Digital Processor Reviews

Pro-Ject Audio Systems Stream Box S2 Ultra network bridge Associated Equipment

Sidebar 2: Associated Equipment

Digital Sources: Roon Nucleus+ media server, iPhone 6S, iPad mini running Roon 1.6 & Pro-Ject Play apps; dCS Rossini, PS Audio DirectStream, Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital D/A processors.
Power Amplifiers: Lamm M1.2 Reference monoblocks.
Loudspeakers: Joseph Audio Perspective2, KEF LS50.
Headphones: Audeze LCD-X.
Cables: Digital: AudioQuest Vodka (Ethernet); AudioQuest Diamond (USB). Interconnect: AudioQuest Wild Blue (balanced). Speaker: AudioQuest K2, Cardas. AC: AudioQuest Dragon Source & High Current, manufacturers' own.
Accessories: Target TT-5 equipment racks; Ayre Acoustics Myrtle Blocks; ASC Tube Traps, RPG Abffusor panels; Shunyata Research Dark Field cable elevators; AudioQuest Niagara 1000 and 5000 Low-Z Power/Noise-Dissipation Systems. AC power comes from two dedicated 20A circuits, each just 6' from breaker box.—John Atkinson

COMPANY INFO
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, Audio Tuning Vertriebs GmbH
US distributor: Sumiko Audio
6655 Wedgwood Road N., Suite 115
Maple Grove, MN 55311-2814
(510) 843-4500
www.pro-jectusa.com
ARTICLE CONTENTS

COMMENTS
helomech's picture
Submitted by helomech on May 18, 2019 - 7:05am

I've been very pleased with the Pre Box S2 Digital. I also own the DAC Box S FL, a non-oversampling, filterless DAC that retails for $299. I'm very impressed with this unit as well. It produces the organic flavor that's often associated with such designs. I think it also deserves a review, as I know of no other reputable brand offering this style of DAC for such an affordable price.

I'm beginning to think Pro-Ject's best talent is realized through digital products rather than analog.

filmfresser's picture
Submitted by filmfresser on May 22, 2019 - 4:23am

Pro-Ject has a number of excellent affordable phono stages, streamers, and DACs that need more attention. Their new flagship CD transport is a tad expensive but has some interesting industrial design features that make me want to try it.

JennMartin's picture
Submitted by JennMartin on May 22, 2019 - 6:09pm

Hi John and everyone,
I'm a rookie in the streaming area, just dipping my toe in the water. I've been into high end audio for decades, but I'm brand new in this area.
Do I have this right? My internet modem and wi-fi router are in another room than my listening room. With this box and a DAC connected to my integrated amp, I can get into streaming Tidal, etc. This is all that I need to get started, yes? My wi-fi signal is very strong to the listening room. I can get a router installed in the room and go wired, but I'd rather avoid that if I can. Thanks for any info.
And John, if you find yourself out my way to visit Jon or whatever, let's get together for a meal, or better yet, let's jam! :-) Jenn

funambulistic's picture
Submitted by funambulistic on May 22, 2019 - 12:12pm

That is the easiest way I know get a multi function streamer for computer files, Tidal, Quboz, etc. It has a fantastic interface sounds great too!

JennMartin's picture
Submitted by JennMartin on May 22, 2019 - 9:32pm

Looks good. No wi-fi though.

funambulistic's picture
Submitted by funambulistic on May 23, 2019 - 7:58am

Network
Gigabit Ethernet RJ45
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac, dual-band)

That is how mine is set up. "Look Ma, no wires!"

JennMartin's picture
Submitted by JennMartin on May 23, 2019 - 9:14am

Thanks!

Bill Milligan's picture
Submitted by Bill Milligan on September 19, 2020 - 1:35pm

I bought a Pre-Box S2 Digital a while back and enjoyed it, but I felt an upgraded power supply (ifi) might help...As soon as I plugged in the new one, the soundstage dramatically opened up as did resolution. I bought the ~$50 one and am thinking of upgrading to their newer for $100...BIG DIFFERENCE!

Janotx's picture
Submitted by Janotx on December 18, 2022 - 1:22am

ifi ipower x is certainly a change in quality. But it is produced with a maximum voltage of 15V. the power supply of the Stream Box S2 Ultra is 18V. Question: is it connected to 15V?

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