Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Employs a purpose-built Stream Unlimited CD Pro 8 CD mechanism with CD-84 servo, offering better sound quality than generic drive mechanisms
- Features a dampened carbon fiber chassis for better bracing and damping of vibrations
- Delivers a mature, relaxed, and well-articulated sound quality that is balanced and neutral
- Recreates piano sound with exquisite precision and delivers sharply focused sound image
- Offers a variety of digital outputs, including AES/EBU, S/PDIF (coaxial and optical), and I2S + Masterclock via HDMI
Product Considerations
- The unit's weight may feel light relative to its price, potentially causing movement when buttons are pressed
- The top-loading design requires both hands to open the tray, and the lid tends to smack shut
- Display graphics could be better, and the layout of CD text is not optimal
- Some reviewers found the feel of the controls good, but not secure or solid enough for the price
- The suspension system only handles micro vibrations, and practical vibrations can cause playback to skip
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Marantz SA-7001KI, the Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 T delivered a more mature sound
- Compared to the CEC TL5, the Project CD Box RS2 T exhibits greater control, transparency, and low-level detail
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 T is a high-performing CD transport that delivers exceptional sound quality, making it a worthwhile addition for audiophiles seeking the ultimate resting place for their CDs. It breathes new life into familiar recordings, and offers a great listening experience when paired with a quality DAC.
All
CD Box RS2 T
reviews
Manufacturer details
Supports Red Book CD-DA
Digital outputs
AES3 1 x balanced (AES/EBU) on XLR connector
S/PDIF 1 x optical (TOSlink®) 1 x coaxial (RCA socket)
I2S + Master Clock 1 x HDMI connector
Outboard power supply 20V/3000mA DC; 100 - 240V, 50/60Hz
Power consumption 600mA DC, < 0,5W in standby
Replacement battery remote control 1 x CR2032 / 3V or 1 x CR2025 / 3V
Dimensions W x H x D (D with sockets) 206 x 78 x 200 (210)mm
Weight 3.000g without power supply
Next generation of ultimate CD Transports
Pro-Ject has always been making products and investments which are not particularly mainstream. As everybody was jumping onto the CD bandwagon, we were starting with turntables! Now as everybody moves into streaming, we are investing in a new revolutionary CD-player.
We believe in listening to music consciously and also that there are many people who deeply share this sentiment with us. Similar to analogue records, people want to have the physical medium in hand. And that's also true for the CD! Most of us are still going to put most of their CD's onto a hard disc drive or store them in the basement, as they did with their analogue records. But many want to keep their best CD's and for this they want to have a proper CD-player. Very good in quality, but not too crazy expensive.
Actual Redbook CD players have gotten rare, real high-end mechanisms aren't even existing anymore. Today, we know that the drive is essential for accurately reading CDs. The mechanics in many drives struggle to correctly read CDs and rely on audio interpolation to make it work, that often has a negativ impacting on the sound quality. The CD medium might have gotten an unfavorable reputation as a result, which is why it is time to create a perfect, top-class CD transport again.
Transport-only matters, because many already have a very goo...
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Pro-Ject offers a range of turntables and components that focus on simple setup and ease of use, often arriving pre-configured, making them particularly appealing to beginners.
- They prioritize sonic performance, often incorporating higher-end components like carbon fiber tonearms and Ortofon cartridges, even in their more affordable models.
- Pro-Ject is known for its all-in-one audio systems that combine a turntable, amplifier, and receiver into a single unit, aiming to provide component-like sound quality in a smaller, more convenient package.
Select products
A2
- Positioning: The entry-level, fully automatic turntable designed for ease of use and convenience.
- Description: Offers a fully automatic operation with a sub-chassis design that isolates the tonearm and platter from vibrations, making it ideal for small spaces where speakers are close to the turntable. Unlike the more manual and high-end models like the Signature series, focuses on user-friendly features and affordability, making it suitable for those with a limited budget who still want quality sound.
The Classic Reference
- Positioning: Positioned as a mid-range turntable, combines traditional design with modern technology.
- Description: Features a high-end EVO 9 AS HG tonearm and a precision motor control system, providing excellent sound quality with a touch of luxury. It offers more advanced features compared to the A2, such as a balanced XLR output.
