mounting:
By mounting the transformer perpendicular to the circuit board, the direction of harmful leakage flux is made parallel to the board, preventing it from entering the circuit.
Double bearing and flywheel type optical rotary encoder
The flywheel effect of the large solid aluminum volume knob and the use of two large bearings to eliminate mechanical play result in a smooth, heavy, yet supple volume control feel.
Three-point spike grounding:
Three spikes are directly connected to each of the three power transformer bases, eliminating harmful vibrations from the transformers before they can be transmitted to the chassis.
Non-fixed AC inlet base
The AC inlet uses a JODELICA ETP-600CU. Furthermore, by not mechanically fixing the aluminum AC inlet base, damping from the rear panel is prevented, resulting in a more open sound quality.
AV Bypass Function:
One XLR and one RCA input can be set to AV bypass mode, which fixes the volume and outputs with zero gain.
Floating Structure
The Type-R circuit board and top cover are not mechanically fixed, but rather have a floating structure. By freeing them from mechanical stress and harmful air damping effects, they achieve a vivid and natural sound quality and sound field that is close to that of having the top cover open.
The left and right side metals of the GND anchors
are insulated from the main chassis by ceramic washers, and the left and right GNDs are directly connected. This further enhances the effect of floating the left and right GNDs (a vast sound field and transparency).
Multiple Unit Linking Function
UART communication enables the linking of multiple units. By setting a master and slave, all slaves will follow the master’s settings. At this time, it is possible to set a volume difference between the master and the slaves. This function allows, for example, volume control of a multi-amp system using a digital channel divider after DA conversion. Of course, the control system’s GND floating prevents problems such as GND loops caused by linking units.
About the RSR-2-12D (Reference SoulNote Relay
Based on an ultra-low-loss glass tube sealed reed relay that exhibits performance close to that of a mercury relay, this is a further customized version. It is our original custom relay, refined to a level where it is indistinguishable in sound quality compared to wired relays. The P-3 uses 94 of these relays per unit.
About the ultra-high precision naked foil resistors
Based on satellite-grade ultra-high precision foil resistors with excellent temperature characteristics, these resistors have been further customized with a focus on sound quality. By making them “naked” to eliminate damping and coloration caused by molding and dip, we have independently developed resistors that deliver the highest sound quality. The P-3 uses 156 of these resistors per unit.
SPECIFICATIONS
Inputs: 4 x XLR, 4 x RCA
Outputs: 3 x XLR, 1 x RCA (XLR and RCA selectable)
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.0015% (1.5Vrms)
Frequency Response: 2Hz – 1MHz (±3.0dB)
Residual Noise: 13μV (20kHz LPF)
Maximum Output: 21Vrms
Output Impedance: 6.8Ω
Maximum Gain: 11dB
Power Consumption: 20W
Maximum Dimensions: Main Unit: 454(W)×174(H)×430(D)mm
Weight: Approx. 25kg
Accessories: Remote control, spikes, spike receiving board, power cable
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