One Amplifier, One Channel, No Feedback: Soulnote M-3

The Soulnote M-3 is a monaural power amplifier built to the company's uncompromising, completely non-NFB philosophy — one chassis, one channel, and nothing in the signal path that doesn't need to be there. Sold individually so you can build a true dual-mono system, each M-3 delivers 160 watts into 4 ohms with the vivid, spatial, blur-free sound that has made Soulnote a name whispered among serious listeners. Priced per unit; two are required for stereo.

Purist Power, Industrial Muscle

A non-NFB single push-pull output stage uses industrial-grade can-type transistors in a four-stage Darlington configuration for low distortion and effortless drive, fed by an enormous ultra-low-loss 1600 VA non-epoxy-filled toroidal transformer and high-speed SiC rectifier diodes. Type-R non-NFB differential circuits handle voltage amplification, and copper-plate heat sinks — integrated with the bus bars and physically isolated from the chassis — keep everything cool and quiet. A six-spike isolation system grounds the whole thing directly to your rack.

Built to Disappear

With just an XLR input and speaker terminals — no selectors, no microcontrollers — the M-3 is single-minded about one job. At 31 kg per unit it's a statement of intent, engineered so the amplifier itself gets out of the way and lets the music through.

Why You'll Love the Soulnote M-3

• True monoblock — one amplifier per channel for maximum separation (sold each)
• 160 W into 4 ohms — completely non-NFB power
• Industrial can-type output transistors — single push-pull, four-stage Darlington
• 1600 VA toroidal transformer — ultra-low-loss, with SiC diodes
• Copper bus-bar heat sinks — isolated from the chassis for lower noise
• Six-spike isolation — direct mechanical grounding
• Hand-built in Japan — Premium Silver or Premium Black, 31 kg each

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the M-3 sold as a pair?

No — each M-3 is a single monaural amplifier, sold individually. You'll need two to make a stereo system (one per channel). This lets you buy a matched pair for true dual-mono operation.

What preamplifier or source does it need?

Any preamplifier, or a DAC/preamp such as the Soulnote D-3, connected via its XLR input.

How is the M-3 different from the M-3X?

The M-3X doubles the current-delivery capacity of the M-3 for even greater grip and drive (240 W into 2.7 ohms). The M-3 is the standard monoblock; the M-3X is the higher-current version.

Soulnote M-3 Technical Specifications