{"product_id":"soulnote-s-3","title":"Soulnote S-3 Reference SACD PLAYER","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"338\"\u003e We think\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"340\" data-end=\"914\"\u003e We believe the \u003cstrong data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"382\"\u003eSoulnote S-3 Reference\u003c\/strong\u003e is more than just an SACD player—it's a statement in digital music reproduction. It combines state-of-the-art technology with meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring music is not only reproduced cleanly, but also vividly, multifacetedly, and emotionally. Those who look beyond reliable transport mechanics and are willing to listen to every detail will find the S-3 Reference a partner that offers both fine detail and musical soul. It's not characterized by sharp measurements alone, but by sound that lasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"916\" data-end=\"919\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"921\" data-end=\"945\"\u003e Product presentation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"947\" data-end=\"1366\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"951\" data-end=\"977\"\u003eSoulnote S-3 Reference\u003c\/strong\u003e SACD player is part of Soulnote's Series 3 and is available in two finishes: \u003cstrong data-start=\"1067\" data-end=\"1085\"\u003ePremium Silver\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"1090\" data-end=\"1109\"\u003ePremium Black\u003c\/strong\u003e . It plays Super Audio CDs, music CDs, and CD-R and CD-RW discs. Digital sources are supported via \u003cstrong data-start=\"1197\" data-end=\"1224\"\u003etwo USB Type-B inputs\u003c\/strong\u003e , a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1232\" data-end=\"1260\"\u003ecoaxial S\/PDIF input\u003c\/strong\u003e , and an \u003cstrong data-start=\"1271\" data-end=\"1290\"\u003eAES\/EBU input\u003c\/strong\u003e , making it flexible for a wide variety of sources.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"1368\" data-end=\"1845\"\u003eFour ES9038PRO DAC chips are used for conversion—two per channel. The analog output stage design utilizes the newly developed Type R non-NFB circuitry, featuring high-quality components and minimal distortion. The power supply is powerful, with dual mono amplifier-style separate power supplies for the channels. The cabinet is solid and resonance-optimized, as evidenced by its high weight and robust dimensions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"1847\" data-end=\"1850\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1852\" data-end=\"1883\"\u003e Special features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"1885\" data-end=\"1949\"\u003e The \u003cstrong data-start=\"1889\" data-end=\"1906\"\u003eS-3 Reference\u003c\/strong\u003e stands out for several features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"1953\" data-end=\"2092\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"1953\" data-end=\"1982\"\u003eNon-NFB Type-R circuits\u003c\/strong\u003e that enable clear, undistorted reproduction with only a few components (transistors, resistors).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2118\"\u003eFour ES9038PRO DACs\u003c\/strong\u003e , two per channel, for high resolution, clean signal conversion and great dynamics.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2205\" data-end=\"2232\"\u003eExtremely low jitter\u003c\/strong\u003e on the master clock – important for clear transients, clean sound and timing stability.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"2331\" data-end=\"2368\"\u003eSpikes\/Spike Board Construction\u003c\/strong\u003e : Parts of the audio platform are mechanically decoupled (floating audio board) to minimize interference and resonance. \u003cstrong data-start=\"2494\" data-end=\"2517\"\u003eZero-link interface\u003c\/strong\u003e for synchronized sources, external 10 MHz clock input for further stabilization if needed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Selectable filter modes (e.g. various digital or analog filters) and a NOS (non-oversampling) mode on CDs for listeners who value immediate impulse response.