The Pro-Ject CD Set E is the Stereo Set E CD, an entry-level hi-fi system from Pro-Ject Audio Systems that brings CD playback, multi-source amplification and a matched pair of compact speakers together in a single, co-ordinated bundle. It sits within Pro-Ject's Box Design family alongside the Stereo Set E Phono, sharing the same compact 206 mm-wide component format but centred on digital sources rather than vinyl.
CD Box E
The CD Box E handles disc playback via a true Red Book CD-DA drive in a shock-proof mounting, feeding an MS8413 multi-bit delta-sigma DAC. The slot-in mechanism keeps the aluminium front panel uncluttered. Analogue output is a single RCA stereo pair at 1.8 Vrms/0 dBFS; a coaxial S/PDIF digital output is also provided for use with an external DAC or amplifier digital input. THD measures 0.04% at 1 kHz, with channel separation exceeding 65 dB and a noise floor of more than 85 dB.
Stereo Box E
The Stereo Box E delivers 2 × 21 W into 8 ohms or 2 × 40 W into 4 ohms (1% THD). Seven inputs are fitted: a phono stage for MM, MI and high-output MC cartridges; an RCA line input; a 3.5 mm jack; two optical S/PDIF; one coaxial S/PDIF; and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX and aptX HD. A front-panel 6.3 mm headphone output automatically mutes the speaker terminals. A subwoofer RCA output and USB-C power socket for a streamer complete the rear connectivity. Signal-to-noise ratio is rated at 90 dB (A-weighted) with channel separation of 60 dB at 1 kHz. The brushed-aluminium front panel and heavy-duty steel chassis match the CD Box E exactly, and the two units stack cleanly at the same 206 mm width.
Speaker Box 3 E
The included Speaker Box 3 E is a compact two-way bass-reflex standmount speaker with a 0.75-inch silk-dome tweeter and a 3-inch fibre-glass bass/mid driver in a non-resonating MDF cabinet with a rear-firing reflex port. Frequency response extends from 89 Hz to 20 kHz with a sensitivity of 85 dB (1 W/1 m) and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms. Recommended amplifier power is 10–80 W. Gold-plated banana terminals and magnetic grilles are included.
Cables Included
The set ships with Connect it LS E Flex 3 m speaker cable and Connect it Line E RCA 0.41 m, a semi-symmetrical OFC interconnect with gold-plated connectors, to connect the CD Box E to the Stereo Box E.
Expandability
The Stereo Box E's subwoofer output makes it straightforward to add a Pro-Ject Sub Box 50 E at a later date. Its phono input also allows a turntable to be added to the system, extending playback beyond the CD Box E.