The 12th device in Austrian manufacturer Pro-Ject’s RS series, the RS2 Tube CD box is the 3rd to feature tubes and the 1st CD player in this range.
The RS2 T CD box already exists for playing compact discs, but as its T indicates, it is only a transport. In contrast, this new player adds a DAC chip, in this case the new Texas Instrument PCM1796, around a SUOS DM-3381 Red Book mechanism positioned on a damper and a rigid plate on the top of the chassis to reduce vibration and avoid problems associated with drawers.
Taking up the entire center of the front panel, the monochrome LCD screen, together with the mechanism in the center of the unit, means that the two tubes have to be placed where there is space left, in this case at the rear. And to handle the output stage, E88CC double triodes (replaceable with 6922s) were chosen and used in a symmetrical configuration to ensure the new CD Box’s fluidity, warmth and harmony.
Thanks to its structure, the new player, which comes with a remote control, not only offers two optical and coaxial digital outputs for use as a transport, but also RCA and XLR analogue outputs for direct connection to an integrated amplifier. The 20V power supply is provided by a separate unit, which reduces noise in the chassis.
Available to order now in silver or black, the CD Box RS2 Tube is priced at 1 990 €, which is 500 € less than the RS2 T.
15/12/2025
