Pro‑Ject Pre Box S2 Digital (Edition 23) – Compact DAC and Preamp with MQA and DSD512 Support
The Pro‑Ject Pre Box S2 Digital (Edition 23) is the refined and updated version of one of Pro‑Ject’s most acclaimed DACs. First introduced in 2017, the Pre Box S2 quickly earned a stellar reputation for its transparent sound, remarkable value, and advanced digital performance. The 2023 Edition builds on this legacy with a redesigned power supply, enhanced master audio clocks, a new output stage with higher Class‑A current, and an upgraded headphone amplifier for improved performance with low‑impedance headphones. Compact yet powerful, this preamp/DAC is a future‑proof solution for both desktop and hi‑fi systems.
Key Features
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Dual ESS9038Q2M DACs: 32‑bit conversion for ultra‑high‑resolution audio
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Advanced format support: DSD512 (DSD1024 via USB), PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz, and full MQA decoding
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Edition 23 upgrades: Improved internal power supply, redesigned master clocks with lower phase noise, higher Class‑A current output stage, and enhanced headphone amp
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Selectable filters: 7 digital filter settings for customized sound shaping
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Compact, efficient design: Low‑power draw with high output capability—ideal for mobile and desktop use
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Handmade in Europe: Rigid aluminum housing designed for longevity
Customer Benefits
The Pre Box S2 Digital (Edition 23) provides state‑of‑the‑art DAC performance in a compact chassis. Whether used as a high‑end desktop DAC, a headphone amp for low‑impedance IEMs, or a preamp for your hi‑fi setup, it delivers transparent, detailed sound that punches far above its size and price.
Quick Specs
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Digital inputs: 1× USB‑B, 1× coaxial (RCA), 1× optical (TOSLink)
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D/A converter: Dual ESS9038Q2M 32‑bit
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USB support: PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz, DSD512 (DSD1024)
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Optical & coaxial support: PCM up to 24‑bit/192 kHz
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Filter settings: 7 selectable on the front panel
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Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
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Analog outputs: 6.3 mm headphone jack (front), 1× variable RCA
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Output voltage: 2.05 Veff
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Headphone output power: 6.6 mW @ 600 Ω, 100 mW @ 32 Ω
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Minimum recommended headphone impedance: 8 Ω
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THD: 0.0003 % @ 0 dB, 2 V RMS, 1 kHz
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Dynamic range: 124 dBA
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Power supply: 5 V / 1 A DC (included)
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Dimensions: 10.3 × 3.7 × 12.2 cm
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Weight: 370 g
What’s in the Box
- Pro‑Ject Pre Box S2 Digital (Edition 23)
- 5 V / 1 A DC power supply
- User manual
Use Cases / Ideal For
Perfect for desktop audio enthusiasts, headphone users (especially with low‑impedance IEMs), and hi‑fi systems needing a compact but highly capable DAC and preamp with full MQA and DSD support.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Dual ESS DACs with full MQA and high‑res DSD/PCM support
- Edition 23 upgrades deliver cleaner power, lower jitter, and improved headphone performance
- Compact, low‑power design with outstanding sonic transparency
⚠️ Cons:
- No balanced outputs
- Limited output power for high‑impedance headphones
The Pro‑Ject Pre Box S2 Digital (Edition 23) combines audiophile‑grade DAC technology, an upgraded headphone amp, and a compact form factor—making it an unbeatable value in the high‑res digital audio space. Available now at Soundium.
