Pro-Ject Pre Box RS2 Digital Pre-Amplifier

The Pre Box RS2 Digital is a class-leading pre-amplifier, DAC and headphone amplifier with an ultra-linear signal path and ultra-low noise. Boasting a host of connection options, it is the ideal system hub for driving high-end headphones, power amplifiers or active speakers.

Built around a very sophisticated digital stage, it boasts a dual-mono configuration of the high-class ESS Sabre ESS9038Q2M DAC chips with upsampling technology. Unlike most other DAC designs, the Pre Box RS2 Digital boasts dual DAC chips and separate signal paths for the left and right channels. This allows for the finest conversion possible and support for digital transmission up-to 32-bit / 768kHz PCM and DSD512 over USB. There’s also full authorisation and hardware/software support for Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) audio files, and Roon Tested certification for quick integration into a Roon-based system. To handle all this complexity, the Pre Box RS2 Digital’s USB input is processed by a powerful multi-core XMOS microcontroller with advanced Multi-Core RISC architecture. The CPLD MAX II (Complex Programmable Logic Device) Altera is used for re-clocking, which together with the XMOS microcontroller brings high-quality processing of both classical and MQA technology.

In addition to the extensive USB options, the Pre Box RS2 Digital can also connect directly to the matching CD Box RS2 T via a proprietary HDMI connection that carries I²S and the master clock (16,9344 MHz) signal. There are also additional optical, coaxial, AES/EBU and wireless Bluetooth (v4.0) digital connections as well as two analogue inputs (balanced and unbalanced) for connection to more traditional devices.

For sound personalisation, the Pre Box RS2 Digital offers a switchable solid-state / 6922 tube output stage. Then there are also eight (8) digital filters, including the proprietary optimal transient digital filter designed by the creators of MQA, for further customisation of the end performance.

At the output stage, both the pre-amplifier and headphone amplifier outputs are treated with equal care. For the headphone amplifier, there has been absolutely no compromises made. There are no coupling capacitors – not even on the output – and though the whole amplifier is DC coupled there is a very fast DC servo that assures no DC voltage on the output for absolute signal integrity. The output power is also suitable for all kinds of headphones. The pre-amplifier output is equipped with RXA and XLR connection options for any high-end system.

For ease of use, the Pre Box RS2 Digital is equipped with a large LCD display that matches the CD Box RS2 T design. Control is best achieved with the supplied aluminium IR remote, where the extensive setting options menu can be navigated with ease. The Pre Box RS2 Digital is a truly complete solution, and is available in high-quality aluminium black or silver finish.