Great review! I’ve watched many of your reviews and as a 68 year old Englishman I continue to be very impressed with your grasp of the English language, it’s idioms and your very articulate explanations of sound quality! 👍 Keep up the great work!

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! That means a lot since I love English but don't use it on a regular basis. Don't like listening my own reviews since I always notice some pronunciation and grammatical errors and it bugs me. :)

Surprising outcome, thank you for another great review and for your consistent transparency

Excellent description of the sound quality. Thank you. Very helpful.

Yay a new review from iiWi

Your review is terrific! Thanks for such an in-depth thoughtful video!

It is a good detailed review. I wish to see more reviews like that.

@kamertonaudiophileplayer847

3 жыл бұрын

@Keith Brixton Never, never again hack you GF Instagram. I know you know why.

I always enjoy the detailed and thorough nature of your reviews... This one is no exception. Keep up the great work. I checked Amazon and this is $499. For that price it seems they could add the auto off function you mentioned so you wouldn't have the OLED fading problem you point out. If after having spent that much I had to get the USB port re-soldered I'd be just a little upset.

Thanks for reviewing this. It helps me , when I hear your other reviews. i own this unit and amps by pro-ject.

Got mine yesterday and having a blast listening through Tidal music videos on my Focal Chorus speakers with Rotel amplifier. At the moment i am trying to settle for a filter and setting. I get when you say distortion compensation disabled sounds more messy. But i have a hard time finding differences in the 8 filters. Great device all in all! Edit: Something i found out today: Setting Audio Quality: Test is a preset for Distortion Compensation Enabled and the Brickwall Filter. Its a preset for measurement geeks and sounds very clean. Setting Audio Quality: Best is a preset for Distortion Compensation Disabled and the Optimal Transient Filter (ProJects own filter). I think i like this setting more, because it does not sound so steril and more alive.

Great review

Great review I had the multi bit and cobalt, S2 is now on sale at Amazon UK again with Prime, I may give it a try as I liked both the multi bit & cobalt but sold them as something missing, so as you prefer it to them I think I will definitly give it a try......

Excellent review, thanks, maybe you can make a top for dac and amps?

Thank you so much for the very detailed review of this DAC. I've been really thinking of this, and the Pro-ject Stream Box S2 Ultra, which is kind of a matching component to this. For a long time now. I recently picked up the Stream Box, and absolutely love it. It's unreal how much of a difference it made to my system. But it didn't match great with my Sabaj D5. So picked up an Audio Gd N28.38 really cheap on Ebay. It sounds good, but not quite what I'm looking for. Very close, but not quite. Now the way you describe this is exactly what I'm looking for, and it just so happens that there's a ton of these available used, and open box right now. Including one that comes with an iFi power supply for a good price, and it's only 70 miles, or so from me. So I think I'm going to grab one. Just a note to those considering this same combo I'm speaking of, the DAC and streamer. Pro-ject makes a linear power supply for a very reasonable price ($250 US, or less on sale) that not only has an 18 volt out for the streamer, but a 5 volt USB one too, that will power the DAC. And the streamers are available for about $550 used, and $850 new. Really an amazing deal for an MQA streaming/DAC combo. Especially one that's easily upgraded too. The streamer is a Roon endpoint BTW. ✌️

Great video! Thank you!

I love my Project Pre Box S2 Digital. I too found myself in single digits when using it as a headphone amp (never hitting 0). But, I found myself being uncomfortable seeing it almost max out when being used (purely psychological).... sooooo I coupled it with an ifi CAN Air. Now I have the quality and power quantity!

ThemPro-Ject and The dragonfly actually have the same ESS Sabre 9038 DAC chips. The difference is the Pro-Ject has two ESS Sabre 9038 chips. One for the left channel and one for the right channel. So I think it should sound better than the dragonfly. And I’m an Audioquest fanatic and own the dragonfly cobalt. Great review.

well thnaks to this review i went fr this one.... all problems are fixed if you just use a power bank... and you can use the power bank to connect and disconnect it... is nice to be a 5V device is nice, nice device is like filtering the source thru a vintage high end preamplifier the overall mid range is great is cleaner for one hand but easy to listen like more relax by the other BTW the saturated remaster albums now sounds as if they were not saturated in the first place... so far i think that was the best this DAC does, i mean is amazing how much a saturated album sounds nowso far i'm very happy with it

Your Review made me purchase it. I am using the E30/L30 stack right now with Focal Clears. The Clears are basically the upgrades to the Elegia and they are even easier to drive from what I remember. I am not saying I have amazing hearing but the Topping stack is warmer, slightly wider and flat. I like depth a lot more than width so that is a huge plus point but other than that I am really not sure which I enjoy more, the Topping stack feels more engaging (dynamic? or is it the increased mid bass?). First thought the Clears do not get enough power, so tried them with Pro-ject + L30 but did not hear much difference but tested it only couple minutes. I think I will keep the Pro-ject. The great thing about it, I strapped it to a power bank and can use it on the couch with smartphone or at my desktop.

