Pro-Ject
Pro-Ject Head Box DS2 B
Best balanced amplifier for audiophiles seeking precise control over demanding headphones.
The Pro-Ject Head Box DS2 B is a powerful headphone amplifier designed to drive even the most demanding headphones with ease. It boasts a robust 1100 mW output into 33 Ohms, ensuring your headphones reach their full potential. With three distinct current settings and four gain settings, it offers precise matching for any headphone type, from sensitive in-ear monitors to high-impedance models. Its fully balanced dual-mono design incorporates a phase inverter to convert unbalanced signals to balanced for superior audio transmission. The amplifier utilizes the acclaimed Texas Instruments TPA6120A2 chip for exceptional power handling and a near-silent noise floor.
$598.37
More Head Box Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
387
/ 731
#387 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-57%
Below average
Output Power
110033
/ mW into Ohm
Who it's for
- Owners of demanding high-impedance or planar magnetic headphones
- Minimalists valuing durable, premium-built audio equipment
- Listeners seeking high-fidelity clarity and expansive soundscapes
Who should skip it
- Casual listeners on a strict budget
- Users wanting a simple, clutter-free, all-in-one setup
- Casual listeners using standard, less demanding audio gear
Performance breakdown
Power Output
Effortlessly drives demanding high-impedance headphones with significant headroom.
Impedance Matching
Extensive gain and current settings ensure perfect synergy with any transducer.
Signal Integrity
Dual-mono architecture maintains exceptional channel separation and audio purity.
Build Quality
Premium components like the BLUE ALPS potentiometer offer refined, tactile control.
Noise Floor
The TPA6120A2 chip delivers a near-silent background for critical listening.
Connectivity Versatility
Balanced and single-ended outputs accommodate a wide range of headphone cables.
Key Specs
Output Power
1100 mW into 33 Ohm
Gain Settings
Four
Current Settings
Three
Outputs
Single-ended (6.3 mm) and Balanced (4 Pin XLR)
Chipset
Texas Instruments TPA6120A2
Control
BLUE ALPS potentiometer
Design
Fully balanced dual-mono with phase inverter
Features
- Drives demanding headphones with 1100 mW output
- Customizable sound with three current and four gain settings
- Fully balanced dual-mono design for superior audio quality
- Integrated phase inverter for enhanced signal transmission
- Simultaneous use of both headphone outputs for shared listening
- High-quality components like the TPA6120A2 chip and BLUE ALPS potentiometer
- Available in black or silver, with optional wooden side panels
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Pro Ject Head Box DS2 B for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Many highlight its ability to elevate the listening experience, delivering clear, detailed, and powerful audio across various headphones. Users frequently note the significant improvement it brings to their music, making it a worthwhile investment for serious audiophiles. The solid construction and premium feel also contribute to a strong sense of product quality and reliability. This amplifier is seen as a high performing component that genuinely enhances audio fidelity.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Head Box DS2 B allows for simultaneous use of both the 6.3 mm single-ended and 4-pin XLR balanced outputs, making it convenient for shared listening sessions.
Absolutely. With a robust 1100 mW output and four selectable gain settings, this unit is specifically engineered to drive demanding, high-impedance headphones with plenty of headroom.
These settings allow you to fine-tune the amplifier's electrical output to match the specific sensitivity and impedance of your headphones. By adjusting them, you ensure optimal power delivery and minimize noise, resulting in a cleaner, more controlled sound profile.
Yes, the integrated phase inverter converts unbalanced input signals into a balanced output. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of a balanced connection even if your source component only has unbalanced outputs.
The dual-mono design separates the left and right audio channels completely. This architecture significantly reduces crosstalk and interference, providing a wider soundstage and more precise imaging.
The unit features a high-quality BLUE ALPS potentiometer, which is an analog volume control known for its precision, longevity, and smooth tactile feel.
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