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Soul Note E-2 "end game" phono stage
February 8, 2025
Almost a year ago, I invested in the Soul Note E-2 with the intention of consolidating my three cartridges into one phono stage. Prior to exploring the world of optical cartridges, I had no inclination to replace my steadfast Gold Note PH-10, which had been reliably serving me since 2019. In terms of flexibility and operational features, there is no rival apart from its larger counterpart, the PH-1000. However, when it comes to DS Audio's optical cartridges, the Italian brand simply doesn't make the cut.
My initial choice was the UESUGI U-BROS 220R, a tube-based optical and MM/MC phonostage, and I scoured the internet to find a retailer in Japan. Unfortunately, my search efforts were unsuccessful, as these units are only available via special order and not stocked by retailers. Unlike the Softone 300B, which was delivered directly to my hotel room in Osaka, the U-BROS 220R proved to be elusive.
Prior to this, I was offered an EMM Labs unit; however, it was solely dedicated to optical cartridges, which wouldn't align with my goal of finding a phonostage that accommodates both optical and traditional MM/MC cartridges in a single unit.
After an extensive search, I finally discovered the Soul Note E-2, which features three traditional MM/MC inputs and a dedicated optical cartridge input. Although it is a solid-state unit, the impressive engineering behind it made it my ultimate target. Similar to the UESUGI unit, this product was not widely stocked, but I managed to find a retailer in Sapporo that had it in stock. After contacting the company, they confirmed that I could purchase it in-store. To my delight, there was a nearby Yamato Shipping office where I could send the hefty 30kg unit for shipping. With a planned Christmas and New Year trip to Sapporo, I was thrilled to finally be able to purchase it.
Sadly, when I arrived at the store, it was closed. I mistakenly assumed they were open based on the regular posted schedule, not realizing they were closed for the holiday season. I was one day late.
Determined not to give up, I persuaded the friendly folks at Architectural Audio to bring the brand to the Philippines and committed to purchasing the E-2. And finally, it happened!
Unboxing
The E-2 is finally going home.
A warning notice, the manual, and the E-2 beneath.
There is another notice about top panel, which is a design choice.
External
The E-2 is a commanding presence in any audio setup, boasting substantial dimensions of 430mm in width, 410mm in depth, and 160mm in height. With a robust weight of 20kg, it exemplifies both physical heft and high-performance capability. Balancing such a formidable piece of equipment requires careful consideration and planning, but the payoff is clear in the rich audio experience it delivers.
The E-2 elevates the control and functionality to a whole new level compared to the PH-10. While the PH-10 features a single knob and an LCD display, the E-2 impresses with an array of 32 LEDs, 5 knobs, and 9 push-button switches, including the power switch. Despite its seemingly complex interface, the E-2 remains user-friendly by offering direct access to its functions, eliminating the hassle of navigating through multiple menu levels.
This thoughtful design ensures that all functionalities are at your fingertips, making operation straightforward and intuitive. It's a significant upgrade that enhances your overall user experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your audio adventures.
The E-2 is thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of traditional cartridges with its three dedicated inputs. Input [BAL] is specifically for MC cartridges, supporting both balanced and unbalanced connections. Inputs [1] and [2] are designed for MC and MM cartridges with unbalanced connections. Additionally, the E-2 features a dedicated input for optical cartridges made by DS Audio, complete with an independent power switch and an LED indicator for easy operation.
The output terminals are equally impressive, offering both balanced and unbalanced connectors to ensure compatibility with a range of audio setups. While it is possible to use both types of connections simultaneously without causing a malfunction, it's recommended to avoid this practice in order to achieve the highest sound quality possible.
This meticulous design ensures that every element of the E-2 works in harmony to deliver an unparalleled audio experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuances of your favorite records.
Spike Pins
Three spike pins are supplied and can be used to replace the default feet. Because I was excited to listen to the E-2, I did not install the spike pins.
Connections
The DS Audio DS-E1 mounted on the Reed 1H obviously goes to the optical input where it rightly belongs. I also placed the slider switch into ON position.
The Phasemation PP-300 mounted on the Clearaudio TT3 is connected to [1] since the Nordost Blue Heaven cable is unbalanced. Similarly, the Koetsu Black (re-tipped) mounted on the Acoustic Signature TA-1000 with unbalanced Audioquest cable goes into input [2].
The PP-300 (100Ω) and Koetsu (50-100Ω) has similar loading resistance so there's no interaction with the MC LOAD knob that is fixed to 100Ω.
The E-2 chassis is a great match visually to the Acoustic Signature Tornado NEO!
EQ Curves
When I bought the E-2 I knew that this is the feature that I may never ever be able to utilize due to the fact that I don't have old records that will benefit from these settings.
There are 144 EQ Curves listed in the manual that can be set using the LOW LIMIT, TURN OVER, and ROLL-OFF knobs.
Sonic acumen
After listening to half a dozen records for each cartridge, I am proud of my decision to select and purchase the Soul Note E-2. It is able to extract "more" from the current cartridges specifically the DS Audio DS-E1 which I was planning to upgrade to DS 003. With the E-2, the DS-E1 performance has been elevated and scratched very well, the upgrade itch.
The first thing I noticed was how fulsome and articulate the bottom end is, and as a headbanger, this quality is much appreciated. I still do not use a subwoofer to augment my DIY Cube Audio F8 Magus so this upgrade is a delightful surprise.
I'm a big fan of PRaT (Pace, Rhythm, and Timing) and my equipment selection always look into that characteristic when pairing gears. The E-2 gets me snapping, head bobbing, and foot tapping with the tracks I use for reference. The Qualiton X200 integrated tube amplifier is a performer when it comes to staging and imaging, and the Soul Note E-2 complements that magnificently.
Conclusion
The Soul Note E-2 ain't no magician, it won't make badly mastered and/or recorded vinyls suddenly sound great. One of my favorite, Anette Olzon's Strong vinyl from Frontiers Music SRL still sound mediocre. But give the E-2 a good vinyl, even better a properly mastered vinyl, and they will sound fantastic. Vocals you say? Check ✔!
Soul Note products are distributed by Architectural Audio.
