Cayin - SOUL 170C - Pre-Amplifier

Cayin Soul 170C Vacuum Tube Preamplifier – Premium 2-Channel Tube Preamp for High-End Audio Systems

The Cayin Soul 170C is the latest vacuum tube preamplifier from Cayin, representing more than 30 years of expertise in tube amplifier design. Engineered for audiophiles seeking exceptional musicality, precision, and sonic purity, the Soul 170C is a high-end 2-channel tube preamp that delivers outstanding channel separation, signal integrity, and tonal balance.

Part of Cayin’s prestigious Soul Series, the Soul 170C follows the family’s distinctive design language. Its sharp silhouette, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship create both visual elegance and acoustic harmony, especially when paired with the matching Soul 170P power amplifier.

Premium Vacuum Tube Configuration

The Soul 170C tube preamplifier uses carefully matched vacuum tubes to ensure clean amplification, stable power delivery, and superior sonic performance.

Tube complement:

• 2 × ECC83 – High-gain signal amplification

• 2 × 6SN7GTB – Linear and balanced line amplification

• 2 × 6CA7 – Voltage regulation for stable power supply

• 2 × 17AX4GT – Full-wave rectification

The 17AX4GT rectifier tubes provide highly efficient full-wave rectification with low internal resistance, delivering stable DC power to the circuit.

For voltage regulation, the Soul 170C employs 6CA7 tubes, supplying a clean and consistent voltage to each channel independently. This design helps maintain low noise, stable performance, and improved stereo imaging.

Meanwhile, the ECC83 and 6SN7GTB tubes handle line amplification, offering high linearity and low distortion to preserve the natural character and musical detail of the source signal.

Adjustable Negative Feedback (NFB) for Custom Sound Tuning

To provide greater control over system synergy, the Soul 170C incorporates an advanced Negative Feedback (NFB) circuit, allowing users to shape the tonal behaviour of their audio system.

Negative feedback plays a crucial role in improving linearity, lowering harmonic distortion, and controlling the interaction between the preamplifier and power amplifier.

The Soul 170C features two selectable NFB settings:

Low NFB

• More open and spacious soundstage

• Greater musical expression and fluidity

• Ideal for systems that benefit from warmth and natural tonality

High NFB

• Enhanced precision and control

• Tighter bass and improved focus

• Suitable for listeners who prefer a more analytical and detailed presentation

This flexibility allows users to fine-tune the tonal balance of their entire audio chain.

Full-Function Remote Control

For convenience and effortless operation, the Soul 170C includes a full-function infrared remote control. Users can easily adjust:

• Input selection

• Volume control

• Negative feedback settings

This ensures a comfortable and seamless listening experience while maintaining complete control of the system from the listening position.

Versatile Connectivity

The Cayin Soul 170C offers extensive connectivity options to integrate seamlessly into a wide range of high-end audio systems.

Inputs

• 4 × RCA stereo inputs

• 1 × XLR balanced input

Outputs

• 1 × RCA stereo output

• 1 × XLR balanced output

With support for both single-ended and balanced connections, the Soul 170C ensures maximum compatibility with modern and classic high-fidelity components.

Audiophile-Grade Components & Internal Construction

Each Soul 170C preamplifier is hand-assembled using point-to-point wiring, a traditional technique valued for its signal purity, minimal crosstalk, and reliability.

Key internal components include:

• Silver-plated internal wiring for improved conductivity

• High-grade coupling capacitors for enhanced signal transparency

• ALPS motorised volume potentiometer for precise level control

• Cayin in-house designed and hand-wound power transformer

These premium components contribute to the Soul 170C’s exceptional sonic clarity, dynamic range, and long-term durability.

Built-In Protection & Reliability

The Soul 170C incorporates several protection features to ensure safe operation and extended tube life:

• Soft-start circuit (approximately 60 seconds) to stabilise the power supply during start-up

• Protective tube cover for safety and durability

These measures protect sensitive internal components and enhance the longevity of the amplifier.

Elegant Chassis & Luxury Materials

The Soul 170C blends audiophile engineering with refined aesthetics, making it a striking centrepiece in any high-end audio system.

Design highlights include:

• Anodised solid aluminium front panel

• Hand-finished North American black walnut side panels

This combination of premium materials and craftsmanship reflects Cayin’s commitment to both performance and design excellence.