Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube CD Player

The Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube is the latest addition to the RS2 range from the Austrian manufacturer. It features a unique output stage based on dual-triode tubes.

Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube : Housing

The Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube features an elegant all-aluminum chassis, available in silver or black finish. In the center of the front panel, a large LCD screen displays all useful information, including the artist's name and track title, if the CD contains CD-Text. In addition, it shows the time and track number. To the right of the screen are 4 buttons providing access to basic functions, but all functions related to a CD player are gathered on the aluminum remote control.

CD loading is done manually from the top of the case, as on many high-end CD players. On the top, on either side of the case, two triode tubes protrude, protected by aluminum "saucers."

Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube : Connectivity

On the back of the Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube, there are XLR outputs providing a fully balanced signal. These are paired with unbalanced RCA outputs.

In addition, there are optical and coaxial S/PDIF digital outputs. More rarely, an RS232 protocol output is present, which is only used in custom integration installations.

The CD player is powered by an external 20 V / 3000 mA DC power supply via a Mini 3-pin connector.

Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube : Mechanism

The CD Box RS2 Tube is equipped with the new CD-DA SUOS DM-3381 mechanism specifically designed for audio.

This Stream Unlimited Optical Storage is one of the few European players still developing and providing mechanisms exclusively dedicated to Red Book CD-Audio. This mechanism relies on a robust design offering low vibrations while significantly reducing Jitter and parasitic noise.

The assembly is housed in a solid and damped chassis to offer perfect playback stability. It is associated with a new BlueTiger™ CD-88 management and servo system. The CD loads from the top and is held by a magnetic clamp.

The circular lid equipped with a central handle covers the CD loading slot. This aluminum cover plate is equipped with a magnetic closure.

Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube : Technology

The Pro-Ject CD RS2 Tube is the first CD player in the RS range to be equipped with a Texas Instruments PCM1796 digital-to-analog converter (DAC) in a differential configuration. This feeds a fully balanced tube output stage.

The chosen tubes are E88CC/6922 dual triodes. This sophisticated tube buffer enriches the audio signal with the warmth and natural harmonics that only vacuum tubes can provide.

Each component has been selected to provide the best possible audio performance.

Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 Tube : Playback

The Pro-Ject CD BOX RS2 Tube surprises from the very first minutes with its exceptional sound quality and musicality. It offers dynamic and very energetic playback with remarkable transients. One also notices a precision and transparency that few CD players in this range offer with such naturalness. We find the timbre quality offered by the 6922 tubes, but as is often the case with these tubes, this is not marred by excessive coloration or "softness." However, it retains rich, organic, and warm midranges. Voices are beautifully rendered with great richness and realism. Drums, percussion, and bass are present and dynamic while offering remarkable precision without any aggressiveness. The CD Box RS Tube also offers a magnificent soundstage that truly extends in three dimensions, creating a very immersive playback experience.

The price-performance ratio of this player is quite exceptional despite its compact size. It uses the same high-end components as some competing products that are twice as expensive. Its original and unprecedented design and technology in this product range make it a unique product without competition.

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