The new mini speaker from Pro-Ject is the ultimate update to hi-fi for the Bluetooth era

Pro-Ject Audio Systems has unveiled the latest iteration of the MaiA series of ultra-flexible compact speakers, with the new compact DS3 model bringing high fidelity Bluetooth connectivity to the party.

Describing the MaiA DS3 as “the Swiss army knife for your stereo system,” Austrian audiologist Claims the new amplifier has all the analog and digital bases covered for even the most discerning hi-fi fanatics, with the unit boasting a whopping nine separate inputs.

Despite its deceptively small size, the latest MaiA (short for “My Audiophile Integrated Amplifier”) has a wide range of digital input options, with an S/PDIF coax, two optical S/PDIFs plus a 32-bit USB board input. / 192 kHz Delta Sigma DAC. Crucially, there is also now Bluetooth 5.0 AptX HD support for connecting to a mobile device for high-resolution audio streaming.

Meanwhile, vinyl heads will be pleased to see that the DS3’s phono amplifier supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges to connect to either cartridge. The best turntables Abroad.

Three additional analog line inputs make up the rest of the connectivity options.

The DS3 also boasts better output than previous iterations, the amplifier capable of a whopping 140 watts per channel at 4 ohms making it a perfect match for many  while there is also a dedicated subwoofer output for those looking for a more intense low end.

On the front is a 6.3mm headphone jack for private listening with a simple control panel that features a center analog volume control with a motorized potentiometer.

The MaiA DS3 retails for £1,049 / $1,599 (no Australian price confirmed yet).

Pro-Ject has also brought out a new version of their entry-level Stereo Box compact amplifier.

Priced at £359.00 / £499 and available later this month, the Stereo Box S3 BT is capable of 40W per channel at 4 ohms and allows two devices to be connected to the rear RCA jacks.

You can also send your tunes from your mobile device to the unit via a third Bluetooth input that supports AptX HD, while a variable 3.5mm jack on the back can be used to connect a powered subwoofer.

Pro-Ject Stereo Box S3 BT Product Image

(Image credit: Project)

Analysis: It looks like the new boosted Pro-Ject amplifiers will pack a lot more weight

Lack of space isn’t often a factor for anyone assembling a floor-standing hi-fi setup, but if your living room console table feels a bit too fancy for a full-size speaker once your turntable is laid out, then, well, let’s let These new space-saving options from Pro-Ject let audiophiles get sound without compromise.

Previous iterations of the MaiA have been generally well received, but have been criticized for possibly lacking a bit of life and dynamism, so we’ll be looking to see if the new 140W boosted output addresses those concerns.


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