Overview

The Cayin Soul 170HA is a flagship single-ended Class A amplifier designed for both headphones and speakers. Built around Tung-Sol KT170 vacuum tubes, it delivers up to 18 watts per channel with authority and control. Combining Cayin’s three decades of vacuum tube expertise with a refined dual-chassis design, the Soul 170HA is engineered to deliver both power and musical finesse.

Tubes & Circuit Design

The amplifier’s output stage uses KT170 tubes in a single-ended Class A configuration, chosen for their linearity and rich tonal character. JJ 6SN7 dual triodes handle voltage amplification, offering low noise and balanced response, while a pair of JJ GZ34S rectifiers regulate the high-voltage supply with smooth, stable DC power. The circuit includes independently adjusted bias stages, transformer-coupled balanced outputs, and point-to-point craftsmanship, ensuring dynamic expression without compromising technical precision.

Power Supply & Construction

A separated two-box chassis design isolates the power supply from the amplifier, reducing noise and improving heat dissipation. Dual transformers independently deliver high and low voltage, while a multi-stage tube-regulated circuit ensures clean and stable power. Connectivity between the units is handled by custom silver-plated 6N copper umbilical cables with aviation-grade quick-release connectors, combining durability with ease of use. Rigid chassis materials, vibration-damping mounts, and effective shielding further minimize interference and extend product life.

Transformers & Components

All power and output transformers are designed and wound in-house, giving Cayin full control over their performance. High-purity copper wire and wide-band EI output transformers with silicon steel cores minimize distortion and preserve detail. This in-house transformer expertise is a key part of Cayin’s design philosophy, ensuring optimal synergy between the amplifier’s core components.

Listening Flexibility

The Soul 170HA offers multiple ways to shape its sound. Users can choose between Triode and Ultralinear modes, tailoring playback from smooth and intimate to bold and expansive. Dual tonality adjustment provides further refinement, with Dynamic mode emphasizing drive and contrast, while Soft mode highlights delicacy and fine detail. For headphones, three impedance-matched outputs (Low, Mid, High) allow precise pairing with different designs, from planar-magnetic to dynamic drivers.

Connectivity & Outputs

A wide range of headphone outputs are available, including 6.35 mm single-ended, 4.4 mm balanced (IEM optimised), and 4-pin XLR balanced connections. These allow the 170HA to drive a wide variety of headphones from sensitive IEMs to power hungry planars. With its transformer-coupled design, the Soul 170HA also drives speakers with the same authority, making it a versatile centerpiece for both personal and home audio systems.

Stereo speaker terminals are designed to work with 4~8 ohm speakers, making the Soul 170HA truly versatile.