ЦАПы — Pro-Ject DAC Box S2 +

The DAC Box S2+ is a small single-chip DAC built to add digital conversion to a system that otherwise relies on a computer or streamer's own output. It occupies the compact, budget end of Pro-Ject's DAC lineup, aimed at someone upgrading away from a built-in soundcard or TV DAC rather than chasing a reference-tier converter.

Position in line

It sits below the DAC Box RS Final Edition in Pro-Ject's range, trading two PCM1792 chips for a single ESS9038Q2M and a fraction of the size and price - the RS Final Edition is the step up when a bigger analogue stage matters more than a compact footprint, and the price gap between the two reflects that difference in scale rather than a difference in fundamental competence.

Key specs that matter

DSD256 and 24-bit/192kHz PCM cover essentially all consumer digital formats, so format compatibility is not a limiting factor here even against pricier converters. Rated bandwidth is 20 Hz to 20 kHz, a more conservative window than the RS Final Edition's extended figure. Distortion is specified at 0.0007%, lower than the RS Final Edition's figure, which is typical of a modern single-chip design measured at a fixed level rather than across a range - the two figures are not directly comparable since they describe different measurement conditions. At 103 x 37 x 122 mm and 355 g it is small enough to sit directly behind a source component, almost disappearing behind a streamer or laptop.

Sound and use context

Expect a clean, neutral presentation typical of a modern delta-sigma chip DAC - low coloration, with the ESS engine's usual reputation for a slightly cooler balance than older Burr-Brown designs, a house character some listeners prefer for detail and some find a touch analytical on already-bright recordings.

Pairing

Standard line-level output into any preamplifier or integrated amplifier works without gain concerns, making this an easy drop-in upgrade regardless of what it replaces.

Alternatives

The DAC Box RS Final Edition trades this model's compact single-chip design for a larger dual-PCM1792 output stage - worth the step up when the DAC is meant to be a system centrepiece rather than a small upgrade module tucked out of sight.

Worth noting too is that at this size the unit draws power over USB in many installations, simplifying cabling in a desktop-style system where a separate mains lead would be an extra inconvenience.