Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 Phono Preamplifier - Black

A Flexible Step Up From Entry-Level Phono Stages

The Pro-Ject Phono Box S2 is an MM/MC phono preamplifier with four switchable gain levels. It sits above Pro-Ject's simpler Phono Box DC. That gives you finer control over gain and loading for a wider range of cartridges.

This is the standard S2, distinct from the pricier Phono Box S2 Ultra. The Ultra uses a different, op-amp-free circuit with split RIAA equalization. The standard S2 keeps a more conventional design at a lower price.

Rear switches set gain and loading without opening the case, so you can match it to a new cartridge in seconds.

Dialed In for Your Cartridge

Gain switches across four levels: 40dB, 43dB, 60dB, and 63dB, covering moving magnet through low-output moving coil cartridges.

Input impedance switches between 10, 100, and 1,000 ohms for moving coil use, plus a 47 kOhm setting for moving magnet. Capacitance switches across four steps, from 100pF to 420pF.

Each of the four gain settings pairs with its own matched impedance and capacitance step. That saves you from having to set multiple switches separately every time you swap cartridges.

RIAA accuracy is rated better than ±0.4dB from 20Hz to 20kHz. Signal-to-noise ratio reaches 85dB. THD is rated at 0.01% on moving magnet and 0.05% on moving coil.

It measures 103 by 36 by 115mm and weighs 570 grams. It runs from an 18V DC external power supply, included in the box.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Peter Familari reviewed the Phono Box S2 for StereoNET in May 2019. He found it delivered "a highly communicative midrange" along with "warmish but taut bass." He also praised how it "handles both moving magnet and moving coils with an even hand."

He was especially struck by its value with a low-output moving coil cartridge. As he put it, it's "a phono stage that punches way above its weight."

Who Is This Preamp Best For?

• Owners of both MM and MC cartridges. Four gain settings and switchable loading cover a wide range of both.
• Anyone stepping up from a basic phono preamp. Finer gain and loading control outperform simpler entry-level stages.
• Shoppers who want proven, independently reviewed sound quality. A named reviewer praised its midrange and value with moving coil cartridges.
• Listeners with limited shelf space. Its compact chassis tucks easily near a turntable or amplifier.
• Not the right fit for anyone who wants the S2 Ultra's op-amp-free circuit. That's a separate, pricier model with a different internal design.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Run your turntable's phono cable into the S2's RCA input, then connect its RCA output to a line-level input on your amplifier or receiver.

Set the rear switches for gain and loading to match your cartridge before you start listening.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the Pro-Ject Phono Box S2:

• Turntables without a built-in phono stage
• Phono cartridges, MM or MC, matched to its switchable gain
• Interconnect cables to connect its output to your amp

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from the Phono Box S2 Ultra?

The Ultra uses a different circuit without operational amplifiers, plus split RIAA equalization. The standard S2 uses a more conventional design at a lower price.

Can I use this with a moving coil cartridge?

Yes. Its 60dB and 63dB gain settings, along with lower loading options, are built with moving coil cartridges in mind.

What's the warranty?

Pro-Ject covers the Phono Box S2 with a two-year warranty, extendable to three years with product registration.

See It in Action

Vintage Audio Review gives the Phono Box S2 a full episode review:

A quick unboxing look at the S2:

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Learn More

Want to learn more about matching a phono preamp to your cartridge, setting up your turntable correctly, or getting the most from your vinyl collection? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.