Discrete Circuitry
A discrete circuit is composed of electronic components that are separate, individual devices – also called ‘discrete’ components. These are ‘passive” components (like resistors, capacitors and inductors) as well as ‘active’ ones, in this case, transistors. The opposite of this would be an integrated circuit with operational amplifiers (op-amps) in the signal chain. Countless hours worth of listening tests and years of experience have shown us how to make a neutral, natural, dynamic, and vivid sound. Standard phono pre-amplifiers with integrated circuits have tens or hundreds of components, but discrete designs employ hundreds or thousands of components by comparison. That makes for an extended and more costly design process but results in the best sound for your money.
Fully Balanced
Phono Box RS2 employs a true fully balanced design principle. Balanced transmissions consist of a hot and cold (also called + and -) signal. Both the + and – signal chains effectively carry the same musical information. A truly balanced amplifier can now extract the final musical information out of the +/- signals and subtract (remove) all noise that could potentially be added along with the transmission. In a true, fully balanced amplifier like Phono Box RS2, the + and – sections of both the left and right channels are treated individually, which doubles the amplifier sections as a result.
Split Passive EQ
Phono Box RS2 uses split passive equalization for both its RIAA and DECCA curves. This is more costly to design and implement but ensures the most accurate representation of the ideal EQ curve. Split passive equalization allows for better impedance matching and lower deviation from the ideal RIAA or DECCA curve.
Numerous Cartridge Loading Options
No other phono preamp in the world offers the gain flexibility of Phono Box RS2. A huge range from 40dB (voltage amplification by 100x) up to 70dB (voltage amplification by 3690x) is possible. Load impedance can be set on the fly via a potentiometer – a system invented by Pro-Ject Audio Systems. It allows you to seamlessly adjust impedance during playback and immediately assess the impact of various loading options. By nature, cartridges suffer from small imbalances between the left and right channels. To correct this, Phono Box RS2 also introduces a new feature that is rare in this price category. A potentiometer allows you to adjust to the exact center of the sound stage in a range of 2dB to the left or right.
Steel/Aluminium Chassis
The Phono Box RS2 has a steel chassis that is covered by aluminum panels. This construction delivers great rigidity and splendid isolation from interference.
Power Box RS2 Phono – linear power supply upgrade
An outboard power supply with linear construction is even better, because it can offer much cleaner power. When you want to manufacture such clean and really high-end power supplies, you have to use a transformer with a very low core saturation and preferably with shielding between primary and secondary windings. Obviously, such a transformer becomes larger than one would expect. Also, much more expensive. That is why such a power supply requires a cabinet the size of the Phono Box RS2 itself. Our Power Box RS uni 1- & 4-way will be another step up for your Phono Box RS2 performance.
MM and MC capable
Fully balanced true dual mono design
Fully discrete hardware design no op-amps
Fully passive RIAA and DECCA equalisation
Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs and outputs
Continuously variable input impedance loading and channel balance control for precise cartridge matching (adjustable while playing)
Input impedance fixed 47 kohms variable 10 – 1000 ohms
Load capacity switchable 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 pF
Gain MM (RCA) 40 43 46 50 dB (+6 dB using XLR)
Gain MC (RCA) 60 63 66 70 dB (+6 dB using XLR)
Signal to noise ratio
MM (40 dB) 89 dB A weighted (10 mV)
MC (60 dB) 79 dB A weighted (1 mV)
Total harmonic distortion
MM (40 dB, 1 kHz) <0.0015%
MC (60 dB, 1 kHz) <0.0024%
RIAA accuracy within ±0.4 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
Subsonic filter 20 Hz at 18 dB per octave
Inputs RCA and XLR
Outputs RCA and XLR
Power supply 20 V / 3 A DC 110–240 V 50/60 Hz
Power consumption max 350 mA DC
Metal casing protects against vibration and interference
Available in silver or black
Dimensions W x H x D 206 x 72 x 200 mm (230 mm incl. sockets)
Weight 1600 g without power supply
