Pro-Ject’s Phono Box DS2 is capable, flexible and well-built
Phono stage | £249| whf.cm/PhonoBox_DS2
The phono stage has more impact on the quality of record replay than any other part of the amplification chain. It not only does the heavy lifting in amplifying the cartridge’s tiny signal but also performs the delicate equalisation necessary for a flat frequency response, while it shouldn’t add too much noise and distortion.
The phono modules built into most non-premium integrated amplifiers are pretty limited in ability, and so, in most cases, a dedicated phono stage will give you a better sound. That’s where Pro-Ject’s Phono Box DS2 comes in. Pro-Ject has built its reputation on good value and high-quality vinyl replay, and the Phono Box DS2 is a convincing piece of kit for the money. Inside the solid, smartly finished aluminium casework is a neat dual-mono circuit layout (which helps optimise stereo imaging) and general standards of build are up with the best at this level.
The Phono Box DS2 outdoes most of the competition by offering a range of adjustability that is rare for the price. It can accommodate both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges thanks to gain settings ranging from 40dB to 65dB. These are sensibly chosen values for the cartridges this phono stage is likely to be partnered with. The DS2 also allows a good amount of adjustability regarding input resistance (10-47kOhms) and capacitance (100pF, 120pF and 320pF), which should optimise performance from your cartridge.
Most phono stages at this level tend to be partnered with moving-magnet cartridges, and as a breed such designs tend to have pretty standard requirements as far as electrical loading parameters go. The story is different for moving coils though, as there are greater variations in what is required for optimal performance. But while the Phono Box DS2 offers a significant on-paper advantage over most competitors, the choice of good-sounding MC cartridges that are price-compatible with this Pro-Ject isn’t particularly wide. The most affordable MC we have tested and liked is Ortofon’s Quintet Blue (£459); step-up MC cartridge options beyond that can hit four-figures, where the DS2, as good as it is, becomes limiting.
Pleasingly consistent
We use our reference Technics SL-1000R/ Vertere Sabre turntable, Burmester 088/911 MkIII amplifier and ATC SCM50 speakers, and the more price-comparable Naim Nait XS3 integrated with KEF LS50 Meta spe
