Pro-ject Head Box DS3 B & Head Box S3 B headphone amps
Pro-ject Audio Systems has introduced two new headphone amplifiers: the Head Box DS3 B (£629) and Head Box S3 B (£329). These are the first models in a refreshed generation of the Austrian maker’s long-running electronics range (formerly known as Box Design). Designed to bring fully balanced sound to wired headphones at an accessible price, they bring out the best in your headphones – whether in your home or at your desk.
Laptops, phones and all-in-one systems often struggle to drive wired headphones fully, leaving untapped musical potential. A dedicated headphone amplifier can unlock better control, detail and scale, even with mid-priced headphones, making it a straightforward and affordable way to improve music listening.
Truly fully balanced
Both models use true, fully balanced circuitry, not just balanced connectors. Keeping the signal balanced all the way through helps reduce noise and improve separation between left and right channels, so music sounds cleaner, more detailed, and with a greater sense of space.
To take full advantage of balanced mode technology, headphones need to be designed for it – usually with a 4‑pin XLR or 4.4mm Pentaconn connection. Standard 3.5mm or 6.3mm headphones won’t be fully balanced, but they’ll still benefit from the amp’s extra power, clarity, and control. Balanced-compatible headphones simply need the right cable to connect to the amp’s XLR or 4.4mm outputs.
The new amps offer balanced headphone outputs via 4.4mm Pentaconn and XLR, plus line-level inputs via RCA and XLR, so you can easily connect a wide range of source devices and set-ups.
True power
Pro-ject has prioritised real-world performance over headline wattage figures:
The Head Box S3 B delivers up to 820mW into 30 ohms – enough to drive most headphones cleanly and clearly.
The Head Box DS3 B supplies up to 1.5W into 30 ohms, providing extra headroom for harder-to-drive or low-sensitivity headphones.
The Head Box S3 B uses high-quality integrated amplifier stages, delivering a clear, open and detailed sound suitable for everyday listening. The Head Box DS3 B employs a fully discrete amplifier design, offering extra warmth and power, particularly with demanding headphones.
Pro-ject’s new headphone amplifiers are designed for users who want to take their headphone listening to the next level. The amps deliver greater clarity, detail and richness, while letting owners actively build their own personal hi-fi setup. They offer an easy, affordable upgrade, letting listeners get more from their music, whether using regular headphones or exploring fully balanced options.
Pricing and availability
Both models are housed in all-metal enclosures and are built in the EU, reflecting Pro-ject’s focus on quality construction and components. The Head Box S3 B (£329) and DS3 B (£629) are available in black or silver finishes and can be purchased in the UK this month through Pro-ject’s dealer network. Henley Audio exclusively distributes Pro-Ject in the UK.