The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 (also available in ‘B’ version) is the first passive phono (pre)preamplifier from this manufacturer.
The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 is based on the good old transformer as a voltage boosting element. It means that you will not find a single electronic component in the unit. Nor is a power supply needed. In fact, the description phono preamplifier is not quite correct either. Actually, we’re talking about a pre-pre-amplifier, or a level adjuster if you will. The DS3 raises the output voltage of an MC cartridge to MM level. Handy, because many phono inputs on integrated amplifiers and the like can only handle that.
B
According to the manufacturer, the difference between the MC Step Up Box DS3 and the version with the added B (see image above) in the type number, is that the B variant is intended for balanced turntable connections. In addition, on the output side you will find both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR jacks. Another difference is that on the B model you can set the desired gain factor.
The MC Step Up Box DS3 costs €449, the MC Step Up Box DS3 B costs €899.