Astell&Kern A&Ultima SP3000M: Flagship Audiophile Player Gets More Portable, More Affordable

Astell&Kern (A&K), renowned for its high-end portable audio players, has just unveiled a more compact and affordable version of its flagship, the A&K A&Ultima SP3000. Introducing the SP3000M, a smaller, lighter, and more accessible iteration of the premium audiophile experience.

The SP3000M boasts virtually all the powerful features of its larger predecessor, but now housed in a more portable chassis, making it significantly lighter (46% less weight). The price tag also takes a dip, offering a more approachable entry point at $2,299 compared to the SP3000’s $3,699. Availability is slated for November.

While the SP3000M may have shrunk in size and price, it doesn’t compromise on the core audiophile experience. The internal architecture remains unchanged, delivering the same level of audio fidelity as its larger sibling.

Smaller Screen, Fewer Output Options:

To accommodate the smaller form factor, the touchscreen has been reduced to a 4.1-inch display (from 5.46 inches) with a 720 x 1280 resolution (down from the SP3000’s 1080 x 1920). Additionally, the SP3000M has one fewer output option: It features a standard 3.5mm unbalanced headphone jack and a 4.4mm balanced output, while the SP3000 offered an additional 2.5mm balanced output.

A&K’s Obsession with Audio Quality:

Astell&Kern’s dedication to exceptional audio quality is evident in the SP3000M’s design. The Hexa audio circuit, powered by four AKM AK4499EX DACs and two AK4191EQ chips, keeps digital and analog signals separate for a cleaner and more accurate sound. This results in a remarkable signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 130 decibels, minimizing digital noise and preserving the integrity of the audio signal.

Separate Outputs for Superior Performance:

The SP3000M takes its dedication to audio purity a step further by employing independent dual audio circuits for its unbalanced and balanced outputs. This means that each output uses a dedicated DAC, eliminating the need for a single DAC to manage both outputs, as is common in other players.

Robust Processing Power:

Under the hood, the SP3000M is powered by a Snapdragon 6125 Octa-core processor, coupled with 8GB of DDR4 memory. This powerful combination, combined with A&K’s redesigned user interface, ensures a smooth, responsive, and stable user experience.

A Nod to Retro:

For audiophiles who appreciate the vintage aesthetic, the SP3000M includes a dedicated VU Meter display, allowing users to visually monitor sound levels while enjoying album art.

Key Features and Specifications:

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Storage:

256GB internal memory with support for microSD cards up to 1.5TB

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Connectivity:

Dual-band 2.4/5Ghz a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi, DLNA networking, USB digital audio output, USB-C for data transfer and charging

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Audio:

Native playback of hi-res audio PCM up to 32-bit, 768kHz, DSD512, Two-way transmit and receive Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD, LHDC, and LDAC codecs

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Other:

USB DAC functionality for Mac or Windows-based PCs, Roon Ready support pending, 10 hours of playback with Qualcomm QC 3.0 fast charging

In the Box:

The SP3000M comes with a matching case made of soft cowhide, featuring a proprietary antibacterial and antivirus treatment.

The Astell&Kern A&Ultima SP3000M represents a significant step forward for portable audiophiles. By offering a more accessible price point and a compact design, the SP3000M makes high-fidelity music listening more achievable while still delivering the exceptional audio quality that Astell&Kern is known for.