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
- Good soundstage and imaging, creating a three-dimensional listening experience
- Clear and detailed sound
- Aesthetically pleasing, especially due to its gloss-painted finish
- Performs well in mid-range sounds, and excels in clarity and projection of female vocals
Product Considerations
- May sound 'weedy' if placed too far from a back wall, needing back support for optimal performance
- Bass may not be sufficiently extended for some listeners, potentially requiring a subwoofer, especially in larger rooms
- A 'clear character difference' exists between treble and bass, with treble sounding 'too forward' and bass 'too soft'
- Cooler sound for male vocals
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Emotiva B1+– has a sharper treble attack and a more neutral mid-range, excelling with female vocals, while the B1+ has a softer treble and a V-shaped sound signature
- Vs PSB p3– is easier to drive and has a more open and extended treble and better mid-range clarity, though the PSB p3 has a boosted bass response
- Vs Cambridge Minx XL– hits harder, is more articulate, and clearer/cleaner
- Vs KEF Q150– has larger vertical soundstage
Takeaway: The Project SpeakerBox 5 is a good-looking speaker that sounds clear, with great imaging, especially for female vocals. Adding a subwoofer is a great option if listeners want even better bass and a fuller experience.
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Speaker Box 5 E Carbon
reviews
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Manufacturer's details
- Enclosure type: bass reflex via rear firing port
- Recommended amplifier power: 10 to 150 watts
- Frequency response: 65Hz - 20kHz
- Nominal impedance: 4 ohms
- Sensitivity: 86dB (1w /1m)
- Chassis: 1" silk dome tweeter, 5" carbon fiber glass bass/mid
- Dimensions: 270 x 165 x 220 mm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 4.76 kg each
Brand highlights
We analyzed reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—and 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
Every Pro-Ject turntable is a belt drive deck built by hand, and many arrive with an Ortofon cartridge already fitted, so records play soon after unboxing. The Primary E has a preadjusted tonearm, which spares a first owner any setup work. The Debut EVO 2 adds a damped aluminum platter and a carbon tonearm, which keeps pitch steadier through a whole side. The Signature 12 adds a 10 kg platter on a magnetically decoupled bearing, which keeps vibration away from the record.
- Start here. Someone playing a first record this week should pick the Primary E, since its Ortofon cartridge, tracking force and anti-skating arrive preadjusted and need no setup skill.
- Sweet spot. The Debut EVO 2 suits a buyer who wants a real step up from entry decks, with TPE damping that cuts wow and flutter and electronic 33 and 45 speed change.
- All in. The Signature 12 is an extension of the Signature 10 with a 12 inch three point pivot tonearm in place of a 10 inch single pivot, so friction drops and the arm stays more stable, which helps hold fine detail.
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?
R3 Meta redefines bookshelf speaker’s performance. Sharing the same drivers as the range-topping R11 Meta, the R3 Meta is a true three-way design. It has a 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™ and a powerful 6.5” hybrid aluminium bass driver that pushes performance to new extremes.
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Product Strengths
- Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
- Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
- Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
- A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
- Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences
Product Considerations
- The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
- The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
- Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
- The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
- Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
- Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
- Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta
Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
- Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
- Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
- BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
- Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
- Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
- Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
- Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
- Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers
Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Precise and stable stereo imaging
- Good detail retrieval
- Neutral tonal balance
- Versatile directivity
Product Considerations
- Bass extension requires a subwoofer for full-range playback, especially below the mid-40Hz range
- Potential for brightness, especially when toed-in directly towards the listening position
- Requires careful setup and experimentation with placement to optimize sound, especially in relation to the rear wall and toe-in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SourcePoint 8 is more neutral, with a less elevated top end, while the SourcePoint 10 is brighter
Takeaway: The SourcePoint 8 is a well-engineered speaker that stands out for its clear imaging and ability to convey musical detail across different genres. It offers a balanced and neutral sound that makes it an engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Room-filling sound in a compact form.The Lumina II enriches the range of two-way speakers in the Lumina family, offering a perfect solution for smaller rooms with uncompromising Natural Sound.LARGE VOLUME IN A COMPACT DESIGNThe larger of the two bookshelf speakers in the collection, the Lumina II has a larger volume and 150mm mid-woofer.PERFECT VERSATILITYLumina II maintains a compact and versatile design perfect for placement within a bookcase or shelving unit. It can also be positioned as rear channels in a home theater system.SIGNATURE SONUS FABER MATERIALSLumina II incorporates multilayer wood on the front baffle and wood veneer, available in multiple finishes. The sides and top of the speaker cabinet are hand-covered in our iconic black leather.SIMPLICITY AND STYLELumina takes note of Sonus faber’s iconic natural materials.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Extremely good build quality, feeling solid and carefully assembled
- Delivers well-defined, three-dimensional imaging and a snappy sense of timing
- Combines exceptional midrange coherency
- Known for a natural, open, and detailed sound
- A beautifully three-dimensional speaker with very little perception of cabinet coloration or even cabinet presence
Product Considerations
- Inherent bass response drops away slowly
- Some recordings may sound a little sharp in the treble, but this is not the fault of the speakers
- Some limits to detail retrieval
- On the brighter side
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Lumina I: The Lumina II has meaningful extension below 50Hz, creating a believable weight and scale to the performance
