Cayin Soul 170C Tube Preamplifier

Cayin Soul 170C Tube Preamplifier

The Cayin Soul 170C tube preamplifier, paired with the Soul 170P power amplifier, creates a top-of-the-line audio system.

The Soul 170C preamplifier is a fully balanced tube preamplifier with exceptionally sophisticated tonal shaping capabilities. Its XLR outputs make it the ideal signal source for the Soul 170P power amplifier, as well as other amplifiers with compatible inputs. It offers five inputs: four RCA and one fully balanced XLR input.

The tube complement is exceptionally rich for a preamplifier: eight meticulously selected tubes of four different types each play a specific role in the Soul 170C's circuitry.

To tailor the tonal character to the existing system, the negative feedback can be switched between high and low levels.

Flexible Negative Feedback (Negative Feedback)

The Soul 170C features a finely tuned negative feedback circuit that significantly influences the sonic character of the entire system. Two selectable NFB levels allow you to tailor the sound precisely to the characteristics of the power amplifier and speakers:

• Low negative feedback: Opens up the soundstage, creating more expression and naturalness – ideal for a more emotional listening experience.
• High negative feedback: Improves precision and control, ensuring a focused and analytical sound.

Build Quality & Components

As with the Soul 170P power amplifier, the preamplifier is hand-wired with point-to-point connections, minimizing signal loss and crosstalk.

High-quality components such as silver-plated wiring, premium
coupling capacitors, a motorized ALPS volume control, and a hand-wound transformer underscore the commitment to quality.

The tube configuration

Inside, carefully selected tubes are at work:

• 2 × ECC83
• 2 × 6SN7GTB
• 2 × 6CA7
• 2 × 17AX4GT

The power supply utilizes a high-performance rectifier with a 17AX4GT tube, ensuring stable DC voltage with low internal resistance. Separate voltage regulation for each channel is achieved using 6CA7 tubes, guaranteeing a clean and constant supply.

For line amplification, highly linear ECC83 and 6SN7GTB tubes are employed. This combination ensures precise signal amplification with minimal distortion, preserving the musical character of the source.

Protective Features

A soft-start circuit (approx. 60 seconds) protects the tubes during power-up. Additionally, an easily attached tube guard protects sensitive components and extends the amplifier's lifespan.

Casting & Design

The robust chassis combines an anodized aluminum front panel with hand-finished North American black walnut sides – technically sophisticated and visually elegant, the Soul 170C becomes a focal point in any high-end audio setup.

The Cayin Soul 170C combines technical sophistication with musical authenticity, thus providing a precise, flexible basis for demanding tube sound.

Remote Control

An infrared remote control allows for convenient control of all functions – from input selection and NFB settings to volume – for a seamless listening experience.

Connections

• Inputs: 4 × RCA (pair), 1 × XLR (pair)
• Outputs: 1 × RCA (pair), 1 × XLR (pair)

This configuration ensures flexible integration into a wide variety of systems with single-ended or balanced configurations.

Technical Specifications Cayin Soul 170C Tube Preamplifier

• Maximum Output Voltage: 8V RMS (RCA) / 16V RMS (XLR)
• Gain: 17.5dB (NFB: LOW), 16dB (NFB: HIGH)
• Frequency Response: 8Hz-100kHz (±3dB, RCA) / 8Hz-35kHz (±3dB, XLR)
• Total Distortion: 0.02% (2V RMS)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB (A-weighted)
• Input Impedance: 47kΩ (RCA), 25kΩ (XLR)
• Output Impedance: 380Ω (RCA), 700Ω (XLR)
• Channel Separation: 90dB
• Input Connections: 1 × XLR (pair), 4 × RCA (LINE1-LINE4) (pairs)
• Output connectors: 1 × XLR (pair), 1 × RCA (pair)
• Tube complement: ECC83 ×2, 6SN7GTB ×2, 6CA7 ×2, 17AX4GT ×2
• Dimensions (W × D × H): 430 mm × 445 mm × 212 mm
• Net weight: 20 kg
• Power consumption: Max 75 W