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Pro-Ject Stream Box E
Pro-Ject's smallest components have always had a practical mission - to add a specific hi-fi function without forcing the user to rebuild the whole system around it. The Stream Box E follows that logic in the streaming era. It is an entry-level multi-room streamer and preamplifier designed to bring network playback, app control, wireless multi-room functions and analog integration to existing amplifiers, power amps or active speakers, all in a compact metal enclosure. The Stream Box E continues Pro-Ject's long-running Micro Hi-Fi tradition, which began in the 1990s with compact components intended to deliver proper hi-fi performance without the size, complexity or cost of full-width equipment. In this case, the idea is not to create another large streamer for an already elaborate system, but to offer a small and affordable device that can modernize an older amplifier, form the control center of a minimalist setup or add streaming functionality to active loudspeakers.
The streaming platform is based on WiiM OS, giving the Stream Box E access to a wide range of services and a mature control environment. Supported services include Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, Napster, Pandora, TuneIn, Deezer and many others, with Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect also listed among the supported options. Music can be streamed at up to 24-bit/192 kHz from compatible platforms or from the user's own library, and the Pro-Ject Home app provides access to playback, settings, multi-room management and EQ functions.
Setup is intended to be simple. Once the Pro-Ject Home app is opened, the Stream Box E is automatically detected and the user is guided through the Wi-Fi configuration process. If the network needs to be reset, this can be done by holding the play/pause button on the front panel. Physical controls are deliberately limited but useful, with aluminum buttons for volume and play/pause allowing basic operation without reaching for a phone.
The Stream Box E can be used in several different system configurations. In the most traditional setup, it connects to an existing integrated amplifier and adds Wi-Fi streaming without replacing the amplifier itself. This is probably the most obvious role for the device - a way to keep a trusted analog amplifier in service while adding modern streaming services and app control. Pro-Ject also frames this as a more sustainable approach, because the streamer can be updated or replaced separately from the amplifier.
The second option is to use the Stream Box E as a preamplifier with a separate power amplifier and passive loudspeakers. In this configuration, the Stream Box E handles volume control, digital streaming and analog input switching, while the power amplifier drives the speakers. Pro-Ject specifically mentions use with its Amp Box S3, but the general idea applies to any compatible power amp. This makes the small streamer more flexible than a simple network bridge with fixed output.
The third configuration is the most compact. The Stream Box E can be connected directly to active speakers, adding Wi-Fi streaming services and an analog input for a turntable or CD player. Since many active speakers also have their own volume controls, volume can be managed either through the Stream Box E or through the speakers themselves, depending on the setup. This makes it possible to build a very small stereo system with only a streamer/preamp, a pair of active speakers and perhaps an analog source.
The analog input is one of the more useful features. The Stream Box E includes a stereo RCA input, allowing a turntable, CD player or another analog source to be connected. More importantly, Pro-Ject True Wireless technology allows the device not only to receive audio wirelessly, but also to send input sources into a compatible Pro-Ject multi-room network. In practice, this means a turntable connected in one room can be shared wirelessly with compatible devices such as the Wireless Box E or Uni Box S3 in another room. The same network can also include compatible WiiM devices.
This multi-room capability is central to the Stream Box E's purpose. Several compatible streamers can be grouped and controlled from the Pro-Ject Home app, either playing the same music throughout the house or different content in different rooms. For users with vinyl systems, the ability to send the analog input wirelessly around the home is particularly interesting, because it turns a conventional source into part of a multi-room system without requiring long cable runs.
Connectivity includes dual-band Wi-Fi, as well as Bluetooth 5.0 with SBC and AAC codecs. The analog section includes stereo RCA input and output, while a Toslink optical S/PDIF output allows integration with an external DAC or another digital audio system. The nominal output level is 3 Vrms. Published performance figures include a frequency response of 20 Hz - 20 kHz at -1.5 dB, channel separation above 106 dB at 10 kHz, line output signal-to-noise ratio above 102 dB and THD below 0.009%.
The enclosure follows Pro-Ject's compact electronics style. The unit uses a metal chassis with an aluminum front panel, available in silver or black. The full metal construction is intended not only to improve durability and appearance, but also to provide electromagnetic shielding for the internal electronics. Pro-Ject says this allows the Stream Box E to be placed next to, or even stacked on top of, an amplifier without compromising audio performance. The Stream Box E uses an external 5 V/1000 mA DC power supply, compatible with 100 - 240 V and 50/60 Hz mains. Power consumption is listed at 200 mA DC. The unit will be available through Pro-Ject dealers, priced at €179. Info and photos by Pro-Ject Audio Systems.
