Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 Finally! WORTH the Price! Kind of... My new Reference

[@cheapaudioman]

Pro-ject Tube Box S2 howl.me/cikuzATF4dz Fosi Phono Pre amzn.to/3CP9iav (cheaper - less gooder option) Support Me by just shopping on Amazon amzn.to/3TjFfik www.patreon.com/cheapaudioman Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5 Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9

[@rocknroller6975]

Hey Randy. I believe it’s worth mentioning to those who care that the S2 is fully discreet no OpAmps whereas the Fosi is hybrid. Great reviews as always!!!!

[@ryantimmel6112]

Yep, the tubes are used in the amp section, not as a buffer

[@clapped_globe2368]

Is that true tho, cus what im hearing from most people is that it's hybrid aswell.

[@pumaweek169]

@@ryantimmel6112 no, still a buffer...

[@sayubu]

Great review Randy, I really like the fact you always cover the basics, pre-amps/vinyl line out vs phono, etc. which helps the viewers who are watching this video for the first time. It makes everyone feel they are the same level, which is to constantly learn from your reviews without feeling a snobby audiophile. I guess that's why I continue to watch your videos. Already got several products from your recommendations and cannot thank you enough for making me love, appreciate and enjoy physical media again.

[@cheapaudioman]

My pleasure!

[@johnboison5564]

Id love to see this go against the Mani 2. Although it doesn’t have tubes.

[@edwardgonczy3170]

I've never been able to clearly and succinctly explain to my "non audiophile" friends why one needs to boost the signal from a phono cartridge up to the "line level" that is sufficient to amplify a CD player or tuner. I think you do a great job.

[@jamesbowling9177]

A phono preamp also applies a RIAA equalization curve as well. A regular preamp does not and this eq is required to reproduce the frequencies that are omitted in order to physically fit the grooves on the surface of the record. If the groove had all the frequencies it would be physically too big to efficiently put on the disc.

[@jbones360]

I have one of these puppies. Was shocked how much the sound opened up after introducing this neat little tube box in the audio chain. WORTH the money if you love vinyl and have great speakers / headphones.

[@timcole1883]

Purchased the Project Phono-Box S2 4 years ago along with a Rega P1 turntable from Best Buy. I’m 62, grew up with vinyl but never had really nice equipment. Starting over with vinyl was a challenge and I can tell you I’ve learned a lot. I’ve since upgraded the Rega P1 turntable to a Rega P6 with a Nagaoka MP-200 cartridge. Martin Logan ESL speakers with various integrated amps. Last year built a Pass Labs F6 Amp (DIY Audio) as well as a DIY Audio Korg NuTube pre amp. Together these components sound amazing and sweet. The Phono Tube Box S2 is still with me. I have upgraded the 12 AX 7s (mine came with Project labeled tubes) to Gold Lions which elevated the sound to another level. I tried the Schitt Mani which is nice but not as detailed, crisp and “airy” as the S2. Yes. paid $499.00 4 years ago. Get one.

[@joelcarson4602]

Pro Tip: Wear clean gloves when handling and installing tubes of any sort. Cotton or nitrile will work. If you have handled the tubes with bare hands, use 91% isopropyl alcohol and a lint free cloth to thoroughly degrease the glass envelope before installing. Tubes get HOT, oils on your hands can bake on the glass creating stress points that can result in cracks and failure.

[@EsotericArctos]

I am not sure why you say this. Tubes are NOT like halogen globes. Tubes are NOT sensitive to oils and grease from fingers. Would you wipe off your standard incandescent globe every time it got something on it? No, because it is standard glass. I wish people would stop perpetuating this false rumour that oils from skin affect tubes. They don't. Tubes are just not that sensitive. Everyone back in the day use to change their own tubes. You can find 40 year old tubes covered with crap, still absolutely fine. I have NEVER seen a tube fail from a crack caused by oils, and I have restored literally hundreds of tube devices, including a lot of RF stages that are a lot more sensitive, and a lot hotter. The only reason guys use gloves when changing guitar amp tubes is when they are changing them on the fly while they are hot. It is to stop getting burnt, not to stop oil getting on the tubes.

[@tituslawoffice4778]

I never understood why-- thanks for the lesson.

[@joelcarson4602]

@@EsotericArctos I don't doubt that the glass envelopes of tubes made by companies in the US, Europe and Japan back in the day were of high quality borosilicate glass and were top shelf parts. The current crop coming out of the far East, I would NOT be so certain of. Why take chances? And yes, I am from "back in the day" the first TV I remember watching was an RCA B&W set that didn't even have UHF channels.

[@splaff79]

False

[@EsotericArctos]

@@joelcarson4602 I haven't had a lot of experience with tubes made from the East, other than Russian made tubes, which have usually been quite good quality. I admit I try to avoid the ones made in China...... I was talking from my own experience, and several others technicians I know that do Tube equipment repairs. :)

[@JohnScheppler]

Psvane is a tube company from China but the 12AX7 is a great tube. The 12AX7 has been around for a long time and made by a lot of companies so a lot of great tube rolling options.

