The Speaker Box 5 is the original compact two-way monitor from Box Design by Pro-Ject Audio Systems, Pro-Ject's range of compact hi-fi components. It was designed as an audiophile bookshelf speaker to sit naturally alongside other Box Design and Pro-Ject Audio Systems components, though the UK distributor notes it works equally well with any other small system. This listing is for the original Speaker Box 5, not the later Speaker Box 5 S2 or Speaker Box 5 E, which are revised designs with different cabinets.
Design
The cabinet is a rigid MDF enclosure measuring just 160 x 255 x 210 mm (W x H x D) and weighing 4.2 kg, so it is small enough for a bookshelf or desk yet reassuringly solid in the hand. This version is finished in gloss white lacquer, one of the three glossy lacquer finishes (red, white and black) listed in Pro-Ject's own literature. The front grille attaches magnetically, so there are no visible fixing holes on the baffle when it is removed. Black grilles are supplied and Pro-Ject noted that the grilles are acoustically almost fully transparent, but that optimum performance is achieved with them off.
Drivers and Performance
The Speaker Box 5 pairs a 25 mm silk dome tweeter with a neodymium magnet and a 130 mm fibreglass cone woofer in a bass reflex enclosure, with the reflex port on the rear panel. Pro-Ject quotes a frequency response of 55 Hz to 20 kHz and a sensitivity of 86 dB (1 W / 1 m), with an impedance of 4 to 8 ohms. The UK distributor describes the result as a tight, clear bass from the ported cabinet, combined with accuracy and good soundstaging through the midrange and treble. The speakers are magnetically shielded. Pro-Ject recommends amplifiers rated between 10 and 150 W RMS.
Connections and Placement
A single pair of gold-plated binding posts on the rear panel accepts standard speaker cable for single-wired connection. A flat wall-mount bracket is included with the speakers, and a tilting wall bracket was offered as an optional accessory, so the Speaker Box 5 can be wall-mounted as well as placed on a shelf or stand. Each pair is supplied with two speakers, two black grilles and a pair of gloves.