Pro-Ject Phono Box DS: A Guide to High-Quality Vinyl Playback
Updated 25 June 2023

by AudioPhil™
Audio Enthusiast & Vintage Gear Aficionado | Exploring the Past, Present & Future of Sound | #AudioTech #VintageAudio | Tap-tapping on the MPC One 🎧✨
Introduction
In the age of digital music, it may come as a surprise to some that vinyl records have been making a remarkable comeback. The tactile experience of handling a record, the large album artwork, and above all, the warm, rich sound, have led many music enthusiasts to rediscover vinyl's unique charm. But to truly appreciate the beauty of vinyl, one needs a high-quality playback system, and that's where the Pro-Ject Phono Box DS comes into play.
The Pro-Ject Phono Box DS is a high-performance phono preamplifier designed to elevate your vinyl listening experience. This compact, versatile device is a crucial component of any serious vinyl enthusiast's setup, offering a perfect blend of top-notch performance, user-friendly features, and excellent value.
Understanding the Pro-Ject Phono Box DS
When it comes to high-quality vinyl playback, few preamplifiers come close to the functionality and performance offered by the Pro-Ject Phono Box DS. This phono preamplifier is a game-changer in its class, combining advanced circuit technology with a slim, efficient design that delivers outstanding sound quality.
The Phono Box DS is designed with both MM (Moving Magnet) and MC (Moving Coil) capabilities, making it highly versatile and compatible with nearly all types of turntable cartridges. This flexibility is a testament to its design, which incorporates exceptional circuit technology from Dr. Sykora. This technology is a simplified version of that found in the renowned Phono Box DS, offering almost the same level of sound quality but without a display and relay switching, and at a more affordable price point.
One of the standout features of the Phono Box DS is its ultra-low noise and low distortion levels. This is achieved through the use of SMD circuitry, which helps to ensure that the audio signal remains clean and clear, free from unwanted noise and interference. The result is a listening experience that is as close to the original recording as possible.
The Phono Box DS also boasts a linear RIAA equalization, ensuring accurate playback of vinyl records. It has a RIAA accuracy within 0.3dB from 20Hz to 20kHz, meaning it will faithfully reproduce the intended sound of the record as it was mastered.
In addition to these features, the Phono Box DS offers a range of setup options, all of which can be conveniently controlled via buttons on the front panel. This eliminates the need for cumbersome handling of mini dip-switches or jumpers. It also has a subsonic filter that can be switched on from the rear panel to prevent your amplifier and speakers from ultra-low rumble below 20Hz.
One notable design element of the Phono Box DS is its sturdy metal casing. This casing serves a dual purpose: not only does it protect the internal components from physical damage, but it also shields the circuitry from vibration and electromagnetic interference that could negatively affect sound quality.
The Phono Box DS is equipped with a DC power supply that uses less than 1 watt in standby mode, making it energy-efficient. It also comes in two different faceplate options, silver or black, to match your aesthetic preferences.

Pro-ject Phono Box DS Technical Specification
In terms of technical specifications, the Phono Box DS is quite impressive. It offers input impedance options of 10, 100, 1000 ohms or 47k ohms, and load capacities that are switchable between 47pF, 147pF, 267pF, and 367pF. It has a signal to noise ratio of 80dB (A weighted @ 40dB input gain), and total harmonic distortion of less than 0.02%. The unit's dimensions are 103 x 72 x 144 (156)mm, and it weighs 1100g without the power supply.
The Pro-Ject Phono Box DS is a remarkable piece of audio equipment that delivers top-tier performance in a compact, user-friendly package. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or a vinyl newbie, this preamplifier is a worthy addition to your hi-fi setup. With its high-quality components, advanced features, and reasonable price point, the Phono Box DS truly exemplifies Pro-Ject's commitment to delivering exceptional audio experiences.
Using the Technics SL-1200 Turntable with the Pro-Ject Phono Box DS
Pairing your Technics SL-1200 turntable with the Pro-Ject Phono Box DS can result in a versatile and powerful setup for high-quality vinyl playback. The SL-1200 is renowned for its robust build, direct-drive motor, and the ability to switch phono cartridges with ease. This, combined with the flexible cartridge compatibility of the Phono Box DS, opens up a world of opportunities to experiment with different cartridges and explore the distinct sound dynamics each one offers.
Cartridge Combinations
Given the extensive support for cartridge types, loadings, and voltage outputs offered by the Phono Box DS, the options for cartridge combinations are practically endless. Here are a few combinations that you might want to consider for a starting point:
- Ortofon 2M Red (MM): This popular moving magnet cartridge is a fantastic starting point. Known for its detailed sound, the 2M Red will pair beautifully with the solid, reliable reproduction of the Phono Box DS.
- Denon DL-103 (MC): The DL-103 is a classic low-output moving coil cartridge that has been in production for many years. It's known for its warm, engaging sound that can bring out the best in your vinyl records.
- Audio-Technica VM540ML (MM): This cartridge is praised for its detailed sound and solid tracking ability. It can bring out subtle nuances in your music that might otherwise be missed.
- Ortofon Quintet Blue (MC): This moving coil cartridge from Ortofon offers a more refined sound, with great dynamics and detail. It's a step up in price but delivers a noticeable increase in performance.
Remember, the Phono Box DS has switchable gain levels and loading resistance, allowing it to cater to both MM and MC cartridges. It also has capacitance loading values that can be adjusted, which will come in handy when you switch between different types of cartridges.
Testing the Sound Dynamics
While it's certainly interesting to read about the characteristics of different cartridges, the best way to truly understand their unique qualities is to listen to them for yourself. Switching between cartridges can be done in seconds with the detachable headshell of the SL-1200, giving you the flexibility to experiment and compare the sounds of different cartridges.
When testing, consider using a variety of music genres. The intricate details of a classical piece can bring out different qualities in a cartridge compared to a rock or jazz track. By playing a range of music, you'll get a good sense of how each cartridge performs across different musical landscapes.

Conclusion
Vinyl record players need a phono input into the integrated amplifier in order to get the full-frequency audio range in their music. This is because vinyl records are an analogue source that require electronic equalisation to work. Modern systems tend not to have a phono input into the intagrated amplifier any more. So it is important to select a good quality phono preamplifier that suits your system.
In conclusion, the combination of the Technics SL-1200 turntable and the Pro-Ject Phono Box DS allows for a wide range of experimentation with different phono cartridges. This setup is not only versatile and high-performing, but it also provides an excellent platform for audiophiles to explore the world of vinyl playback in depth. Whether you're new to the vinyl scene or a seasoned listener, this combination promises a rich and immersive listening experience.