Great review! dear iiwi, I have a question for you, if you allow me, If I already have a Hidizs AP80 PRO-X, Will I notice a big deal of difference between sound of this divice vs the Hidizs. it's worth it? Thanks a lot for your time

Did you try Focal Elear with the Topping. Was there really such positive difference between the topping stack and the Pro-ject?

$400 is the same price as the Schitt Asgard with the multi-bit DAC module. And it is functionally the same (DAC + Headphone Amp). And the headphone amp is 3500mW, but only 500mW class A. I would really like to know how you think it compares with that. When you compared with the Modi you had to use some other headphone amp. Plus the Asgard has a built in power supply vs the 5V usb connection you said degraded the sound. I don't have a preference, just wondering what you think since you listen to al lot of DACs.

Hi. Can u please compare daps like Ibasso DX 160 or Fiio M11(only internal dacs) to dedicated desktop dac like Multibit. I mean how does the dac inside portable players like Fiio M11 compare with desktop dacs on sound quality alone. If sound quality is the only preference then it it better to get Multibit and pair it with a phone+ an external amp or is it better to get something like a Fiio M11 or X5iii + an external amp. I don't ever use computer to listen to music so I am wondering if desktop dacs like Multibit can sound as good with a phone as they can with computers

If using xduoo TA-26 as pre will d30 be sufficient for good depth or do I need something else like this one? Chinese DACs are coming out with lighting speed, but for topping E30 I hear they use cheap components (affecting the sound) around the DAC.

Great detailed review!

Hello! I use the project pre box with an integrated amp from the 90's yamaha. What happens if I turn up all the volume on the yamaha and use the project volume? so that the led is spent uniformly 😅 will there be any problem of distortion or impedance? Cheers

hello .. which is better ProJect Pre Box S2 Digita or Topping D30 Pro ?

Hello. I've orderd edition 2023 pro ject pre box s2 digital. Since jou have tested the old version. The diference. Is it possible to compere. Jour apinion. Thanks.

A quick update to my previous comment RE owning the DS2 Analog... I do not regret my purchase at al! Sounds like they did a decent job on it eh! Thanks for the vids Srb. Jon James.

I bought this last year used for 150€ after negotiations. The guy i bought it from was apparently a chain smoker. Until that moment i didn't know that a device made out of metal can smell like a box of Marlboro reds. I cleaned the outside housing it with rubbing alcohol the smell vanished after a month. It still runs great.

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Same thing with an ex owner smoker happened to me recently with an amp. It's unbelievable how tobacco smell lingers to a metal chases for so long.

Excellent review, I have the Pre Box S2 for 2 years now and I am very satisfied with. But what would be the next jump for a better sounding Dac (only) under 1K$ in 2021 ? 👍

@rajendrabiswas

2 жыл бұрын

Is this better than schiit or mojo

Hey Srboljub, you really are one of my three favourite reviewers on youtube, if not my favourite! :) You mentioned that this Project S2 sounds more realistic and relaxed over the smsl su9. Does natural mean that vocals and instruments sound realistic? Would you say the S2 is the unit to go for under 500€ if i'm in search for a dac that is capable to create the illusion that the singers with their instruments are present in my room like I could touch them and walk around them? Or do I have to spend much more money? My only concern is this feeling that everything is present in my room. Thanks a lot and many greetings from Hamburg! ioannis

@iiWiReviews

2 жыл бұрын

Hi and thanks! For what you want in a sound I would strongly recommend R2R DACs such as Schiit Modi Multibit or Denafrips Ares II. Both provide that present and palpable 3D tone like no other Delta Sigma DAC.

@ioannisfakidarakis6561

2 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews I sincerely thank you for your recommendations!

S2 Digital still hold up? is it woth is price over newer devices like Zen Dac v2?

That's odd, I bought a pre-box DS2 Analog for preamp duties in my secondary (now far nicer than the main lol) room. Aside from airplay to a compatible surround receiver coming in handy now and then I've never had much need for streaming, as my DAC sits right next to my main seat, well within USB length, and the day well within range of the preamp. Writing this before watching, I'm very interested to hear how it works, and wether I'd be having a wonderful time with bluetooth/airplay/chromecast etc et. Here we go... Play.

Try the Fostex HP-A4. It's in the same ball park when pricing is concerned and it might be a good contender.

