Pro-Ject Travel Set: Redefining High-End Portable Audio

At the core of the Travel Set is the Stereo Box S3 BT amplifier. Weighing just 450 grams, this ultra-compact powerhouse delivers 40 watts per channel into 4 ohms and features two line-level inputs alongside aptX Bluetooth streaming for wireless connections. The amplifier’s aluminium chassis adds aesthetic appeal while minimizing interference, making it as much a visual statement as an audio solution. Interesting to note is the variable output that can connect either to a subwoofer or a secondary zone amplifier. While the inclusion may spark curiosity, the Travel Set’s design seems more suited for self-contained operation rather than system integration.

The accompanying Speaker Box 3 E Carbon speakers bring a sleek, minimalist flair, offered in black, white, or walnut finishes. Compact yet thoughtfully engineered, these 2-way bass reflex speakers feature a fiberglass-carbon composite mid-bass driver, most likely around 3 inches in size, based on the design and naming conventions. Pro-Ject rates the frequency response down to 83 Hz, a spec that prioritizes compactness and portability over deep bass extension. Fans of robust low-end performance might find the system best complemented by music styles that shine in the midrange and treble.

Everything comes housed in a durable, padded travel case, making transportation straightforward. However, don’t expect a retractable handle or wheels, as the final design forgoes these convenience features shown in earlier prototypes. To further enhance acoustic performance, the set includes six DampIt damping feet to isolate vibrations, as well as a pair of 3-meter Connect it LS E Flex speaker cables, crafted from high-quality 99.99% oxygen-free copper.

Priced at €699 for the black or white version of the speakers, or €750 for the walnut finish, the Travel Set delivers a distinctive offering for anyone looking to blend portability with refined sound. Although not aimed at deep bass aficionados or multi-zone setups, it promises an impressively wide soundstage far superior to that of typical Bluetooth speakers or soundbars. Compact yet offering a taste of high-fidelity audio, this system embodies a thoughtful blend of practicality and sophistication. Ready for takeoff?