Pro-Ject Tube Box DS phono preamplifier

The Pro-Ject Tube Box DS phono preamplifier has been replaced by the Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 phono preamplifier.

Pro-Ject's new Tube Box DS is in direct lineage with the famous Tube Box SE II. It builds on the main elements that have contributed to its success with a few significant improvements in terms of technology and ergonomics. It features triode ECC-83/12AX7 tubes selected for greater silence in operation and for better musical quality. It has a dual mono architecture and only uses audiophile components and low noise semi-conductors. The back panel features the standard RCA input and output terminations, as well as the essential ground connector.

Using DIP switches, it is possible to switch a subsonic filter by seeking the acoustic feedback in the low frequencies. Using the same principle, it is possible to select the gain level for 40, 50 or 60 dB. The beautiful brushed aluminium front panel is adorned with a great potentiometer for the selection and control of impedance from 10 to 1,000 ohms. The housing is made of non-magnetic steel that protects the components from electromagnetic interference. As usual, the power supply is an outboard system and is included, though it requires an 18 VDC power supply to ensure that the system will operate fully and dynamics that surpass the previous model.

As always with Pro-Ject, the build quality is impeccable. This phono preamplifier is among the cheapest tube phono preamps on the market. However, in terms of efficiency, it is on par with competitor products that are sold for twice the price. The dynamics are perfect, making the music very punchy. The timbre is precise and not as colourful as other tube products. The sound stage is wide and deep and precise, even on complex pieces of music. We paired it with a midrange MC cartridge (€400) and were surprised by the level of transparency and presence. The vocals are clear and precise, with no harshness and projection. It works wonders with jazz trios, and more specifically on double bass sections that are well articulated and very clear. This phono preamplifier will perfectly blend in with ambitious systems, it will drive great cartridges, moving magnet and moving coil models alike. A multipurpose phono preamplifier that boasts outstanding musicality and unrivalled simplicity of use. Our top pick...