I love your reviews! I'm planning to use AKG K712 for my TV for games and movies. Considering the sound profile between this and the Topping DX3 Pro or L30+E30, which one do you think is the better match?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

I would avoid DX3 pro and choose the L30/E30 stack that is better sounding. This Project is good but K712 would appreciate the additional power L30 brings.

@znailzzz

3 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews Thank you!

Hi! You rated this a perfect 10 on sound quality. In comparison, denafrips Ares 2 only 9,5. I was wondering why and if you think they are on the same level regarding sound quality department. Thanks! Keep up, you are doing a terrific job! PS: can you review the R2R 11?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Hi, on the website there is a tab that explains scoring in detail. Basically, every device is judged against closest competitors with similar price. Please take a quick look at that and it should be more clear... I'll take a look into R2R 11 more closely and see if I'm able to get it.

Hi! Thx for a video! A question.. On what inputs this dac can hardverly decode the mqa files? all of them or just on usb? thx!

@iiWiReviews

Жыл бұрын

I believe it's only on USB.

Izuzetno kvalitetan dac , točno ste opisali zvuk koji dac daje. Pozdrav

Is this better than chord mojo

nice review!

Great review, if you have to choose one beetwen this pro-ject and the chord mojo, which one would you buy?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks but I haven't heard Chord Mojo so can't help with that dilemma.

@peer64

11 ай бұрын

​@@iiWiReviewsnow after testing the Mojo 2 you could answer this question

Isn’t the project over 3 times the price of the e30?. General question. In terms of the chain of audio if you take DAC, AMP, HEADPHONES and ignore cables for now what percentage of the final sound would each stage contribute roughly.

@adrianmorrish8494

3 жыл бұрын

Apologies this is an amp as well 🤪

Very interesting what happens with the display. It is a usd 500 unit and for this money it expected better performance for the display! I do have a friend that owned one of this but unfortunately their unit came out with several problems after several month of usage. First of all, the R and L channels where crossed depending you take the signal from the RCA outputs than the earphones output. The other failure the unit developed over time was a DC voltage at R channel plus a week signal output plus sudden big noises like spark discharge at the same channel. Very bad for such a not budget unit!

@joseluisbianchini9867

3 жыл бұрын

Yes!! I am Pablo's friend! My Pro-ject Pre Box S2 Digital sounded great but, after been used for a few months, it’s now in the trash can, 500 dollars down the drain.

As usual a nice review but not that fair to compare a 340 Euro device with a 130 Euro one ... Hope you will do a real sound review .. Cheers thaynamite :)))

Since it didnt come with its own USB cable, Am i able to you any basic USB B -A cable to connect it to my PC?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, any cable will work OK

It would be great to see a new product from Shiit that uses the top new DAC11001 instead of DAC91001. Because 11 controls glitches better than 91, and this is audible.

How much for it

Hello and thanks for your detailed review. The device's maual tells that "if USB is not used, connect the low voltage plug from the power supply to the micro-USB socket Power 5V DC; if USB input is in use, unit can be powered directly from computer via USB input. In this case is highly recommended to disconnect Power 5V DC cable from the unit - power disturbances from two power supplies could affect sound performance. You think it's important to use this one paired with some low noise power suppy. Could explain which exactly power supply and if what you say is contrary to what is indicated in the manual?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

I used it with both iFi iPower and Weiliang LPS. I personally used SPDIF coaxial input but a friend that loaned it to me used it with USB connection all the time. Nonetheless he always observed it sounds better when connected to external PS (he used both Weiliang and Allo Shanti) than when powered just trough signal USB line. For two years of such usage he never noticed any bad effects of using external PS.

@MrMailice

3 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews thanks! So, in your opinion, even with iFi iPower you experienced a better listening than the Pro-Ject's power supply, right?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

@@MrMailice That's right, it's not a huge difference but it was noticeable for sure.

I have this unit. Would you say that the sound quality of the SMSL SU-9 is a big improvement over the Pro-ject?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

No it's not. If anything it's different, more punchy and energetic. But Project sounds a touch more natural and relaxed to me.

@sadge9697

3 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews Thanks.

Nice review...can you tell me if is big difference in overall quality between this Pro ject and Marantz Hd-dac1 for Dac and amp for headphone? Ty

@iiWiReviews

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. I did listen to Marantz Hd-dac1, but it was a long time ago and with a different headphones, so any direct comparison is honestly quite impossible for me to make.

@mw12387

2 жыл бұрын

Ty...and if you compare Loxijie D30 with ESS Chip with Project S2 digital?

