Pro-Ject Head Box S2 Digital Headphone Amp and DAC - Silver

Austrian Reference-Grade Headphone Performance at Real-World Pricing

• Brand/Model/Finish: Pro-Ject Head Box S2 Digital - Silver
• Condition: Open-Box, Like-New, Box has been opened but unit has not been played or demonstrated
• Retail: $449
• Configuration: Dual mono headphone amplifier with ESS Sabre DAC
• Design: Box Design S2 series reference miniature components
• What's Included: Professionally repackaged in original manufacturer carton with all inserts, accessories, manuals, etc. included
• Warranty: Backed by the manufacturer's original 2-year equipment warranty

Brand Heritage Section - Beyond Turntables to Complete Audio Excellence

While Pro-Ject built their reputation as the world's largest turntable manufacturer, their Box Design series proves Austrian engineering excellence extends across the entire signal chain. Launched to complement their turntables with equally accomplished electronics, the Box Design philosophy applies Pro-Ject's core principles - maximum performance, minimum complexity, accessible pricing - to amplification and digital conversion. The Head Box S2 Digital represents their most ambitious headphone solution, incorporating discoveries from designing electronics for recording studios and mastering facilities.

The S2 series specifically targets serious audiophiles who understand that exceptional sound doesn't require enormous chassis or astronomical prices. By focusing budget on critical components rather than unnecessary features or oversized casework, Pro-Ject delivers reference-grade performance in a component that fits in your palm yet outperforms headphone amps costing twice as much.

Technical Excellence

• ESS Sabre32 ES9018 DAC: Reference-grade 32-bit conversion
• Dual Mono Design: Separate amplification for each channel
• Ultra-Low Noise: <0.0005% THD+N
• High Current Output: Drives 8-600Ω headphones effortlessly
• Asynchronous USB: Jitter-free computer audio
• Multiple Digital Inputs: USB, optical, coaxial
• Variable/Fixed Output: Headphone amp or standalone DAC

Brand Philosophy: Size Doesn't Determine Sound

Pro-Ject's Box Design series challenges the assumption that serious audio components require rack-width chassis. By eliminating wasted internal space and focusing on circuit optimization, the Head Box S2 Digital delivers performance that embarrasses traditionally-sized components. This isn't miniaturization for its own sake - it's intelligent engineering that places every dollar into sound quality rather than sheet metal. The compact form factor also means shorter signal paths, reducing interference and improving clarity.

Evolution: From Analog Masters to Digital Excellence

Pro-Ject's journey from turntable specialists to digital masters wasn't rushed. Years of designing phono stages taught them about low-noise amplification. Creating speed controllers revealed digital timing precision. The Head Box S2 Digital combines these lessons, treating digital signals with the same respect Pro-Ject gives to delicate cartridge outputs. The result is a headphone amp/DAC that maintains Pro-Ject's analog musicality while embracing digital's convenience.

Geographic Context: Austrian Precision in Miniature

Designed in Austria where space efficiency matters as much as performance, the Head Box S2 Digital reflects European sensibilities - sophisticated engineering in elegant, space-conscious packages. The silver finish isn't just aesthetic; the aluminum casework provides electromagnetic shielding crucial for maintaining the exceptional signal-to-noise ratio. Austrian attention to detail means even the feet are specially designed to minimize vibration transmission.

Performance Specifications

• Frequency Response: 10Hz-80kHz ±0.5dB
• Output Power: 2 x 660mW @ 32Ω
• Signal-to-Noise: >118dB
• Dynamic Range: >115dB
• Supported Formats: PCM up to 32-bit/192kHz, DSD64/128
• Output Impedance: <0.1Ω
• Dimensions: 4" × 1.5" × 4.1"
• Weight: 1.1 lbs

Why Dual Mono Architecture Matters

Unlike typical headphone amps sharing components between channels, the Head Box S2 Digital employs true dual mono construction - completely separate amplification paths for left and right channels. This eliminates crosstalk, improves stereo imaging, and provides the power reserves for demanding headphones. Whether driving efficient IEMs or power-hungry planars, the dual mono design maintains composure during complex passages that cause lesser amps to compress dynamics.

Connectivity and Features

• Digital Inputs: USB-B, Optical, Coaxial
• Analog Input: RCA stereo pair
• Headphone Outputs: 6.3mm and 3.5mm (both active)
• Line Output: Variable or fixed RCA
• Power: External 18V supply for isolation
• Controls: Volume, input selection, filter settings

Why This Compact Giant Impresses

The Head Box S2 Digital proves that reference-grade headphone amplification doesn't require massive chassis or massive investment. At $449, it delivers the ESS Sabre DAC technology found in $2,000+ components, paired with dual mono amplification that drives any headphone with authority. The ability to function as a standalone DAC adds versatility - upgrade your entire system's digital performance, not just headphone listening. This combination of Austrian engineering, reference components, and intelligent design makes the S2 Digital the thinking audiophile's choice.

Experience Austrian Digital Excellence Today

This open-box Head Box S2 Digital in like-new condition offers exceptional value for entering reference-grade headphone listening. Whether you're discovering details in familiar recordings through high-end headphones or seeking a DAC that elevates your entire system, this compact Austrian masterpiece delivers performance that challenges components at any price. Transform your personal listening with Pro-Ject's proven combination of engineering excellence and value consciousness.

Established in 1981, Audio Advisor, Inc. has served more than one million audiophiles over the past 40+ years. We are authorized dealers for everything we sell. This product includes our 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee.