MAGAZINE
The new MaiA DS3 integrated amplifier from Pro-Ject is supposed to impress, among other things, with a variety of connections in conjunction with high power in a relatively small space. In addition to 3 RCA inputs, the MaiA DS3 carries a phono input – switchable between MM and MC – as well as a digital section with S/PDIF coaxial, USB, 2x S/PDIF optical and a Bluetooth receiver with aptXHD. The integrated DAC is said to be able to handle resolutions of up to 24bit/192kHz and DSD256. In addition to the speaker outputs, for which Pro-Ject states a power of 140W (4 ohms) per channel, the dual-mono amplifier carries a subwoofer output, as well as one fixed and one variable output each, and a headphone amplifier with 6.3mm jack.
In addition, Pro-Ject is introducing another compact integrated amplifier. The new Stereo Box S3 BT offers two analog RCA inputs on its rear and is now said to offer an output power of 2 x 40W (4 ohms). As the "BT" in the name reveals, the compact amplifier also carries a Bluetooth receiver with aptXHD, whose signals are processed by a DAC with resolutions up to 24bit and 48kHz. The Stereo Box S3 BT also offers a variable output.
Both new amplifiers from Pro-Ject are said to be available this November* in black and silver, each including a remote control. The smaller Stereo Box S3 BT carries a pricetag of around €400*, while the new top Pro-Ject amplifier MaiA DS3 – for which optional magnetic side panels are available separately – carries an MSRP of around €1200*.
*Availability and prices for Germany.
