Vinyl records have made a major comeback in recent years, and with that resurgence comes a wide array of turntables catering to both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. The SoulBox S1 Vinyl Record Player with Stereo Speakers, from the Qlearsoul brand, is one such offering that strikes a balance between vintage charm and modern functionality. If you are looking for a stylish yet high-performance turntable system, the SoulBox S1 offers a compelling option.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things you’ll notice about the SoulBox S1 is its stunning retro design, which incorporates modern features seamlessly. The walnut finish gives it a timeless aesthetic that would look fantastic in any home, whether you’re setting up a dedicated music space or simply adding it to your living room decor. The elegant wooden frame feels solid, while the plastic and metal components are well-constructed and durable. At 21 pounds, the turntable is neither too heavy nor too light, striking a nice balance that makes it stable enough for good performance but still portable if needed.
The turntable unit itself is quite minimalistic, with a sleek, clean look. The components are arranged logically, with the 10-inch S-shaped tonearm front and center, providing a vintage appeal but with the benefit of modern engineering. The dust cover is a practical addition that helps protect the player and its components from debris, while the power adapter and the 45 RPM adapter ensure smooth operation for different vinyl sizes.
Key Features
Let’s dive into the features that truly make the SoulBox S1 stand out in the crowded turntable market.
1. Premium Audiophile System
The SoulBox S1 is not just a turntable; it’s a complete audiophile system. Paired with powerful stereo bookshelf speakers, this turntable offers a premium sound experience. The speakers themselves incorporate advanced crossovers to ensure that every note is delivered with precision, balancing the highs, mids, and bass for a rich, dynamic sound. Whether you’re playing a classic rock album or a more mellow jazz record, the speakers bring the music to life with clarity and warmth.
Additionally, the turntable features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your smart devices. This versatility is a huge bonus, as it lets you enjoy your favorite vinyl records or easily switch to streaming when you want to mix up your music options. For vinyl purists, however, the inclusion of a switchable phono preamp is an essential feature that allows for distortion-free, high-quality sound playback directly through the speakers.
2. S-Shaped Tonearm with Adjustable Counterweight
One of the standout features of the SoulBox S1 is its S-shaped tonearm. This is not just a cosmetic choice, as it plays a vital role in ensuring precise tracking of the stylus across the grooves of your vinyl records. The 10-inch arm is designed to minimize the angle of tracking error, helping reduce distortion and improve the overall sound quality.
The tonearm also features an adjustable counterweight and an anti-skating knob. These allow you to fine-tune the pressure applied by the stylus on the record, ensuring optimal tracking performance. This means that you’ll experience fewer skips and distortion, even when playing delicate or older vinyl records. The inclusion of the AT-3600L cartridge ensures that the stylus delivers consistent, high-quality sound with every play.
3. Precision Speed Control and Stability
For vinyl records to play at their best, maintaining a consistent and stable speed is essential. The SoulBox S1 features a next-generation DC motor and a belt-driven system to provide smooth and reliable operation. It offers precision control at both 33 RPM and 45 RPM, the standard speeds for most vinyl records.
The 1.2kg die-cast iron platter adds to the turntable’s stability, ensuring that your records are played at the correct speed with minimal vibrations. This helps maintain the integrity of the sound, preventing any wobbling or fluctuations that could negatively affect playback quality. Whether you’re listening to a slow, intricate jazz record or a fast-paced rock album, the SoulBox S1 maintains a steady, accurate speed.
4. Convenience and Versatility
While the SoulBox S1 is designed with audiophiles in mind, it also takes into consideration the needs of beginners and casual listeners. The quick start guide makes setup easy for those new to turntables, and the included user manual ensures that you have all the information you need to maintain your system.
The inclusion of both stereo bookshelf speakers and Bluetooth streaming capabilities makes the SoulBox S1 a highly versatile option for various listening preferences. Whether you prefer the warmth of vinyl records or the convenience of streaming music, this turntable can handle both effortlessly.
The detachable speakers are another great feature, allowing for more flexible placement in your room. You can place the speakers at optimal positions for the best sound quality, or if you prefer, you can connect external speakers or sound systems via the built-in phono preamp.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the SoulBox S1 is one of its strongest points. The 25mm silk dome tweeter ensures clear, detailed highs that don’t sound harsh or shrill, while the 130mm fiberglass cone provides warm, rich mids. The bass is tight and punchy, thanks to the advanced crossover technology, which ensures that the speakers deliver a balanced, dynamic sound.
Whether you’re listening to a classic rock album or something more experimental, the SoulBox S1 provides a warm and engaging listening experience. The tonearm’s precision tracking, combined with the advanced speaker design, creates a high-quality analog sound that rivals more expensive turntables.
Price and Value for Money
At a price of around $259.98, the SoulBox S1 offers excellent value for money. It’s priced competitively for a turntable that includes both a built-in preamp and high-quality stereo speakers. The additional features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, precision speed control, and a premium audiophile setup, make it a solid investment for both beginners and seasoned vinyl collectors.
The SoulBox S1 Vinyl Record Player is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a high-quality turntable with a retro aesthetic and modern features. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the world of vinyl or a seasoned audiophile looking for an affordable but impressive system, the SoulBox S1 delivers on both style and performance. With its powerful stereo speakers, advanced tonearm, and versatile connectivity, it offers a rich, dynamic sound that’s perfect for enjoying your favorite records in style.
For those who want a turntable that combines nostalgia with modern convenience, the SoulBox S1 is a standout option that shouldn’t be overlooked.
