Pro-Ject Phono Box S3 B

Phono Box S3 B: Entry-level true balanced phono stage

A new approach to high-end features

THE NEW PHONO BOX S3 B

The Phono Box S3 B is an entry-level phono preamp that offers a fully balanced design in a small package. We've packed this little chassis to the brim with high-end features. Among other things, our new True Balanced Connection. At Pro-Ject, balanced connections were previously reserved exclusively for the RS product range. The Phono Box S3 B takes these featrues to a new, incredible entry-level level.

Real high-end for the new entry-level class

Our Phono Box S3 B comes in a completely new housing. The larger size has allowed us to add new features to our S3 phono preamp never seen before in this price range. The new steel and aluminum body offers very high stability and isolation from interference, essential for the new technology inside. Two turntables can be connected at the same time - all parameters for each input are saved. You can adapt the Phono Box S3 B perfectly to a variety of cartridges. Use the gain adjustment to precisely match the output level to other sources such as CD players or streaming devices. Extremely low values like 50 pF or 10 ohms allow you to take all situations into account.

Naturally balanced

Pickups are inherently balanced signal converters! Due to the internal structure of MM pickups, you need an MC pickup to be able to pick up the entire balanced signal. Paired with our new True Balanced Connection cables, you can access high-end features previously only available on the most expensive phono stages. And best of all: Any Pro-Ject turntable with cinch, mini XLR or 5P output can do it!

FULLY DISCRETE AND BALANCED GAIN STAGE

The new Phono Box S3 B amplifier stage is completely discrete. A discrete circuit is made up of various electronic components and individual devices. The amplifier section is built from individual parts and uses no integrated circuits! This requires a longer and more expensive development process, but results in the best sound quality. The fully balanced gain stage can optimize the signal-to-noise ratio and provide a clean signal to the semi-passive RIAA equalization stage.

TRUE BALANCED CONNECTION

The symmetrical design is the main feature! Connect your turntable via the 5-pin mini XLR cable and enjoy the benefits of our new True Balanced Connection. A truly symmetrical amplification stage can extract the smallest musical information and effectively filters out background noise coming from our modern homes (household appliances, WiFi and Bluetooth, power cords, power amplifiers).

High-End Features: For the entry-level class

Steel and aluminum body. Fully Discrete & Balanced Gain Stage. Balanced inputs and outputs. Pickup setting options on the front panel.

True Balanced: Unleash your full power

The Phono Box S3 B is ready for our new True Balanced Connection. Unbalanced RCA connections use literally half of your cartridge's output signal. With one of our new True Balanced phono cables and an MC cartridge, you'll hear detail and dynamics previously only available in the most expensive phono stages.

Handmade in EU: Since 1991

Manufactured in Europe by technicians, engineers and designers with decades of experience. craftsmanship. Sustainable products with the longest lifespan. Audiophile hifi stereo.

Technical specifications

Input Impedance: 10, 50, 100, 1k, 47k ohms
Input capacitance: 50, 150, 300, 400 pF
Gain (+6dB with XLR output): 40, 45, 60, 65dB
SNR MM (40dB): 103dBV, 110dBV - 'A' weighted
SNR MC (60dB): 85dBV, 90dBV - 'A' weighted
THD @ 1kHz: <0.001%MM, <0.005%MC
THD (20Hz-20kHz): <0.008%MM, <0.01%MC
RIAA equalization: <0.3dB / 20Hz - 20kHz
Subsonic Filter: at 20Hz with 18dB/octave
Inputs: 1x 5-pin mini XLR / 1x pair of RCA jacks
Line level output: 1x pair RCA, 1x pair XLR
Power supply: 18V/500mA DC
Power consumption: 18V/170mA DC, <0.5 W in standby
Dimensions: 206 x 55 x 153 (164 with bushings) mm
Weight: 930g without power supply