Astell & Kern
The Astell&Kern SP3000 is the pinnacle in digital audio players. Astell&Kern's latest flagship music player, it boasts quad AKM4499EX DACs for unparalleled audio clarity, dual AK4191 modulators for precise signal processing, and a Snapdragon Octa-Core CPU ensuring swift performance. Its HEXA structure design and independent dual audio circuitry optimize sound reproduction. Crafted from 904L stainless steel, it supports Native DSD512 playback and offers a vibrant 5.46-inch Full HD touchscreen. With 256GB internal memory, expandable via microSD, and BT 5.0 with aptX Adaptive and LDAC support, it’s complemented by a luxurious leather case.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: We recommend pairing the Astell&Kern SP3000 DAP Music Player with the popular Silver Dragon USB Audio Cable. The Silver Dragon USB cable is our best selling USB cable at Moon Audio, offering an extraordinary amount of detail and resolution to your hi-fi system. The Silver Dragon USB cable is designed to transfer digital audio from your source device (like a computer, phone, tablet, or digital audio player) to a USB-capable DAC. It is built to USB Audio specs. The Silver Dragon USB Cable is meant for audio data transfer only - meaning that this cable should not be used for high-speed data transmission (for external hard drives). Because of the high-quality materials and cable geometry, our USB cables will greatly reduce stock USB cable issues such as packet loss and jitter.
Features
- Quad-DAC: AK AKM4499EX x 4 - Latest flagshap DAC chip from AKM
- Dual Modulators: AKM AK4191 x 2
- Snapdragon Octa-Core CPU
- HEXA structure design & Independent dual audio circuitry
- Stainless Steel 904L body material
- Native DSD512 / 32bit/768kHz bit-to-bit playback
- 5.46 inch Full HD Display, 1080 x 1920 touchscreen
- New 4th generation GUI
- Memory: 256GB internal + 1 microSD Card Slot
- BT 5.0, Support for aptX Adaptive, LDAC
- Leather case included in package. Addl colors sold separately.
Luxury Meets Innovation, SP3000
Astell&Kern has redefined audio excellence with the A&ultima series, epitomized by the latest flagship, the A&ultima SP3000. This pinnacle product represents over a decade of innovation and expertise in digital music processing. Setting new standards, the SP3000 is the world's first Digital Audio Player (DAP) featuring independent Dual Audio Circuitry and HEXA-Audio Circuitry structure, harnessing cutting-edge DAC technology and premium materials to deliver unparalleled sound and musicality. Embrace perfection with the A&ultima SP3000, setting the benchmark for next-generation audio players.
Materials Innovations: World's First Use of Stainless Steel 904L for DAP Body Material
In pursuit of the A&ultima series' mission to offer unrivaled value through innovative design and craftsmanship, the SP3000 breaks new ground by using 904L stainless steel—a first in portable audio players. This choice elevates its status beyond mere digital device to that of a luxury item. Known for its superior hardness and resistance to corrosion, 904L stainless steel is notoriously challenging to work with, demanding meticulous attention and expertise. Yet, its enduring durability and timeless luster make it a hallmark material in high-end luxury watches. Discover the unmatched beauty and luxury of the SP3000, meticulously crafted by Astell&Kern’s seasoned artisans.
TERATON ALPHA - The Essence of A&K Audio Technologies Merged Into the SP3000
To develop the ultimate audio player that redefines the listening experience, Astell&Kern utilizes the latest DAC and technology available, alongside TERATON ALPHA, AK's Ultimate Sound Solution, tailored specifically for the SP3000. TERATON ALPHA, crafted through extensive research, represents Astell&Kern's unique approach to achieving audio playback that faithfully reproduces the original sound. This advanced technology excels in removing power noise effectively, managing power efficiently, ensuring steadfast amplification, and optimizing the audio output interface. The SP3000 integrates the HEXA-Audio Circuitry structure and independent dual audio circuit for the first time, complementing TERATON ALPHA's solution to deliver the purest original sound.
First Use of AKM's Latest Flagship DAC - Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals
The SP3000 represents Astell&Kern's flagship product, incorporating the latest technology and an uncompromising design. Astell&Kern collaborated closely with AKM from the initial development stage to introduce the DAC and circuit structure. This collaboration resulted in the application of the world's first four AK4499EX DACs, AKM's latest flagship, in the SP3000. Additionally, the innovative HEXA-Audio Circuitry structure includes two AK4191EQs dedicated to processing digital signals separately, delivering exceptional sound quality synonymous with Astell&Kern. Unlike most digital players that process digital and analog signals together within the DAC, the SP3000's advanced design ensures noise reduction of the digital signal input through the separate digital delta-sigma modulator AK4191EQ. The AK4499EX DAC subsequently processes the analog signals independently, marking the first implementation of physically separated digital and analog signal processing in a digital audio player. This unique approach maximizes the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), enabling an unprecedented level of sound quality.