[@blujack100]

Yes

[@davidatrakchi2707]

After using the Hagerman bugle 2 for years I switched to the phono box s2 some 2years ago. Later I upgraded to a Sumiko evo 3 mc cartridge. I find them to be a great mix mainly while playing my old records and finding new nuances in the music plus all the features as beautifully brought by Andy. As much as I can predict, for me this is the end of the journey as far as cartridge/phonostage are concern because I don’t think I can afford to climb to the next level,it will be financially too heavy, you have to triple your investment to get maybe 5% improvement in sound

[@cheapaudioman]

yeah. I think the phono preamp road ends here for me

[@davidatrakchi2707]

@@cheapaudioman unless I'll become stinking rich which is not likely being retired, so I'll spend my time listening and enjoying music which is what we all are here for

[@rufiorules]

It looks like your old phono still has its original tubes. I used something similar as a tube 'buffer' to give a bit of that sound into my system and I have to say, swapping out the original Chinese tubes for British made Mullards (probably about £30) made a HUGE improvement, maybe the best value for money improvement I've had in audio! Tube rolling can produce excellent results for not a lot of outlay. It might be something you might want to look at in a future video

[@EsotericArctos]

The Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 is a genuine tube amp, not an op amp using tubes as a buffer. I have seen a lot of the tube buffer style pre-amps supplied with bad tubes, but I think the Fosi Box X2 wasn't too bad and the newer Fosi Box x4 is supplied with US Made GE 5654w tubes

[@rufiorules]

@@EsotericArctos Yes, I'm well aware the S2 is a genuine tube amp. It's his older Fosi I was referencing (which I'm assuming is a buffer at that price). Chinese tube stuff, in my experience, is well made but supplied with valves that are so poor it really holds back the hardware. I know people bang on about NOS valves, but they really are so much better than the Chinese cheap crap that comes with cheaper kit it's unbelievable. But if the Fosi has US made valves maybe it's not holding it back so much. But really this conversation is highlighting my point about the difference valves can make to a piece of equipment.

[@jamesbowling9177]

Phono preamps also apply a RIAA equalization curve. Record grooves are cut with certain frequencies omitted due to physical size restraints of the disc and those frequencies are then added back via the RIAA curve in the phono preamp. This is why a normal preamp won't work as a phono stage.

[@abxaudiophiles]

Damnit, Randy, I just got the "Less Gooder" option... 🤣🤣🤣🤣 you're tearing my audiophile soul apart here.. LOL GREAT REVIEW!! ♥♥👍👍

[@cheapaudioman]

$500 is pushing it for me but I love this thing. So it's staying here

[@robertm8518]

You should’ve mentioned a very important feature of a phono preamp is that it provides the necessary RIAA equalization …

[@Catsaretheenemybutilikethem]

Congrats on your find. I have both the Project and the Fosi. One on each system. The project is on a darker system and it totally opens it up dramatically. You get a wider clean tone with that Marantz darkness. The Fosi like you mentioned does add some warmth that’s really nice too. It’s not as clean, but the tone it adds is really nice. I use the Fosi on a clean sounding Sansui so combined it all kind of balances out. Since going to both tube preamps I can’t go back to just solid state. It’s just so much nicer. Agreed on the Fosi…for the money it’s the best. If you want to splurge and have a larger soundstage and have more 3d audio get the Pro-ject. Both are very good regardless.

[@jeffchristian6798]

I have one of these gems in my system. I'm running an Audio Technica moving coil cartridge through it and it sounds excellent. I also replaced the stock tubes with a pair of Gold Lion 12ax7 that sounds even better.

[@cheapaudioman]

Very cool!

[@jamesmcmillan6350]

I run Golden Lion tubes in my Muzishare X-7... swear by them

[@jeffreywoodke]

I also have one and have replaced the tubes with Gold Lion. Sounds incredible!

[@michaeltuohy1249]

I have the Tube Box first generation. Same positive attributes. Bought it on a closeout for $275! Score!

[@jcanuk269]

I use the Fosi X2 directly into a Aiyima A 07, Technics SL-1300 with a Shure V15 III cartridge. Pretty sweet input signal for $70. Thx for your 2 years!

[@cheapaudioman]

Very nice!

[@crowsonthedock]

I would highly recommend Darlington labs. Hand assembled in the US and sold direct. I have owned the Project S2, Schiit Mani, and one more pricey tube option. The Darlington Labs MP-7 is better to my ear - wider, clearer, deeper, lower noise floor, etc. It is very close in price to the S2. The MP-7 is their top of the line, but they have two more economical models that are also fantastic. I like the S2 and appreciate the review but would love to see someone review the Darlington Labs products….I am sure your cue of products is deep, but I think the guys are Darlington are doing great work and should have a wider audience. Thanks for what you do; I appreciate your content.

