Фонокорректоры — Pro-Ject Phono Box E

The Phono Box E is a low-cost Pro-Ject Audio Systems phono stage, intended for turntable systems whose amplifier or active speakers have no dedicated phono input. It takes the very small signal of a moving-magnet cartridge, applies amplification and RIAA equalisation, and hands a line-level signal to any standard input. The small enclosure measures 120 x 32 x 100 mm, so the unit can sit right next to the turntable, and white and black casings are both made.

Key specs that matter

The single input is intended for MM cartridges only and presents a load of 47 kohm with 120 pF of capacitance. Gain is fixed at 40 dB, so a 5 mV input at 1 kHz produces 500 mV at the output. The maker lists a noise floor of 88 dB A-weighted, and THD stays below 0.05 percent. The RIAA curve is held within 0.5 dB either side across 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Without the power supply the box weighs just 269 g.

Engineering and use context

The circuit board uses surface-mount (SMD) construction and low-noise parts, and an internal metal shield sits around the circuitry to keep outside interference away from the fragile cartridge signal before it is amplified. The input and output jacks are gold-plated RCA types. An external supply rated 18 V DC at 500 mA is included in the box. In standby the unit draws less than 1 watt. There are no switches for gain, loading or capacitance, so the only connections to make are the turntable leads, the output cable and the power plug. Power comes from that plug-in adapter rather than from a transformer inside the case. Mains input for the adapter is specified at 220 to 240 V and 50 Hz, so the unit suits markets using that supply standard rather than 110 to 120 V grids.

Pairing

The fixed load and gain are chosen for typical moving-magnet cartridges. Moving-coil cartridges are not covered by the specification, as the input is designed for MM types only. On the output side the line-level signal goes to the AUX, CD or line inputs of an integrated amplifier, a receiver or a pair of powered speakers. Because the box is so small, it fits on the same shelf as the record player, keeping the unamplified cable run short.

Alternatives

For balanced connection, MC support and adjustable loading, the Pro-Ject Phono Box S3 B is the step up within the same phono stage range.