Soulnote has launched the A-0 ver. 2 integrated amplifier. The new A-0 ver. 2 has a modest power output of 10 watts per channel, but the amplifier offers maximum control over the sound. The A-0 ver. 2 delivers primarily quality, less quantity. This puristic integrated amplifier operates without negative feedback and uses discrete circuitry.
Reduction as a healthy principle
The Soulnote A-0 ver.2 takes an unusual approach: less power for better sound quality. According to the manufacturer, this integrated amplifier deliberately delivers only 2 x 10 watts, with a focus on control, timing, and subtle details. Soulnote developed this concept for realistic listening levels in a living room. Depending on the selected speaker and the size of the listening room, 10 watts can be more than sufficient, for example, when using a pair of sensitive horn loudspeakers.
The A-0 ver.2 focuses on a streamlined signal path. Input selection and volume control feed directly into the power amplifier. The architecture follows a puristic approach, using as few components as possible in the signal path. The goal is precise, direct music reproduction with clear structure and stable dynamics.
The amplifier uses a fully discrete circuit with no negative feedback (NFB). Negative feedback typically corrects errors in the signal by feeding back deviations. Soulnote forgoes this and instead relies on direct signal transmission. According to the manufacturer, this results in more open transients, preserves micro-details, and ensures the music maintains its natural flow.
The output stage also follows this approach. It operates as a single push-pull circuit with fast TO-220 transistors. These components have a low collector-base capacitance (COB) and respond exceptionally quickly to signal changes. This ensures a pure reproduction of subtle dynamics and stable impulses.
Soulnote A-0 ver.2: deliberately “only” 10 watts per channel
With a power output of 2 x 10 watts, this amplifier is primarily designed for speakers with good efficiency. In a typical living room, this power is sufficient to achieve realistic sound levels and precise spatial reproduction. The advantage: the amplifier operates consistently within its optimal operating range and doesn't need to manage large power reserves.
The Soulnote A-0 ver.2 truly excels at reproducing fine details. Quiet passages, spatial elements, and subtle dynamic shifts remain clearly audible. The integrated headphone amplifier also benefits from the stable output stage.
Soulnote A-0 version 2 with bias circuit and flexible pre-outs
New is a revised bias circuit. Bias describes the power amplifier's operating state without a music signal. A stable bias setting reduces background noise and results in a quieter sound. This makes subtle nuances in the sound more discernible.
The amplifier is also versatile. In addition to its classic function as an integrated amplifier, it can also function as a preamplifier. The pre-out is available via RCA and XLR connectors. Two level modes allow adaptation to external power amplifiers, active speakers, or subwoofers.
Specifications
- Fully discrete circuit with no negative feedback
- Output power per channel (8 Ohm): 10 Watts
- Headphone power per channel (32 Ohm): 3 Watts
- Speaker output frequency response (8 Ohms / Watt. +0/-1 dB): 5 Hz – 350 kHz
- Headphone output frequency response (32 Ohm / 200 mW, +0/-1 dB): 5 Hz to 400 kHz
- S/N ratio IHF A-weighted): 115 dB
- Total gain: 22 dB (speakers), 8 dB (headphones)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 109 x 418 millimeters
- Weight: 8 kilograms
Price: €2,700
