A linear power supply with two outputs, 15 V for the turntable and 18 V for the phono preamplifier: it replaces the stock supplies of compatible Pro-Ject components with a single filtered and regulated source.
Power Box S3 Phono: what it is for
The Power Box S3 Phono feeds both parts of an analogue chain together, turntable and phono preamplifier. Keeping the supply away from the component that handles the signal stops noise from contaminating the audio, and clean direct current has an appreciable effect on listening quality. Here the voltage is regulated linearly, filtering relies on low-ESR capacitors and the stated ripple on the two outputs is held within 0.5%.
Each output has its job: the 18 V one serves Pro-Ject phono preamplifiers of the Phono Box family that run on that voltage, the 15 V one serves Pro-Ject turntables running on 15 V DC. Between them they can deliver 1000 mA at most. According to the maker it does not suit the X8, the Xtension 9, 10 and 12, the RPM 9 and RPM 10, or the Signature 10 and 12, for which it points to two other models, the Power Box RS2 Phono and the Power Box RS Uni TT.
There is a practical gain too: one wall adaptor in place of two and fewer leads behind the furniture. The box contains the unit, the manual, the 42 cm power leads for turntable and phono preamplifier and the 18 V adaptor that connects it to the mains. The aluminium enclosure is stiff and screens against interference.
Specifications
- Type: linear power supply for turntable and phono preamplifier
- Input: 18 V / 1000 mA from the supplied adaptor
- Turntable output: 15 V, ripple within 0.5%
- Phono preamplifier output: 18 V, ripple within 0.5%
- Current delivered: 1000 mA at most across the two outputs
- Compatibility: 18 V Pro-Ject phono preamplifiers and 15 V DC Pro-Ject turntables
- Not for use with: X8, Xtension 9, 10 and 12, RPM 9 and 10, Signature 10 and 12
- Supplied: manual, 42 cm power leads, mains adaptor
- Size: 103 x 37 x 106 mm overall
- Weight: 370 g, power supply excluded
- Finishes: black, silver