[@cheapaudioman]

I'll have to check them out

[@jonuiuc]

I met the Darlington Lab guys at axpona, they really are believers in the discrete, zero feedback design. I just got a new Rega P2 so was looking at their MP-5. A shootout/comparo with the new Schiit Mani 2 and the ifi phono compared to Randy's new reference here would be cool.

[@avidgamefan]

I picked up one of their models, and it is quite nice. Hard for me to compare, as my former phono box was cheap and noisy, but this one is dead quiet.

[@musikcrayz]

I have been fortunate enough to have had the Pro-Ject with upgraded tubes( NOS Mullard). Very sweet with my system but perhaps overkill on the tubes. I have had a variety of 12 AX-7 valves including PrimaLuna and Gold Lion. All distinct with a fine sound. However the Darlington MP-7 was a clear winner in my system ,which is tube based Preamp and Amp. The noise floor is black with the Darlington . Both have a nice soundstage presentation but the Darlington is cleaner with a delicate hand on the upper frequencies that are a tad more extended than the Pro-Ject. As with all choices in audio, the system integration and listening environment is critical. You cannot go wrong with either Preamp but I love the Darlington.

[@roikhockenberger2790]

I am currently using the iFi ZEN phono preamp and I don't really have any issues with it. It does a fantastic job and has the gain adjustments so that you can apply the appropriate gain for your cart. I wish that the Pro-ject Tube Box S2 was half the price so that I would feel better about buying one. My first phono preamp decades ago was a VTL tube unit and it really did magic with my records. Unfortunately I no longer have that magic unit and the price point on most "real" tube preamps is much too high. I believe that some or all of the cheaper tube phono preamps are merely using the tube circuit to color the sound of their transistor amp stage. As far as I can tell the Pro-ject Tube Box is the 'real thing' which may be why I am curious about whether the resulting sound with it would be that much better than the Zen.

[@scottengh1175]

Coffee again. Almost too late of drop. My wife would have issues with $500 for a phono preamp. My 1978 Pioneer 9500II integrated amplifier has 2 phono preamps. I was allowed to build a listening room in the last year. In a new lake cabin. Happy to have what I have, especially since TV shows are typically so bad. Desire better .

[@cheapaudioman]

phono preamps in a lot of vintage receivers are so good compared to many today

[@scottengh1175]

@@cheapaudioman oh, I want better. Phono is 1978, too. Bought all in Guam as a bubble head.

[@louiesipes2257]

Psvane tubes are Chinese made but used by some premium outfits. Primaluna is a multi $K amp and preamp manufacturer and they use them. A good solid state comparison might be Darlington Labs phono pre 😊

[@cheapaudioman]

I'll have to check it out.

[@BatMan-to8im]

The stock Chinese 12Ax7s in my Prima Luna are surprisingly my favourite over all others, except for some very old 60's black plate tubes which I luckily stocked up on a couple of decades ago.

[@NeilBlanchard]

The other critical thing that a phono preamp does is apply the RIAA equalization curve. Because a record groove can't handle the bass at original levels - the grooves would be YUGE and *very* jagged - AND the highs would be way too small, and would wear out very quickly. When a record is cut, they cut the bass IN HALF - and the treble is boosted 2X. Any phono preamp has to apply the reverse - it has to double the bass frequencies, and cut the treble by half. Randy, I started assembly of the AkitikA phono board, for my PR-102 just last night. It costs a whopping $89 plus shipping. Maybe you can review it, as well?

[@cheapaudioman]

great point, Neil. Thanks

[@NeilBlanchard]

@@cheapaudioman I edited my comment, to include the PR-102 phono board. Given the AkitikA track record, I'll bet the phono board will be a *contender*? The *accuracy* of the RIAA EQ of a given phono preamp is obviously key.

[@BatMan-to8im]

@@NeilBlanchard I reckon no op amp based phono board can come close to a good tube phono. I'm being a terrible party pooper ☹️

[@NeilBlanchard]

@@BatMan-to8im You may be right? I will be comparing the PR-102 and its phono board with my Audible Illusions Modulus 2C and 3A. But at $89+ it may well be a great value?