Silver Plated Shield Can
The SP3000 goes beyond conventional methods by enhancing its audio performance with advanced shielding techniques. Utilizing a shield can, it effectively blocks various noise and electromagnetic interference from impacting the audio block. Taking it further, Astell&Kern applies highly conductive, high-purity silver to the shield can, ensuring optimal shielding capabilities. Moreover, the SP3000 achieves superior audio quality by physically separating digital and analog signals, further enhancing its performance.
Stunning Audio Performance with Independent Dual Audio Circuit
To pioneer an innovative DAP that transcends conventional designs, Astell&Kern aimed to surpass sound limitations with an unprecedented approach: an independent dual audio circuit via the HEXA-Audio Circuitry structure featuring independent unbalanced and balanced outputs. Unlike most DAPs, including previous models from Astell&Kern, which use a single DAC for both outputs requiring an Audio Switch, AK's engineers devised a solution using two AK4191EQs and four AK4499EXs. This groundbreaking design ensures each output receives dedicated signals without signal reduction or restoration, thereby maximizing audio and amplifier/amp performance. As a result, the SP3000 achieves an exceptional SNR of 130dB, unmatched by any other DAP. Experience the pure, nuanced sound quality of the SP3000 that redefines audio excellence in the world of digital audio players.
| Features | SP3000 | SP2000 | Model A | Model B | Model C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SNR | 130dB | 125dB | 122dB | 128dB | 125dB |
*SP3000 and SP2000 are based on the condition no-load, Balanced, and there may be differences depending on the measurement method.
*Third-party models are the specifications listed on the official website.
Drive Your Music, Latest Snapdragon Octa-Core CPU for the Newest Flagship Device
The A&ultima SP3000 integrates a Snapdragon 6125 Octa-core processor to deliver immersive sound, rapid system responsiveness, and a redesigned next-generation user interface that ensures smooth navigation. With an enhanced CPU and 8GB of DDR4 memory, double the standard amount, the system operates with heightened stability and fluidity. The CPU, memory, and wireless communication components are consolidated into a single module, forming a system-on-a-chip (SoC) where digital circuitry occupies a dedicated area. This optimized configuration not only maximizes audio circuit space but also minimizes heat and noise from digital circuits, enhancing overall efficiency.
Heighten Your Music - New Experience in the Graphic User Interface
With its newly developed UX/UI, the SP3000 prioritizes the music listening experience, aiming to embody the essence of a dedicated music player. The theme is crafted to facilitate rediscovering forgotten songs, allowing users to effortlessly navigate music categories with intuitive gestures. A convenient search function and album art display enhance the enjoyment of browsing through digital CD covers in your music library. Beyond delivering musical pleasure, it aims to make device operation engaging and enjoyable. The Crimson theme, a highlight of the new UI, presents the SP3000's distinctive appearance on screen with simple, user-friendly graphics. Emphasizing usability and clarity, the design integrates three core concepts: Edge, Simple, and Dark Mode, ensuring a uniquely Astell&Kern style. The black and red color scheme is chosen to reduce eye strain, optimize battery efficiency, and minimize heat generation during use.
Create Your Own Sound Design With DAC Filters
The SP3000 offers the flexibility to customize your sound experience by selecting from a variety of DAC filters provided by the manufacturer. Tailor your audio with a choice of 6 distinct DAC filters to create your preferred sound style.
Digital Audio Remaster Technology for Even More Vivid Original Sound
The SP3000 features Digital Audio Remaster (DAR) technology designed to enhance audio quality at higher sample rates. DAR upsamples the sound source beyond its original format limits, resulting in refined playback with delicate, analog-like sound. This technology enriches the original sound, revealing subtle nuances and enhancing overall richness for a superior listening experience.
Speaker Effect When Listening Through Headphones - Crossfeed
When headphones overly separate left and right channels, it can lead to ear fatigue over extended listening sessions. Activate Crossfeed for a more comfortable and natural sound experience. Crossfeed blends parts of the original signal across channels with a slight time delay, centering the sound image. Adjust Shelf Cutoff, Shelf Gain, and Mixer Level to personalize the Crossfeed effect to suit your preferred listening style.
