Pro-Ject Head Box S2 Digital black
Complementary product
Specifications and features
Overview
The Pro-Ject Head Box S2 Digital is a high-fidelity headphone preamplifier that stands out for its versatility and performance. This compact device, designed by Austrian manufacturer Pro-Ject, combines the functions of a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), preamplifier, and headphone amplifier in a sleek and minimalist casing.
A High-Performance DAC for Superior Audio Conversion
At the heart of the Head Box S2 Digital is the ESS Sabre ESS9038Q2M 32-bit digital-to-analog converter, renowned for its outstanding performance. This DAC supports a wide range of high-resolution audio formats, including:
- PCM up to 32-bit / 768 kHz
- DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256 (via DSD over PCM)
This extensive compatibility allows audiophiles to fully enjoy their high-resolution audio files, regardless of the source. The Head Box S2 Digital also features jitter reduction technology, with performance as low as 100 femtoseconds, ensuring optimal timing precision during playback.
Customizable Sound with Digital Filters
One of the standout features of the Head Box S2 Digital is the inclusion of five selectable digital filters, including a proprietary filter optimized for transients. These filters allow users to subtly adjust the device’s sound signature to suit their listening preferences or the type of music being played. This flexibility is a major advantage for discerning audiophiles looking to refine their listening experience.
Powerful and Precise Headphone Amplification
The headphone amplification section of the Head Box S2 Digital uses an ESS9603Q-based circuit, delivering an output power of 68 mW at 32 ohms. This power is sufficient to comfortably drive most headphones on the market, from low-impedance models to more demanding ones. The total harmonic distortion (THD) is impressively low, at just 0.0007%, ensuring clear and faithful sound reproduction.
Compact and Elegant Design
Despite its numerous features, the Pro-Ject Head Box S2 Digital maintains very compact dimensions (103 x 37 x 122 mm), making it easy to integrate into any space. The aluminum and metal casing, available in silver or black finishes, not only offers a sleek aesthetic but also provides effective protection against vibrations and electromagnetic interference.
Audiophile-Grade Construction in Every Detail
Pro-Ject has paid special attention to the components used in the Head Box S2 Digital:
- Proprietary clock circuit for optimal synchronization
- Organic polymer capacitors
- Thin-film miniMELF resistors
- Gold-plated four-layer PCB
These technical choices contribute to optimizing the device’s sound performance and reflect Pro-Ject’s audiophile approach to designing this headphone preamp.
A Subtle Yet Welcome Evolution
The Head Box S2 Digital is an evolution of the analog Head Box S2 model. The main differences include the addition of digital inputs and an integrated DAC, offering increased versatility. The output power has also been slightly adjusted, from 725 mW at 32 Ω for the analog model to 68 mW at 32 Ω for the digital version. This apparent reduction in power is due to circuit optimization for better overall sound quality, prioritizing finesse over raw power.
Technical Specifications
Components and Architecture
- High-end ESS Sabre ESS9038 Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC)
- Proprietary clock circuit
- Organic polymer capacitors and thin-film miniMELF resistors
- 4-layer gold-plated PCB
- Aluminum/metal sandwich casing in silver or black
Audio Performance
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Output voltage: 2.05 V RMS
- Total harmonic distortion: 0.0007%
- Dynamic range: 120 dB(A)
- Ultra-low jitter of 100 femtoseconds
Supported Formats
- 32-bit / 768 kHz decoding
- DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256 (DSD over PCM)
- Sampling rates: 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384, 768 kHz
- Up to 24-bit / 192 kHz for optical and coaxial inputs
Connectivity
- Digital inputs:
- 1 coaxial (S/PDIF)
- 1 optical (TOSlink)
- USB Type B
- Analog outputs:
- 6.3 mm headphone jack (front panel)
- 1 pre-out (RCA)
Signal Processing
- Digital-to-Analog Converter: 1 ESS9038Q2M 32-bit PCM 768 kHz / DSD256
- Headphone amplifier: ESS9063
- 5 selectable digital filter characteristics
- 1 proprietary optimized transient digital filter
- Synchronization of all internal oscillators
Physical Characteristics
- Dimensions (W × H × D): 103 × 37 × 120 mm
- Weight: 366 g (without power supply)
- Power supply: 5 V, micro USB
- Headphone output power: 68 mW (32 Ω)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Pro-Ject Head Box S2 Digital require specific drivers?
On Windows 10 and later versions, no drivers are needed. The device is automatically recognized. For macOS and Linux systems, the device is also plug-and-play.
Can the Head Box S2 Digital be used as a preamplifier in a hi-fi system?
Yes, thanks to its variable-level RCA line output, the Head Box S2 Digital can be used as a preamplifier. Simply connect it to a power amplifier or active speakers.
Is the Head Box S2 Digital compatible with MQA?
No, the Head Box S2 Digital does not support MQA decoding. If this feature is important to you, you will need to consider other models.
What is the difference between the available digital filters?
The digital filters subtly alter the frequency response and phase of the audio signal. Some filters may favor a more linear response, while others enhance impulse response. The optimal filter choice often depends on personal taste and the type of music being played.
Can the Head Box S2 Digital function as a USB DAC for a smartphone?
Theoretically, yes, but this depends on your smartphone’s OTG (On-The-Go) compatibility and its ability to supply sufficient power via USB. It is recommended to use an external power supply in this case to ensure optimal performance.
- Eco-contribution of €0.08 included in the sale price.
- GTIN / EAN: 9120071658625
