Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital: MQA HW decoding at reasonable cost -Anyone have this?


I am throwing my system thru the paces of some reasonable upgrades and found some intriguing reviews on this DAC.
 http://www.box-designs.com/main.php?prod=preboxs2digital&cat=s2-line&lang=en

This looks like a great entry to test MQA and have ability to use 7 different filters to salt and pepper digital stream to taste.  Only have an older  DACs Marantz (NA7004) Schitt (Modi) and older Emotiva AV processors (LMC-1 , UMC-1). All non MQA or latest chips.

Anyone think this is worth the plunge for the money?


azthu

Showing 2 responses by azthu

This thing arrived last night. I am very impressed so far!  I thought the DAC in my Marantz NA7004 was pretty good as it has its own "filter" in the M--DAX feature. (N/A these days on newer models BTW).
Streaming TIDAL-The Project S2 took my system to an immediate and instantly recognizable level of detail. Be aware that using the supplied 5v power adapter is not recommended with the USB connection. ( I did as purist seem to swear off USB power from a pc) The 7 filters on the Project are also not available when playing MQA files. 
Either way this unit , as well as the addition of the Jolida Foz SS-X Tube buffer & sound stage expander,  have given me unlimited options in screwing around with different tweaks and adjustments for my OCD listening habits. A+ for value.
Which connection are you using. USB, Coax,Toslink?
MQA ONLY available via USB.
I would recommend IFi power supply and jitterbug for best performance.
It really is a great unit especially for Tidal MQA.