Pro-Ject Audio Tube Box DS3 B – Phono Pre-amplifier – First Look

All Image Credit: Pro-Ject

Austria based Pro-Ject Audio Systems has launched a compact, high-quality, adjustable tube phono amplifier. The new Tube Box DS3 B comes in either black or silver, supports both MM and MC cartridges and uses one tube per channel. It provides a wide range of fixed and variable loading options with inputs and outputs available via balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connectors.

This latest phono amplifier has a dual-mono circuit layout with discrete audiophile components and an external power supply that keeps noise and interference away from the sensitive circuitry. Additional noise mitigation is available using the common-mode rejection capabilities of the balanced 3 or 5 pin XLR connectors that support an increase in signal level of approximately 6dB with a noise reduction of approximately 10dB.

The Tube Box DS3 B supports two cartridges at the same time with input switching available via the front panel controls. Upon selection of an input its gain and loading options are recalled from memory for the last configuration.

Gain and loading options are sufficient for most MM and MC cartridges. Gains may be adjusted between 40db-65db with selectable loading options of; variable 10-1000Ω / 47kΩ and 50pF, 150pF, 300pF, 400pF. The continuously variable MC loading option is an excellent feature for real-time “tuning” of your MC cartridge. A subsonic filter of 18dB/octave starting at 20Hz is also available

Finally a 12VDC trigger I/O can receive or send “on/off” commands to the Tube Box DS3 B or other compatible products.

Features At A Glance:

Specifications:

• Tubes: 2x 6922/E88CC
• Input impedance: variable 10-1000Ω/ 47kΩ
• Input capacitance: 50pF, 150pF, 300pF, 400pF
• Gain options: 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65dB
• Output voltage (typical at 40dB): 500mV/1kHz output at 5mV/1kHz input
• Signal/noise ratio (40dB): >92dBV; 102dBV (‘A’ weighted)
• Signal/noise ratio (60dB): >78dBV; 87dBV (‘A’ weighted)
• THD at 1 kHz: <0.003% (MM), <0.02% (MC)
• THD (20Hz-20kHz): <0.005% (MM), <0.03% (MC)
• RIAA-equalization curve accuracy: 20Hz-20kHz (±0.5dB)
• Subsonic filter: at 20Hz with 18dB/octave
• Inputs: RCA, XLR, Mini XLR
• Outputs: RCA, XLR
• Trigger in/out: 12V (2.5mm jack)
• XLR wiring: 1=ground, 2=hot, 3=cold
• Outboard power supply: 18V/1000mA DC
• Power consumption: 18V max, 750mA DC, <0.5W in standby
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 206 x 91 x 227mm, 8.11 x 3.54 x 8.94”
• Mass (weight): 1,560g (3.44 lbs)

Availability:

US – December 2023

MSRP (black/silver):

• US: $1,299.00
• UK: £949.00
• EU: €1,049.00

For more information visit Pro-Ject USA or Pro-Ject EU.

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