Other Features:
- Real-Time Information Displayed by Light: The SP3000 is equipped with an LED volume wheel that provides real-time playback details, including volume levels and the current track's bit-rate.
- 5.46-Inch Full HD Display: Enhance your SP3000 experience with a spacious 5.46-inch Full HD display, offering convenience and clarity.
- AK File Drop for Wireless Transfers: Simplify file management with the SP3000's AK File Drop function, enabling wireless transfers via PC, smartphone, or FTP program on the same network.
- QC 3.0 Fast Charging Support: Enjoy faster charging times with Qualcomm QC 3.0 fast charging on the SP3000, reaching full battery in approximately 3.5 hours.
- Wireless Hi-Fi Sound via BT Sink: Connect the SP3000 to external devices wirelessly using the BT Sink function, delivering high-quality playback akin to connecting a smartphone to a BT speaker.
- ReplayGain for Uniform Playback Volume: The SP3000 features ReplayGain, ensuring consistent playback volume across different audio tracks for seamless playlist enjoyment. Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz sound sources.
- Native DSD512 and 32bit/768kHz Support: Immerse yourself in high-resolution audio with Native DSD512 and up to 32-bit/768kHz support on the SP3000, powered by Astell&Kern's advanced audio technology.
Premium Goat Leather Case
The SP3000 includes a goatskin leather case crafted by ALRAN, a renowned tannery based in Tarn, southern France. Established in 1903, ALRAN has over a century of expertise in natural leather manufacturing and is globally acclaimed for its craftsmanship since the 1980s. Known as a premier goatskin producer, ALRAN supplies luxury brands such as H and L. The SP3000's leather case is developed using ALRAN Tannery's distinctive Hand-Boarding technique, which involves rubbing the leather in multiple directions with wooden planks to enhance its surface texture. This process sets it apart from conventional goatskin case production methods.
About Astell&Kern:
Astell&Kern is a renowned brand at the forefront of the high-resolution audio industry, specializing in premium music players, DACs, and amplifiers. With a diverse lineup including the flagship A&ultima SP3000 and the versatile Kann Alpha, Astell&Kern offers cutting-edge technology and exquisite craftsmanship to audiophiles worldwide. Featuring dual DACs, Quad DACs, MQS support, and Bluetooth connectivity, their devices deliver unparalleled sound quality and versatility. The a&futura series, such as the Acro CA1000T, showcases Astell&Kern's commitment to innovation, while accessories like leather cases and high-resolution LCD screens complement their all-in-one audio systems. Whether it's portable music players like the Kann Ultra or in-ear monitors, Astell&Kern products redefine the boundaries of audio technology excellence, blending stainless steel durability with Wi-Fi connectivity and microSD expansion for a truly immersive listening experience.
What's in the Box?
- SP3000 DAP Music Player
- French Goatskin Leather
- USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable
- Manual and Warranty
FAQ
What are the advantages of the Snapdragon Octa-Core CPU in the SP3000?The Snapdragon Octa-Core CPU ensures fast and responsive system performance, enhancing overall usability and enabling the smooth operation of the device.
What is the HEXA structure design and independent dual audio circuitry?The HEXA structure design incorporates two AKM AK4191 modulators and four AK4499EX DACs, ensuring superior sound quality with minimized interference between digital and analog signals.
Why is Stainless Steel 904L used for the body of the SP3000?Stainless Steel 904L is chosen for its durability, corrosion resistance, and luxurious appearance, elevating the SP3000's build quality and aesthetic appeal.
Does the SP3000 support high-resolution audio formats?Yes, it supports native DSD512 and up to 32bit/768kHz bit-to-bit playback, ensuring uncompromised audio fidelity for high-resolution music files.
What is the display size and resolution of the SP3000?It features a 5.46-inch Full HD touchscreen display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, providing a clear and immersive user interface.
What improvements does the 4th generation GUI offer?The new GUI enhances user experience with improved navigation, intuitive controls, and visually appealing design elements, optimizing the usability of the SP3000.
How much storage does the SP3000 have?It comes with 256GB of internal storage and includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage, accommodating a large library of high-resolution audio files.
What wireless connectivity options does the SP3000 support?It supports Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX Adaptive and LDAC codecs, enabling high-quality wireless audio streaming and connectivity with compatible devices.