The Pro-Ject Phono Box S3 B was engineered to bring true balanced phono amplification into a compact audiophile component while maximizing the performance potential of modern high-end turntables and cartridges. Designed specifically for demanding vinyl enthusiasts, the S3 B combines fully balanced signal architecture, ultra-low-noise circuitry, and extensive cartridge optimization capabilities in an elegant compact chassis.
Unlike traditional single-ended phono stages, the Phono Box S3 B utilizes a fully symmetrical balanced circuit topology from input to output. This architecture significantly reduces background noise and interference while improving channel separation, dynamic range, and low-level detail retrieval. When paired with balanced turntable connections, the result is an exceptionally quiet and highly revealing analog presentation.
The unit supports both MM and MC cartridges with extensive adjustment flexibility. Gain settings, impedance loading, and capacitance options can all be configured directly from the front panel, allowing users to optimize compatibility with a wide variety of cartridge designs and output levels without complicated internal modifications.
For moving coil cartridges, the adjustable impedance range allows precise matching for improved tonal balance and transient response, while MM capacitance adjustments ensure optimal high-frequency performance for moving magnet designs.
The S3 B utilizes a fully discrete analog design instead of integrated operational amplifier stages. This premium architecture improves signal purity, microdynamic performance, transient speed, and musical realism while preserving natural tonal characteristics.
Balanced mini XLR input and output connections provide superior signal integrity and reduced susceptibility to electromagnetic interference compared to standard RCA connections. Traditional RCA connectivity is also included for compatibility with conventional HiFi systems.
Its precision-machined aluminum chassis provides excellent shielding against vibration and interference while maintaining Pro-Ject’s elegant minimalist industrial design language. Compact dimensions allow easy integration into desktop systems, modern racks, and space-conscious audiophile installations.
Combining balanced analog engineering, exceptional adjustability, low-noise performance, and audiophile-grade musicality, the Pro-Ject Phono Box S3 B delivers a highly refined vinyl listening experience suitable for serious analog enthusiasts.
• Product Type: Fully balanced MM/MC phono preamplifier
• Circuit Design: Fully discrete balanced circuitry
• Cartridge Compatibility: MM / MC
• Gain Settings: 40 dB / 45 dB / 50 dB / 55 dB / 60 dB / 65 dB
• MM Input Impedance: 47 kOhms
• MC Impedance Adjustment: 10 Ohms – 1 kOhm variable
• MM Capacitance Settings: 50 pF / 150 pF / 300 pF / 400 pF
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz (+/- 0.2 dB)
• THD: <0.0005%
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 85 dB
• Balanced Inputs: Mini XLR
• Balanced Outputs: Mini XLR
• RCA Inputs: 1 stereo pair
• RCA Outputs: 1 stereo pair
• Subsonic Filter: Selectable
• Power Supply: External 20V low-noise power supply
• Chassis Construction: Aluminum
• Dimensions: 20.6 cm × 7.2 cm × 15.3 cm
• Product Weight: Approx. 930 g
• Available Finishes: Black
• Fully balanced MM/MC phono preamplifier
• True balanced signal architecture
• Fully discrete analog circuitry
• Balanced mini XLR input and output connections
• RCA input and output connectivity
• Compatible with MM and MC cartridges
• Front-panel gain and loading adjustments
• Adjustable impedance and capacitance settings
• Ultra-low-noise analog performance
• Excellent channel separation and dynamic range
• Precision cartridge matching capability
• Premium aluminum chassis construction
• Shielded against electromagnetic interference
• Compact audiophile S3 series design
• Improved microdetail and transient response
• Optimized for balanced turntable systems
• High-end analog musicality and transparency
• External low-noise power supply included