MAGAZINE
Cayin's new Soul 170I tube integrated amplifier weighs almost 39 kilograms. The amp was developed based on the Tungsol KT170 Power Tubes, which sit freely on the front and can be protected by a cover. The tube is said to deliver up to 130 watts of power in Ultralinear mode or 75 watts of power in Triode mode per channel. The circuit, designed as class AB push-pull, is equipped with two KT170 per channel. A 22DE4 tube, on the other hand, is used as a rectifier to power the input driver stage, which is equipped with tubes of the types ECC83S and 6SN7.
The 170I offers two modes of operation: triode and ultralinear. This allows the user to choose between two different sound styles. According to the manufacturer, the triode mode is designed to sound "tender, harmonic, soft and gentle". It is therefore said to be ideal for vocal and instrumental music. Ultralinear mode, meanwhile, is said to offer a more powerful and controlled playback – best for music with punch and dynamics. The bias of the KT170 power tubes can be easily monitored and adjusted via a display on the top.
Like all other Cayin amplifiers, the Soul 170I relies on point-to-point wiring. All circuitry, including the signal path, is carefully hand-wired with premium cables. A soft-start circuit and high-voltage delay to protect the tubes and amplifier aim to ensure longer life for the high-quality components. Furthermore, high voltage fuses are used to protect the amplifier and are located on the top panel of the chassis near the power tubes.
On the back of the amplifier are three pairs of line RCA inputs, a pair of balanced XLR inputs, and a pair of inputs for connecting a preamplifier so that the amplifier can also be used as a pure power amp. A sub-out is also available if an additional subwoofer system is to be used. The Soul 170I comes with a high-quality metal remote control that remembers the unit's last setting when it is turned off.
In Germany, the Cayin Soul-170i is available now for 7,800 euros.
