Phono Box Ultra 500 - Hi-Fi PRO-JECT - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Phono Preamplifier
Model	Phono Box Ultra 500
Brand	Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Dimensions (W x H x D)	103 x 36 x 103 mm (with S/N included)
Weight	Approx. 0.6 kg (1.3 lbs)
Power Supply	External 18V DC / 500 mA (included)
Gain	40 dB (MM), 60 dB (MC)
Input Impedance	47 kΩ (MM), 50 Ω (MC)
Input Capacitance	100 pF (MM), 0 pF (MC)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	80 dB (MM), 70 dB (MC)
THD	< 0.01%
RIAA Accuracy	±0.5 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
Subsonic Filter	Built-in, switchable, -18 dB/octave at 20 Hz
Inputs	1x RCA pair (gold-plated)
Outputs	1x RCA pair (gold-plated)
Ground Terminal	Yes, screw-type
Chassis Material	Aluminum (black or silver finish)
Operating Voltage	18V DC from external adapter
Power Consumption	< 0.5 W (idle), < 2 W (active)
Standby Power	< 0.1 W
Cleaning	Use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid liquids and abrasives.
Safety	Keep away from moisture. Unplug before cleaning.
Repairability	Service by authorized technicians only.

Frequently Asked Questions - Phono Box Ultra 500 PRO-JECT

How do I switch between MM and MC cartridges?

The Phono Box Ultra 500 has a rear switch labeled 'MM/MC'. Set it to match your cartridge type. MM (Moving Magnet) uses higher output and standard loading; MC (Moving Coil) uses lower output and specific impedance.

What is the subsonic filter for?

The subsonic filter removes low-frequency rumble (below 20 Hz) that can cause woofer flutter. It is switchable via a rear toggle. For most setups, enabling it is recommended.

Can I use this phono stage with a turntable that has a built-in preamp?

If your turntable has a built-in preamp, set it to 'Phono' or 'Line Out' bypass mode. Otherwise, you may get double amplification and distorted sound. Alternatively, use the turntable's line output only if the built-in preamp is disabled.

How do I connect the ground wire?

Connect the turntable's ground wire (usually a bare wire) to the ground terminal on the Phono Box Ultra 500 (labeled 'GND'). This reduces hum. The terminal is a screw-type; loosen, insert wire, and tighten.

What power supply does the Phono Box Ultra 500 use?

It uses an external 18V DC power supply with at least 500 mA current capacity. Pro-Ject recommends using the supplied adapter for best performance. Using a different adapter may cause noise or damage.

Why is there no sound output?

Check that the power adapter is connected and the LED is lit. Ensure all RCA cables are properly inserted. Verify the turntable is connected to the input and the output is connected to an amplifier or receiver. Also check the MM/MC switch setting.

How do I clean the Phono Box Ultra 500?

Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the chassis. Do not use any liquids, sprays, or abrasive cleaners. Avoid contact with the RCA connectors; if needed, use a contact cleaner sparingly.

Can I stack other components on top of the Phono Box?

No, do not stack other components on top of the Phono Box Ultra 500. It needs ventilation to prevent overheating. Place it on a flat, stable surface with some clearance around it.

What is the warranty period?

Pro-Ject offers a standard warranty of 2 years from the date of purchase. Warranty covers manufacturing defects but not damage from misuse or unauthorized modifications. Register your product on the Pro-Ject website for extended warranty options.

Can I use the Phono Box Ultra 500 with a 78 RPM turntable?

Yes, the Phono Box Ultra 500 works with any standard turntable output, including 78 RPM. However, the RIAA equalization is designed for 33/45 RPM. For 78 RPM, you may need an external equalizer or a turntable that provides correct equalization. The phono stage will still amplify the signal.

USER MANUAL Phono Box Ultra 500 PRO-JECT

BY PRO-JECT AUDIO SYSTEMS

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

Phono Box ultra 500

Dear music lover,

thank you for purchasing a Pro-Ject Audio Systems phono amplifier.

In order to achieve maximum performance and reliability you should study these instructions for use carefully.

Warning of a hazard for the user, the unit or possible misuse.

Important notice.

Safety instructions

AC outlet voltages vary from country to country. Before connecting to the mains, make sure that the voltage in your area meets the voltage requirements printed on the power supply.

The power supply is used to disconnect the unit from the mains. Make sure that the power supply is easily accessible at all times. Never handle the device, the power supply while your hands are wet or damp.

Avoid letting liquids enter the device or the power supply. Never place any item containing liquid such as a flower vase on or near the device. Never spill any liquid on the device or the power supply. Never place any naked flame sources, such as lighted candles on or near the device. The product shall not be used in damp or wet locations, next to a bathtub, sink, swimming pool or an other similar conditions.

Settings

Use the dip switches at the bottom of the unit to set input gain, input capacitance and input impedance. Please set both channels equally.

To find out which type your cartridge is please consult the literature accompanying your cartridge. The literature for cartridges should also specify the correct input impedance (low-output MC cartridges) and the correct input capacitance (high-output MC and MM cartridges), into which the cartridge is designed to work. If in doubt please consult your dealer.

To alter settings the unit must be disconnected from the power supply and the amplifier.

Input impedance / input capacitance – high-output MC and MM cartridges

Input impedance – low-output MC cartridges

* Input capacitance is irrelevant for low-output MC cartridges

Gain

Subsonic filter

A switch at the back of the phono amplifier activates and deactivates the subsonic filter.

