Pro-Ject DAC Box RS Digital to Analog Converter

"A Pretty Solid Buy"

The advanced hybrid-design DAC Box RS from Pro-Ject is a reference-class D/A converter for a wide range of digital audio stereo sources. It acts as a superior USB audio interface for the demanding computer audio applications. It also features an AES/EBU input as well as an I²S interface for use with the Pro-Ject CD Box RS CD transport.

"Whether you’re a DSD fundamentalist or just like your music played well and your options kept open, this is a pretty solid buy," notes Andrew Everard, AndrewEverard.com, May 1, 2014.

Full DSD Capability

The DAC Box RS provides full DSD capability (up to DSD128) over PCM. All inputs fully support 24-bit/192 kHz HD music data (optical inputs support 96/24) in fully asynchronous mode for outstandingly pure, low jitter, low distortion digital audio.

Selectable Tube or Solid State Output Stage

The DAC Box RS offers a high degree of flexibility in sound quality by offering both a both and a solid state output stage, so that you can choose the audio 'feel' you want to suit the type of music and recording that you listen to. For warmer and more relaxed sounding audio, choose the 6922 tube output stage. Or choose the solid state 'Class A' output stage with incredible details and dynamics.

In addition to the two outputs stages, a choice of two different digital filter settings allow you to tailor the sound to suit your preferences.

Nine Digital Inputs

You're not limited to two or three digital connections with the DAC Box RS. The nine digital inputs consist of two coaxial (S/PDIF), four Toslink optical, one USB B, and one AES/EBU. Additionally, an I²S interface and clock output are provided for use with the Pro-Ject CD Box RS CD transport. When you combine the DAC Box RS with the CD Box RS, you have an audio disc playback system rivaling components costing far more.

Analog outputs consist of one pair of balanced XLR outs and one pair of unbalanced RCA outs.

Premium DACs

The DAC Box RS incorporates a pair of premium audio grade DAC chips, the PCM 1792, which is typically found only in expensive high-end designs. The whole audio circuitry design is ultra low noise and ultra linear with very low output impedance to avoid any negative interference with cables or preamps. Due to its class-leading audio performance DAC Box RS is an ultimate high-end bargain.

Overview

• Advanced hybrid-design, reference-class D/A converter
• Tube output stage (6922) and solid-state output stage (switchable)
• Double top grade PCM-1792 D/A chip from Texas Instruments
• 24-bit/192 kHz asynchronous USB (XMOS technology)
• DSD (up to DSD128) capability (DSD over PCM)
• I²S interface for CD Box RS (sonic2data transfer technology) with additional clock synchronization port (BNC)
• Two selectable digital filter settings
• Fully balanced analog audio circuitry
• Ultra linear and ultra low noise circuitry
• IR remote control included
• DC power supply (< 1 watt standby power)
• Full metal case in silver or black

• Two coaxial (S/PDIF) inputs
• Four Toslink optical inputs
• One USB B input
• One AES/EBU input
• I²S interface and clock output for use with the Pro-Ject CD Box RS CD transport
• Balanced XLR analog outputs
• Unbalanced RCA outputs

• D/A-converter: Double Texas Instruments PCM-1792, 8 x Oversampling design
• Sampling rates: 32/44, 1/48/88, 2/96/176, 2/192 kHz (optical up to 96kHz)
• Selectable filter settings: steep and optimum phase
• Frequency response: 20Hz - 50kHz (+0/-1dB)
• Output voltage max 4/2 Veff (XLR/RCA)
• Output stages: 6922 tube and solid state (switchable)
• THD: 0.005% solid state out; 0.25% tube out
• Signal to noise ratio: 100dB
• Power consumption: <1 watt standby, 800/300mA max (tube/solid)
• Outboard power supply: 20V/3A DC (included)
• Dimensions: 8.1" wide, 2.83" high, 7.87" deep (8.66" with sockets)
• Weight: 2.22 lbs. without power supply

"The Pro-Ject DAC Box DS is a fundamentally very good product made even better with the free addition of new capabilities. Whether you’re a DSD fundamentalist or just like your music played well and your options kept open, this is a pretty solid buy."

- Andrew Everard, AndrewEverard.com, May 1, 2014