SOUL 170C

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Class A negative feedback Pre-Amplifier.

The Soul 170C is Cayin’s latest vacuum tube preamplifier, embodying over three

decades of expertise in tube application. Designed to deliver exceptional musicality

and precision, it is a 2-channel preamplifier that ensures superior channel separation

and signal purity.

As a proud member of Cayin’s Soul Series, the Soul 170C continues the family’s

design language. From its sharp silhouette to its meticulous craftsmanship, every

detail echoes the aesthetic principles shared across the Soul lineup—delivering not

just acoustic harmony, but visual unity with our latest power amplifier, the Soul 170P .

Tube Configuration

At the heart of the Soul 170C are carefully matched vacuum tubes, including

 2 × ECC83

 2 × 6SN7GTB

 2 × 6CA7

 2 × 17AX4GTTo ensure pure and stable DC power, the Soul 170C adopts a full-wave rectification

circuit based on the 17AX4GT rectifier tube, renowned for its high efficiency and low

internal resistance.

The voltage regulation is implemented with 6CA7 tubes, which deliver a clean and

consistent voltage supply to each channel independently.

The Soul 170C employs high-gain, high-linearity ECC83 and 6SN7GTB vacuum tubes

for Line Amplification. This combination delivers clean, accurate signal amplification

with low distortion, preserving the integrity and musicality of the original source.

Cayin Soul 170C tube preamp
Maximum output voltage	8V RMS (RCA) / 16V RMS (XLR)
Reinforcement	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	90 dB
Input connections	1 × XLR (pair), 4 × RCA (LINE1-LINE4) (pairs)
Output connections	1 × XLR (pair), 1 × RCA (pair)
Tube assembly	ECC83 ×2, 6SN7GTB ×2, 6CA7 ×2, 17AX4GT ×2
Dimensions	430mm × 445mm × 212mm
Net weight (W × D × H)	20kg
Power consumption	Max. 75W

Flexible Negative Feedback Settings

To shape the tonal character of the entire audio chain, the Soul 170C employs a

carefully tuned Negative Feedback (NFB) circuit, an important function in

determining how the preamplifier guides and controls the sound signature of the

downstream power amplifier.

In Soul 170C, the NFB setting plays a perceptible role: optimizing the linearity of the

signal path, reducing harmonic distortion, and defining the sonic texture delivered to

the next stage.

The Soul 170C offers two selectable NFB levels—High and Low—providing users with

the ability to fine-tune the amplifier’s tonal balance based on the sonic traits of their

power amplifier and speakers.

 Low NFB: Delivers a more open, expressive, and emotionally engaging

sound—ideal for systems that benefit from greater fluidity and naturalness.

 High NFB: Enhances precision, focus, and tonal discipline—well-suited for

achieving tighter control and a more analytical presentation.

Full-Function Remote Control

The Soul 170C comes equipped with an infrared remote control, allowing users to

access all functions—from input, NFB selection to volume adjustment—with ease.

This ensures a seamless and comfortable listening experience, putting full command

of your system right at your fingertips.Connectivity

 Inputs: 4 × RCA (pairs), 1 × XLR (pair)

 Outputs: 1 × RCA (pair), 1 × XLR (pair)

This comprehensive connectivity ensures seamless integration into various audio

systems, accommodating both single-ended and balanced configurations.

Component Selection & Internal Build

The Soul 170C is hand-assembled with point-to-point wiring, ensuring minimum

signal loss and crosstalk. Key components include:

 Silver-plated internal wiring

 High-quality coupling capacitors

 ALPS motorized volume control

 In-house designed and hand-wound power transformer

Protective Features

 Soft-start circuit (approximately 60 seconds)

 Equipped with easily-installed tube cover for protection

These features protect sensitive components and enhance the longevity of the

amplifier.

Chassis & Design

 Anodized solid aluminum front panel

 Hand-finished North American black walnut side panels

The Soul 170C combines technical sophistication with aesthetic refinement, making

it a centerpiece in any high-end audio system.

SOUL 170C

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SOUL 170C

Cayin Soul 170C tube preamp