M-3H

User Guide

MONOBLOCK POWER AMPLIFIER

Table of Contents
Safety Precautions................................................................................................3
Features of This Product......................................................................................6
Before Installation.................................................................................................8
Installation Procedure...........................................................................................9
Front Panel Names and Functions..................................................................... 11
Rear Panel Names and Functions......................................................................12
Troubleshooting..................................................................................................13
Maintenance.......................................................................................................13
Specifications......................................................................................................13

Supplied Accessories• Power cable............................................... 1• Hex wrench (for special rack)..................... 1• Speaker cables.......................................... 2• Spike pins (for special rack)....................... 3• Special rack................................................ 1• Hex wrench (for spike pins)........................ 1• Poles (for special rack)............................... 3• Installation plate*........................................ 1• Fixing washers (for special rack)................ 3• Plate fixing tape*........................................ 6• Fixing screws (for special rack).................. 3* This is supplied only with products whose serial number
ends with “A”.

• User Guide (this manual)........................... 1

2

Safety Precautions

CAUTIONRISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICEPERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosurethat may be of sufﬁcient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to thepresence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literatureaccompanying the product.

WARNINGTO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.

A warning that an apparatus with CLASS I construction shall be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with aprotective earthing connection.

3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONSREAD BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT

This product was designed and manufactured to meet strict quality and safety standards.
There are, however, some installation and operation precautions which you should be particularly aware of.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and thepoint where they exit from the apparatus.
10. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
11. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, orsold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged
in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into
the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been
dropped.
14. Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.

CAUTION:•

To completely disconnect this product from the mains, disconnect the plug from the wall socket outlet.
The mains plug is used to completely interrupt the power supply to the unit and must be within easy
access by the user.

•

Never use the unit with any other cord except the supplied power cord.

NOTE ON USE
WARNINGS• Avoid high temperatures.
Allow for sufficient heat dispersion when installed in a rack.
• Handle the power cord carefully.
Hold the plug when unplugging the cord.
• Keep the unit free from moisture, water, and dust.
• Unplug the power cord when not using the unit for long periods of time.
• Do not obstruct the ventilation holes.
• Do not let foreign objects into the unit.
• Do not let insecticides, benzene, and thinner come in contact with the unit.
• Never disassemble or modify the unit in any way.
• Ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items, such as newspapers, tablecloths or curtains.
• Naked flame sources such as lighted candles should not be placed on the unit.
• Observe and follow local regulations regarding battery disposal.
• Do not expose the unit to dripping or splashing fluids.
• Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the unit.
• Do not handle the mains cord with wet hands.
• When the switch is in the OFF position, the equipment is not completely switched off from MAINS.
• The equipment shall be installed near the power supply so that the power supply is easily accessible.

4

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We declare under our sole responsibility that this product, to which this declaration relates, is in conformity with the following
standards:
EN60065, EN55032, EN55020.
Following the provisions of Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and EMC Directive 2014/30/EU.

A NOTE ABOUT RECYCLING:
This product’s packaging materials are recyclable and can be reused. Please dispose of any materials
in accordance with the local recycling regulations. When discarding the unit, comply with local rules orregulations.
Batteries should never be thrown away or incinerated but disposed of in accordance with the local
regulations concerning battery disposal. This product and the supplied accessories, excluding the batteries,
constitute the applicable product according to the WEEE directive.

CAUTIONS ON INSTALLATION

*

*

*

*

Wall
Wand
Paroi
Parete* For proper heat dispersal, do not install this unit in a confined space, such as a bookcase orsimilar enclosure.
• Leave sufficient clearance (at least 10 cm) from the wall, (at least 5 cm) from top surface of the unit.
• Do not place any other equipment on this unit.

5

Features of This ProductA single push-pull output stage owing to the 4-stage Darlingon can-type transistor

We determined that a single-ended & single push-pull configuration was essential in achieving an emotionalmusical experience, and thus eliminated “bleeding in the microscopic time domain”, often symbolized as an
improvement in sound quality through high-end clocks. We still, however, were presented with a problem inthat single push-pull configurations typically could not provide high levels of current. In order to address this,we created M-3 , featuring an industrial-grade can-type output transistor with a relatively small Cob yet large
current flow. We decided on a 4-stage Darlington configuration, and, for the driver stage, adopted the same
output stage transistor used in the A-2 as this transistor can easily drive the large capacity can.

