SOULNOTE E2 v2 Phono Preamp, £6900

October 2025, SOULNOTE is now proud to introduce Version 2 of the 2 series amplifier, DAC and phono preamp, which build upon the core functions of the original 2 series while having been dramatically evolved using the knowledge gained from the 3 series.

Does the E2 change the landscape of sub £15,000 Phonostages ? After extensive trials against our existing roster and a good number of customer home trial reactions (often comparing it back to much more expensive rivals) we think so. The performance of this Phono is really quite staggering at the price. Incredibly bold and assured, the E2 also possesses the kind of clarity and dynamics that are usually only associated with very expensive and exotic stages. Superb harmonics and weight, exemplary soundtsaging, the E2 is one of those superstar pieces of Hifi that will help grow an entire brand all across the globe.

But the unprecedented performance/£ ratio is not the only standout facet of this unit. The feature set of the E2 is exhaustive. We can’t think of a Phono that packs as much functionality as this. Four inputs, including XLR and DS optical, equalisation curve controls for older records, a deguass/mute button, a -10db low gain option, a low cut options, phase invert and mono buttons, low capacitance controls for moving magnet, both single ended and XLR ouput. The E2 can be an end game solution to accomodate all requirements for life.

Phono Equalizer E-2 VER2
Key Features
• Dedicated Optical Cartridge Input
The E-2 VER2 features the same XLR connector for separated
power supply cables as employed in the E-3, maximizing the
unique advantages of optical cartridges.
• Advanced Analog Circuit for Optical Cartridges
The fully balanced, non-NFB “New Type-R” (*) circuit from the
E-3 has been directly implemented, ensuring uncompromising fidelity and musical expression.
• Refined MC/MM Circuit
The MC/MM stages have been significantly simplified with a newly designed bias circuit, achieving
a notable improvement in sound quality and overall performance.
• Enhanced Chassis design
The unfixed top cover, also adopted in the A-2 VER2, has
been further refined to contribute to sonic purity and resonance
control.
• Extended Flexibility
MC loading is now supported up to 1 kΩ, offering greater
compatibility with a wide range of cartridges. Furthermore, all
of the original’s versatile features, including adjustable EQ
curve functionality, have been fully retained.

non-NFB phono equalizer circuits dedicated to photoelectric cartridges

The equalizer components rely on differential emitter bypass channels incorporating new circuitry that significantly lowers circuit impedance. SOULNOTE’s original perfectly balanced non-NFB circuits are free of electrical stress and do not require phase compensation nor do they poise band limitations. These circuits can fully accommodate photoelectric cartridges, which are uninhibited by the weight and inductive resistance limitations of coils and magnetic circuits. The combination of the photoelectric system’s exceptional transient responsiveness with non-NFB produces a shockingly vibrant and vivid music soundscape.

* Photoelectric cartridges do not support past Toshiba or Trio cartridges.

MC LOAD switching

The E-2 comes equipped with six types of load impedance switching functions to extract the most from the MC cartridges being used.

Inputs capable of connecting with four types of systems

The E-2 allows for simultaneous connection and switching between four inputs: MC balanced inputs, MC/MM unbalanced inputs (2 types), and dedicated photoelectric cartridge inputs.

MM load capacity switching

Three kinds of load capacity switching functions are employed to fully demonstrate the extreme capabilities of MM cartridges.

Wide support of old-time EQ curves before RIAA advent (with MC/MM)

Six kinds of Roll-Off (high range attenuation frequency), four kinds of Turn Over (low range amplification frequency), and six kinds of Low Limit (ultralow frequency amplification limit) are all independent of each other and can be changed individually.

Together, they offer a total of 144 types of curves, from Decca and Columbia to the first SP records (with Flat response). By using these individual adjustment knobs, you can choose the most appropriate equalizer curve, or, alternatively, you can use the included equalizer curve sheet to customize the equalizer curve. Above all else, we use mechanical relays for switching the equalizer curve and prioritize sound quality.

Perfectly balanced non-NFB phono equalizer circuits (with MC/MM)

The differential amplifier gain has precise RIAA characteristics as a result of the balanced load circuits and uses SOULNOTE’s original perfectly balanced non-NFB circuits to eliminate the shortcomings of conventional NF and CR type circuitry. The board for each right and left channel are completely independent of each other, while the dual mono configuration creates precise and expansive spatial presentations.

Featuring a 400 VA massive toroidal transformer and high-speed non-NFB power supply

Using a extremely powerful 400 VA bifilar wound transformer as a single unit unveils the inherent potential of the GND and power supply. The combination of multiple small capacity condensers connected in parallel with a high-speed non-NFB regulator results in delicate playback that recreates a totally accurate soundscape reflecting minute sonic details, such the air rising from the stage.

Inverter function

The E-2 is equipped with an inverter function that switches between the balanced outputs’ HOT and COLD to eliminate sonic warping as a result of the circuits.

Low gain function

The E-2 features a low gain function to reduce the output level in response to the available headroom of connected preamplifiers, etc.

MONO mode

The E-2 has a Mono switch to output the left and right channels in mono.

Degaussing function (with MC/MM)

This function shortens the inputs. By enabling this feature, the phono cartridge can be effectively degaussed during record playback. It can also be used as a MUTE function when the needle settles on the record.

Balanced output

A strong, balanced output is obtained by employing a fully balanced non-NFB buffer amplifier that is even capable of driving loudspeakers.