Pro-Ject Tube Box E – Compact Valve Phono Preamplifier (MM/MC)
The Pro-Ject Tube Box E is a compact yet powerful tube-based phono stage designed for vinyl lovers craving rich, authentic sound without clutter. Its fully discrete, dual-mono circuit (free of OpAmps) delivers ultra-low noise and lush mids, all under a refined metal design that's both elegant and audio-centric.
Key Features
- MM and MC compatibility: Easily supports both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges with flexible gain and loading settings.
- Discrete RIAA equalization: Two-part passive/active equalisation ensures precise vinyl playback with high accuracy.
- No OpAmps—pure analog: Fully discrete design with FET input stage achieves clean, transparent amplification.
- Replaceable tube stage: Two ECC83 (12AX7A) tubes are easily swapped for sonic customization or upgrades.
- Front-panel controls: Convenient subsonic filter and gain buttons right up front.
- Low-noise, dual-mono layout: Enhances channel separation and minimizes distortion.
- Premium parts and shielding: Uses polystyrene capacitors where possible, FET inputs, and rugged aluminium housing to reduce interference.
Customer Benefits
With Tube Box E, there's no need for bulky high-end rigs—its compact form delivers big, warm sound, plush midrange, and analog warmth in a minimalist case. Easily tailored for any cartridge and built to last, it’s the perfect upgrade for vinyl lovers seeking quality without complexity.
Quick Specs
- Tubes: 2 × ECC83 (12AX7A)
- Gain Settings: 40, 43, 50, 53, 60, 63 dB
- Input Impedance: 10 Ω, 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 2 kΩ (MC); 47 kΩ (MM)
- Input Capacitance (MM): 47, 147, 267, 367, 487, 587 pF
- Noise Floor: 77 dB (A-weighted) at 40 dB gain; 65 dB at higher gains
- THD: <0.03% (40 dB); <0.07% (50/63 dB)
- RIAA Accuracy: ±0.5 dB (20 Hz–20 kHz)
- Subsonic Filter: 20 Hz, 18 dB/octave
- Connections: 1 × RCA input, 1 × RCA output, gold-plated
- Power: External 18 V / 1 A DC supply; 470 mA operation, under 1 W standby
- Dimensions (W × H × D): ~103 × 73 × 115 mm (131 mm with sockets)
- Weight: ~450 g (without PSU)
What’s in the Box
- Pro-Ject Tube Box E preamplifier
- External 18 V / 1 A DC power supply
- User manual
Use Cases / Ideal For
Perfect for enthusiasts upgrading from basic phono stages or looking for elegant tube sound without bulk. Fits beautifully in minimalist setups, desktop systems, or audiophile rigs where space and sonic clarity matter.
Compatibility
Works flawlessly with MM or MC cartridges, adjustable to match your turntable’s needs. Pairs neatly with standalone amplifiers, streamers, or integrated systems and complements Pro-Ject turntables especially well.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Rich, lush tube sound in a compact, stylish case
- Simple front-panel control for rapid adjustment
- Wide cartridge compatibility with precision loading
- Replaceable tubes let you tweak the sound over time
⚠️ Cons:
- Requires external power supply (adds a bit to shelf space)
- No balanced inputs or outputs—RCA-only
The Pro-Ject Tube Box E brings the warmth and finesse of tube sound within reach—compact, refined, and sonically pure. Upgrade your vinyl playback today with Soundium.