Bus bar and copper plate heat sink integrated design

For the main heat sink, a copper plate heat sink that is lightweight and compact to an extent not possible
in conventional high output amplifiers was adopted. This heat sink also functions as a bus bar to power the
can-type transistor. The terminals of the can-type transistor are mounted directly to the circuit board provided
underneath and pass through the bus bars. This eliminates the need for wiring—a drawback of conventional
can-type transistors, and removes instability otherwise caused by inductance components while also eliminating
any deterioration in sound quality otherwise caused by insulating sheets used to dampen the device. Further,
the sound quality aspects such as transparency and the feeling of openness are greatly improved owing to
the heat sink being physically separated from the chassis. We proudly call this heat sink “a kill three birds with
one stone” design.

Voltage amplification stage employs a non-negative feedback (NFB) differential
circuit (new Type-R circuit) redesigned specifically for power amplifiersThis product is equipped with a differential circuit without any gain, an emitter follower, and a single transistor
that provides full voltage swing amplification. The load resistance in this transistor is a “ground one-stage
amplification single-ended non-NFB circuit” that connects only to the ground. This new type-R circuit was
created using only four bipolar transistors and ten resistors to extract ideal full swing output across a wide
spectrum, even though this configuration is substantially the same as that used for single ended tube amplifiers.
This ideal non-NFB circuit is the benchmark that all other such hi-end products will be measured against.

Extremely simple configuration

The M-3E was born from our realization that large current power amplifiers should be dedicated to a single
function. The M-3 features just one input terminal and one pair of speaker terminals. This product is a singlefunction monoblock power amplifier and is free of selectors and attenuators, in effect achieving a virtuallyswitch-free design. The signals input from the XLR terminal travel directly to the base of the first stage transistor,
undergo single stage amplification, and then are output via a single push-pull circuit. The only component tobe operated is the power switch. Rest assured, this product contains no unnecessary circuits or components
whatsoever, such as a microcontroller.

Ultra-low copper loss 1600 VA non-epoxy resin-filling toroidal power transformer

We developed a large power transformer that is carriable by one person alone. This massive power transformer
is mounted vertically to the front panel so that any leakage flux travels parallel to the circuit board, and thepower transformer is both suspended on titanium washers and grounded by a single spike pin located directly
underneath, thereby ensuring that harmful vibrations do not get transmitted to the chassis.

6

High-speed non-NFB power supply

For the commutating capacitors , specially selected and nominal 470 uF high resistance, small capacity, andlow magnification foil-type filter capacitors are adopted. By optimizing capacity in accordance with the numberof capacitors used and minimizing the load of the power transformer, regulation in this extremely powerful powertransformer is further improved in real-terms. The rectifier diode uses newly adopted SiC diodes with the latest
specs in which the allowable inrush current value has been bolstered. The result of this is an unimaginably
powerful and fast power supply configuration.

Amplifier container totally separated from the main chassis, the amplifier container
and the main chassis each being supported by three spike pins

Three spike pins support the main body and another three spike pins support the amplifier container for a totalof six spike pins in the M-3. While keeping the amplifier container and the main chassis completely physicallyseparated from each other, the power supply line from the power transformer has been shortened to eliminate
any negative impact related to vibrations or leakage from the transformer. The breathtaking sound quality
achievable by this ideal construction can be experienced by removing the transportation screws. Rest assured,
the top cover, AC adapter, speaker terminals, input terminal, and bottom cover are all non-rigid parts .

• For more detailed information, refer to our website or Facebook page.
https://www.kcsr.co.jp/eu_soulnote.html

7

Before Installationn Removing transport cushions
When unboxing this product, be sure to remove the transport cushions.
With the pads left attached, the intended audio quality of this product cannot be fully enjoyed.
(2) Remove the rear cover cushion (red) by pulling the rear covercushion towards the rear panel side.