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"2797\" data-end=\"2800\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2802\" data-end=\"2829\"\u003e Technology \u0026amp; Materials\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"3240\"\u003eInternally, Soulnote focuses on maximum quality in the \u003cstrong data-start=\"2861\" data-end=\"2878\"\u003eS-3 Reference\u003c\/strong\u003e : The four ES9038PRO DAC chips deliver tremendous power and precision, whose signal output is further processed by a discrete, fully balanced output stage design. The non-NFB circuits are deliberately kept simple to minimize noise and distortion—this also reduces the complexity of the signal paths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"3242\" data-end=\"3625\"\u003e The power supply is dual-mono: Separate transformers power the left and right channels, as well as the digital and analog sections. Several high-quality film capacitors are located beneath the SACD transport, and short internal wiring paths and high-quality cabling materials ensure signal distortion and interference are kept to a minimum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"3627\" data-end=\"3836\"\u003eThe cabinet is solid, generously dimensioned, and features decoupled mechanics. The dimensions and weight speak for themselves. This consistent construction is audibly evident: in tranquility, detail, and naturalness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"3838\" data-end=\"3841\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3843\" data-end=\"3875\"\u003e Sustainability \u0026amp; Manufacturing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"3877\" data-end=\"4346\"\u003e The \u003cstrong data-start=\"3881\" data-end=\"3907\"\u003eSoulnote S-3 Reference\u003c\/strong\u003e is handcrafted in Japan. Great emphasis is placed on quality materials, durable components, and superior craftsmanship. Components such as foil resistors, relays, hardened metal casings, and meticulous shielding are selected to maintain a high level of performance over time. The ability to use external clock devices not only optimizes sound but also ensures flexibility and future viability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"4348\" data-end=\"4351\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4353\" data-end=\"4383\"\u003e Technical data (specs)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"4385\" data-end=\"5282\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4385\" data-end=\"4407\"\u003eDiscs supported:\u003c\/strong\u003e Super Audio CD, Music CD, CD-R, CD-RW\u003cbr data-start=\"4445\" data-end=\"4448\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4448\" data-end=\"4470\"\u003eDigital inputs:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 x USB-B, 1 x coaxial (S\/PDIF), 1 x AES\/EBU \u003cbr data-start=\"4515\" data-end=\"4518\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4518\" data-end=\"4539\"\u003eAnalog outputs:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 x XLR (balanced), 1 x RCA (unbalanced)\u003cbr data-start=\"4580\" data-end=\"4583\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4583\" data-end=\"4624\"\u003eMaximum sampling rate \/ DSD via USB:\u003c\/strong\u003e up to 768 kHz PCM \/ DSD (approx. 22.6 MHz)\u003cbr data-start=\"4664\" data-end=\"4667\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4667\" data-end=\"4706\"\u003eSampling rate \/ DSD via coax \/ AES:\u003c\/strong\u003e up to 192 kHz PCM \/ DSD64 via DoP\u003cbr data-start=\"4738\" data-end=\"4741\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4741\" data-end=\"4759\"\u003eOutput level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Balanced approx. 5.6 Vrms; Unbalanced approx. 2.8 Vrms at load ≥ 5 kΩ\u003cbr data-start=\"4822\" data-end=\"4825\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4825\" data-end=\"4851\"\u003eFrequency response (analog):\u003c\/strong\u003e from about 2 Hz to 150 kHz ±1 dB\u003cbr data-start=\"4883\" data-end=\"4886\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4886\" data-end=\"4910\"\u003eSignal-to-noise ratio (S\/N):\u003c\/strong\u003e approx. 110 dB\u003cbr data-start=\"4921\" data-end=\"4924\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4924\" data-end=\"4963\"\u003eTotal harmonic distortion (THD):\u003c\/strong\u003e ≈ 0.008%\u003cbr data-start=\"4973\" data-end=\"4976\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"4976\" data-end=\"4987\"\u003eFilter:\u003c\/strong\u003e selectable, including analog or passive filter and NOS mode for CDs\u003cbr data-start=\"5056\" data-end=\"5059\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"5059\" data-end=\"5086\"\u003eExternal clock input:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 MHz via BNC 50 Ω \u003cbr data-start=\"5106\" data-end=\"5109\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"5109\" data-end=\"5131\"\u003ePower consumption:\u003c\/strong\u003e approx. 50 W\u003cbr data-start=\"5140\" data-end=\"5143\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"5143\" data-end=\"5159\"\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e approx. 454 × 170 × 393 mm (W × H × D)\u003cbr data-start=\"5194\" data-end=\"5197\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"5197\" data-end=\"5209\"\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e approx. 