If you’re looking for an affordable way to listen to your record collection, there’s a new option in the SoulBox S1 from QlearSoul. The system includes a turntable, Bluetooth streaming support and bookshelf speakers, all wrapped in a warm wood finish and typically retails in the $250 range.
Making Setup as Easy as Possible
Listening to records with true stereo sound is the ideal setup. However, many people make compromises early on and end up with a system that lacks this capability. A “suitcase-style” portable record player, or a turntable plugged into a portable speaker delivering mono sound, for example.
There are many reasons why someone might find themselves in this position. A component system with a receiver or amplifier, PHONO pre-amp, turntable and speakers can be an expensive proposition and then there’s the challenge of matching components that are going to look good and, more importantly, sound good together. Space is often an issue. And then there’s the complexity of setting up a component system and a turntable. For someone who’s not comfortable with working with audio equipment, this prospect can be daunting.
With the SoulBox S1, QlearSoul aimed at eliminating these barriers. Both the PHONO pre-amp and the system amplifier are built into the turntable. That means stereo sound with only one power supply (the bookshelf speakers are not powered) and all that’s needed is to connect the speakers to the turntable with the included cables. The turntable itself is shipped largely assembled, including having the cartridge pre-mounted on the tonearm. You’ll need to attach the counterweight, balance the tonearm and set the anti-skate dial, attach the belt and platter, then slip the plastic cover on the pre-installed hinges. Clear instructions are included, no tools are required and this should be a five or 10 minute exercise that only needs to be done once.
A Proven Cartridge
Many entry level record players and turntables keep costs down by using a generic cartridge and/or stylus. Doing so does help to keep the price down, but at the cost of sound quality. A cheap stylus that tracks too heavily can also physically damage a record, which is the last thing you want to do.
QlearSoul went with the Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge, plus an adjustable counterweight and antiskate. The AT-3600L is a popular, budget-friendly offering from a leading audio brand. It’s known for providing an entertaining listen while helping to minimize skips from used records. With millions of these sold, it’s easy to find a replacement stylus.
Two-way Bookshelf Speakers
The speakers included with this system are each equipped with a 2-inch silk dome tweeter for crisp high notes with 4.5-inch fiberglass cones covering the mid-range and bass.
QlearSoul SoulBox S1 Key Specs:
- Bluetooth 5.0 input
- Integrated, switchable PHONO preamp
- S-shaped tonearm with an Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge
- Adjustable counterweight and antiskate
- Belt drive, 2-speed turntable with auto-stop function
- 2.6 lb die-cast iron platter
- RCA output jacks
- Integrated stereo amplifier with volume control
- 2-way bookshelf speakers
- 2-inch silk dome tweeters, 4.5-inch fiberglass cones
- Removable black cloth speaker grills
- Wood finish for turntable and speakers
- Turntable measures 16.3 x 13.4 x 5.5 inches, speakers each measure 6.4 x 6.2 x 9.8 inches, total system weight 21 lbs
- Includes clear plastic dust cover lid for turntable, slip mat, 45 adapter
An Emphasis On Versatility
QlearSoul describes the SoulBox S1 as “an entry-level audiophile system designed for ultimate versatility.” To that end, the SoulBox S1 fills the role of a turntable connected to a pair of bookshelf speakers allowing users to listen to their records in true stereo sound. Its Audio-Technica AT-3600L cartridge has a reputation as a solid all-round performer and its stylus can be upgraded should you want to take the sound of records up a notch. For that matter, if you happen to buy a component stereo system later on, you can use this as a pure turntable that feeds into that system, thanks to its switchable pre-amp and RCA output jacks.
With the SoulBox S1’s built-in Bluetooth connectivity, you can go digital and wirelessly stream music from your favorite platform from your phone, tablet, or PC–enjoying the tracks in stereo.
The bottom line is the QlearSoul SoulBox S1 provides a budget-friendly entry to records, with true stereo sound and support for Bluetooth wireless music streaming. All in a package that’s compact, easy to set up and wrapped in a warm, wood-look finish.
Disclosure: QlearSoul provided a SoulBox S1 for evaluation purposes but had no input into this article.