RPM 10 Carbon
- Positioning: A high-end turntable known for its innovative design and superior sound quality.
- Description: With its carbon fiber chassis and 10" Evo tonearm, delivers exceptional sound clarity and stability. It stands out from the Classic Reference with its advanced materials and design.
Signature 10
- Positioning: A premium turntable that combines mass-loading with magnetically-floating principles for high-end audio performance.
- Description: Features a 10" single-pivot tonearm and a magnetically decoupled platter, providing a resonance-free listening experience. It offers more precise adjustments and a higher level of performance compared to the RPM 10 Carbon.
Signature 12.2
- Positioning: The flagship model, representing the pinnacle of Pro-Ject's turntable lineup.
- Description: Boasts a groundbreaking 12" 3-point pivot tonearm and a flywheel belt drive system, ensuring the most accurate and stable playback. It surpasses the Signature 10 with its larger tonearm and enhanced stability.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Pro-Ject Audio Systems was founded with a passion for analog audio reproduction. Our very first product, introduced in 1991, was a record player – a time when the entire industry was turning its back on vinyl. We didn’t jump on the bandwagon when vinyl became hip – we were instrumental in bringing vinyl back.
We manufacture – not only assemble – 95% of our products in the EU. Raw materials come in – finished products leave the factories. Since we make everything ourselves, we are able offer a 25 year spare part availability!
Today, we offer one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, speakers, and a variety of accessories designed to enhance your system and vinyl care.
What's your approach to customer support?
Pro-Ject Audio Systems has a worldwide network of dealers and distributors. We ensure that our team members are highly knowledgeable in the field of high-fidelity audio setup and repairs. In the event of a need for support, the first point of contact is the local dealer. If the dealer cannot handle the problem, the second tier is the distributor in the respective country. By handling as many problems as possible locally, we can ensure the quickest and smoothest resolution.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
Aside from one of the audio industry’s widest range of high-fidelity products, Pro-Ject also produces limited runs of high-quality vinyl records. 7Ray’s Jazzy Zoetrope is a double album of fine Jazz standards played by 7Ray and his quartet. One of the two records was recorded live at our headquarters in the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria. We produced the whole album in AAA for the highest analog purity. Here’s a link to the records we offer, which double as fine reference recordings across multiple musical genres.
What other products pair best with yours?
Used
Pro-Ject
What if you spend more?
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In the tradition of our compact streaming CD receivers, a new high performance version of our Inspiration All-in-One has been created based on the AVM X-Stream Engine®. Numerous innovations have been incorporated and also the new RCX APP completely controls the CS 2.3. A main focus was put on a completely modernized APP control, the new AVM X-Stream Engine® can stream all high resolution formats, including DSD (256). This streaming engine is a complete in-house development and is completely software based, thus can be updated online future-proof.
An HDMI (ARC) interface is on board as well as the modern Bluetooth 5.0 connection, further digital inputs and a USB A interface are standard. A high-performance phono input stage MM and MC is also back in the game. New are the digital outputs, which can now also be volume controlled. Also purely sonically a giant leap has resulted here to the predecessor CS 2.2.
The completely new amplifier stages are based on the large CS 8.3 and, with 140 watts of continuous power, drive any speaker easily. The digital section in the CS was developed in the course of the new development completely new, so now comes here the new D/A converter from the new ESS generation (9038 Q 2 M) to use, sonically also a clear gain, which benefits all digital sources and reproduces all high-resolution formats perfectly and faithfully.
