Pro-Ject
DAC Box RS2 Balanced Dual-Mono D/A Converter
Best high-fidelity converter for audiophiles seeking versatile, customizable sound.
Elevate your audio experience with the Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2, a high-fidelity digital-to-analog converter. This device features dual ESS9038Q2M DACs in a balanced dual-mono design for exceptional clarity and channel separation. It supports high-resolution PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512, with full MQA hardware decoding. Customize your sound with switchable tube or solid-state output stages and user-selectable digital filters. Offering robust connectivity and Roon-ready integration, the DAC Box RS2 is designed to enhance any discerning audio system.
$2499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 489
#99 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-43%
Below average
DAC Chips
29038232
/ x ESSQM (-bit, dual mono)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles prioritizing precise imaging and expansive soundstage depth
- Listeners wanting both clinical accuracy and warm analog character
- System builders integrating diverse high-end digital sources
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking high-end performance at entry-level pricing
- Minimalists preferring plug-and-play simplicity over deep menu customization
- Space-constrained users with limited audio rack real estate
Performance breakdown
Sonic Versatility
Switchable tube or solid-state stages offer two distinct, high-fidelity sound profiles.
Resolution Capability
Handles ultra-high PCM and DSD512 files with effortless, clinical precision.
Connectivity Depth
Comprehensive input array ensures seamless integration with any high-end audio source.
Build Integrity
Premium aluminum chassis provides a rigid, resonance-free foundation for internal components.
Channel Separation
Balanced dual-mono architecture delivers an expansive and remarkably accurate soundstage.
Digital Decoding
Full MQA hardware support guarantees authentic playback of high-resolution streaming masters.
Key Specs
DAC Chips
2 x ESS9038Q2M (32-bit, dual mono)
Supported PCM Rates
Up to 32-bit/768kHz
Supported DSD Rates
Up to DSD512
Digital Inputs
USB, i²S HDMI, AES/EBU, 2x Optical, Coaxial
Analog Outputs
1x XLR (4.0V RMS), 1x RCA (2.0V RMS)
Output Buffer
Switchable (solid-state or 4 x 6922EH tubes)
Dynamic Range
124dBA
Weight
1.52 kg
Features
- Dual ESS9038Q2M DACs for superior sound
- Switchable tube or solid-state output
- Full MQA hardware decoding
- User-selectable digital filters
- Fully balanced dual-mono design
- Roon-ready for seamless streaming
- High-resolution audio support
- Premium aluminum build quality
What customers say
The DAC Box RS2 earns high marks for its superior audio quality, delivering enhanced resolution and a deeper soundstage. Its dual mono construction and switchable tube output are frequently cited as key elements that enrich the listening experience. Despite its premium price, many users find the excellent build and sonic performance offer remarkable value, often outperforming pricier alternatives. This device is considered a significant upgrade for audiophiles prioritizing precision and musicality in their sound reproduction.
Know before you buy
This feature allows you to tailor the sonic character of your system. The solid-state stage provides a precise, clean, and neutral sound, while the tube stage adds a touch of warmth and harmonic richness, letting you choose the flavor that best suits your music or mood.
Yes, the DAC Box RS2 features full MQA hardware decoding. This ensures that MQA-encoded files are processed correctly to deliver the intended high-resolution audio quality without relying on software-only unfolding.
Absolutely. The device is Roon-ready, meaning it will be automatically discovered and configured by your Roon Core, allowing for seamless integration into your existing high-resolution streaming ecosystem.
By using a dedicated DAC chip for each channel, the device significantly improves channel separation and reduces crosstalk. This results in a wider, more accurate soundstage and better overall imaging in your music.
The DAC Box RS2 is highly versatile, offering a wide range of inputs including USB, i²S via HDMI, AES/EBU, two optical ports, and a coaxial input. This allows you to connect everything from high-end streamers and CD transports to computers and gaming consoles.
These filters allow you to fine-tune the impulse response and frequency roll-off of the digital signal. While the differences are subtle, they enable you to adjust the DAC's performance to better match your speakers or personal preference for transient response.
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$2499