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Sonus faber is easier to drive, more forgiving of less pristine recordings, and has an emotional quality that the LS50 Meta lacks
Takeaway: The Lumina II is a speaker that delivers many of the qualities that make Sonus faber loudspeakers stand out, offering an inviting and spirited sound that is also beautiful to look at. It represents an affordable way to experience Sonus faber's Italian-made craftsmanship and sonic signature.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality and heavy, sturdy feel, especially considering the speaker's compact size
- Available in multiple attractive color finishes
- Neutral sound signature with a bit of sparkle and a delightful level of punch
- Clear mid-range with smooth vocal delivery and textured sound
- Good soundstage, especially in near-field setups
Product Considerations
- Bass may not satisfy extreme bass enthusiasts and may require a subwoofer for full-range playback
- May require high-quality amplification to reach full potential
- Imaging can be room-dependent, with near-field setups providing the best results
- Dynamics are not explosive
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Speakerbox 5S II is more neutral and better constructed than Klipsch 600M Mark IIs
- Speakerbox 5S II is preferred overall to the Polk Audio R200, while R200 has slightly more bass presence
- Speakerbox 5S II is preferred due to fit and finish, despite the need for a subwoofer, compared to Wharfedale Evo 4.1
- Lumina IIs are more open and dynamic than Speakerbox 5S II
- Speakerbox 5S II has a different nuance, delicacy—and simplicity—than Triangle Borea
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject Speaker Box 5S II is a well-built and stylish speaker that delivers a neutral, clear, and punchy sound. They are versatile and sound great in small to medium-sized rooms, making them a fun choice for casual listening or critical audiophile sessions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
- Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
- Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
- Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
- Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price
Product Considerations
- Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
- Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
- Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
- Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
- The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level
Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
- Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
- Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
- Taut and agile bass performance
- Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
- Connectivity options such as binding posts
Product Considerations
- Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
- Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
- Bass response is somewhat subdued
- Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
- Grilles muddle the sound
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Larger horn tweeter and a new Cerametallic woofer, compared to its predecessor
- Upgraded binding posts and crossover plate elevate to Reference Premiere status
- Larger diameter voice coils and aluminum shorting rings on the woofers give the speaker better linearity throughout the bass, decrease distortion while upping power handling resulting in improved speed and accuracy
- Better detail retrieval, more articulate bass, and vastly improved soundstage width and imaging, compared to the RP-600M
- The binding posts are the same that are found on costlier Heritage speakers
Product Considerations
- Finish options did not receive an upgrade over the outgoing model, leaving customers with the same ebony or walnut wraps
- The tweeter may be too bright for some listeners who are sensitive to a more aggressive top end
- Rated sensitivity is 94.5dB, which is a decrease compared to the original's reported sensitivity of 96
- Needs a bit of space behind them and to the sides, or at least positioning on open shelves, if the powerful output from that port isn't to muddy the sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the older RP-600M, the new sounds far more linear
- The new is very easy to listen to for long periods of time, and while it still has a presence, a speed and transparency to the artist or instrument—at least with respect to the midrange—it is not as forward sounding as past designs
- The new proved to be surprisingly flat, but best of all, not the least bit fatiguing
- There was very little difference in tone with respect to the mids between the new and a costlier Revel bookshelf
- These two are actually pretty neck and neck
- As for the Wharfedale Evo 4.1, the Evo is better constructed, not to mention nicer looking
Takeaway: The RP-600M II is a refined speaker with better components, improved sound, and better bass response and imaging. It's a speaker that would be great for someone who likes to listen to a variety of music genres and wants a good-sounding speaker that can last a long time.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Incredible power handling capabilities, performing as well as speakers in the $2,000–$3,000 range
- Sound quality is comparable to stand-mount speakers in the $1,500–$2,000 range
- Build quality is phenomenal for its price point, with real wood veneer options available
- Produces a dense and deep soundstage, especially for a two-way design
- Neutral and clean sound with nice extension in the upper mid-range to high-frequency extension, avoiding a 'hot' sound
Product Considerations
- Stereo imaging is decent, but not as precise as some listeners may prefer
- The mid-range can be a weak point due to some potential resonance in the upper frequencies of the woofer's range
- The speakers are not the easiest to drive and pairing with neutral, slightly warmer amps is recommended
- The treble response is slightly forward with some extra sparkle which may not be ideal for those sensitive to higher frequencies
- While the bass is good, listeners of bass-heavy music may want to add a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SVS Nano: The Ultra Evolution has a more open and expansive midrange and more linear bass, while the Nano has punchier—slightly boosted—bass
- Vs. Heco Salon Revolution 3: The Ultra Evolution is a good replacement since the Heco is discontinued, the Ultra Evolution favors neutrality, while the Heco has a warmer midrange, but the treble is very similar on both
- Vs. KEF R3 Meta: The SVS Ultra Evolution disappears better, but the R3 Meta sounds more neutral
- Vs. Dali Opticon II Mark IIs: Dali is warmer and more nuanced in the midrange but the Ultra Evolution is a little more exciting in its presentation
Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf speakers provide exceptional performance for the price and create an immersive listening experience. They are well-built, attractive, and offer a balanced sound that makes them a strong contender in their price range.
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