Is this 110 V? Do you need to use a step up transformer?
Any Softone Model 4 tube phono preamp users out there?
Hi all,
I bought one new direct from the maker in Japan for $650 + $150 shipping on the recommendation of @lalitk who said he preferred it to a $9K Allnic.
My only comparison was a with GoldNote PH-10 with PS-10 LPS which I bought new for $3K and is the only decent quality PS I’ve owned other than the phono module installed in my T+A integrated, which is a $1750 add-on and is just OK IMO.
Sonically the GoldNote wasn’t even close so it was sold.
The Model 4 isn’t pretty, and only has 3 gain settings with predetermined loadings, but it works well with my cart and sounds amazing with NOS Mullard’s, but was good too with the stock tubes and is dead quiet.
Anyway, I was curious if there is anyone else who has one, and if so what are your impressions / what did you compare it with?
Thanks!
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@peter_s yes, but you can order 240, and no, it has a built in SUT. Gain settings: MM load resistance is 47k ohms. Only 3 options. My cart output is 0.5 mv and I use MC High/ 67dB of gain. If you email Shoichi Yoshimoto at Softone with your cart specs he will tell you if it is likely to be a good match or not. |
Thanks for your kind words. It took me a while to add all the details to my system page, I believe it serves a good reference point for me and the visitors. I can track what I’ve tried, what’s stayed, and why. When you look back months (or even years) later, it gives context and reminds you of the journey. Coming back to your post, thanks for sharing all the detail. I can tell you’re really dialed into how each tube shifts the feel of the music, and I love how you describe those listening impressions—it really brings it to life. The Mullards being the ones that let you turn it up and enjoy rather than tolerate says everything; that’s the mark of a keeper. The RCAs sound like a real hidden gem too. I hear you on the Tannoy vs. Harbeth thing—both special, but in different ways. I have heard on few occasions, they are very capable of conveying same natural honesty, but maybe with a bit more refinement in the midrange. I’ll definitely share my impressions on the Amperex Bugle Boy’s. From what I’ve read, they’re different flavors from the Mullard and Telefunken. Keeping a back up is a solid plan. And yes, that mute button—small detail, big satisfaction. Sounds like you’re in a really happy place with the M4. Honestly, that’s the best part; when a piece just clicks in your system and makes you forget about the gear. Comparing with the “10x” crowd will be fun, but you might find you’re already right where you need to be. I’m down to the final stretch of my Garrard 301 project — just waiting on the last two critical pieces to arrive. Once it’s complete, the plan is to pair it with a couple of phono stages priced under $20K to really explore if ultra high end phonos are worth the ask. |
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