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
- Compact size with a small footprint, while still offering a wide range of features
- Features nine inputs, including a versatile MM/MC phono option, which is a rarity at its price point
- Delivers an impressive 140 watts per channel at 4 ohms, providing ample power to drive even demanding speakers
- The aluminum chassis serves as a robust shield against electromagnetic interference, ensuring signal integrity
- Has a built in headphone amplifier
- Connectivity options are plentiful
Product Considerations
- Miniature five-way binding posts make it difficult to use anything other than banana plugs for speaker connections
- The included remote has lots of buttons that are not relevant to the MaiA DS3's feature set
- The volume knob is small and has no clicks or detents, making it difficult to tell what the relative volume is
- Oversized power supply that may be difficult to hide
- Side panels are sold separately
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. NAD C 700: The NAD C 700 might be better if one does not need all of the MaiA's analog connectivity and is more into digital streaming
- Vs. Marantz PM8006: The Marantz includes all the input and output options of the MaiA DS3, except it only offers support for moving magnet phono cartridges
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject MaiA DS3 is a compact powerhouse that includes all the inputs, outputs, and functions of a full-sized integrated amplifier and delivers a fusion of traditional audiophile values and modern convenience. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a small but serious hifi system.
All
MaiA DS3
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Power output: 2x 80W/140W at 8 ohms/4 ohms (1%THD)
- Frequency response (20Hz - 20kHz): <+/- 0,3dB at 20kHz
- SNR: 97dB (105 dB - 'A' weighted) at 1kHz
- THD: < 0,01% at 10W / 8 ohms
- Headphone amp output: 2x 430mW at 32 ohms (1%THD)
- Line level inputs: 3 pair RCA (sensitivity: 860 mV)
- Phono input: 1 pair RCA (for MM, MI and MC cartridges)
- Phono input sensitivity: MM 47k ohms / MC 100 ohms
- Phono input gain: MM 40dB / MC 60dB
- USB input: USB Audio Class 2 (requires USB 2.0 or higher)
- PCM sample rates: up to 192kHz / 24 bit
- DSD support: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256
- BT version & codec: BT 5.0; aptX, aptX HD, A2DP profile
- Trigger In/Out: 12V on/off detector
- Outboard power supply: 36V/5,5A DC
- Standby Power consumption: < 0,5 watts
- Dimensions WxHxD: 206 x 71 x 240 (252 with sockets) mm
- Weight: 1850g without power supply
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?
Tomorrow's Hi-Fi, Today
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box.
And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
Evo 150
Easy to Set Up, Easy to Upgrade
It couldn't be simpler. Connect Evo 150 to the mains and to your speakers. Open StreamMagic, connect to the network, then fire up your favourite music streaming service. Pick a tune, press play and adjust the volume to suit. When you're ready, you can dig deeper to set Evo 150 up just how you want it, adding functionality as you go.
Evo 150 playing through the StreamMagic App
StreamMagic App
Our StreamMagic app offers full control of Evo, plus access to the world's most popular and high-resolution music streaming services. It's clear, logical and stable – so Evo will do precisely what you want. Alternatively, you may prefer to use the app of your favourite streaming service. Evo's ready for you to listen whichever way you choose.
Model watches TV with Evo in view
Connectivity to Suit Your Needs
Thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, including a built-in phono stage, Evo can be the heart of your system – add a turntable, say, or EVO CD. Video sources can play too, just connect your TV's HDMI output to Evo's ARC input. No matter where your music comes from, Evo 150's ready for it.
Model listens to Evo via headphones
Bluetooth Convenience. Hi-Res Sound Quality
Often nothing's more convenient than streaming via Bluetooth. Evo takes it to the max with aptX HD Bluetooth, which features wireless, high-definition music streaming from compatible devices – including our Alva turntables. And because Evo also transmits with Bluetooth aptx HD, it's perfect for private listening on compatible Hi-Res wireless headphones.
Evo in a lifestyle setting with a turntable and books
Made By Music
Evo 150 uses the best audio components, such as the ESS SABRE ES9018k2m Reference DAC. And then we bring every one of our 55+ years of audio know-how to bear. The result is a performance that celebrates the talent of musicians and producers – one that retains the original raw emotive power and detail.
Model turns the volume knob on Evo
Complete Control
Evo is intuitive and straightforward to operate, no matter if you're using its supplied remote control, our simple yet thorough StreamMagic app, or its physical controls – including the large dual-concentric dial on the unit's fascia.
Evo on a shelf in a lifestyle setting
Neat and Easy Placement
At 317mm wide, roughly the size of a vinyl album sleeve, Evo will sit neatly where you need it to. But thanks to its award-winning deisgn and all-around good looks, it really deserves to be centre stage.