The CS 2.3 are available in the standard colors aluminum silver or black, on request also as an elegant CELLINI version with chrome front. Like all AVM Inspiration devices, the CS 2.3 are handmade in the factory in Malsch, Germany. Most of the suppliers, e.g. for the precise housing parts, are also located in the immediate vicinity. Repeated, intensive quality controls during all production steps and a break-in period of several days for each individual device ensure our promise of the highest reliability in the long term and we grant a 2-year warranty on the compact CS, with online registration 2 additional years.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size, making it suitable for smaller spaces and versatile placement
- True all-in-one system integrating a CD player, streamer, DAC, phono stage (MM & MC), and amplifier
- Stable and fast app control for comprehensive management of features and music collections
- Large soundstage with nice imaging
- Phono stage is better than expected
- Connectivity options are comprehensive
Product Considerations
- Optional remote control is an added expense
- Front fascia controls are considered eccentric or half-hearted
- Some reviewers found the high frequencies to be bright and thin
- Speaker binding posts are small and may not accommodate larger spade lugs
- Streamer could be better
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The AVM CS 2.3 includes a CD drive, while the Cambridge Audio EVO 150 does not, the phono stage in the EVO 150 is only MM
Takeaway: The AVM Inspiration CS 2.3 is a compact and versatile all-in-one system that combines streaming, CD playback, and amplification into one device, making it a convenient solution for many music lovers. It is a good choice for people wanting a small but mighty stereo.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Can act as a DAC and play anything that's not vinyl at an excellent level
- High quality chassis, connectors, and buttons exude a high-end feel
- Features a smooth-operating 'LxDTM' mechanism that eliminates vibration and noise during disc playback
- Handled tracks with exceptional control, dynamics, and large soundscapes
- Outstanding fit, finish, and engineering
Product Considerations
- Fast forward and fast reverse across track breaks is not allowed, making comparisons difficult
- Absolute-polarity selection is only available on the front panel, not the remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The D-07X is positioned between the D-03X and D-10X in Luxman's lineup
- Compared to the Luxman D-10X, the D-10X produces an even larger soundstage with images more clearly defined and dynamics handled with more poise—it has a slightly more full bodied balance and is less forward in overall presentation
Takeaway: The Luxman D-07X is a versatile and high-quality SACD/CD player and DAC that delivers a smooth and musical sound. It is an investment for those who appreciate physical media.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- The Electrocompaniet EMC 1 MKV offers a consistently detailed sound with tonal nuance and vibrancy
- It is a well-engineered machine that is a real pleasure to use
- The Electrocompaniet EMC 1 MKV is an intrinsically 'organic-sounding' player, which results in a very natural feel
- The mechanical filter is designed to remove both internal and external vibrations from entering the laser pick-up assembly, which in turn is said to bring sonic benefits to the unit
Product Considerations
- The included remote is plasticky and not as high quality as the player itself
- The Perspex front panel is a magnet for fingerprints
- It only plays CDs and does not have digital inputs for use with other devices
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Leema CD player using both players' internal converters, the Electrocompaniet wins hands down, but so it should given the price difference between the two
- Vs Leema DAC, CD via the Electrocompaniet had a more involving sound, though perhaps not as analytically precise as the rip through Roon and the Leema DAC, particularly at the top end
- Vs Leema Essentials as a transport only, the Electrocompaniet wins in every way—more stability to the image, more welly and more detail throughout
Takeaway: The Electrocompaniet EMC 1 MKV is a great CD player that makes CDs sound thrillingly musical, and it's built to last. If you love CDs, it will draw you into the music and make you want to listen for hours.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The 102 CD player from Burmester’s Classic Line combines a purist and elegant appearance with the traditional high standards in manufacturing quality and musicality. Its ideal playing partner within the Burmester portfolio is the 101 integrated Class-D amplifier, especially when combined with a pair of Burmester loudspeakers. The 102 is a direct-drive CD player with a front-loading CD drawer. Thus, it can easily be integrated into an audio system where space is tight. The sophisticated analog output stages receive their signals from a latest-generation conversion unit. It offers different upsampling rates, which may be selected according to personal preferences.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Gorgeous sonic performance
- Extraordinary playback quality
- Deep bass and a black and hash-free background
- Strong on precision but not lacking warmth
Product Considerations
- The display is rather basic; it won't show sample rate information
- Only has a coaxial (phono) connector for electrical digital input, requiring a USB-to-S/PDIF adapter for computer sources
- The CD drawer has a plastic tray
Takeaway: The Burmester 102 CD player provides a smooth and powerful sound with good precision. It offers excellent playback quality, making it a worthwhile addition to any audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Combines a disc player, DAC, and streaming capabilities into one unit, serving as a versatile digital hub