@iiWiReviews

2 жыл бұрын

As a DAC I slightly prefer S2 Digital for its more balanced tonality and deeper soundstage. D30 is slightly thinner sounding in the upper registers. On the other hand, S2 has less power on its headphone output, so it's not all that suitable for power hungry headphones. D30 offers a bit more bite and clarity over the headphone out.

@mw12387

2 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviewsty...and at last, did you hear maybe Sabaj D5?..maybe comparison with Project? Ty, and best regards fom Slovenia

@drhonk

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, I have found the answer I'm looking for. I got this dilemma between S2 and Loxjie D30. Your answer helped me decide which to get 🙂

what would you suggest either this or the Topping E30+L30 stack??

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

I prefer this personally, it has deeper soundstage and fuller midrange. Topping stack is clearly more powerful but a bit thin and edgy sounding in comparison.

@HiFiGOAudio

3 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews Thank you for your kind suggestion!! Keep up the good work

@wyup

3 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews Do you think Project + L30 improve over Project alone as headphone amp? I guess you were using Ifi iPower as external power source to assess performance?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Yes I did use iFi iPower and yes L30 is more capable and more powerful than internal amp in S2. But I don't think it would be needed for most headphones.

This is a Vienna product love you Get a European DAC instead of Chinese .. it’s sad they aren’t available in my county

Maybe worth to mention it’s a John Westlake design

can s2 be compared to bifrost 2 or denafripes ares 2?

@iiWiReviews

2 жыл бұрын

Not really, it's not that rich sounding. S2 is more in line with Multibit.

@rajendrabiswas

2 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews you said you would buy this over Modi that’s intersting

You linked the remote control, not the pre S2. Also, good review.

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I just checked the link and it looks OK, goes to Pre S2 for me... Amazon is probably having some sort of issues at the moment...

same thing with my display too

Love your reviews man - one of the best reviewers on KZread!! My take on this unit is that is the sound reproduction is just OK at best - no body and soul, not better than any other $100 dac online. There are many issues included, but not limited to, USB connection problems, bad power connection port, poor display implementation, flimsy poorly manufactured power cord and a toy for a remote control. the packaging and instructions are equally disappointing - this looks and feels like cheap flea market electronics. This unit is a one out of five stars.

Any comment on the Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital Edition 2023?

@5060ijg

3 ай бұрын

By the way, great review and thanks for your insights.

How does this compare to zen DAC ?

@iiWiReviews

2 жыл бұрын

Zen DAC has warmer and a bit less precise bassline. S2 is quicker sounding in the bass region, and with a deeper soundstage.

@rajendrabiswas

2 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews I hope I can get this s2 but also I am hoping to get a bifrost or Modi multibit can you give me your email since I need help Purchasing ?

Is this better than Topping E30

@iiWiReviews

2 жыл бұрын

Yes it is

Kako uopste nabaviti kod nas Schiit Modi? Odlicni proizvodi ali nisam siguran da salju u Srbiju.

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Šalju FedEx-om ali skuplja dara nego mera. :)

@Lordofmrak

3 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews Koliko sam ja nov u svemu ovome, tek sad vidim da imamo nas forum gde ljudi pricaju o tome. Hvala sto drzis taj community aktivnim. Odlican je kanal, imas odlican ton glasa i skripte pises genijalno. Mislim, tvoja su misljenja, dosta ljudi koliko vidim to nekako radi copy/paste od drugih.

so is it better than topping E30? which of these two retrieve good details?

@jaytorr6701

3 жыл бұрын

It is but also costs three times more...

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, what Jay said. E30 is like extremely good bang for the buck. This one is better but not nearly three times better of course.

This or Modi multi bit ?

@iiWiReviews

2 жыл бұрын

You can find that comparison at 10:20 of this video. Multibit is fuller sounding but somewhat less precise. Both are great really so it's up to your taste.

@rajendrabiswas

2 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews I live in india so I can’t find place to try

Is it enough to drive 6xx?

@iiWiReviews

3 жыл бұрын

It should be just fine if you're not a fan of super loud listening.

@markusschulzbro

3 жыл бұрын

@@iiWiReviews thank you!

Like any other ProJect product. Great fuss, high prices and nothing else.

Sssssssss

Question…If I use both the Pro-ject Pre Box S2 Digital with a 5V 1.0 power supply requirement and a Pro-ject Head Box S2 Headphone amp with a 5V .5 amp PS requirement, can I use a single ifi ipower power supply at 5V 3 amp output for both units using a splitter?

@feflofeflic

22 күн бұрын

...yes, u can - they both together needs some about 1A on 5V (1,5 - i dont remember it exactly) in worst case scenario, independently on volume (measured by lab power supply)...