Lecteur CD Pro-Ject CD BOX DS3

This new Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 CD player replaces the manufacturer’s previous Box DS2 model. It also retains the Box DS2’s extremely compact dimensions and ergonomic design.

PRO-JECT CD BOX DS3: FRONT PANEL

The anti-resonance aluminum chassis features a black or natural aluminum front panel.

In the center is a slot revealing the “Slot-In” mechanism. This means there is no tray; you simply insert the CD and the player pulls it in. This may seem a bit basic, but it helps minimize the number of moving mechanical parts—including the tray.

Below the slot are four push buttons that provide access to basic functions (play, stop, and previous and next track). Other functions are available via the included infrared remote control.

Track and time information is displayed 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 rear of this CD player offers a very simple yet sufficient set of connections: a stereo analog RCA output and two digital outputs—one SPDIF coaxial and one Toslink optical.

The Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 CD player is powered by an external 18V DC power supply.

PRO-JECT CD BOX DS3: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 player is equipped with an excellent PCM1796 digital-to-analog converter from Texas Instruments. This DAC operates at 32 bits and 384 kHz, ensuring precise and high-performance 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 improve sound reproduction.

The drive supports CDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and Hybrid SACDs (CD layer only). All functions are accessible via the remote control included as standard.

It’s worth noting that Pro-Ject has reworked the decoupling and isolation of the mechanical section to optimize playback accuracy.

PRO-JECT CD BOX S3: TEST AND LISTENING

The sound reproduction is surprisingly neutral and refined. The music fills the room with ease, dynamics, and realism.

The transparency is equally impressive, as is the overall balance, which is exceptionally well-achieved.

The Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 is an excellent CD player that meets audiophile standards and is very easy to set up. It pairs perfectly with Pro-Ject integratedamplifiers.

Its musicality and neutrality allow it to be paired with a wide range of audio components.

The fact that this CD player is designed exclusively for playing audio CDs also demonstrates the great importance that Pro-Ject (like many others) still attaches to this format, which has

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying the Pro-Ject CD Box DS3 CD Player

What type of drive mechanism does it use?

A slot-in drive mechanism with no tray: you simply insert the CD and the player pulls it in. This design minimizes the number of moving mechanical parts. Pro-Ject has also improved the decoupling and isolation of the mechanical components.

What are its connectivity options?

The rear panel features an RCA stereo analog output and two digital outputs: one SPDIF coaxial and one Toslink optical. Power is supplied via an external 18V DC power supply.

What DAC does this player use, and what filters does it offer?

It features the Texas Instruments PCM1796 converter operating at 32-bit/384 kHz, with the ability to switch between IIR and FIR digital filters to fine-tune the sound reproduction according to your listening preferences. Our guide on how to choose the right CD player details these criteria.

What devices should you pair it with?

It pairs perfectly with Pro-Ject integrated amplifiers, but its neutral sound makes it suitable for a wide range of setups. Real wood side panels are available separately (Pro-Ject DS2 series panels).