Pro-Ject Vinyl NRS Box S3 LP Record Noise-Reduction System

Give Worn Records a Second Chance

The Pro-Ject Vinyl NRS Box S3 is a real-time noise reduction processor for vinyl playback, not a phono stage. It connects between your existing phono stage and your amplifier. That way, it works on the line-level signal after your phono stage has raised and shaped it.

Inside, the analog signal turns digital at 24-bit/96kHz for the work, then turns back to analog on the way out. Two separate systems do the job. A de-crackling stage targets clicks and pops, while a VNRS stage lowers the broad hiss behind them.

A galvanic bypass keeps the signal path clear when the unit is switched off, so it never colors your system when you do not want it to. The compact aluminum case comes in silver or black.

Two Independent Systems, Adjustable in Real Time

The de-crackling function targets clicks and pops with its own algorithm. It treats sharp treble spikes as the mark of surface noise. A front-panel control lets you dial in how much a given record needs.

An intensity button switches between two modes. Basic mode reduces noise by up to 8dB across 3kHz to 20kHz. Advanced mode reaches up to 12dB across a wider 2kHz to 20kHz range.

The VNRS function works independently. It splits the signal into bands, then expands them to raise the effective signal-to-noise ratio. It can reduce background noise by up to 8dB across the full 20Hz to 20kHz audio range. It does this without the pumping you can hear from simpler noise gates.

Total harmonic distortion stays under 0.009%. An overload LED warns when input levels run too hot, and a -6dB switch tames the gain if that happens. It measures 103 by 37 by 104mm and weighs 340 grams, powered by an included 18V/500mA external supply.

What Reviewers Are Saying

James Michael Hughes reviewed the NRS Box S3 for StereoNET in December 2022. He found that "the NRS went about its job unobtrusively and actually seemed to enhance spatial depth and clarity."

Testing its effect on surface noise, he reported that "it reduces it by about 6dB – sufficient to make many iffy LPs sound like high-class pressings." He added a fair caveat: "providing you don't overdo it, any adverse effects on sound quality are quite small and far outweighed by reductions in noise."

Who Is This System Best For?

• Owners of a large used or well-worn record collection. Real-time click, pop, and background noise reduction can make rougher pressings genuinely enjoyable again.
• Anyone who doesn't want to alter their existing phono stage. The NRS Box S3 sits between your current phono preamp and amplifier, leaving that signal path untouched.
• Listeners who want adjustable, not fixed, processing. Independent de-crackling and VNRS controls let you dial in exactly as much correction as a given record needs.
• Listeners who want proven, independently reviewed performance. A named reviewer at an established publication praised its unobtrusive, low-artifact noise reduction.
• It works after your phono stage, not instead of it — the NRS Box S3 processes a line-level signal and carries no RIAA equalization or cartridge loading of its own. You still need a stage ahead of it: see our phono preamplifiers.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Run a cable from your phono preamplifier's output into the NRS Box S3's RCA input. Connect its RCA output to a line-level input on your amplifier or preamp.

Start with the de-crackling and VNRS controls set low, then increase them gradually while listening. Watch the overload LED, and engage the -6dB switch if it lights during normal playback.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the Pro-Ject Vinyl NRS Box S3:

• Phono preamplifiers to pair ahead of the NRS Box S3
• Turntables playing well-loved or secondhand records
• Interconnect cables to connect it into your signal chain
• Record cleaning machines, because a phono stage amplifies surface noise along with the music

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this replace my phono preamplifier?

The NRS Box S3 connects after your phono preamp, processing the line-level signal it outputs. You still need a separate phono stage ahead of it.

Will this affect the sound of clean, undamaged records?

You can switch it off entirely, which engages a galvanically linked pure bypass. On a clean record, most listeners simply leave it off or set the controls very low.

Can I use the de-crackling and VNRS functions separately?

Yes. They're independent systems with their own controls. So you can use either one alone or combine both to taste.

Can I use it with a turntable that has a built-in phono stage?

Yes. The NRS Box works at line level, so run the turntable's line output into it and carry on to your amplifier from there.

What's the warranty?

Pro-Ject and its dealers don't publish a specific warranty period for the NRS Box S3. Check with your dealer for current coverage terms at the time of purchase.

See It in Action

Techmoan demonstrates the NRS Box S3 on genuinely worn records:

LowBeats explains the Vinyl NRS Box S3 and provides audible before-and-after examples:

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Learn More

Want to learn more about record care, reducing surface noise, or getting the most from your vinyl collection? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.