Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 DAC

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 represents the pinnacle of the Pro-Ject Box series, incorporating technology from the original DAC Box RS while undergoing numerous modifications and enhancements to deliver remarkable musicality and connectivity.

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS2: FRONT PANEL

The front panel has been completely redesigned for improved ergonomics. At its center, a large LCD screen displays all source information and provides access to a navigation menu using four small buttons on the right for device configuration.

To the right, there is a toggle switch for power on/off.

What sets the Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 apart from other DACs is the option to select between a triode tube stage (6922) or a transistor output stage via the menu.

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS2: REAR PANEL

The rear panel reveals a plethora of connections. The DAC Box RS2 offers an impressive array of 6 digital inputs across 5 different formats. These include two Toslink optical inputs, one coaxial SPDIF input, one AES/EBU 110 Ohm input, one i2s (HDMI) input, and one USB 2.0 Type B input.

Additionally, it features a pair of RCA outputs and a pair of balanced XLR outputs.

The AES/EBU input and the I2S interface optimize playback with the Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 T CD drive.

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS2: CONVERTER

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 is equipped with one converter per channel, featuring the highly regarded SABRE ESS90S8 Q2M DACs, which are typically found in units costing significantly more.

This DAC supports resolutions up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD512. It can decode all sampling rates up to 192 kHz (HiRes) with resolutions of 16, 24, and 32 bits in fully asynchronous mode, and up to 768 kHz sampling rate in PCM and DSD (up to DSD512) via USB.

It is also capable of playing DSD 64 and DSD 128 files, with DSD 512 representing an exceptionally high sampling rate of 22.5792 MHz.

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS2: TESTING AND LISTENING

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 offers a highly analog-like sound reproduction, characterized by richness, presence, and precision.

Surprisingly, the transistor output stage is not aggressive or harsh but instead demonstrates a balanced and excellent timbre. Personally, the tube position is preferred, offering even greater depth and airiness while enriching the quality of the timbre.

There's also noticeable improvement in the soundstage. The XLR balanced outputs are recommended for their gains in dynamics and bandwidth.

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 addresses all digital source needs including CD players, media gateways, and streamers. Its extensive capabilities in playing digital audio files are a significant advantage. The choice between tube and transistor output stage technology adds versatility that few others offer at this price point.

The exceptional audio performance of the Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 makes it a compelling choice.

Highly recommended!