530 Integrated Amplifier

Most integrated amplifiers combine the functions of volume control, source selection and amplification in single multi-function circuit.

Not so the Soulution 530 Integrated amplifier. It takes the uncompromising route of separate circuits, combining a dedicated reference quality preamplifier, and a dedicated reference quality power amplifier in one housing.

The audio section of the 530 is physically separated from the power supply and digital circuits. In order to reduce interferences to a minimum, these sections are additionally shielded. The power amplifier section is executed in dual-mono layout. The left and right audio channels have their own respective identical boards to deliver a channel separation of >110dB for a three dimensional sound stage.

The amplification circuit of the 530 is based on the technology of the 710 and 700 amplifiers. At its core is an innovative voltage amplification stage that consists of linearized amplifiers operating up to a cutoff frequency of 80MHz.

Current amplification is done in three stages, each with a narrow, almost linear operating range. The high Class A operation supplemented by 47,000µF of storage capacitance results in a nearly infinite impulse response. Massive copper bars on the amplifier board and to the speaker terminals ensure that all the power of the 530 is available to drive the speaker.

High-precision idle current management ensures optimal Class A operation for all conditions, without requiring any readjustment in the music signal. Optimal sound is thereby guaranteed immediately from switch on. Control circuits that protect against RF or DC signals at the input, and short circuits at the output ensure safe operation in all situations. The input level is also monitored continuously.

A total of nine power supplies – optimised for each function – feed the 530 integrated amplifier. Those supplying the digital and audio circuits are electrically isolated from each other by optocouplers and transformers. Four cutting-edge switched-mode power supplies deliver 2,400W of audiophile quality power. They feature high performance filtering at the input and output, and six high speed Soulution voltage regulators to deliver considerably more stable power than any conventional, transformer-based technology.

The 530’s volume control uses only high-precision, low-noise metal foil resistors, and it controls both the volume and balance. To block switching peaks during volume changes which may be hazardous to power amps, the 530 is equipped with a second volume control with PGA (Programmable Gain Amplifier). Active only during the volume control process, it is similar to a potentiometer and enables the volume to be adjusted smoothly without clicks. As soon as the new desired level value has been selected, the unit returns control to the precision resistors.

The Soulution 530 integrated amplifier is equipped with pre-out connections which enable subwoofers, tape recorders or other amplifiers to be driven directly by the 530’s preamplifier section, by-passing the power amplifier section.

Surround mode allows users to optimally integrate the 530 with AV systems. In surround mode, the input signal by-passes the preamplifier section without any adjustment for volume or balance.