Finding the perfect turntable can be quite a challenging process. The device can be pricey and you want one with the best features and the most impeccable audio quality.
So, when choosing a gadget, it can be tricky to decide if it’s worth the investment. If you’re overwhelmed by the options, we’ve got you covered.
This full Fosi Audio BOX X2 review covers all the main aspects of the device. We’ll look at all major features and the overall performance.
Fosi Audio BOX X2
Specifications
- Length: 4.66 in.
- Width: 3.85 in.
- Height: 1.29 in.
- Weight: 0.66 lb.
- Power input: 100–240 V (AC)
- Power output: 12 V
- Output Interface: RCA output
- Frequency response: Standard RIAA
- Operating temperature: 41–95 ℉
Ryan Huang launched Fosi Audio in 2017. That means the company is relatively young compared to many of its competitors.
However, since its inception, the brand has created countless impressive products. The Fosi website includes a selection of amplifiers, preamps, and other accessories.
One of the brand’s most notable devices is the BOX X2. It’s a Hi-Fi preamp that converts phono signals into Line Level ones.
To control the output, the gadget features a couple of easy-to-use switches and buttons. For that reason, the X2 is relatively beginner friendly.
Other than that, the preamp works best with Movable Magnet (MM) turntables.
Pros
- It’s a phono preamplifier that can reduce different distortions and resonance.
- There’s the option for vacuum tube amplification, which will decrease noise signals.
- The tube port can handle more than the standard tube shapes and sizes.
- It comes with three different gain modes, so it’s compatible with many audio signals.
- The device has a sleek, minimalist design that’s easy to store.
Cons
- The vacuum tube replacements can be a bit pricey.
- The outer shell of the device isn’t all that durable and scratches easily.
Key Features
After this little introduction to the BOX X2, we can dive into some of the features of the device.
1. MM Phono Preamplifier
Most of us are familiar with amplifiers. These are usually large structures that can increase the volume of a music player. We use them to resolve many issues, like poor audio quality.
Yet, when your music player produces a distorted signal, connecting it to speakers won’t be much help. The result will be a louder version of the noise waves.
Instead, you should use a preamplifier first. This is an intermediate step that corrects the output signal of any music player.
It does that by turning the waves from one form to another. It takes the weaker phono signal and uses filters to transform it into a Mic or Line Level.
While this is happening, the noise waves will decrease and may disappear altogether. Then, you can feed the Line Level signal into an amplifier to increase the volume.
So, this feature allows you to improve audio quality and control the output sound levels.
2. Tube Preamplifiers
Other than traditional amplification, the X2 uses tubes to increase a signal’s strength.
To do that, the device uses vacuums. Sound signals consist of a specific wavelength and amplitude.
For that wave to travel, it’ll vibrate the air particles around it. This works well when we’re talking to each other out loud.
However, it’s a different story when the signal travels through an electronic device. A preamp will turn the sound into an electronic wave to process it.
These contain hundreds of tiny electrons moving in a specific order. The particles need to arrive at their destination undisturbed to produce clear audio.
Yet, air vibrations can cause the electrons to shift around. So, Fosi came up with a vacuum system to deal with the issue.
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The electrons will be able to pass through the airless section, while normal vibrations can’t. This effectively separates the sound signal from any noise that may surround it.
3. Vacuum Attachment
The BOX X2 comes with its own tubes to create the vacuum process. These should be sufficient to carry out the basic functions of the device.
Still, sometimes you need a little extra boost in the audio.
Luckily, this preamp makes doing that a piece of cake. The ports on the top of the X2 are large enough to accommodate more than the standard tubes.
You can replace them with other shapes and sizes to change the output signal. If you know your way around tools, you may even be able to make a tube yourself.
However, the DIY option isn’t ideal and may cause damage to your device. Instead, you can purchase professional versions online, but they can be pricey.
4. Design
One of the BOX X2’s main selling points is its amazing design. The device is quite compact, with clean, minimalistic lines.
This is crucial for anyone trying to start a complete sound system. The sleek design will fit in with any other devices you may decide to invest in later.
Besides that, the vacuum tubes on the top detach to give you a flat surface for easier storage.
While the construction is excellent, the finishing could use a little work. The outer shell of the X2 isn’t scratch-proof.
So, after a while of use, you may notice a bunch of scrapes on the surface.
5. Gain Modes
When you look at the BOX X2, you’ll only find one knob on the device. The key allows you to control the output gain of your signal.
This will come in handy if you plan to use the preamp with many audio waves. To clarify this, think about the music tracks you usually play.
Some of them will have a pronounced bass, while others focus on different tonalities. Each one of these audio inputs will need a different amplification to keep the sound intact.
Otherwise, the preamp will equalize the signal and create resonance or distortion. For that reason, you’ll need multiple gain options to suit all your needs.
Luckily, the X2 comes with three different modes of operation:
- 39 dB
- 42 dB
- 45 dB
As a general rule, the higher the gain, the louder the overall signal will be. To switch between the modes, all you have to do is turn the knob.
Ratings
Before you go out and buy the Fosi Audio BOX X2, check out our ratings. Here are some of the major aspects of the device.
Ease-of-Use
5 out of 5
Right out of the box, the X2 is quite easy to use. There are only a few steps when it comes to the setup, and then you’re ready to go.
Moving on, the controls are also pretty simple. The device doesn’t have an ON/OFF switch, which means that simply plugging it in should power it.
Other than that, there’s only one key on the X2, the gain control. Using this is as easy as turning the knob clockwise.
Features
3 out of 5
After reading our review, you can tell that the BOX X2 has some impressive features. Not only does it come with gain control, but it also has vacuum tubes.
This is rare and impressive for a device of this size.
In addition, the overall design of the device makes it easy to use and store.
However, to get full use of the X2, you may have to purchase other expensive accessories.
Customer Service
5 out of 5
One of the best aspects of buying a Fosi product is exceptional customer service. The support page includes guides on how to use your device and other useful links.
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You can also go over to the contact page to get more hands-on help. There you can ask about different aspects of the X2 and its operation.
Plus, if there’s anything wrong with your device, you can make use of the 18-month warranty. This allows you to return the device, no questions asked.
Value for Money
5 out of 5
Many of us shy away from purchasing music equipment because of how expensive it can be. Fortunately, this isn’t a major issue with the BOX X2.
The device is on the more affordable side when it comes to preamps. Plus, it offers incredible performance and clear audio.
Aside from that, the device is durable enough to last you a while. With the proper care, the X2 can survive for years, and play audio beautifully.
Verdict
Even though the BOX X2 is a small device, it packs quite a punch. It’s relatively affordable with excellent audio quality.
Setting up is a breeze and the small size means it’ll fit practically anywhere. The device is also easy to use while offering more than one mode of operation.
Yet, there are a few features that need a little work. First off, the vacuum tube that comes with the device has a limited range.
On top of that, finding replacement tubes may be challenging, and can cost a pretty penny.
Other than that, the exterior is easy to scratch. This may be an issue if you move the device around often.