Pro-Ject Phono Box RS2 Fully Balanced Discrete Phono Preamp Variable Impedance

Features:

• True Fully Balanced & Dual Mono Architecture: The Phono Box RS2 is designed with a fully balanced signal path from the input stage right through to the output connectors. This advanced approach doubles the circuitry for each channel's positive and negative signals, effectively canceling out external noise and interference picked up along the cable path. The result is superior noise rejection and dramatically improved channel separation, delivering a vastly quieter background and more expansive soundstage.
• Pure Fully Discrete Circuitry – No Op-Amps: Unlike standard phono preamplifiers that rely on inexpensive integrated circuits (Op-Amps), the RS2 uses a fully discrete design composed of individual, high-quality electronic components (transistors, resistors, capacitors). This meticulous, high-component-count approach is significantly more expensive but ensures the signal remains neutral, natural, dynamic, and vivid, avoiding the sonic compromises often introduced by even the best Op-Amps.
• Unique Continuous Variable Input Impedance Loading: Achieving the perfect sound from a Moving Coil (MC) cartridge requires precise impedance matching. The Phono Box RS2 offers a truly unique feature: a continuously variable input impedance control (10 - 1000 ohms) via a front-panel potentiometer. This allows you to effortlessly and seamlessly adjust the loading *while a record is playing*, instantly hearing the subtle sonic differences to fine-tune your cartridge for optimum performance and tone.
• High-Precision Split Passive Equalization: The unit employs split passive equalization for both the RIAA and DECCA curves. This high-end technique uses separate, passive networks for low-frequency and high-frequency correction, allowing for improved impedance matching and ensuring an extremely accurate deviation from the ideal equalization curve (within 0.4dB/20Hz – 20kHz). This ensures that the restored signal is as faithful as possible to the original recording.
• Extremely Flexible Gain and Capacitance Options: With a massive gain range from 40dB up to 70dB, the Phono Box RS2 is universally compatible with virtually all Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, including low-output models. Furthermore, the Moving Magnet input offers six switchable capacitance settings (50pF to 400pF), providing the necessary tools to perfectly match your cartridge's electrical requirements.
• Subtle Channel Balance Control: Addressing the minor manufacturing tolerances inherent in all phono cartridges, the RS2 features a unique channel balance potentiometer. This allows you to adjust the center of the soundstage by up to ±2dB, ensuring a perfectly centered and balanced sonic image, which is critical for maximizing realism and stereo effect.
• Premium Connectivity and Construction: Features a full suite of Balanced XLR and Unbalanced RCA inputs and outputs, giving you flexible options for connecting to any high-fidelity system. The unit is housed in a robust steel chassis covered by screwed aluminum panels, providing exceptional structural rigidity and acting as an electromagnetic shield to protect the sensitive audio circuits from external vibration and electrical interference.

Specifications:

• Type: Fully Balanced, Discrete Phono Preamplifier
• Compatibility: Moving Magnet (MM) & Moving Coil (MC)
• Input Impedance: Fixed 47kohms, variable 10 - 1000 ohms
• Load Capacity: Switchable 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 pF
• Gain MM: 40, 43, 46, 50 dB (RCA) (+6dB using XLR)
• Gain MC: 60, 63, 66, 70 dB (RCA) (+6dB using XLR)
• THD: < 0.0015% (MM); < 0.0024% (MC)
• RIAA Accuracy: Within 0.4dB / 20Hz - 20kHz
• Inputs: RCA & XLR
• Outputs: RCA & XLR
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 206 x 72 x 200 mm
• Weight: 1600 g (without power supply)