Dual mono converter using two ES9038Q2M chips, with an output stage you can switch between four 6922EH valves and solid state. Handles 32-bit/768kHz PCM, DSD512 and full MQA unfolding, with XLR and RCA outputs. Privately owned and offered through Dreamcrest Audio, individually or within the complete collection. The Pro-Ject DAC Box RS2 is a compact dual mono digital to analogue converter with an unusual feature: the output stage can be switched between four 6922EH valves and a solid state stage, so one box offers two genuinely different presentations. It handles everything up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512 and unfolds MQA fully in hardware. This unit belongs to a private client and is offered through Dreamcrest Audio. Open box and never used, supplied with all accessories.What it doesIt converts digital audio to analogue for anything with a digital output. There are two optical and one coaxial S/PDIF input at up to 24-bit/192kHz, an AES/EBU balanced input at the same rate, an HDMI I²S input for Pro-Ject's own CD Box RS2 T transport, and USB 2.0 audio carrying 32-bit/768kHz PCM with native DSD to DSD512. Two ES9038Q2M converters run in dual mono, one per channel. Eight selectable digital filters are provided, including MQA's own transient filter.How it sounds and where it fitsThe switchable output stage is the whole point. Solid state measures lower, at under 0.0008% THD+N against 0.001% for the valve path, and presents 180 ohms output impedance against 220 ohms for the valves. In practice people use solid state for dense film soundtracks and detailed recordings, and the valve stage for acoustic music and older recordings that benefit from a gentler treble. Pro-Ject describes the outputs as preamplifier outputs on XLR and RCA, so it can feed a power amplifier directly or sit ahead of a preamplifier.Key featuresTwo ES9038Q2M converters in dual mono, one per channelOutput stage switchable between four 6922EH valves and solid state32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD to DSD512 over USBFull MQA hardware unfoldingEight selectable digital filtersAES/EBU, coaxial, two optical and HDMI I²S inputsBalanced XLR and RCA preamplifier outputsMaster clock output at 16.9344 MHzTechnical specificationsTHD+N, 20Hz to 20kHz: under 0.0008% solid state, 0.001% valve, at 2V rms and 1kHzOutput impedance: 180 ohms solid state, 220 ohms valveDimensions: 206 x 72 x 222 mmWeight: 1,520 g without power supplyStandby consumption: under 0.5 WCondition and what is includedOpen box and never used, supplied with all accessories. The owner bought it new about three to four years ago. The finish is silver. The valves are unused, as the unit was never put into service. The original power supply is included. This unit belongs to a private client and is offered for sale through Dreamcrest Audio, which is not the owner. It is not new dealer stock, and no manufacturer warranty is offered or implied. Condition and inclusions are confirmed to you in writing before purchase.Frequently asked questionsDo the valves need replacing?Small signal valves of this type last a long time, but they are consumable and their remaining life depends on hours used. Ask us for the figures the owner has given before you decide.Can it replace my preamplifier?Pro-Ject specifies XLR and RCA preamplifier outputs, so in a system fed entirely from digital sources it can drive a power amplifier directly. If you have turntables or other analogue sources you will still want a preamplifier.Can I buy it on its own?Yes. It is sold individually, or as part of the complete Home Cinema Collection bundle from the same owner.To ask about condition, finish or valve hours, use the enquiry button on this page.
Dreamcrest Audio Fidelity Ltd, Nicosia. Specialist hi-fi and high end audio, 20+ years in the audio business. Call or message for availability, demonstration and delivery.
