Pro-Ject launches Stereo Box E Compact stereo integrated amplifier - Essential Install

New from Pro-Ject Audio Systems is The Stereo Box E – a stand-alone integrated amplifier with a comprehensive feature set at an attractive price.

Since the late ‘90s, Pro-Ject Audio Systems has been producing a range of affordable electronics that deliver a high-end feature set. Spanning phono stages, DACs, streamers, CD players and amplifiers, the Box Design range provides stand-alone solutions as well as extensive opportunities to build bespoke system configurations that fit into a surprisingly compact footprint.

One of the most popular models within Pro-Ject’s electronics range is the MaiA integrated amplifier, which combines extensive connectivity with a warm, tube-like sound. Today, Pro-Ject is announcing an affordable solution that enters the range beneath the MaiA S3.

The Stereo Box E (UK SRP £249.00, USD $349.00) draws heavily on the MaiA S3 design, featuring an amplifier module with a sound that’s inspired by the superior model’s output. It also boasts a built-in DAC and phono stage, as well as a headphone amplifier and aptX HD capable Bluetooth streaming input, resulting in a full-feature solution that sounds unbelievable for the price, claims the manufacturer.

The Stereo Box E is the ideal starter amplifier for music lovers who want to take their listening experience to a new level with true, high-quality stereo sound. Featuring an array of input and output options, the extensive connectivity on offer makes it an ideal hub regardless of your playback source.

The circuitry within the Stereo Box E is purpose-designed for correct and proper hi-fi stereo enjoyment. Boasting fully analogue pre- and power-amplifier stages, there are no corners cut internally and the result is a pure signal transmission that keeps the original musical information intact.

Featuring seven different input options, the Stereo Box E is made to support practically any source device. For turntables, there is a built-in moving magnet (MM) phono stage, whereas for other traditional analogue sources, such as tape decks, there are RCA or 3.5mm jack inputs on offer.

Elsewhere, the optical and coaxial S/PDIF inputs allow users to connect digital sources, such as streamers or CD transports, and benefit from the built-in high-resolution DAC. For wireless streaming, the Stereo Box E also boasts an aptX HD-compatible Bluetooth 5.0 input option.

The Stereo Box E’s 21W per-channel output benefits from a low-noise amplifier design, inspired by higher-end products within the Pro-Ject electronics range. To further enhance the sound experience, there is also a dedicated subwoofer output. For private listening, the built-in headphone amplifier brings added convenience.

The addition of a 5V/1A USB C power output is a convenient solution if looking to integrate low-power, modern streamers into the system without having to run multiple power cables.

The Stereo Box E is simple to set up and use. Thanks to its array of inputs and clearly laid-out industrial design, once the components are connected to the relevant inputs and outputs, the Stereo Box E is ready to play r music in high-quality.

The Stereo Box E is available in two carefully matched Sets, exclusive to the UK market.

The Stereo Set E1 combines the Stereo Box E with the matching E1 turntable and a pair of Speaker Box 5E speakers for a ready-to-play turntable-based system that’s easy to expand as you wish to add other sources. Available in Black or Walnut (shown) finish combinations, this is priced at £699.

The CD Set E combines the Stereo Box E with the matching CD Box E CD player and a pair of Speaker Box 3E Carbon speakers for a playback system that’s reminiscent of traditional midi hi-fi systems.

Supplied with a 25cm RCA cable, so the CD Box E can easily “stack” on the amplifier without excess wires getting in the way, this system is ready to play, and also easy to expand in the future. This is priced at £599.00.

The Stereo Box E is available from November 2024 from Henley Audio.