[@BatMan-to8im]

@@NeilBlanchard I am only biased these days because I spent a lot of time years ago playing with op Amps. My favourites ended up a 2209 which is a super low noise instrumentation op amp and the Analogue Devices AD8599. The AD8599 is great for cassette deck upgrades. The 2209 improves on the old 80s standard 4558 in every part of the Audio spectrum evenly. So I thought this a great upgrade to improve but not change the original sonic signature of classic equipment. But eventually I discovered transistor and tube circuits and could never take op Amps seriously again. The op Amps although very good, I think have a performance ceiling. My hires dac has an op amp output so yeah I still use them. I just prefer not to. Long story 🧜‍♀️ hope your phono stage works out great 👍

[@benkrake3678]

I just spent $1300.00 AUD on a brand new vinyl setup. I got the Audio Technica LP-140XP turntable, upgraded the cartridge to an Audio Technica VM540ML RigB, and for the phono amplifier I got the Pro-Ject Phono Box S2, but mine is the one without the tubes. For $225.00 AUD this is a fantastic sounding phono amplifier. Nice soundstage, imaging and clarity, and it certainly matches the performance of my expensive cartridge. Also like the tube version, this one also has the subsonic filter and adjustable impedance load switches for L/R channels. So for those who can’t afford $500.00 USD, this is one phono amplifier that’s definitely worth considering!

[@cheapaudioman]

great suggestion, Ben. I think I had that one in before too. very good.

[@splaff79]

I recommend the Fosi with upgraded tubes to budding audiophiles all the time. It beats many more expensive phono preamps. I’ve yet to find a better phono preamp than my LesBox modded Yaqin ms-23 under a grand, however. The ifi zen phono was super impressive for solid state and price point.

[@vrsimha]

I have Schiit Mani, iFi Zen Phono Pre Amp and Pro Ject Phono Box S3 B. Schit Mani is value for money. The worse among the three was iFi Zen Phono. Bad buzzing noise especially with high volume output , no buzzing noise at lower volumes. I contacted iFi and used various turntables at home and also brought it over to two different Hi-fi audiophile showroom, the buzzing sound was there. Got the Pro Ject Phono Box S3 B and never had any buzzing sound at high volumes. iFi Zen Phono support knew this was a product problem and was replaced with another unit but no difference. They gave me money back since their product failed. Currently the iFi Zen phono is out of stock globally. Save your cash and get a better phono pre Amp. By the way I used Schiit Mani for 8 years it never had any buzzing sound.

[@niels71]

Thanks for this video. I watched it in search of a New phono preamp. After watching I ordered it and it is so much better than my ifi zen, wich was a big disappointment in combination with the NAD C700 and IMF tls80 speakers. I think it's a great preamp for the money👍🏻

[@greganderson1681]

I’ve been eyeballing that Tube Box for a while, but upgraded my Schiit Mani to a Mani 2 instead. I like the Mani 2 a lot, not least of which cuz it’s a great box at a good price. I like that it has a subsonic filter right on the front (the Schiit has 6 & 12db switches on the bottom). I never used the filter until I got a subwoofer. The sub reeeeaaallly brings out the rumble in even the best pressed records. Most of my LPs are in less than perfect shape, to the point where I sometimes have to turn off the subwoofer. And this rumble is very audible, not just a silent “how a piston works” horror show with the sub driver pumping in and out about 4 inches! Curious how that Tube Box sounds though. Maybe my local audio store will let me try one. I did get my table, speakers and sub from them.

[@paulh9657]

I am also a Schiit Mani 2 user. I had the original and then upgraded and it DID make a noticeable improvement. I'm also using the Schiit Loki Mini. This all goes into my set of powered speakers. It sounds fantastic! I'm extremely happy with Schiit gear. However, in my search for turntable upgrades, I did seriously hem and haw over this Tube Box. In the end, I just couldn't justify the $500+ bucks for it. This review REALLY makes me want to hear this. But I don't think I will be able to unless I buy one. SOmething to set my sights on in the future I guess! Great... thanks, Randy! 😄

[@Catsaretheenemybutilikethem]

I went from the Schiit Mani to the Fosi tube. I sold the Schiit Mani. The Mani was good, but I preferred the dynamics on the Fosi Tube…just felt better. The Mani was a bit fatiguing. I loved it until I’d feel it’s underlying passive aggressiveness. The Fosi ruled my world for awhile. Then I got greedy and bought the Pro-Ject S2. In the same world, but kind of like going from a Toyota to Mercedes. The Mani would have been a Hyundai. 😂

[@greganderson1681]

@PaulH I also have the Loki Mini. The Loki and Mani 2. make a nice pair.

[@spamcan9208]

lol I think you should trademark "exercising the demons in your woofer." It sounds like an album title that would have some awesome artwork on the cover.

[@radioaktiv2531]

I scored a Tube Box S2 secondhand for $269 NZD. They retail for about $700 on average. The (original) tubes probably need replacing as I have no idea how much use they have had but as an upgrade from a Behringer PP400 this preamp is absolutely fantastic.

[@MikeRusso2000]

Hey Randy - Thanks for touching on this key piece of gear. I paired my RT-85 with Pro-Ject’s sadly discontinued TubeBox DS2. Three years ago, that was only $400…

[@Danny.1.007]

Hi Randy, great review i bought this tubebox S2 to go with my upgraded project debut carbon evo and i have to say you was spot on it sounds absolutely fantastic all my friends and family comment on how good the turntable setup sounds so thanks for your great review on the tubebox s2 it really helped me choose and im very happy with it, all the best. 😃

[@ungarlinski7965]

Randy, you have the Michell, the Advance Paris, and now this phono Pro-Ject preamp. Are you bypassing the phono preamp in the Advance Paris?

[@jeronronnunkoffunk4691]

Great fun and eye open I’ve seen that project model for years and have great relationships with a dealer who’s carried project products . I’ve wondered at times how that piece performed , but I never bothered it was overshadowed by the other stuff I seeking there. Thanx for ending the mystery, I m sure you’ll enjoy that baby for some years! Happy spinning 🎶

[@donaldcadoret4653]

Yes it was GE from a retired 40 year employee.

[@mrkitewine7700]

Hi Randy, do you have any plans to review the new Schiit Bifrost 2/64 - either as the upgrade module or the whole unit? It is using different DAC chips to the old Bifrost 2. From what I gather the sound has been tweaked and I’m curious to how the new version stacks up against the Ares 2

[@ayewhite333]

I have this phono pre and I’m very happy with it. Also got the accubox upgraded power supply and swapped the stock tubes for gold lion 12ax7’s. Very happy with the sound. Paired with a 2M Bronze @ 220pF

[@mmmbbq]

Funny you mentioned the Zen. I just ordered the Zen Air for $79 about 20 minutes ago. Not expecting a whole lot, but it's just a second preamp. Not expecting it to be better than the built in in my preamps.

[@TheCardsharp]

I was set on getting the Ampapa A1 from your review video but after watching this review I'm thinking of getting the Pro-ject Tube Box S2. Thanks for the great video review!

[@markdancer3501]

Hi Randy, it would be interesting to compare the Tube Box S2 with the Phono Box DS2, which is similarly priced ($700 and $600 AUD respectively). I haven't heard either of these, but I have heard a blind comparison of the next models up, the Tube Box DS2 and the Phono Box RS ($1450 and $1430 AUD). In that comparison the tube version didn't show particularly well.

[@EsotericArctos]

The advantage of the Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 over a lot of cheap "tube" amps is that the Tube box S2 is a true tube amplifier. It doesn't use op amps to do the legwork. A lot of cheaper pre-amps only use the tubes as a buffer, if they even use them at all.

[@pumaweek169]

pro ject still a buffer, check it out...true tube preamps are way more expensive...

[@thelonestranger777]

I've been trying to buy this phono preamp for about 2 years now but the 500 price tag kept scaring me away. The price never went down even during Amazon prime days and such. I'm glad it never went up either considering the pro-ject debut carbon evo did. I guess I'll just have to take the plunge and go for it. I'm sure most phono preamps are better than the one inside my Onkyo receiver. Thanks for your thoughts on this item 👍

[@mike_burke]

Hi, did you ever go for it? I also have an Onkyo receiver and been wondering for the longest time if a seperate pre-amp, specifically this one, would give significantly better results. I have a Project debut Pro S table with a 2M Blue. Sorry to bug you, but would love to hear your experience. Thanks!

[@thelonestranger777]

@@mike_burke Sorry, unfortunately I haven't been able to purchase it. Too many other things preoccupying my funds lol. I haven't even been able to listen to my records either but I've continued collecting. I have about 500 bucks in bonus points on Amazon so I may just get it sometime later when I'm settled in. If it's purchased through Amazon, at least you can return it if you feel the difference isn't worth it.

[@mike_burke]

@@thelonestranger777 Hey, thanks for the fast reply! I totally get it, we have both hesitated for the same reasons it seems 🙂 Excellent tip re: Amazon. Thanks so much for getting back to me. Cheers.

[@ericelliott227]

The Pro-Ject phono preamp is superior to the Ifi Zen hands down. A good phono preamp can be a game changer for any system that has an analog front end. $500 is not too bad considering that something like the Musical Surroundings Phonomena 2 is around $750. Is the Phonomena 2 better than the Pro-Ject? I don't know. It is certainly different though being that the Phonomena is solid state and the Pro-Ject is tube. To really step up in Phono preamps you will have to fork over about $1700 for something like a Parasound JC3 Jr (Sadly, that was around $1100 a year ago or so! $1100 is a lot)! By the way part of the reason the Pro-Ject preamp sounds different from the Fosi is because of the tubs used. I have always wanted to try tubes, but can't now. If you want some fun though try tube rolling. Different tubes have different characteristics and can change the sound. Pro-Ject is a great company. Heinz Lichtenegger, the owner as you likely already know is a rock star. He puts every dome back into the company and he has a passion to get fine audio into the hands of everyone. Yes, he has not raised his prices by much or if at all on certain items despite the improvements he does from time to time and costs going up. He has always operated like this and no, I don't think anyone knows how the hell he does it. His wife owns EAT by the way and though more expensive, she is as sweet as her husband and has come out with a turntable that is far more budget friendly than the rest of the line and the quality stays the same. From what I hear from those who have met her, she is super nice.

[@Brian_Romska]

Damn u randy, you're gonna get me into vinyl aren't you? I've been resistant, I'll give in soon, maybe. Whatever. great vid as usual, thanks!

[@cheapaudioman]

I hope so. Vinyl is awesome. You don't haves to spend a ton of money on it to get great sound though

[@rosswarren436]

Come to the dark side said the Sith Lord...

[@aitchr8770]

As usual you big hunk of cheapaudioman you knocked it out of the park. Go fetch. Only one ball. Good review Randy.

[@kingspartacus2301]

I use a generic 6j1 pre amp in my 12 volt off grid set set up ( I'm a dj ) I swapped out the valves and I love it , this @$500 is to rich for me , great vid bro 👍

[@1porkins]

I can't speak highly enough about the Elekit DIY Pre-Amp kit. Got mine from Tube Depot. The phono pre-amp on it is better than the integrated phono on my AVR, or the Cambridge Audio phono amp I own. Same price point, takes about 4 hours to build. I've added Sparkos Op Amps and upgraded the capacitors, but not initially.

[@eugenegrewing2587]

You are unintentionally funny. Love your reviews.

[@danielmoulton8482]

You compare the Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 to the Ifi Phono Zen. That would suggest that the Zen is a much better value at half the price. It would be interesting to see a comparison between both. Is the S2 twice as good as the Zen? 20% more gooder? the same goodness level? What is the goodness per dollar?

[@kevincarnahan4976]

Love the review and I love it when the goofiness comes out when reviewing products. I laughed out loud many times. Keep up your unique style and love the work you do. Much love from Kansas.

[@cheapaudioman]

Glad you enjoyed! thanks so much for watching

[@stephenstevens6573]

Thank you! And happy 2nd birthday! You've become one of my go tos!

[@cheapaudioman]

Wow, thanks!

[@tommorrison9724]

Good tube equipment drives transparency, not warmth. It helps that the Pro-Ject gear is all discrete circuitry.

[@HoomanR17]

Randy, enjoyed this video. Thanks to you i got an A07 after I sold my Hegel H80 integrated a couple of years ago and needed a temporary amp and this thing is 80% and in the bass 120%. I would be interested and recommend that you review the new Hagerman Bugle MC phono @ $240. Funny enough their slogan is "Arguably the world's best phonostage under $500!".

[@eeyorebill04]

Yes! I agree, check out the Bugle MC. I tried to comment several times about it, but it keeps getting removed for some reason.

[@alt1579]

Might be worth mentioning: your amplifier may also have a phono preamp already built in. It will have a "phono in" on the back if that's the case. It's also worth mentioning: if your amplifier does have a built-in phono preamp, and your turntable ALSO has a phono preamp built in, or you purchase a separate phono preamp, DO NOT plug your turntable (or separate phono preamp) into the "phono in" on the back of your amplifier!!! Plug it into a regular "aux in" instead.

[@greganderson1681]

The PS Vane tubes are Chinese. The Reisong A10 comes with PS Vane tubes and I replaced them with JJs. Not sure it matters much with a preamp, but the JJs make a huge difference with the A10 power amp.

[@damayor62]

Outstanding as always Randy. But now I have to move equipment and things around to see if my turntable has a pre-amp on/off switch. It's from 1980 so I don't think it does but I'm hoping it has one. Thanks and keep up the great work.

[@blujack100]

Thanks for reviewing this. A tube phono pre is my next planned upgrade.

[@robertrichard469]

Hey Randy! Just wanted to let you know that based partly on your review of the Fluance rt 83 (along with some other reviews of the Fluance TT line) I picked one up, I actually got the rt 85 for the acrylic platter and ortofon blue cart and am absolutely loving it! I also got the Ayima T9 and Polk tsi 100's based upon your excelenté reviews. The T9 is a little powerhouse of an amp and the soundstage from the Polks are fan-tabulous with the proper placement and height that you spoke of in your video! I am wondering if you might consider a review of the Nobsound 6p1 tube amp which clocks in below the Reisong A10 at $299 making it the lowest price all tube amp aside from the tube cube now available. I am interested in in purchasing this and would love to hear your thoughts! Anyways, keep on doing what you do, man! Because of you and your channel, my love of music and audio equipment (especially CHEAP audio equipment) grows! BTW, the old GE ad goes like this: "🎼🎶GE, We bring good things to living, we bring good things to llife!🎵🎶"

[@cheapaudioman]

thanks so much! I'll check it out. I've got a couple of tube amps in for review right now. October and Nov will be tuberific

[@EliseF802]

Just got one and love it! I upgraded from the project phono box s2 to the tube box s2 and it’s amazing how much better the sound is. I think the only downside is because it has made the recordings louder and clear, I can hear more of the crackle and pops I couldn’t hear before. I’ll give my vinyls a proper clean and hopefully that will fix it. I have the settings right for an ortofon 2m bronze, but do you think a lower capacitance setting would help? I’m currently on 267. Love your work Randy 😊

[@mirzaredzepovic7912]

Would you mind letting me know what cartridge you're using? I made the same jump from Phono Box S2 to Tube Box S2, but my AT VM540ML sounds too bright now. Even with input gain set to the lowest of 40dB and input capacitance set to the lowest, it's still a bit bright. So wondering what cartridge you're pairing with Tube Box S2.

[@EliseF802]

@@mirzaredzepovic7912 I have the Ortofon MM Bronze cartridge installed. I choose this one because from my research it was excellent for any type of music, without being too unforgiving with average quality records like the ortofon black.

[@4vinylsound]

Try the "Schitt Mani" phono stage preamp.

[@reneeversen]

Really nice review... Looking to by the NAD C700 with no Preamp, so I need a preamp... Current price in Germany for the Tube Box S2 ist 330€... I'm not an Audiofile, but I love music, and enjoy my Vinyl... Just got a Like and SUB:...

[@Al-mu4ff]

Coffee in hand and waiting to be amazed at your knowledge and insights to all things affordable.

[@cheapaudioman]

keep your expectations low, Al... it's me we're talking about

[@michaeleller7514]

thanks for the video it was really informative and fun. I'm looking forward to the puffin review, that one always looked interesting.

[@fletchermunson6225]

PS Vane tubes are actually very good tubes. They have two levels these are the lower priced HIFi grade and in my experience, they are really very good as are the more expensive ones. Chinese made I believe so not effected by the Russian tube shortage.

[@cheapaudioman]

good to know

[@GlennDavis1961]

If memory serves, phono preamps also have to apply equalization. I can't help but wonder how the equalization is implemented in these modern preamps and if the implementations are affecting the audio.

[@CanuckQuest]

This pre amp is the best. Just do it.

[@dkernighan1]

Hey Randy. Why is no one reviewing the Darlington Labs MP-7? It has not been around very long but you can find some serious buzz online however there are no reviews on KZbin. Perhaps the CAM can change that? It looks very interesting. Not your typical phono preamp design: Fully-Discrete, Zero Negative Feedback, High-Voltage J-FET. $529 USD

[@edholmwood]

Those tubes are from China. Good stuff.

[@nodfactor8808]

Thanks for the video. I'm definitely considering one of these. When or how often would you need to replace the tubes?

[@shatner99]

6:49 J. G. “…we have switches, and then more switches, and turn them all on, and , and…just because we can do it, we must ask, should we do it.

[@EskWIRED]

Back in the day, I had a New York Audio Labs SuperIt tube-type phono preamp. It had a volume control on it, so I plugged it directly into my Adcom amplifier and out to the speakers. I've never had a system yet that sounded better than that one.

[@MW-nb4dv]

The Pro-Ject tube box DS or DS2 is even better! The Puffin is great as well, love it with an easy diy digital out into my Musician Pegasus. The Puffin is actually better sounding with MC carts too. The DS has a very quite noise floor, but not as quite with the higher gain needed for LOMC's, the Puffin still stays quite with the extra gain.

[@cheapaudioman]

good to know. I'm looking forward to giving it a listen. one of my patrons loves his

[@ryantimmel6112]

Great review!! Getting on to pair with my pro-ject debut carbon evo

[@HerrFinsternis]

It's 350 in europe. Project is a Swiss company I believe, so that pricegap could just be import.

[@david-xg6zl]

Randy, thanks for the video. I have a question. My set up is a Marantz 2250B receiver with a Phillips 212 turntable and a Stanton 681ee cartridge all purchased in the 70's. The system still sounds good and I have watched all of the videos about old vintage receivers and the need to restore them etc. So, my option is to either leave the Marantz as is and add a new phono stage like the Pro-ject $500 or save the $500 and put it towards a individual that can restore the Marantz and possibly place Sparco op amps upgrade in the phono stage or just restore with the usual Caps resistors transistors . Any suggestions. Would it be a upgrade in the phono sound? I know a lot of variables. Thanks Dave

[@tubefreeeasy]

You want to pimp up your amp? Seek out Shuguang Black Treasures. Unfortunately, I believe those are 12AU7's and not 12AX7. I'm really surprised that a company offered a premium bulb. Most offer a crappy bulb and people blame the original sounds on their "crappy" equipment which they usually do. I mean, people can't complain about this product because the customer no longer has to tube roll. That plus, add Furutech Liquid Nano to tubes for optimal materials applicable. I''m sure that PSVane still and will offer greatness in tubes.

[@TurtleMonke_GTAG]

I purchased this phono-pre just before the video posted. Unfortunately it had issues. Left channel was louder - always, after trying different carts, cables, tubes, amp, pre, receiver, and a different TT. I returned it. Bought another one and just returned it because it had noticeable volume sweeps. Very noticeable. Tried all the above too. I like the sound but build quality at the moment might be poor. Ordered a Carte 3 and Darlington Labs MP-7. Carte 3 sounds great - waiting in the Darlington Labs.

[@shdvf767]

Any updates?

[@donaldcadoret4653]

I use a companion of your Project phono pre, the Project Pre Box S2 Digital. This is a combo preamp, headphone amp and DAC. I love it but must admit that I've never owned another external DAC. This is now selling for $499.00. I would love to hear what you think of it because you've heard so many different DAC's.

[@synaestatic]

Sir? I have spent so much money because of you. Off to get the preamp lol

[@patrickl.654]

Just discovered your channel and sub 👍🏻I actually have a project vertical BT turntable would you recommend to get one of these with it ? Will it improve sound quality ?

[@bongofury3176]

PSVane are decent tubes made in China. I believe it is pronounced "pa" "varn" "ee". I can recommend their 12AU7, 12AX7 and 6SN7 (especially the blue bulb SE)...

[@Eron55555]

Randy, being the "Cheap Audio man", I think you need to get back to your cheap roots a little and review the ART DJ PRE II. Especially with a 12V linear power supply added. This should be super cheap for you to buy as I just got one for 50$ Canadian pesos.

[@Eron55555]

Also I have the Fosi, and and the ART DJ PRE II blows it away.

[@lazzzzze1]

I'd love to hear how your opinion would change if you rolled some of the Chinese tubes out of the Fosi with some Russian or American tubes. Beat you a dollar it would close the gap by a lot.

[@pauldias234]

Ah man, now I regret buying a Schiit Mani 2.

[@billd9667]

Cant help but wonder if the “tubiness” would come through amps that convert the signal to digital, like NAD, Naim, etc.

[@shipsahoy1793]

Start with a higher gain for MC and the lowest for MM.

[@don7680]

Well obviously you don't need a separate phono preamp if your preamp or integrated amp has one built in, unless you are going moving coil. Some of which are very good. Did I miss you covering that?

[@cheapaudioman]

I probably didn't say that, Don. But most of the integrated phono preamp in receivers and such are going to be torched by this one. But I should have mentioned that.

[@johncallaghan3097]

I'd say that twice the performance for five times the price is really quite good. I have one DAC (Earmen Tradutto) that is just over five times the price of my Zen dac V2, and the performance is probably less than 30% better.

[@AlanMotley]

I just ordered one... Are there some tube upgrades you would recomend?

[@HuggyBearHikes]

I have the Fosi Tube x4. First one I bought was DOA and sent it back for refund. They refunded me and still send me another x4 to try. While it works it is highly disappointing. My Rolls v29 sounds cleaner and louder. Still wanting a tube preamp and since I have a Project turntable I figure their Tube box should be a good match for it.

[@Carlos6y7u]

Hey Randy! How does it stand againt the Ifi Zen? Is it as silent? I´m looking to buy one or the other and can´t choose. Thanks for the great content!

[@robertwoodward9231]

I have the Zen and it was very good at first but believe it or not, after I had around 50 hours on it, that little piece sounded as if it had upgraded itself to a much more hi end unit and it is incredible sounding for the two hundred I paid for it.

[@cheapaudioman]

I really like that unit. My favorite ifi product for sure

[@adamjohnson4655]

Randy can you review the ifi-audio air Zen Phono pre-amp that comes in at $100?

[@mirekjosiek8472]

I've just got mine for 385. We're right next to Slovakia, so it must be cheaper here.

[@markkemp7608]

Can you please do a follow up after about 1-2 months of use??????

[@hank8499]

I have had this exact phono amp for about a year now and have been very happy with it. This sound and instrument separation and sound stage are very good. Using with a Fluance rt85 and a Prima Luna 400i. It compares very well to $1500 amps.

[@YuengsNwings]

To which $1500 preamps does it compare well to?

[@brianlewis5042]

Great review. Give those tubes time to settle in and it has been my experience that the sound will get better. This is a great product for a person who is looking to upgrade their turntable when all they needed is a better phonostage. Did you use your Fluance turntable or the Metallica turntable for this review?

[@cheapaudioman]

both. had a similar affect and cleaned up the sound on both tables with two different carts

[@allanflippin2453]

Randy, Did you get the chance to try a moving coil pickup with this? Good MC preamps tend to be very pricey. This could explain a lot of the price difference.

[@WarningOfDanger]

Thank you for the straightforward review. Would you reccomend it to acquire a more dynamic, powerful sound for heavy metal music? Technics MKII, AT VM95SH cartridge is what i have, and i listen from Exciter to Emperor.

[@jimsregaturntableshifijukebox]

Great review as always Randy 👍 Jim 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🙂

[@lullabies7441]

With your endorsement they should give you a CAM discount