27 kg\u003cbr data-start=\"5219\" data-end=\"5222\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"5222\" data-end=\"5234\"\u003eAccessories:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spike board, spikes, remote control, power cable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"5284\" data-end=\"5287\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5289\" data-end=\"5324\"\u003e Test reports \/ press reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"5326\" data-end=\"5746\"\u003e The specialist magazine \u003cstrong data-start=\"5342\" data-end=\"5356\"\u003eHi-Fi News\u003c\/strong\u003e writes in its review of the \u003cstrong data-start=\"5397\" data-end=\"5423\"\u003eSoulnote S-3 Reference\u003c\/strong\u003e :\u003cbr data-start=\"5424\" data-end=\"5427\"\u003e \"An SACD player that redefines the boundaries of digital playback. It impresses with outstanding resolution, a spacious soundstage, and a dynamic response that is unparalleled. Voices sound tangibly real, instruments clearly defined and tonally balanced – without ever becoming analytical.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"5748\" data-end=\"6086\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"5753\" data-end=\"5777\"\u003eSoundStage Australia\u003c\/strong\u003e also highlights: \u003cbr data-start=\"5790\" data-end=\"5793\"\u003e\"The S-3 Reference combines transparency with musicality. Particularly impressive are the attack on transients, the precise rhythm, and the stability of the soundstage. Soulnote has succeeded in creating a player that presents digital sources with organic naturalness.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"6088\" data-end=\"6298\"\u003e German voices describe the S-3 Reference as “outstandingly transparent” and emphasize that it offers an almost analogue naturalness in reproduction that is rarely found in the digital sector.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"6300\" data-end=\"6303\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"6305\" data-end=\"6347\"\u003e Background \/ History \/ Development\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"6349\" data-end=\"6899\"\u003eSoulnote was founded to deliver high-end digital and SACD technology of the highest standard. The Series 3 products reflect the company's commitment to sonic authenticity and the highest manufacturing quality. The \u003cstrong data-start=\"6559\" data-end=\"6576\"\u003eS-3 Reference\u003c\/strong\u003e is the flagship in the digital field, combining SACD transport, DAC, analog output stage, and innovative circuitry in a single unit. Its clock-generating approach, the Zero-Link interface, and the option for external clocking demonstrate how Soulnote views technology and musicality as equal partners. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"6707\" data-end=\"7255\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr data-start=\"7257\" data-end=\"7260\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"7262\" data-end=\"7293\"\u003e Basic knowledge\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"7295\" data-end=\"7369\"\u003e A few key technical points that help classify the S-3 Reference:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"7373\" data-end=\"7621\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"7373\" data-end=\"7408\"\u003eNon-negative feedback (non-NFB)\u003c\/strong\u003e designs do not use feedback loops, which makes certain measurements more difficult to optimize, but the signal reproduction appears more spontaneous and distortions caused by loop feedback are avoided.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-start=\"7624\" data-end=\"7805\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"7624\" data-end=\"7656\"\u003eNOS (Non-Oversampling) mode\u003c\/strong\u003e on CDs means that no oversampling filters are applied; this can make the sound more immediate, especially with transients.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"7808\" data-end=\"8018\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"7808\" data-end=\"7862\"\u003eDual-mono power supply \u0026amp; separate power supplies\u003c\/strong\u003e for left and right channels as in the S-3 increase channel separation and reduce mutual interference, which contributes to more clarity and spatiality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-end=\"2535\" data-start=\"2250\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Soulnote","offers":[{"title":"Silber","offer_id":55140572627319,"sku":"","price":21990.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true},{"title":"Schwarz","offer_id":55140572660087,"sku":"","price":21990.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/3567\/9607\/files\/Soulnote_S-3_SACD_CD_Player.jpg?v=1775235484","url":"https:\/\/klang-maschine.de\/en\/products\/soulnote-s-3","provider":"Klang Maschine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}