Soulnote E-1 Ver2 MM / MC / Optical Phono Equalizer

Soulnote E-1 Ver2 MM, MC, & Optical Phono Equalizer Key Features:

• Dedicated Optical Cartridge Input – Adds true optical cartridge support alongside conventional MC and MM inputs.
• New Type-R Analog Circuit – Integrated optical-cartridge circuit derived from Soulnote’s higher-end E-3 for rich, organic playback.
• Fully Discrete, Non-Feedback Design – All analog stages use a minimalist, non-NFB topology for maximum signal purity.
• Advanced Bias And Power Regulation – Newly developed bias circuit and discrete non-NFB regulators improve S/N and musical expressiveness.
• Enhanced MC/MM Performance – Redesigned analog circuits refine traditional phono playback with greater clarity and realism.

Product Description:

Expanding The Phono Experience

The E-1 Ver2 represents a significant evolution in Soulnote’s phono equalizer design, introducing a dedicated optical cartridge input alongside traditional MC and MM stages. Unusually for a component in this class, all analog circuits—including the optical cartridge path—are fully discrete and free from global negative feedback, preserving musical immediacy and tonal authenticity.

Dedicated Optical Cartridge Architecture

The optical cartridge input is built around Soulnote’s New Type-R analog circuit, originally developed for the flagship E-3. Fully integrated into the E-1 Ver2, this circuit delivers exceptionally rich, organic, and lifelike sound from optical cartridges, allowing their unique advantages to be realized without compromise.

New Type-R Analog Circuitry

For both optical and conventional analog playback, the New Type-R circuit emphasizes natural dynamics, harmonic density, and temporal accuracy. This approach prioritizes musical expression over technical excess, resulting in a presentation that feels immediate and emotionally engaging.

Newly Developed Bias Circuit

A redesigned bias circuit improves the signal-to-noise ratio across all input types. This refinement contributes to a quieter background and enhanced low-level detail, allowing subtle textures and spatial cues to emerge more clearly.

Discrete, Non-NFB Power Regulation

Even the dedicated power supply for the optical cartridge input uses the same discrete, non-NFB regulator topology found in Soulnote’s higher-end components. This design choice ensures stable current delivery and supports the E-1 Ver2’s organic, passionate sound character.

Refined MC/MM Playback

The analog circuits supporting MC and MM cartridges have also been newly developed, resulting in improved resolution, tonal balance, and musical flow. With multiple selectable MC load impedances and precise RIAA equalization, the E-1 Ver2 adapts easily to a wide range of cartridges and systems.

Specifications: