This new Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 CD player replaces the previous Box DS2 from Pro-Ject. It retains the extremely compact dimensions and ergonomics of its predecessor.
PRO-JECT CD BOX DS3: FRONT PANEL
The anti-resonance aluminum casing is adorned with an aluminum front panel available in black or natural.
In the center, there is a slot showing the "Slot In" mechanism opening. This means there is no tray; you simply insert the CD, and the player pulls it in. This may seem somewhat basic, but it helps limit moving mechanical parts, including the tray.
Below the slot, there are 4 push buttons that provide access to basic functions (play, stop, previous track, and next track). Other functions are available via the included infrared remote control.
Track and time information is available on an LCD screen in the center of the front panel, between the buttons and the loading slot.
PRO-JECT CD BOX DS3: REAR PANEL
The back of this CD player offers very simple but sufficient connectivity: a stereo analog output on RCA and two digital outputs, one coaxial SPDIF, and one optical Toslink.
The Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 CD player is powered by an external 18V DC box.
PRO-JECT CD BOX DS3: TECHNOLOGY
The Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 is equipped with an excellent Texas Instruments PCM1796 digital-to-analog converter. This DAC operates at 32 bits and 384 kHz, ensuring precise and efficient conversion. It allows the Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 to switch between IIR and FIR digital filters. These filters use a linear digital signal processing system to enhance playback quality.
The mechanism can accept CDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and Hybrid SACDs (CD layer only). All functions are replicated on the included remote control.
Notably, Pro-Ject has reworked the decoupling and isolation of the mechanical part to optimize reading precision.
PRO-JECT CD BOX DS3: TESTING AND LISTENING
The playback is surprising in its neutrality and finesse. The music fills the room effortlessly, with dynamics and realism.
The transparency is also surprising, as well as the overall balance, which is a great success.
The Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 is an excellent CD player that meets audiophile standards and is very easy to accommodate. It perfectly complements Pro-Ject integrated amplifiers.
Its musicality and neutrality allow it to be associated with many audio components.
The fact that this CD player is exclusively designed for audio CD playback shows the great importance that Pro-Ject (like many) still attaches to this format, which still has a bright future ahead!
Highly recommended.
It is possible to add magnetic real wood side panels (Walnut, Eucalyptus, Rosenut). They are sold separately: Pro-Ject wood panels for DS2 series.
FranckDAC: Texas Instruments PCM1796
Resolution: 32-bit / 384 kHz
Compatible discs: CD, CD-R/RW, SACD-Hybrid (CD layer only)
Bandwidth: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+/- 0.15 dB)
Total harmonic distortion: 0.001
Signal-to-noise ratio : 120 dB
Output level: 2 Vrms
Accessory: remote control
Power supply: external 18VDC/1A
Power consumption: max. 1.5 A
Standby consumption: 0.5 W
Dimensions: 206 x 71 x 200 mm
Weight: 1500 g without power supply
Customer reviews
Quelle surprise !
Le CD BOX DS3 est un design petit mais très raffiné.
Le son est limpide, frais et révélateur.
Les aigus sont précis mais pas agressifs.
La base va du punchy au tellurique.
J'aime particulièrement identifier les instruments individuels et le sens du paysage sonore original.
Franck avait raison… c'est de la qualité audiophile.