Pro-Ject DAC Box RS DAC

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS DAC is replaced by the Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 DAC.

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS DAC represents the top of the range of the Pro-Ject’s Box series. It is particularly well designed and meets 99% of the needs of the music lovers.

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS: FRONT PANEL

On the front panel of this DAC, you find a power switch, a source selector, the selection of the output stage (tube or transistor) and the choice between 2 filters.

Two rows of micro-LEDs indicate the input.

What differentiates the Pro-Ject DAC Box RS from other DAC is the choice of the output stage technology. It is possible to select a tube stage (6922) or a transistor output stage via the switch situated on the front.

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS: BACK PANEL

The back of the device reveals a plethora of connectors! This DAC Box RS offers no less than 9 digital inputs on 5 different formats! There are: four Toslink optical inputs, two coaxial SPDIF, one AES/EBU 110 Ohms, one i2s (RJ45) and one type B USB input.

In addition, there is a pair of RCA outputs and a pair of XLR symmetrical outputs.

The AES/EBU input and I2S interface optimize the playback of the Pro-Ject CD Box RS CD transport.

In addition, a high quality power supply is optional: the Pro-Ject Power Box RS power.

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS: CONVERTER

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS has a converter per channel, the famous Texas Instrument PCM 192 that is find on machines worth 3 to 5 times its price!

It is able to decode all the sampling rates up to 192 khz (Hires) with 16 and 24 bits resolution in a fully asynchronous mode.

It is also able to read DS 64 and DSD 128 files.DSD 64 files represent 64 times the Compact disc’s sampling rate, i.e. 44100 Hz x 64 = 2.8224 MHz and for DSD 128 44100 x 128 = 5.6448 MHz!

PRO-JECT DAC BOX RS: TEST AND LISTENING

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS offers a very analogical sound restitution, with matter, presence and precision. Against all expectations, the transistor output is absolutely not aggressive or hard.

Quite the contrary, it presents a beautiful balance and an excellent timbre. The tube position offers more depth and ventilation.

There is also a deeper and slightly wider sound stage.

The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS DAC is a device that responds to all the problems of digital sources: CD player, media gateway, streamer... Its promises in terms of playing digital audio files are an undeniable asset. The choice in the output stage technology is also a slight advantage that no one offers at this price!

The exceptional audio performances of the Pro-Ject DAC Box RS are a real good deal for this price. Recommended!