Model adds a vinyl record to Alva
Great for Record Lovers
If you want to connect a turntable, Evo 150's built-in phono stage makes it perfect for decks with with moving magnet cartridges, but no integral pre-amp. That's on top of Bluetooth compatibility with our own Alva turntables.
Evo CD
A New Life for CD
Available separately, Evo CD is the compact disc transport developed to exclusively partner Evo all-in-one players. It shares the same eye-catching design, is crafted from the same premium materials and is engineered to the same exacting standards. Evo CD extracts every piece of musical detail from your discs, then passes it seamlessly to Evo. Your CD collection is now set to join the hi-fi evolution.
Detail shot
Designed to Thrill, Built to Last
Evo's confident sound, timeless looks and premium materials mean that you've found your new long-term musical partner – bringing pleasure to both your ears and eyes for many years to come.
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Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
As ever, the 9000A is the centre of the audiolab focus in being the beating heart of any high-performance audio system. It’s more powerful, capable and feature-packed than any of the preceding models – the most advanced audiolab integrated amplifier yet. Versatility is key to audiolab’s integrated amplifier appeal, and the 9000A offers to cater for audiophiles of all creeds. Loaded with digital and analogue source connection, wireless connectivity for portable devices, an all-new phono stage to cater for vinyl playback and the usual, class-leading amplification for loudspeakers and headphones.
Product Strengths
- Sonic clarity, detail resolution, and control
- Sturdy build and fine finish with solid casework and nicely damped
- Flexible product offering integrated, pre-amp, or pre-power combo options
- Balanced nature means that no particular genre of music is favored above any other
- Impressively equipped with a wide range of inputs including RCA, XLR, Coax, Optical, USB B, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and LDAC
Product Considerations
- Dynamic contrasts could be stronger
- Rhythmic drive could be stronger
- Phono stage a little flat-footed
- The display graphics on the screen can be on the small side to read from across a room
- Treble could be more exciting and dynamic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audiolab 6000A: Offers better instrumental separation, clarity of guitar strings, and a fuller bass response
- Vs Naim Nait XS3 or Rega Elicit Mk5: Delivers less entertainment and rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The Audiolab 9000A is a capable and flexible amplifier offering sonic clarity and a range of features to slot easily into most systems. It charms and delights, never forcing music onto your ears but always upgrading the sound for great speaker performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Ground-breakingly different than its predecessor (Elicit-R) and the Elex R, integrating the Athos sound and signature
- Combines musicality with a real sense of propulsion
- Taut, punchy, clear sound with impressive clarity and detail
- Excellent built-in moving magnet phono stage, delivering enjoyable results across various music genres
- Internal DAC is of good quality, sitting comfortably beside the analogue line stages in quality, with lively and punchy character, strong detail levels, and dynamic contrasts
- Lacks USB input or Bluetooth connectivity
Product Considerations
- May run hotter than usual
- Can sound a little bright tonally, requiring careful speaker choice
- Volume control steps on the remote may be too large for precise adjustments
- Functional looking rather than stylish
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Roksan K2: The Elicit MK5 is a brawny amplifier with a full package for the audiophile journey
- Vs. Exposure 3510: The Elicit has a decent headphone option and the MM input, while the Exposure would suit if one already has a decent phono stage and a DAC in place
- Vs. Cambridge Audio Edge NQ / 2 x PA-10: While the Edge / PA-10 setup justifies its higher sticker, the Rega Elicit MK5 has a ballsier take on music
Takeaway: The Rega Elicit MK5 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a detailed, clear, and punchy sound, making music sound great and alive. With its integrated DAC and phono stage, it is ready to be the heart of any great listening setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive power output in a compact form factor
- Offers versatile input options, including Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD
- Features a high-quality phono stage supporting both MM and MC cartridges
- Excellent build quality with a full aluminum casing
- Uses a dual mono design for superior channel separation
- Has connectivity options as well
Product Considerations
- May be overkill for smaller rooms or less demanding speakers
- Does not have a built-in DAC
Takeaway: The Stereo Box DS3 is a versatile and powerful amplifier, perfect for audiophiles who want great sound in a compact size. It is made with quality materials and has many features to improve the listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Joyful sound signature with detailed output
- Can power a wide range of headphones, due to Ultima technology
- Compact design, stacks perfectly with the Qutest and Huei
- Employs trickle-down Ultima technology to allow delivery of enormous peak current outputs
- Solid build quality using CNC-milled aluminum casework and good heat dissipation
- Connectivity options include headphone and speaker outputs
Product Considerations
- No gain switch for the headphone output
