Pro-Ject Phono Box RS2
Fully balanced dual-mono phono preamplifier, compatible with MM and MC cartridges, with gain and impedance adjustable according to the source used.
Description
The Phono Box RS2 is a high-end phono preamplifier from Pro-Ject, designed to interface a turntable fitted with a moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) cartridge with a hi-fi system. It succeeds the Phono Box RS and retains its dual-mono architecture, while incorporating higher-grade components to improve overall performance.
Its structure is made up entirely of discrete components, arranged in a symmetrical dual-mono layout to maximise left and right channel separation and limit distortion. The preamplification stage is built around an Analog Devices SSM2019 circuit, supported by a Linear Technology LT1010 gain stage. RIAA and DECCA equalisation is achieved entirely passively, with RIAA curve tracking accuracy of 0.4 dB across the 20 Hz - 20 kHz range. Input impedance is adjustable from 10 to 1000 ohms, and capacitance can be set to eight values between 50 and 400 pF, allowing the unit to be precisely matched to the requirements of the cartridge in use. Gain is also adjustable, with several levels available on both RCA and XLR outputs, in both MM and MC configurations. A subsonic filter at 20 Hz, with an 18 dB per octave slope, can be switched on or off as needed. A left-right balance control also allows correction of level differences between channels, a common occurrence with certain stereo cartridges.
This preamplifier is aimed at audiophiles with a high-end turntable who wish to make full use of the potential of an MM or MC cartridge, whatever the model, thanks to the wide range of adjustments on offer. The balanced XLR outputs, alongside the conventional RCA outputs, are particularly well suited to systems seeking a differential connection to the amplifier.
Technical specifications
| Preamplification stage | Analog Devices SSM2019 |
| Gain stage | Linear Technology LT1010 |
| Variable input impedance | 10 - 1000 ohms |
| Adjustable capacitance | 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 pF |
| Output impedance | 50 ohms |
| MC gain RCA | 60, 63, 66, 70 dB |
| MC gain XLR | 66, 69, 72, 77 dB |
| Signal to noise ratio MM (40dB, 10mV) | 89 dB A-wt |
| Signal to noise ratio MC (60dB, 1mV) | 79 dB A-wt |
| Total harmonic distortion MM | < 0.0015 % |
| Total harmonic distortion MC | < 0.0024 % |
| RIAA curve tracking accuracy | 0.4 dB / 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Subsonic filter | 20 Hz - 18 dB/Octave |
| Mains voltage | 110 - 240V, 50/60 Hz |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 206 x 72 x 200 mm |
| Weight | 1.6 kg (excluding power supply unit) |
What to check before buying used
The external +/- 20V/3A DC power supply unit is separate from the main chassis: check that it is present and in working order, as the unit cannot function without it. Also check that the RCA and XLR connectors hold securely, and that the impedance, capacitance and gain adjustment switches, which are used every time the cartridge is changed, are stable. A listening test on both channels will confirm that the balance control and gain stage have not drifted over time.
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