Pro-Ject Stream Box S2 black

The Pro-Ject Stream Box S2 is a compact network audio player designed to bring streaming capabilities to your existing hi-fi system. This sleek little device offers a simple and affordable solution to access your favorite streaming services and personal music library, all with audiophile-grade sound quality.

Cutting-Edge Technology in a Mini Format

The Stream Box S2 comes in an ultra-compact metal casing measuring just 105 x 37 x 105 mm. Despite its small size, it incorporates advanced technology to deliver high-quality audio performance. At its core is an ESS Sabre Premier DAC (ESS9023), renowned for its precision, paired with a Texas Instruments NE5532P operational amplifier for the analog section.

This meticulous design allows the Stream Box S2 to support a wide range of audio formats, including WAV, ALAC, FLAC, MP3, APE, and AAC, with resolutions up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The aluminum chassis effectively shields against electromagnetic interference, ensuring the purity of the audio signal.

Comprehensive Connectivity for All Needs

The Stream Box S2 stands out for its versatile connectivity options. On the input side, it features a front USB-A port for connecting external storage devices, an RJ45 Ethernet port for a stable wired network connection, and a 3.5 mm mini-jack auxiliary analog input.

For audio output, Pro-Ject provides three options:

• A fixed analog output via RCA connectors for connection to an amplifier or preamplifier
• A variable analog output via a 3.5 mm mini-jack, ideal for directly connecting active speakers
• A digital optical S/PDIF output for use with an external DAC

This flexibility makes it easy to integrate the Stream Box S2 into virtually any existing audio setup.

A Complete Streaming Ecosystem

The Stream Box S2 supports major music streaming services, including Spotify Connect, Tidal, and Qobuz. Radio enthusiasts are also catered to with access to platforms like TuneIn and iHeartRadio. DLNA/UPnP compatibility allows you to stream music stored on your home network.

For Apple users, Shairport protocol support enables AirPlay functionality, allowing you to stream audio from your iOS devices. The Stream Box S2 is also compatible with the audiophile-grade Roon software, offering an advanced music library management and listening experience.

Advanced Multiroom Experience

One of the standout features of the Stream Box S2 is its multiroom capability. You can connect up to 10 devices via Ethernet (or 6 via Wi-Fi) to create a multi-room audio system. The “Party” mode synchronizes playback across all devices, perfect for gatherings or enjoying music throughout your home.

An interesting feature is the ability to pair two Stream Box S2 units in stereo. This allows you to create a wireless speaker pair by placing a Stream Box S2 next to each active speaker, offering great flexibility in positioning your audio system.

Intuitive Control Interface

Pro-Ject has developed a dedicated app, “Pro-Ject Stream S2,” available for free on iOS and Android. This interface allows you to control all the features of the Stream Box S2, browse your streaming services and music library, and manage the multiroom setup.

While the app may not be the most sophisticated on the market, it is functional and easy to use. It provides unified access to all supported services, eliminating the need to switch between different apps.

Balanced Sound Quality

Listening tests of the Stream Box S2 reveal a balanced and faithful sound reproduction. The bass is generous without being overwhelming, the midrange could be slightly richer, and the treble, while a bit dry, remains clean and non-aggressive.

The stereo imaging is particularly impressive, with excellent depth and remarkable coherence. The Stream Box S2 extracts maximum quality from Spotify streams, while high-resolution files via Tidal or Qobuz showcase its full potential, delivering enhanced clarity and definition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Stream Box S2 work without an internet connection?
Yes, you can use the front USB port to play audio files stored on an external hard drive or USB stick, even without an internet connection.

Can the Stream Box S2 be used with headphones?
The Stream Box S2 does not have a dedicated headphone output. However, you can use the variable output via the 3.5 mm mini-jack to connect headphones, ensuring the volume is set to an appropriate level.

Is the Stream Box S2 compatible with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant?
No, the Stream Box S2 does not have built-in voice assistant functionality. However, you can control it via your smartphone or tablet using the dedicated app.

What is the difference between the Stream Box S2 and the S2 Ultra model?
The Stream Box S2 Ultra is a more advanced model offering additional features such as an HDMI output for displaying the user interface on a screen, a USB “detox” function to improve audio signal quality from a computer, and support for audio files up to 32-bit/352.8 kHz and DSD256.

Technical Specifications

Audio

• Resolution: Up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): ESS9023
• Supported audio formats: WAV, ALAC, FLAC, MP3, APE, AAC

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
• Protocols: UPnP, DLNA
• Multiroom:
  • Up to 10 devices (Ethernet)
  • Up to 6 devices (Wi-Fi)
• Stereo pairing available

Streaming Services

• Supported services: Spotify, TIDAL, and others
• Internet radio: TuneIn, iHeartRadio

Inputs/Outputs

• Inputs:
  • 1 × USB-A
  • 1 × 3.5 mm mini-jack (line-in)
  • Network (Ethernet, Wi-Fi)
• Outputs:
  • 1 × RCA (fixed)
  • 1 × 3.5 mm mini-jack (variable)
  • 1 × Optical (S/PDIF)

Physical Characteristics

• Anti-interference metal casing
• Dimensions: 103 × 37 × 122 mm (W × H × D)
• Weight: 355 g (without power supply)

Control

• Free “Pro-Ject Stream S2” app
• Compatible with iOS and Android