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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B Balanced Step-up Transformer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

For audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts seeking to elevate their listening experience, the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B Balanced Step-up Transformer is a game-changer. Designed to bridge your moving-coil (MC) turntable with a moving magnet (MM) phono preamp, this transformer is all about delivering pristine, high-fidelity sound. At its core are the premium Lundahl LL 1678 transformers, renowned for their mu-metal shielding, which ensures top-notch sound quality with minimal interference. The fully passive signal path guarantees an ultra-low noise floor and minimal distortion, making your favorite records sound clearer than ever.

The MC Step Up Box DS3 B boasts a dual-mono design for exceptional channel separation, allowing each instrument and vocal to shine through with remarkable clarity. Customize your audio experience with its selectable gain and adjustable cartridge impedance, tailored to meet the unique demands of your setup. For those who demand the best, the True Balance Connection technology offers superior noise rejection via balanced XLR connectors, ensuring that nothing stands between you and your music.

With its thoughtful design and high-quality components, the MC Step Up Box DS3 B is more than just a piece of equipment—it's an invitation to rediscover your vinyl collection.

Key Features:

  • Step-up transformer for MC turntable cartridges
  • Premium Lundahl LL 1678 transformers with mu-metal shielding
  • Fully passive signal path for low noise and distortion
  • Dual-mono design for maximum channel separation
  • Selectable gain and adjustable cartridge impedance
  • Gold-plated RCA connectors and balanced XLR connectors
  • True Balance Connection technology for superior noise rejection

Product specs

Preamp Type Premium Passive Step-up Transformer, Silver
Number of Channels Dual Mono
Analog Inputs 2 x XLR (right, left), 1 x Dual RCA Phono (MC)
Analog Outputs 2 x XLR (right, left), 1 x Dual RCA Phono
Frequency Response 10Hz-55kHz (±1dB)
Additional Features Solid Aluminum Chassis
Height 3.11"
Depth 7.75"
Width 8.11"
Weight 3.83 lbs

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B Balanced Step-up Transformer?

The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B is designed to amplify the signal from a moving coil (MC) phono cartridge, allowing it to be used with a moving magnet (MM) phono input on an amplifier or preamp.

What type of inputs and outputs does the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B have?

This step-up transformer features dual mono analog inputs and outputs, including 2 x XLR (right, left) and 1 x Dual RCA Phono for both inputs and outputs.

Is the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B suitable for high-fidelity audio systems?

Yes, with a frequency response of 10Hz-55kHz (±1dB) and a solid aluminum chassis, it is designed for high-fidelity audio applications, ensuring detailed and accurate sound reproduction.

Can the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B be used with balanced audio setups?

Yes, the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B supports balanced audio setups through its XLR inputs and outputs, providing enhanced audio quality and reduced noise.

What are the dimensions of the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B?

The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B measures 3.11" in height, 7.75" in depth, and 8.11" in width, and it weighs 3.83 lbs, making it compact and easy to integrate into existing audio systems.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B Balanced Step-up Transformer.

Features and functionality

  • The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box DS3 B offers a black-of-space silent background and improved dynamics, though it introduces a slightly flabbier low end.

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  • Reflector 6N23P-EV NOS tubes, known for low noise and smooth tone, are used in the Pro-Ject Tube Box DS3 B for enhanced audio detail.

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Comparisons

  • Users report that SUTs, like the Pro-Ject, can introduce coloration and a flabby low end, contrasting with high-quality solid-state MC stages.

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  • Owners favor SUTs like the Pro-Ject DS3 B over MC gain settings in phono stages, citing improved dynamics and "slam" without loss of detail.

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  • Some users report SUTs introduce less distortion in low frequencies compared to MC preamps, which tend to distort more at high frequencies.

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  • Some prefer SUTs over electronic amplification, citing quieter gain and improved performance with MM phono stages.

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Use cases and applications

  • This SUT is favored for jazz on vinyl due to its mid and high clarity, making the low-end flabbiness a worthwhile trade-off for some listeners.

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  • SUTs, including the Pro-Ject, are praised for their passive design, which tends to be quieter than active MC phono stages, especially beneficial for quiet listening environments.

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  • Owners report the Pro-Ject Step Up Box DS3 B dramatically enhances ambient details, like glasses clinking, on well-known jazz albums.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Room treatment, such as wood slats backed with felt, is planned to further optimize sound quality in the setup using the Pro-Ject Step Up Box DS3 B.

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User experience

  • Owners note that SUTs, including this model, are passive with no power requirements, but can introduce some distortion in the lowest frequencies.

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  • One user noted that the Pro-Ject Step Up Box DS3 B provides a "dead silent" experience when used with balanced connections from turntable to preamp.

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  • One user described the auditory experience with the Step Up Box DS3 B as hearing familiar albums "for the first time" due to increased clarity.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Successful SUT integration requires careful attention to impedance matching and voltage output to prevent distortion or overload in the phono stage.

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  • Even in non-dedicated listening spaces, users manage bass resonance issues with strategic furniture placement to optimize sound.

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Value and pricing

  • A Denon SUT was noted as a budget-friendly alternative at $150, providing comparable performance to more expensive options.

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