MAGAZINE
Both CD drives are claimed to be specifically optimized for 1:1 playback of the Red Book CDDA standard, which is said to increase their performance, especially when compared to DVD or Bluray players. They also both offer digital outputs in addition to a pair of analog RCA outputs; while both carry one S/PDIF coaxial jack, the larger CD Box DS3 additionally has an optical output. Furthermore, they also differ in the choice of D/A converter. While the CD Box DS3 carries a PCM1796 DAC of Texas Instruments, the DAC of the CD Box S3 is to be able to process data up to 32bit/384kHz.
The CD BOX DS3 comes in the same size as Pro-Ject's DS2 devices, whereas the CD Box S3 introduces a completely new, more compact size. Both CD players also sit in an aluminum enclosure. As further advantages of the larger DS3 CD Box, Pro-Ject cites the Blue Tiger CD-80 servo board and the four-point suspension inside the housing, where three soft points are designed to isolate the drive while the fourth hard point is designed to disperse vibrations.
The two new CD players from Pro-Ject, both including remote, are said to be available from Pro-Ject dealers this March*. The CD Box DS3 – available in silver or black, as well as with optional, separately available wooden magnetic side panels – has an MSRP of around €700*, while the CD Box S3 – also available in silver or black – has an MSRP of around €400*.
*Availability and prices for Germany.
