Pro-Ject Introduces CD Box RS2 Tube – Quick Look
All Image Credit: Pro-Ject
Austrian Hi-Fi manufacturer Pro-Ject has announced a CD transport that also doubles as a CD player, the CD Box RS2 Tube. This new model joins the RS2 line with a top-loading mechanism, a pair of E88CC tubes in its output stage and an integrated DAC. The model is handmade in Europe, comes with an aluminium remote, and is available in both silver and black finishes.
At the core of the CD Box RS2 Tube is the SUOS DM-3381 Red Book drive, formerly Stream Unlimited Optical Storage (SUOS). The DM-3381 drive uses aluminium construction rather than sheet metal, which Pro-Ject says creates a low-vibration disc mechanism that dramatically reduces jitter and shields the mechanism from electromagnetic interference. The drive uses the SUOS BlueTiger CD-88 servo system for disc tracking and error correction. This latest upgrade over the CD-8- is said to employ predictive algorithms to maintain accurate data retrieval even when discs are less than pristine.
This “transport” is unusual in that Pro-Ject have also included a Texas Instruments PCM1796 DAC that operates in a fully differential configuration supporting the analog outputs that are driven by a pair of non-bypassable E88CC double-triode tubes buffers. These tubes buffer the DAC’s output to simultaneously drive both the stereo balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, with each output getting its own dedicated tube amplifier stage. Power is supplied to the CD Box RS2 Tube from an external switched mode power supply further removing chances of interference. This supply may be upgraded to the Pro-Ject’s Power Box RS2 Sources linear power supply for those seeking even lower noise power delivery.
The top loader is contained within an aluminum chassis and discs are loaded from the top, securing them with an aluminium cover plate and magnetic puck. Control is available using the supplied aluminum hand-held remote, the front panel transport buttons and LCD display that shows artist and song title and any CD-text when available.
Rear panel signal connectivity includes; 2 x XLR balanced analog out, 2 x RCA unbalanced analog out, plus 1 x TOSLINK and 1 x coaxial digital outputs for those preferring an external DAC. Control is supported using RS232.
Features At A Glance:
- NEW SUOS DM-3381 Red Book CD-DA drive
- NEW BlueTiger CD-88 Servosystem
- NEW Fully balanced tube (2x E88CC) output stage
- NEW High-End Texas Instruments PCM1796 DAC
- NEW Fully Balanced XLR output
- Top-loading CD drive with aluminium cover plate
- Magnetic clamp
- Optical & coaxial digital outputs
- LCD screen displays time, tracks, text (if available)
- Gravity design with central mass point
- Aluminium IR remote included
- Available in silver or black
- Made in Europe
Specifications:
- Supports: Red Book CD-DA
- Tubes: 2x E88CC
- Digital outputs (S/PDIF): 1 x optical (TOSlink), 1 x coaxial (RCA socket)
- Analog outputs: 1x RCA, 1 x balanced XLR
- Digital to Analog converter: PCM1796
- Outboard power supply: 20V/3000mA DC; 100 – 240V, 50/60Hz
- Power consumption: 20 W max.; <0.5W in standby
- Replacement battery remote control: 1 x CR2032 / 3V or 1 x CR2025 / 3V
- Dimensions W x H x D (D with sockets): 206 x 84 x 200 (210)mm
- Weight: 3,200g without external power supply
MSRP:
- UK: £1,749.00
- EU: €1,900.00
- US: $2,999.00
For more information visit the Pro-Ject web site.
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