Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 Review: Elevate Your Vinyl Playback

Welcome to our in-depth Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 Review, where we explore how this tube phono preamplifier can transform your vinyl playback into a sumptuous, high-fidelity experience. If you’re hunting for warmth, clarity and the perfect analogue soul, the Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 Tube Phono Preamplifier is engineered to deliver.

Design & Build Quality

The Tube Box DS2 sports a sleek aluminium chassis available in matte black or silver, complemented by optional wooden side panels in rosewood, walnut or eucalyptus. Its compact footprint (206 x 91 x 227 mm) and premium finish make it an elegant addition to any hi-fi rack. Internally, Dr. Sykora’s renowned dual-mono circuit topology delivers impeccable channel separation and ultra-low crosstalk.

Technical Excellence & Sound Performance

At the heart of the DS2 are two ECC83 (12AX7) tubes providing graceful harmonic richness. With selectable input impedance (10–1000 Ω) and capacitance (100/220/320 pF), the DS2 tailors its loading for both MM and low-output MC cartridges. Gain stages of 40/45/50/60/65 dB ensure compatibility across a vast cartridge spectrum, while SNR of 88 dBA and THD <0.04% guarantee transparency and resolution from 20 Hz to 20 kHz (RIAA accuracy ±0.2 dB).

Engage the switchable subsonic 20 Hz filter to eliminate turntable rumble and protect your power amp and speakers. Two line outputs with gold-plated RCAs allow you to send a pristine phono signal to multiple zones or recorders.

Bespoke Compatibility & Flexibility

• Dual phono inputs: Connect two turntables effortlessly.
• MM & MC support: One box adapts to all your cartridges.
• Variable loading: Fine-tune impedance/capacitance on the fly for ultimate tonal balance.
• Line outputs: Select between two outputs for multi-room or recording setups.

User Operation & Real-World Use

Operating the Tube Box DS2 is intuitive: front-panel toggles let you dial in loading and subsonic filtering. The vivid glow of the ECC83 tubes hints at a warm sonic signature that settles in as the tubes reach optimal operating temperature. Whether you’re rediscovering a classic jazz pressing or diving into modern audiophile reissues, adjustments are immediate and audible.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Luxurious tube warmth with precise RIAA equalisation
  • Extensive cartridge compatibility (MM/MC) and dual inputs
  • Low noise floor (88 dBA) and minimal distortion (<0.04%)
  • Variable input loading for sonic tailoring in real-time
  • Elegant build with optional wood accents
  • Switchable subsonic filter protects downstream gear
• Cons:
  • Tubes require a brief warm-up period (approx. 1–2 minutes)
  • Premium componentry comes at a high-end price point

Why the Tube Box DS2 Deserves a Place in Your System

The Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 is more than a phono preamp—it’s a gateway to the analogue realm, uniting tube character with surgical precision. For vinyl enthusiasts seeking depth, dimensionality and effortless tuning, this unit stands peerless in its class. Elevated build quality, versatile loading options and serious sonic credentials make it a landmark upgrade or an aspirational entry into high-end audio.

Ready to hear the difference? Speak with our team at The Audio Tailor on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au to discuss how the Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 can transform your vinyl library. We’re here to help tailor the perfect hi-fi solution for your space and budget.