Pro-Ject Optical Box E Phono white

The Pro-Ject Optical Box E Phono is a versatile phono preamplifier designed for vinyl enthusiasts looking to integrate their turntable into a modern audio system. This sleek, compact black unit provides a practical solution for connecting a turntable to devices equipped only with digital inputs, while still offering the option of a traditional analog output.

Bridging Analog and Digital

The Optical Box E Phono stands out for its ability to convert the analog signal from a turntable into a digital optical signal. This feature allows direct connection of a turntable to devices with Toslink optical inputs, such as certain home theater amplifiers, soundbars, or all-in-one systems. The preamplifier performs high-quality analog-to-digital conversion at 24-bit/96 kHz, ensuring faithful reproduction of vinyl sound in the digital domain.

At the same time, the device retains a traditional analog output, offering great flexibility in use. This dual output even allows the Optical Box E Phono to function as a signal splitter, simultaneously delivering the same audio to two different systems.

Optimized Audio Performance

Designed for moving magnet (MM) cartridges, this phono preamplifier provides precise amplification and RIAA equalization. The 43 dB gain is suitable for most MM cartridges on the market, while the RIAA curve is maintained with an accuracy of 0.5 dB between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. These technical features ensure faithful reproduction of vinyl recordings, preserving their characteristic warmth and dynamics.

The signal-to-noise ratio of 88 dB (A-weighted) and total harmonic distortion below 0.04% reflect the meticulous design of this preamplifier. The internal metal casing effectively shields against electromagnetic interference, ensuring pure, noise-free sound.

Versatility and Ease of Use

Beyond its primary function as a phono preamplifier, the Optical Box E Phono proves to be a multifunctional device. In addition to the standard RCA phono input, it features a 3.5 mm line input. This additional input allows digitization of other analog sources, such as tape decks or tuners, expanding the device’s usability.

A switch allows the RIAA equalization to be disabled, transforming the Optical Box E Phono into a simple analog-to-digital audio interface. This feature is particularly useful when digitizing sources other than vinyl records.

A Solution for Modern Audio Systems

The Optical Box E Phono perfectly meets the needs of audiophiles with modern audio systems lacking traditional phono inputs. It is particularly well-suited for owners of high-end active speakers like the Devialet Phantom or Naim Mu-so, enabling them to easily integrate a turntable into their setup.

This preamplifier also offers an elegant solution for those looking to digitize their vinyl collection. The optical output can be directly connected to an external digital-to-analog converter or a computer sound card for recording and archiving records.

Technical Specifications

Main Features

• Phono preamplifier with analog-to-digital (A/D) converter and line inputs/outputs
• Specifically designed for devices without analog input (home theater amplifiers, soundbars)
• Simultaneous operation of analog RCA and digital optical outputs
• Can be used as an input extender (2 to 1) or output splitter (1 to 2)
• Compatible with moving magnet (MM) cartridges
• Precise RIAA equalization
• Low-noise circuitry
• Internal metal shielding
• Gold-plated RCA connectors
• Available colors: black, white

Connectivity

• Inputs: 1 phono (RCA), 1 line (3.5 mm mini-jack)
• Outputs: 1 line (3.5 mm mini-jack), 1 optical (Toslink)

Technical Specifications

• Phono input impedance: 47 kΩ
• Phono capacitance: 100 pF
• Phono gain: 34 dB
• Noise level: -74 dBA (A-weighted)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0.04%
• RIAA equalization curve accuracy: ± 0.5 dB, 20 Hz - 20 kHz

Power Supply

• Type: 18 V, 500 mA DC
• Mains voltage: 220 - 240 V, 50 Hz
• Power consumption: 200 mA DC, < 1 W in standby
• External power supply included

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 120 × 32 × 100 mm
• Weight: 250 g without power supply