Pro-Ject Audio Unveils Amp Box RS2: Hybrid Amplifier Combines Tube Warmth with Transistor Efficiency
Pro-Ject Audio Systems has introduced the Amp Box RS2, a compact stereo power amplifier that blends tube warmth with transistor efficiency in a hybrid design. This latest offering from the Austrian company merges classic and modern engineering to deliver a nuanced audio experience.
At the heart of the Amp Box RS2 is a hybrid circuit design. The preamplification stage in each channel utilizes a 6922 (6DJ8) double triode vacuum tube, known for its musicality and rich harmonic characteristics. These tubes visibly protrude from the top of the all-metal chassis, a nod to traditional tube amplifier aesthetics. The output stage employs fully discrete transistors operating in Class A/B, providing a balance between sound quality and power efficiency.
In terms of performance, the Amp Box RS2 delivers 80 watts per channel into 8-ohm loads and 130 watts into 4-ohm loads. For those seeking even more power, the amplifier can be switched into bridge mode to function as a monoblock, outputting up to 350 watts into an 8-ohm load. This flexibility allows users to adapt the amplifier to a variety of speaker systems and listening environments.
The amplifier's design pays careful attention to heat management. The solid metal casing not only offers robust protection against vibrations and electromagnetic interference but also facilitates effective heat dissipation. This ensures stable operation even during extended listening sessions at higher volumes.
Recognizing the importance of clean power delivery, Pro-Ject includes a capable power supply with the Amp Box RS2. However, for those looking to push performance further, there's the optional Pro-Ject Power Box RS2. This external linear power supply features a substantial toroidal transformer with shielding between the primary and secondary windings. With a total filter capacitance of 40,000 μF, it provides a more stable and noise-free power source, potentially enhancing the amplifier's sonic characteristics.
Connectivity options are versatile. The amplifier features both single-ended RCA and balanced XLR inputs, catering to a wide range of preamplifiers and source components. High-quality gold-plated speaker terminals accept banana plugs, spades, or bare wire, ensuring secure connections to your speakers. Additionally, an RS232 interface allows for integration into more complex control systems.
Available in sleek black or silver finishes, the Amp Box RS2 exhibits a minimalist yet elegant aesthetic that can complement various audio setups. Priced at €1,799, it positions itself as a high-end component that offers value through its hybrid design and build quality. The optional Power Box RS2 power supply is available for those willing to invest an additional €999 for potential performance gains.
In a world where audiophiles often debate the merits of tube versus solid-state amplification, the Pro-Ject Amp Box RS2 presents an intriguing middle ground. By combining the sonic signature of tubes with the reliability and power of transistors, it aims to deliver the best of both worlds. For enthusiasts looking to explore this synergy, the Amp Box RS2 might just be the amplifier to audition.
