Pro-Ject recently launched their stunning DS2 Range, and we decided to take a look at the Pre Box DS2 Digital, which is currently on demonstration in our Dungannon Branch.
The Pre Box DS2 Digital is a small, compact design, so is ideal for anyone who is tight for space, and comes in silver with walnut side panels or Black with Eucalyptus side panels, so will work with most rooms and match beautifully to a wide range of speakers.
The Pre Box DS2 is the perfect music hub, allowing you the flexibility of using a vast range of sources, thanks to its built-in phono stage, Bluetooth receiver and 32 bit DSD capable DAC, it is perfect for anyone currently using, or even wants to dabble into the digital or analog world.
Another nice feature of the Pre Box DS2 is its separate headphone amplifier, allowing you even further flexibility with how you want to listen.
The Pre Box DS2 comes with an array of digital inputs, including coax, optical and USB for playback of high-resolution music files up to 32-bit /768 kHz PCM and DSD256 (DoP). The AK4490 from Asahi Kasei Microdevices is a high-end converter with five digital filters built-in for further tailoring of the sound, and all PCM signals are up-sampled to 768kHz for optimal fidelity and minimal signal loss. Similarly, the AK4137EQ sample-rate converter features three “sound modes” for ultimate personalisation.
Adding to this the Pre Box DS2 also comes with aptX® Bluetooth receiver for high-quality music streaming from Bluetooth enabled devices.
Moving onto the Analogue side of the Pre Box DS2, as mentioned before it comes with a built-in phono stage, capable of working with both MM & MC Cartridges! A simple switch on the front panel allows you to choose your desired set up and off you go, no need for complicated switching modes between MM & MC. It also comes with a Subsonic filter which adds a roll-off filter, for use in complicated environments.
It's not all about the inputs, however, as the Pre Box DS2 also comes with an array of output options, including one fixed and one variable analogue out, sub out, and as mentioned before a 6.3mm headphone jack. There is even an addition +6dB Gain boost for even further impact.
The Pre Box DS2 can be matched up with Pro-Jects Amp Box (Stereo) or the Amp Box DS2 Mono if mono blocks are what you are after.
One of the key things we like about the Pre Box DS2 Digital is its flexibility. It gives you the opportunity to use an array of music sources and gives you the chance to explore the option of streaming without the need to cost yourself a fortune if it's not for you. Having the option to move quickly between digital and analogue sources, makes the Pre Box DS2 desirable to a wide range of people, and allows you to sit back and enjoy what you are listening to without any of the hassles.