Pricing and availability
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Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 Step-up Transformer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
In the realm of high-fidelity audio, the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 Step-up Transformer stands as a beacon for vinyl enthusiasts seeking to unlock the full potential of their moving coil (MC) cartridges. Designed to flawlessly bridge the gap between your beloved MC turntable and a moving magnet (MM) phono preamp, this transformer ensures your audio signals are as pristine as your records deserve.
The heart of the MC Step Up Box S3 lies in its custom-wound transformer, a marvel encased in mu-metal shielding to guard against unwanted noise and distortion. Its dual-mono design further champions sound clarity, offering impeccable channel separation. The fully passive signal path means your music remains pure and untampered, allowing you to rediscover the nuances of your favorite tracks.
For those who demand adaptability, the switchable cartridge impedance caters to a variety of cartridges, making this transformer a versatile addition to any audiophile's setup. Gold-plated RCA connectors ensure a premium connection, while the solid aluminum chassis stands resilient against interference. This is not just about upgrading your sound; it's about experiencing your vinyl collection in an entirely new light.
Whether you're a seasoned vinyl collector or a curious newcomer, the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 invites you to elevate your listening experience without compromise.
Key Features:
- Step-up transformer designed for MC turntable cartridges
- Custom-wound transformer with mu-metal shielding for superior sound
- Fully passive signal path minimizes noise and distortion
- Dual-mono design for maximum channel separation
- Switchable input impedance for compatibility with various cartridges
- Gold-plated RCA connectors for premium connectivity
- Interference-resistant solid aluminum chassis
Product specs
| Preamp Type | Passive Step-up Transformer, Silver |
| Analog Inputs | 1 x Dual RCA Phono (MC) |
| Analog Outputs | 1 x Dual RCA Phono |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz-55kHz (±1dB) |
| Height | 2.55" |
| Depth | 6.45" |
| Width | 8.11" |
| Weight | 2.07 lbs |
FAQs
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What is the primary function of the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 Step-up Transformer?
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The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 is designed to amplify the signal from a moving coil (MC) phono cartridge to a level suitable for a moving magnet (MM) phono stage, enhancing audio performance in home audio systems.
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Does the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 Step-up Transformer require an external power source?
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No, the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 is a passive device and does not require an external power source, making it easy to integrate into any audio setup.
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What type of inputs and outputs does the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 Step-up Transformer have?
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The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 features 1 dual RCA phono input for MC cartridges and 1 dual RCA phono output to connect to a phono stage or amplifier.
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How does the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 affect audio frequency response?
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The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 offers a frequency response of 10Hz to 55kHz (±1dB), ensuring a wide range of audio frequencies are accurately reproduced for high-fidelity sound.
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Is the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 suitable for all moving coil cartridges?
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The Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3 is compatible with most moving coil cartridges, but it's essential to check the cartridge's specifications to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
Videos
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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 S3 Step-up Transformer.
Use cases and applications
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For low internal impedance cartridges, transimpedance phono stages are recommended over SUTs or MC preamps for their current-based design, eliminating the need for loading adjustments.
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The Pro-Ject Step Up Box DS3 B is favored for jazz on vinyl, as the clarity in mids and highs is prioritized over low-end flabbiness.
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The Step Up Transformer is favored for enhancing low-output MC cartridges like the Denon DL-103r, providing noticeable audio improvements over some built-in phono preamps.
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User experience
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Room treatment with panels significantly improved sound quality, reducing reverb times to optimal levels between 250-500ms.
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Even with an SUT, an MM phono preamp is necessary; the SUT raises output to MM levels while maintaining super clean and dead silent performance.
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The Pro-Ject Step Up Box DS3 B is described as "black-of-space silent" with great dynamics, but the low end can become flabbier.
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Some users experienced noise issues with the Schiit Skoll at high gain settings, finding the Pro-Ject Phono Box DS3 B to be a quieter alternative in their setups.
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Owners highlight the Pro-Ject MC Step Up Box S3's ability to reveal ambient sound details, such as voices and glass clinks, enhancing the listening experience.
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Owners report that the Pro-Ject Step Up Box DS3 B provides much more clarity in mid to upper frequencies, while slightly compromising bass quality.
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Mods and upgrades
Comparisons
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High-quality active solid state MC stages reportedly introduce less coloration than passive SUTs, with SUTs often making the low end flabby.
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The Denon AU-320 SUT, paired with a Dynavector DV-20X2L cartridge, provided punchier bass and increased detail over MM cartridges, with a switch feature for easy A/B comparisons.
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Users noted that the Bob’s Devices Sky 20 enhances bass punch and midrange fullness compared to standard MC preamp settings, with a slight compromise in top-end openness.
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Magnetics in SUTs are noted to offer silent gain, allowing use of quieter MM settings, which some owners find superior to electronic amplification in certain phono preamps.
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Features and functionality
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SUTs offer passive gain which results in exceptionally low noise and different harmonic distortion characteristics compared to MC phono preamplifiers, improving openness and dynamics.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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