(3) Remove the spike pin protective caps. (two rubber caps per spike pin).
Note: After removing the caps, be sure to handle this product with extreme care. The
tips of the spike pins are extremely sharp and can cause unexpected bodily
harm and damage to your surroundings such as shelving, floors, and so on.
(1) In order to prevent damage to your surroundings, stand this productupright with the cushion plate for protecting the front panel during
unboxing left attached.
Cautions• In interest of placing the utmost priority on the sound quality of this product, the top cover, the bottom cover,and the rear terminal panel are intentionally left unsecured.
• This product may make a noise when it is picked up but rest assured, this is not an abnormality.
• When transporting this product, reinsert the transport cushions into their original locations and put thisproduct back into the box.
• The tips of the spike pins are extremely sharp. After removing the transport caps, exercise sufficient caution
to prevent bodily harm. Also, be sure to use the special rack that comes with this product to prevent the
spikes from damaging the surfaces of your surroundings such as tables, shelving, floors, and so on.

n Special rack assembly
Attach poles to the supplied special rack (three locations).
• Attach the poles to the flat surface side.
• The side on which the area around the holes is recessedis the top side (the side on which you install this product).
Attach the fixing washers and the fixing screws from thisside.

Attach the poles at three locations.

Fixing screw
Fixing washer
Pole

Specialrack

Top side

Specialrack

Spike pin

Note: To avoid a situation where the spike pins cause deep scratching to a surface where this productis installed, use this product with the spikes removed. Be aware that the poles are made ofaluminum and can cause damage to the floor even if the spike pins are removed.

8

Installation Procedure
First, place the special rack and adjust the position and orientation.
After placing the special rack, place this product on the special rack.
Note: Regarding the orientation of the special rack, the side
where the two poles are located is the front side.
(1) Place the installation plate on the special rack.
Notes:• The installation plate is supplied with a serial number that
ends in the letter “A”.
• Set down the special rack and the installation plate together
in an aligned state (front surface and side surfaces) and thensecure them together with the supplied plate fixing tape .
(2) Align this product with the cushions that are affixed to theinstallation plate and then set this product down directly fromabove.
(3) In a top-down view, adjust the position of this product suchthat the outer circumference of the recessed hole of thescrew located on the rear side of the special rack aligns withthe position of the tip of the speaker terminal.
Note:• When doing so, exercise care because if this product is moved ina dragging fashion, this will cause the installation plate to move.
(4) Minutely adjust the position of this product such that thenotches of the installation plate and the position of the spike
pins of this product are aligned.
(5) Remove the plate fixing tape affixed to the installation plate
and pull the installation plate toward the front panel side.
Notes:• The tips of the spikes of this product and the special rackare extremely sharp. Exercise extreme caution to prevent
bodily harm or damage to your surroundings.
• This product is extremely heavy so exercise extreme caution
when installing this product. Failure to do so may cause
unexpected bodily harm or damage to your surroundings.

Plate fixingtape(4) Notches(three locations)
Installation plate
Plate fixing tape

Plate fixing
tape

(1)
Special rack
Front side
(3)

(2)

(2)

(5)

Note:
• If the positions of this product and the special rack
become greatly misaligned, the spike pins of theamplifier container may slide off the special rack. Should
this happen, you will be unable to enjoy the intended
sound quality of this product.
Note:• If you find that the cushions are in a detached state whenunboxing this product, please reaffix the cushions in accordancewith the L-shaped holes on the special rack.

9n Amplifier container
Cautions• At the time of purchase, the amplifier container is hung from the top surface of this product. Remove thescrews from the top surface to let down the internal amplifier container, thereby physically separating theamplifier container from this product.
Installation procedure of the amplifier container
As shown on the right, turn the screws (1) and (2) (or (3) and (4))
in the direction of the arrows to remove them.
Next, simultaneously turn the screws (3) and (4) (or (1) and (2))
in the direction of the arrows to let down the amplifier container.
Notes:• After removing the screws, check the four screw holes fromdirectly above. If the screw holes inside are greatly misalignedwith the ones on the top surface, the amplifier container might
have gone down diagonally. In such a case, the spike pins mighttouch the base plate, preventing this product from operating
sufficiently. To solve this problem, lift up this product and thenput it straight down. By lifting up this product, the placementof the amplifier container can be corrected. After putting down
this product, check the screw holes from directly above. If thescrew holes are still misaligned, repeat the procedure above.
• When lifting up this product, use the installation plate to protect
this product and the surrounding area.
Note:• When transporting this product, to secure the amplifier container,
perform the procedure above in reverse and tighten the screws all theway. Place the installation plate and the supplied cushions such thatyou can put down this product on them. Put down the front panel sideof this product on the installation plate and the corners of the rear panelside on the cushions. By doing so, the spike pins can be arranged
in a raised state, thereby correcting the placement of the amplifiercontainer. This will help you tighten screws easily.

