Pro-Ject Audio Systems has announced three new products: the Tube Box DS3 B dual-mono phono pre-amplifier and the MC Step-Up Box DS3 B and MC Step-Up Box S3 step-up transformers.
The Tube Box DS3 B dual-mono phono pre-amplifier with valve output stage joins the range as a new, premium option for balanced turntable connections. Second, two new step-up transformers – a whole new product category for the Austrian company – join the range in the form of the MC Step-Up Box DS3 B and the MC Step-Up Box S3. Dry Type Transformer
Features of the Tube Box DS3 B include balanced input and output options (alongside unbalanced options,precise cartridge loading options via highly adjustable loading dial on the front panel, valve output stage for unique sound signature and premium components and build-quality.
Key features of the MC Step Up Box DS3 B and MC Step Up Box S3 include sound upgrade for moving coil cartridges thanks to passive amplification system, high channel separation for pure stereo integrity, Lundahl LL1678 audio transformer (MC Step Up Box DS3 B only), balanced input and output option (MC Step Up Box DS3 B only), premium components and build-quality.
The Tube Box DS3 B is a sophisticated phono pre-amplifier for MM and MC cartridges, benefitting from a dual-mono electrical layout, valve output stage and balanced connection options.
Pro-Ject’s fully adjustable impedance dial on the front panel allows for fine adjustment with moving coil cartridge systems. The Tube Box DS3 B is the first to add balanced input and output options to the mix as part of Pro-Ject’s True Balanced Connection concept. The result is an even cleaner and clearer musical performance thanks to the reduced noise and higher gain from using a balanced connection.
The Tube Box DS3 B still features RCA connection options as well, meaning users can connect two turntables or tonearms at the same time. The input settings for Loading, Gain, Capacitance, and the Subsonic filter – all accessed clearly on the front panel – are stored in the memory as users switch between RCA and XLR input options.
Pro-Ject’s load impedance dial, as featured on its other high-end phono stages, is included on the Tube Box DS3 B. This tool allows for very fine, seamless adjustment of the impedance during playback, so users can easily assess the impact of different loading options on cartridges and style of music.
The Tube Box DS3 B is made with premium components throughout, all housed in an aluminium casing that protects against interference. It benefits from an external power adapter for reduced noise and electrical interference around the sensitive electronics, but can also be upgraded further with a linear power supply upgrade.
As with other DS Line electronics, the Tube Box DS3 B can also be visually upgraded with magnetically attached wooden side panels for a more retro aesthetic.
The MC Step Up Box DS3 B is a premium step-up transformer for moving coil cartridges, particularly suited to balanced turntable connections. Step-up transformers exist to passively increase the output level of a moving coil pick-up cartridge to a level like that of a typical moving magnet design.
The level of gain achieved is defined by the winding ratio of the transformer. By making this initial gain phase entirely passive no extra power is required, and the audio signal can maintain its integrity. The further benefit is that less electrical power is now required from the phono stage, further allowing the signal to be freer of unwanted electrical noise.
The MC Step Up Box DS3 B makes use of high-quality Lundahl LL1678 audio transformers to ensure every piece of musical detail is passed through to the phono stage. For further system compatibility it is also possible to select between RCA and XLR inputs and outputs as well as choosing between two transformer ratios depending on the level of gain required.
Meanwhile, the MC Step Up Box DS3 B delivers clarity with minimal noise and distortion. Suited to both balanced and unbalanced systems, the manufacturer claims it is one of the most flexible step-up transformers available today.
The MC Step Up Box S3 is a high-quality step-up transformer for moving coil cartridges, bringing new levels of flexibility and convenience to premium analogue systems. The 1:16 transformer ratio is suited to a wide range of modern pick-ups, allowing the transformer to function as a great upgrade solution for high-end integrated amplifiers that are limited by a built-in moving magnet phono stage.
Tube Box DS3 B: £949.00 (UK SRP)
MC Step Up Box DS3 B: £799.00 (UK SRP)
MC Step Up Box S3: £399.00 (UK SRP)
Mcb Breaker All models will begin shipping during November 2023 and are distributed in the UK by Henley Audio.