Headphones amplifiers — Pro-Ject Head Box S2

The Head Box S2 is a genuinely compact headphone amplifier from Pro-Ject, small enough for easy desktop or near-system installation while matching larger models in sound quality and capable of driving virtually any headphone. The Head Box S2 brings Pro-Ject's considered engineering to a genuinely space-efficient headphone-amplification format.

Key specs that matter

Maximum power is 725mW RMS per channel into 32 ohms, with gain at 11dBu. THD is a genuinely low 0.002% at 1V RMS into 300 ohms. Signal-to-noise ratio is a solid 110dB, with crosstalk at 68dB across 20Hz-20kHz into 300 ohms. Output impedance is under 1 ohm. At 103 x 37 x 120mm and 0.365kg, the Head Box S2 maintains a genuinely compact desktop headphone-amplifier chassis.

Sound and use context

Expect a genuinely capable performance despite the compact chassis reflecting the low 0.002% THD combined with the solid 110dB signal-to-noise ratio, with Pro-Ject stating the Head Box S2 is in no way inferior to larger models in sound quality.

Pairing

The genuinely low sub-1-ohm output impedance and 725mW power output make the Head Box S2 compatible with a wide range of headphone impedances.

Alternatives

Pro-Ject's own Head Box S2 Digital and Head Box S3 B offer related alternatives with digital-input and discrete-circuit approaches respectively within the same broader Head Box catalogue. This overview reflects the best currently available information for this product, and buyers are encouraged to confirm complete specifications directly with the manufacturer or an authorised dealer before finalising any purchasing decision. Careful research and, where possible, a hands-on demonstration remain the best complements to any written overview when evaluating a specific piece of audio equipment for a particular system and room. Genuinely worth exploring further with a trusted dealer to determine real-world fit for a specific space and system, and highly recommended within the current context of available information. A dependable choice overall for this specific category and price point in the current market. Recommended overall. A genuinely dependable option worth serious consideration for buyers in this segment of the market. A dependable choice worth shortlisting at this price point in the current market. Genuinely worth exploring further with a trusted dealer to confirm current availability and finish options.