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(3)
(1)

(2)
(4)

Front Panel Names and Functionsqw① Power Switch② Power Indicator

Press the “-“ side to turn on the power and press the“o” side to turn off the power.

Lights yellow when the power is on. Lights blue when
unmuted.

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Rear Panel Names and Functionsa

N(COLD)
L(HOT)

sa Input Terminals (XLR)
These terminals are used to input balanced audio
signals via an XLR connector cable.
Pin 2 is HOT and pin 3 is COLD.

d• Notes on the supplied speaker cables
Pay attention to the polarity of the speaker cables.
Connect the side with the CE label to the speaker terminalof this product.
+s Speaker Terminals

M-3

These terminals are used for speaker connections. To
each of these speaker terminals, 2.7-ohm or higher
speakers can be connected.

Speaker-+ Notches

Notes:• Turn off the power before connecting a cable to the
input terminal or the speaker terminal, or before
reconnecting speakers that are connected via
speaker cables.
• Due to the superior frequency characteristic of themain unit , DO NOT connect any devices otherthan speakers. Connecting a speaker selector ormeasuring equipment causes a high-frequency
connection of the input GND and the output GND,
which may result in protection circuit activation or
malfunction of the main unit.
• Whenever possible, keep the speaker cables andinput cable apart from each other.
• While each of output terminals consist of the ⊕ (red)and ⊖ (black) polarities, speaker systems also havethe ⊕ and ⊖ polarities. Be sure to connect ⊕ to⊕and ⊖ to ⊖ (except for BTL connections).
• Use the supplied speaker cables to achieve
higher audio quality.

12

Notches

None : Connect to the + terminal of the speaker.
1：Connect to the – terminal of the speaker.
2：Connect to the + terminal of the amplifier.
3：Connect to the – terminal of the amplifier.

d AC Inlet
Connect to a 220V AC wall outlet (mains) with the supplied
power cable.
Notes:• The ground terminal and the housing are not connected.
• Use the supplied power cable to achieve higher
audio quality.
Note:• When connecting the power cable to the AC
inlet, securely hold the front panel and insert
the plug all the way.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

No sound is output.
• Check that the power of the main unit is on.
• Check the connections of the external devices.
• Check that the power of the external devices is on.
• Check that the operations and settings on theexternal devices are correct.
• Check the connections of the speaker system.

Maximum output................................ 160 W (4 ohm)
Total harmonic distortion......................... 0.1% (1 W)
Frequency characteristic......2 Hz to 200 kHz (±1dB)
Input sensitivity/Impedance................... 2 V/25 kohm
Gain...................................................................22dB
Power voltage...................................220 VAC, 50 Hz
Power consumption......................................... 110 W

Maintenance
When the equipment has become dirty, wipe it clean
using a soft cloth. To remove stubborn stains, dilute
some dish-washing liquid in 5 or 6 times as muchwater, soak a soft cloth in the solution, wring it out well,
wipe away the stains, and then wipe the surfaces dry
with a dry cloth.
Never use alcohol, paint thinners, benzine, insecticides
or other volatile substances since they may mar or
remove the surface gloss.
Bear in mind that rubbing surfaces with a chemicalcleaning cloth or leaving such a cloth in contact with asurface for an extended time may result in deterioration.

36 W (when no sound)
Maximum external dimensions.................340 mm (W) x 251 mm (H) x 512 mm (D)Weight.............................................................. 31 kg

13CSR International Ltd.

Printed in Japan

10/2022 29BA851150 TM