- Excellent build quality and premium materials
- Delivers a controlled and clear sonic performance across all sources
- Supports a wide array of digital formats, including CD, SACD, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, MP3, DSF, and DFF
- Includes various connectivity options such as USB-A, USB-B, coaxial, optical, Ethernet, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect
Product Considerations
- The Technics app is described as clunky and underwhelming, and initial setup requires using Google Home
- The front panel display is a small monochrome display and can appear busy
- Requires careful system matching, and it may sound undemonstrative/edgy in wrong circumstances
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel Diamond Series DT-6000: The Technics offers streaming and SACD-playing capabilities, and the Technics build quality is also more robust
Takeaway: The SL-G700M2 offers a very versatile digital source and hub due to its ability to play many different media and file formats. The premium build quality and its excellent audio performance make it a great addition to any audio system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very musical and pleasant to listen to, with an analog sound and no hard edges
- Offers a multi-layered soundstage with excellent separation between instruments and vocals
- Great timing, which enhances musicality and engagement
- New design is consistent with the new products and is a good change
Product Considerations
- The play button is in a strange spot and can be hard to figure out, the remote buttons are small
- Only plays standard Redbook CDs
- Has a BNC digital output, which may not be compatible with all DACs
- No standby button
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Viking does not sparkle as much on the top end as the Cambridge Audio, but moves the heart more
- The Viking has more resolution and texture in the mid-range than the Creek
- Esoteric is more detailed, while Viking is more musical
- The Viking has better dynamic contrast and potent bass reproduction than the Marantz and Primare
Takeaway: The Viking CD player is a great choice for those who want to enjoy their CD collection without the complexities of streaming. It delivers a high level of musicality and engagement, making it a worthwhile investment for CD enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers excellent clarity and detail resolution, extracting a high level of information from CDs
- Offers strong dynamics and a powerful, articulate low-end performance
- Precise and controlled sound—described as fast, agile, and with good timing
- Designed to reduce noise through power supply design, DAC optimization and component choice
- Plays CDs with a full-bodied and sophisticated character
Product Considerations
- Front panel control buttons can be inconsistent in their responsiveness
- Some reviewers feel the design is too similar to older Cyrus models and not a significant departure for a new upmarket range
- The display is small and not particularly legible from a distance
- Tonal balance can lean to the leaner side and has the ability to sound like it has too much of an edge when matched with a bright sounding system
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The CDi-XR delivers detail in a more dynamic fashion and left the OPPO standing
- It was also able to better differentiate harmonies than the OPPO
Takeaway: The Cyrus CDi-XR is a well-built CD player that pulls more data from CDs than any other and provides a great, energetic sound. This is a solid choice to make the most of a CD collection.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Rega Saturn MkIII combines well-thought-out connectivity with special performance
- Sounds fantastic across both CD and digital inputs
- Well-made and easy to use
- Delivers the musical message dynamically, emotionally, and in terms of rhythm and pace
- Rega has an enviable track record for reliability and service
Product Considerations
- The top-loading mechanism requires more space than a tray-based CD player
- The DAC is limited to 192 kHz
- Does not play SACDs
- Some reviewers found the Solaris remote control to have too many buttons
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Sounds the same as the Saturn R, with the exception of the front panel
- Compared to some Naim CD players, the Rega will sound more reserved, but it depends on the rest of the system and its tonal balance and presentation
Takeaway: The Rega Saturn MkIII is a well-built and reliable CD player/DAC that delivers a compelling and engaging musical experience from a CD collection. It is especially suitable for those who value musical timing and coherence.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers CDs with rich detail in a layered fashion
- Has an impeccably drawn soundstage that projects both front and back
- Offers a sweet, airy, and delicate touch with a plumped bottom end
- Functions as both a CD spinner and standalone DAC, with digital outputs enabling use as a CD transport
- The DAC picks out detail with even greater purpose—without losing its slightly honeyed tone
Product Considerations
- Operation isn't very intuitive and could use more joined-up thinking between the controls
- Takes around 45 seconds to start up while its tubes are pre-heated
- Dynamic attack could be snappier
- The orange dot-matrix display might not appeal to everyone
Takeaway: The Canor CD 2.10 is a lush-sounding player and DAC that delivers rich detail and a wide soundstage, making it a great choice for those who prioritize pure audio performance. It is well-made in Europe and produces a top sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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