Fosi Audio Box X2: A Great First Step into Better Vinyl Sound
If you want an affordable way to improve the phono section of your system, the Fosi Audio Box X2 is a strong choice.
Its separate phono circuitry, adjustable gain and replaceable valves give you more flexibility than you might expect from such a compact and affordable component.
For customers looking for a simple, enjoyable and versatile MM phono stage, the Box X2 offers excellent value.
Technical Specifications
Model: Box X2
Phono Cartridge Compatibility: MM only
Inputs: MM RCA, 3.5mm AUX
Output: RCA line output
Gain Settings: 39dB / 42dB / 45dB
Frequency Response: Standard RIAA
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: ≥98dB
THD: ≤0.1%
Output Level: 600mV at 3mV, 1kHz
DC Input: 12V
Power Supply Input: AC 100V to 240V
Dimensions: 118.5 × 98 × 33mm
Weight: 300g
What's in the Box?
Fosi Audio Box X2 Phono Preamp 2 × Vacuum Valves 12V 1.5A Power Adapter RCA Cable User Manual
Despite its small size, it includes a dedicated MM input, grounding terminal, selectable gain, valve stage and RCA line output.
Easy to Connect
The Box X2 is straightforward to install.
Connect your turntable to the MM RCA inputs, attach the turntable ground wire where required, then connect the Box X2's RCA output to a line-level input on your amplifier or to suitable powered speakers.
If your turntable has a switchable built-in phono stage, it must be set to phono output when using the Box X2's MM input. A turntable with a permanently active internal phono stage should not be connected to the Box X2's MM input.
The Audio Emotion Verdict
The Fosi Audio Box X2 represents excellent value for anyone wanting to move beyond a very basic phono stage.
Its combination of MM compatibility, three selectable gain settings, replaceable valves and compact dimensions makes it a flexible choice at an affordable price.
We particularly like it for customers building their first separate vinyl system, upgrading a basic built-in phono stage or looking for a compact component that gives them the opportunity to experiment with valve rolling.
For the money, it offers an impressive amount of functionality and a far more interesting ownership experience than many conventional entry-level phono preamplifiers.
Key Features
MM phono preamplifier Two-valve design Standard RIAA equalisation Three selectable gain settings 39dB, 42dB and 45dB gain options Low-noise circuitry RCA MM turntable input RCA line output 3.5mm AUX line input Turntable grounding terminal Compatible with a range of replacement valve types Compact dimensions Suitable for amplifiers and powered speakers 12V power supply included
Its measured specification includes an SNR of 98dB or greater and THD of 0.1% or less, while the frequency response follows the standard RIAA equalisation curve.
More Than a Phono Stage
The Box X2 also includes a 3.5mm AUX input.
This allows it to function as a compact valve preamplifier for a compatible line-level source such as a portable music player or other analogue device.
When a 3.5mm source is connected, it takes priority over the MM phono input.
This adds useful versatility to an already compact component.
Compact Enough for Almost Any System
Measuring just 118.5 × 98 × 33mm and weighing approximately 300g, the Box X2 takes up very little space.
It is an excellent choice for:
Compact hi-fi systems Desktop audio systems Secondary vinyl systems Active speaker setups First-time separate phono stage buyers Turntables with basic or no built-in phono amplification
Different compatible valves can alter the presentation, making the Box X2 an interesting choice for anyone who enjoys experimenting with their system.
The supplied valves provide a lively and enjoyable starting point, while the option to change them gives the Box X2 more flexibility than many conventional phono stages at this price.
Warm, Smooth and Enjoyable Vinyl Sound
The Fosi Audio Box X2 is designed to provide a clean, low-noise signal path while retaining a pleasing sense of valve character.
In the right system, you can expect:
Smooth, engaging sound Natural vocal presentation Good instrumental body Clear high-frequency detail Strong rhythmic flow Adjustable output gain A quieter, cleaner presentation than many basic phono stages
This allows you to better match the phono stage to your cartridge and amplifier. The additional flexibility can be particularly useful when moving between MM cartridges with different output levels.
Valve Character and Tube Rolling Potential
The Box X2 uses two valves as part of its preamplifier design, giving owners the opportunity to experiment with different compatible valve types.
Compatible replacements include models such as:
6K4 6J1 6J4 GE 5654 6AK5 |
