Pro-Ject, a brand synonymous with great-sounding, budget-friendly turntables, just unveiled a micro-sized headphone amplifier that promises to supercharge your listening experience. The Head Box E is, according to them, “one of the most effective pound-for-pound hi-fi upgrades around.” And for about $120, that’s a bold claim we’re intrigued by.
The compact amp is designed to seamlessly integrate your wired headphones into any traditional stereo setup, whether you’re spinning vinyl or listening to CDs. Unlike many “cheap” amps, the Head Box E boasts a fully discrete design, giving it more control over the audio signal and allowing it to punch way above its weight. It’s got RCA inputs and outputs, so it can live as a standalone amp or slot right into your existing hi-fi chain.
Despite its diminutive size, the Head Box E can output 665 milliwatts into 32 ohms, enough juice to drive even some seriously demanding headphones. It features both 3.5mm and 6.35mm jacks, and cool bonus: you can use both simultaneously for a shared listening session. With its solid metal chassis and machined aluminum controls, it looks just as good as it sounds. The Pro-Ject Head Box E ($120) is available now in silver or black here.
