Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 or DS3 B or ?

[ArchiMark]

Hi,

About two months ago, bought a Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 phono preamp.

Worked great with my Technics SL-1200 MK2 turntable and Ortofon LVB 250 cartridge.

Unfortunately, something happened and the left side tube socket is not working.

As a result, I have an option to either return for another S2 or possibly upgrade (?) to a Pro-Ject DS3 B or some other phono preamp.

Given this opportunity, anyone have any thoughts on this situation.

Thanks for any input.

Mark

 

[ddude003]

If I were you I would return for another in your price range... Or have a look at a Manley phono stage...

 

[ArchiMark]

Thanks for your input.....

The Manley is a bit out of my price range....

Agree with the first part of your comment....

 

[Sonnie Parker]

If the Tube Box S2 has a dead tube socket after only two months... not really a great sign on a new unit.

As far as replacing it, if you liked the sound of the S2, another S2 is the simplest answer. But since you’re being given the chance to reconsider, I’d probably look hard at the DS3 B. I think it's a more serious phono stage, gives you more flexibility, and the balanced option may be useful down the road.

With the Technics SL-1200 MK2 and Ortofon LVB 250, the cartridge is good enough to justify stepping up from the S2. My vote would be to upgrade rather than roll the dice on another S2. However, if you really loved the tube flavor, get another S2. If you want quieter, more flexible, and probably more long-term serious performance... go with the DS3 B or another quality solid-state phono preamp.

 

[Todd Anderson]

Did you check out the Rega Fono? Killer company

 

[ArchiMark]

Did you check out the Rega Fono? Killer company

Have heard of Rega, but have not seen their products in person. Thanks for the suggestion!

If the Tube Box S2 has a dead tube socket after only two months... not really a great sign on a new unit.

As far as replacing it, if you liked the sound of the S2, another S2 is the simplest answer. But since you’re being given the chance to reconsider, I’d probably look hard at the DS3 B. I think it's a more serious phono stage, gives you more flexibility, and the balanced option may be useful down the road.

With the Technics SL-1200 MK2 and Ortofon LVB 250, the cartridge is good enough to justify stepping up from the S2. My vote would be to upgrade rather than roll the dice on another S2. However, if you really loved the tube flavor, get another S2. If you want quieter, more flexible, and probably more long-term serious performance... go with the DS3 B or another quality solid-state phono preamp.

Thanks for all your input!

In fairness to the S2, it may have been my fault, due to my removing stock tube and inserting other tube. I may have wiggled the tube too much and inadvertently rocked socket too much.....

Leaning towards upgrading to the tube box DS3 B.......