Pro-Ject Audio Systems, headquartered in Vienna, Austria, has released the “CD Box RS2 Tube,” a CD player featuring a vacuum tube output stage. From the company that built a worldwide reputation for analog turntables, this high-end CD player responds to the growing trend of physical media revival.
Champion of Physical Media Revival
In an era dominated by streaming, interest in physical media such as vinyl records and CDs is experiencing a resurgence. Pro-Ject has been driving this demand in the turntable market, and the CD Box RS2 Tube applies the same approach to the CD format.
Key Specifications
Drive Mechanism
- SUOS DM-3381 Drive: High-quality CD reading mechanism
- BlueTiger CD-88 Servo Controller: Ensures accurate disc reading
- Red Book CD Only: Dedicated to CD-DA playback (no SACD support)
DAC and Analog Stage
- Burr-Brown PCM1796 DAC: Highly regarded multibit DAC chip
- E88CC (6922/6DJ8 equivalent) Tube Output: Dual triode vacuum tube output stage
- XLR Balanced and RCA Unbalanced Outputs: Both connection options available
Design and Chassis
- Pro-Ject RS (Reference Series) Design: Finish befitting the company’s high-end lineup
- Compact Form Factor: Inherits the slim chassis tradition of the Box Design series
Fusion of Vacuum Tubes and CD
The standout feature of the CD Box RS2 Tube is its combination of vacuum tubes with digital playback. The E88CC (equivalent to 6922/6DJ8 specifications) is a dual triode highly regarded for audio applications, known for its transparent yet rich midrange character.
By combining the clarity of digital sources with the musicality inherent to vacuum tubes, the design philosophy aims to maximize the appeal of CD media.
Pro-Ject’s Technical Expertise
Pro-Ject started as a turntable manufacturer and earned high praise for its precision mechanism design. This expertise carries over to CD players, evident in the selection of high-quality drive mechanisms and chassis design with vibration countermeasures.
The company has also developed vacuum tube products such as the Tube Box DS phono stage, demonstrating accumulated expertise in tube technology. The CD Box RS2 Tube can be seen as a product integrating all of this knowledge.
Pricing and Availability
- Price: £1,749 (UK)
- Availability: Now available
A Sincere Approach to the CD Format
The CD Box RS2 Tube does not support high-resolution discs such as SACD or DVD-Audio, but this is the result of a design optimized for Red Book CD. This philosophy of prioritizing sound quality over versatility echoes Pro-Ject’s approach to analog turntables.
For audiophiles looking to rediscover the charm of physical media, this promises to be a compelling choice.
References / Sources
- StereoNET: https://stereonet.com/news/pro-ject-cd-box-rs2-tube-cd-player-promises-analogue-warmth
- Pro-Ject Audio Official: https://www.project-audio.com/