- Default gain level a bit high for sensitive IEMs
- More power limitations with speakers than headphones—best for smaller, efficient speakers or nearfield listening
- Runs hot, requiring good ventilation
- The volume control feels a little wobbly and might be difficult to use in a very precise way, and there is some channel imbalance at very low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Qutest/Anni pairing justifies its price premium thanks to a more composed and insightful presentation that offers notably more low-end authority, dynamic punch and tonal richness
- Cyrus ONE HD is plusher, showing that Anni has strong niche appeal
- The iFi xDSD Gryphon has digital inputs and built-in DAC, while Anni can power speakers
Takeaway: The Chord Electronics Anni is a compact and well-built amplifier that delivers a joyful and detailed sound, making it a great addition to a desktop setup for headphone and nearfield speaker listening. Its use of trickle-down Ultima technology ensures high-quality performance in a small package, and its ability to stack with other Chord devices makes it a good choice for those already invested in the ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality build and aesthetics, with a metal casing and elegant fascia made to a high standard
- A clear, powerful, and spacious sound, with a presentation that is appealing right from the beginning
- Plenty of power on tap, specified at 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms
- Fantastic connectivity, with three pairs of line-level inputs, an MM phono stage, and outputs for a recorder and subwoofer
- Capable network DAC/streamer with digital controls
Product Considerations
- The dimpled effect flanking the extruded front panel gives the unit a further distinctive look, but the finish feels like plastic upon closer inspection
- The HEOS app isn't bespoke to the 40n, many of the product's set-up options can only be accessed through the unit using the included remote control
- Bluetooth pairing took longer than expected, and there were occasions when the app stopped being able to see or display the music server when switching inputs
- The lettering on the remote control is impossible to read in dim light, and the buttons are too similar in size, resulting in fumbling in the dark
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz Model 40n is a different proposition compared to the Marantz PM7000N, Marantz is keen to reposition itself as a luxury hifi brand and that intent is clear in the 40n's gorgeous build and aesthetics
- Rival systems such as the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and Naim Uniti Atom do a better job of engrossing listeners in the music, being more insightful, musically engaging, and dynamically exciting by degrees
- Is super-sexy and distinctive styling, a higher level of fit and finish, a much better remote, and access to Sound United's HEOS streaming/multiroom audio platform wanted—or more coaxial and optical digital inputs, Dirac Live room-correction capabilities, more power, a more efficient topology, and access to Lenbrook's BluOS streaming/multiroom audio platform
- At first glance it's hard to distinguish the Model 40n from its slightly costlier Marantz Model 30 sibling
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 40n is a stylish and feature-packed streaming amplifier that offers a musical and inviting performance. With its versatile connectivity options and impressive sound quality, the Model 40n is a great choice for modern, lifestyle hifi systems.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive set of features including CD player, streamer, Bluetooth, headphone amplifier, phono amplifier, and power amplifier, all in one box
- Sounds very good across digital and analogue inputs, the combination of digital decoding and amplification is exceptionally cohesive
- Has a sturdy, well-built casework that feels every inch of its price tag, and is built to last
- Provides clear, detailed and large, spacious sound with an easy-going presentation, and can be part of an expansive wireless multi-room system
- Incorporates a high-quality ESS Sabre DAC and amplifier based on the Audiolab 6000A design
Product Considerations
- The software interface using DTS Play-Fi is a little slow, and Play-Fi is still not gapless, Play-Fi is not delivering at the same level of user experience as competitor solutions
- Rivals have greater dynamic punch, rhythmic accuracy, and energy
- Some reviewers find that the unit can be a bit sensitive with scratched CDs
- Remote and fascia controls aren't all that responsive
- There is no album art displayed on the screen during streaming
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Technics SA-C600, the Technics may not be as big-scaled, open or reveal as much detail as the Audiolab Omnia, but it's more adept at conveying enthusiasm, rhythmic precision and dynamic punch
- In direct competition with the Cambridge Audio Evo 75, the Audiolab Omnia ties Audiolab styling touches into something that is not slavishly retro and gives away absolutely nothing in terms of feel, solidarity and design
- Compared to the NAD C700, the Audiolab Omnia has functionality they cannot get anywhere near—indeed functionality that leaves everything else under two grand looking rather limited
Takeaway: The Audiolab Omnia is a versatile and well-built all-in-one system that offers a wide range of features and delivers enjoyable sound, making it a great option for those seeking convenience without sacrificing audio quality. It's especially appealing for those who still value CD playback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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