Tube Box DS3 B vs Phono Box RS
The Phono Box RS's signal-to-noise is 80 dB against the Tube Box DS3 B's 87 dB, its thd 0.019% against 0.030%, and its weight 2 kg (4 lbs) against 1.56 kg (3 lbs). Both share mm gain (40 dB).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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The Tube Box DS3 B is a precision tube phono preamplifier designed by Pro-Ject Audio Systems, featuring balanced signal transmission with 5-pin mini XLR and standard XLR inputs and outputs. It uses 2x E88CC / 6922 vacuum tubes known for low noise and microphonics, delivering detailed lows and warm highs. The device offers stepless input impedance loading from 10 to 1000 Ohms and selectable capacitance settings (50, 150, 300, 400 pF), allowing seamless adjustment during playback to perfectly match a wide variety of cartridges. Gain can be set from 40 to 65 dB, with an additional +6 dB gain when using XLR output. The unit includes a subsonic filter at 20 Hz with 18 dB/octave slope and boasts a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 87 dBV (A-weighted) and THD below 0.03%. It is handmade in Europe with audiophile-grade components including polypropylene capacitors and offers a robust, interference-free balanced connection for superior sound quality. Dimensions are 206 x 70 x 194 mm and it weighs 1560 g without power supply.
Analog signal output specifications
Phono stage specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Components that show up alongside the Tube Box DS3 B in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The Phono Box RS's signal-to-noise is 80 dB against the Tube Box DS3 B's 87 dB, its thd 0.019% against 0.030%, and its weight 2 kg (4 lbs) against 1.56 kg (3 lbs). Both share mm gain (40 dB).
The Limetree Phono II's signal-to-noise is 82 dB against the Tube Box DS3 B's 87 dB and its thd 0.001% against 0.030%. Both share mm gain (40 dB) and output voltage (0.5V RMS).
The NuWave Phono Converter's output voltage is 0.2V RMS against the Tube Box DS3 B's 0.5V RMS. Both share signal-to-noise (87 dB), thd (0.030%), and mm gain (40 dB).
The Tube Box DS2's signal-to-noise is 88 dB against the Tube Box DS3 B's 87 dB and its thd 0.040% against 0.030%. Both share mm gain (40 dB) and output voltage (0.5V RMS).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
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