Connectors

Make all connections whilst the phono amplifier is disconnected from the power supply.

Take care to connect the left and right channels correctly. The right channel is usually marked red, the left channel black or white.

Do not connect the phono amplifiers output to a phono input (sometimes labelled gram, disc or RIAA) on the amplifier.

Never use any other power supply than the one supplied with the unit.

Connecting the record player

Connect the tonearm signal lead to the In of the phono amplifier. The earthing wire may be connected to the screw terminal if you encounter hum problems when using the record player.

Connection to the amplifier

Connect the Out of the phono amplifier to a line input (such as AUX, CD, Tuner, Tape or Video) on your amplifier.

Mains power connection

Connect the low voltage plug from the power supply to the Power 18V DC socket of the phono amplifier before connecting the power supply to the mains.

Stand-By

The button on the front panel of the unit alternately turns the power on or returns it to standby mode. The blue LED above the stand-by push button shows that the unit is switched on.

Technical specifications Pro-Ject Phono Box ultra

^A Typical for low output MC cartridges, ^B typical for MM or high output MC cartridges

* Input capacitance is irrelevant for low-output MC cartridges

Input impedance: 10, 100, 1k, 47k ohms / 100pF

Input capacitance/impedance: 100pF, 200pF, 320pF and 420pF */47kohms

Together with other input impedance settings without any influence!

Input gain: 40 and 43dB

^B / 60 and 63dB ^A

Signal / Noise ratio MM: 85dBV (90dBV - 'A' weighted)

Signal / Noise ratio MC: 65dBV (71dBV - 'A' weighted)

THD: <0,0005% MM, < 0,004% MC

RIAA-equalization curve accuracy: <0,4dB / 20Hz - 20kHz

Subsonic filter: at 20Hz with 18dB/octave

Input: 1 pair RCA/phono sockets

Line-level output: 1 pair RCA/phono sockets

Power supply DC: 18V/500mA

Power consumption: 18V/80mA DC

Dimensions W x H x D (D with sockets):119 x 37 x 103 (113)mm

Weight: 340g without power supply

Potential incorrect use and fault conditions

No signal on one or both channels:

No connection between player and phono amplifier or amplifier. This could be due to a faulty plug, broken wire or solder joint or simply loose plug/socket connection.

Strong hum:

No earth connection from cartridge or arm, or arm cable to phono amplifier, or earth loop.

Output too quiet or too loud, or distorted:

Input gain incorrectly set - input overloading or insufficiently amplified.

Service

Should you encounter a problem which you are not able to alleviate or identify, please contact your dealer for further advice. Only if the problem cannot be resolved there, the unit should be sent to the responsible distributor in your country.

Warranty

The manufacturer accepts no responsibility for damage caused by not adhering to these instructions for use. Modification or changes to any part of the product by unauthorized persons release the manufacturer from any liability over and above the lawful rights of the customer.

Copyright, trademarks

Pro-Ject Audio Systems is a registered Trademark of H. Lichtenegger.

This guide was produced by: Pro-Ject Audio Systems

Copyright © 2018. All rights reserved.

The information was correct at the time of going to press. The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes to the technical specification without prior notice as deemed necessary to uphold the ongoing process of technical development.

White electronic device labeled 'Phono Box ultra 500' with a knob, shown against a plain teal background (no additional text or symbols visible)

PHONO BOX ULTRA 500

Discrete MM/MC phono preamplifier

MSRP 349 € (incl. VAT)

• Limited, exclusive edition of 500 pieces
• Audiophile Performance
• Chrome surface on Copper body
• No Operational Amplifiers used
• Audiophile-grade polystyrene capacitors
• Precise RIAA equalisation
• Switchable Subsonic filter -18 dB @ 20Hz
• Switchable input impedance/capacitance
• Four adjustable gain levels
  • Outstanding sound quality

Input impedance: 10/100/1k/47k Ohms

Input capacitance: 100/220 pF

Gain switch: 40/43/60/63 dB

Subsonic switch: -18dB @ 20Hz

Signal-to-noise ratio: - 89 dB V (MM)

THD: 0.00052%

RIAA accuracy: < 0.4 dB / 20 Hz - 20k Hz

In/Out sockets: 1 pair RCA connectors

Power consumption: 18 V / 80 mA

Outboard power supply: 18Volt DC/500 mA

Dimensions (WxHxD): 103 x 37 x 119 mm

Colour: Polished chrome

Weight: 700 g without powersupply

Phono Box ultra 500 - Luxury and audiophilia combined!

Phono Box ultra 500 is like no other phono preamplifier in its segment. The „500" in the name as well as the general availability, worldwide limited to 500 pieces, celebrate the 500,000th Phono Box that Pro-Ject shipped in early 2018. We took this milestone as an occasion to create a one-of-a-kind phono preamp:

The polished chrome surface outshines every competitor in this price segment and offers undeniable aesthetics. Underneath this surface we have used a copper body, which is known to have high qualities in protecting against high frequency interferences.

The internal design has been reworked. We are now offering a fully discrete, OpAmp less, design, which enabled us to realize an incredibly harmonious sound.

On top of leaving out operational amplifiers we decided to use polystyrene capacitors, which significantly contribute to the high end sound Phono Box ultra 500 offers.

These capacitors are known amongst audiophiles as the holy grail for phono preamplifiers.

Two-panel image: top shows a modern box labeled 'Phono Box ultra 500' on a white circular table; bottom shows an industrial machine with a metallic case and a brick wall background (no visible text or symbols)