Pro-Ject Audio Systems has launched the Pre Box S3, available, as usual for Pro-Ject Audio, in black and silver. Its compact size is also combined with great versatility. The Pre Box S3 features analog and digital inputs, a turntable input for MM cartridges, a subwoofer output, and an HDMI input that supports eARC. It also includes Bluetooth connectivity and a headphone output.
Compact central control unit
The new Pre Box S3 from Pro-Ject Audio Systems aims to be an easy-to-use control unit for a hi-fi system. It combines a phono amplifier, DAC, headphone amplifier, and HDMI connection with eARC in a compact aluminum housing. This makes the device suitable for all hi-fi enthusiasts, including vinyl enthusiasts, streaming music enthusiasts, and users of active speakers or separate power amplifiers.
In addition to two analog RCA line inputs, the Pre Box S3 features a high-quality turntable input for MM cartridges with 45 dB gain, reliably bringing even low-output cartridges up to the desired level. This makes the device ideal for users who consider vinyl an integral part of their system without the need for an external phono preamplifier.
The specified S/N ratio is 110 dB (120 dB, A-weighted) and the channel separation is 72 dB at 10 kHz. Pro-Ject Audio claims a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz at -0.4 dB. The enclosure dimensions are 206 x 55 x 153 millimeters (W x H x D). The depth, including the connections, is 176 millimeters.
DA converter for signal conversion up to 24-bit/192 kHz
On the digital front, the Pre Box S3 offers coaxial and optical S/PDIF inputs, an asynchronous USB-C port, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX and aptX HD. It also features an HDMI port with eARC and HDMI CEC, allowing direct connection to a TV. This means the Pre Box S3 can integrate not only classic hi-fi components but also modern entertainment sources into a stereo setup.
The Pre Box S3 features a DAC based on the Cirrus Logic CS4344, which can process signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz. Pro-Ject uses a dual-mono design to ensure clean channel separation and stable signal transmission. This is particularly beneficial in setups where multiple digital sources, such as a CD drive, network player, or television, need to be used without an additional DAC.
Analog volume control and headphone amplifier
A key feature of the Pre Box S3 is its fully analog volume control with a motorized volume knob (potentiometer). This design not only allows for precise volume adjustment but also convenient remote control without digitally affecting the signal path.
The preamplifier concept is complemented by an integrated headphone amplifier capable of driving headphones with impedances between 16 and 600 ohms, supporting even the most demanding models. At 32 ohms, 2 x 70 mW of power is available.
For analog music signal output, the Pre Box S3 offers a variable RCA output for power amplifiers or active speakers. There’s also a fixed line output (3.5mm jack plug) and a dedicated subwoofer output.
For custom installations, a 12V trigger output and an RS232 interface are available, allowing the device to be integrated into more complex control environments.
The Pro-Ject Audio Pre Box S3 is available in black and silver and costs just under $600.
