Astell&Kern (A&K), a renowned manufacturer of premium high-resolution audio portable digital audio players (DAPs), has unveiled its most affordable model to date, the P1. Set to launch on Amazon in August for $430, the P1 represents a significant departure from A&K’s typical price points. While $430 might not seem like a bargain for a DAP, it’s hundreds of dollars less than A&K’s current entry-level SR35 player ($799) and thousands less than its flagship SP3000T ($3,000).
Despite its relatively accessible price, the P1, known as the Activo P1 in other markets, boasts many of the high-end features expected from A&K. These include full support for a wide range of hi-res audio formats, a touchscreen interface powered by Android, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, expandable onboard storage, top-notch digital-to-analog converters (DACs), and the capability to drive a variety of wired in-ear monitors (IEMs) and headphones.
The P1 truly stands out from A&K’s existing product line with its distinctive design, incorporating a smooth blend of aluminum and polycarbonate, a departure from the company’s signature angular, all-aluminum designs. A&K emphasizes the button placement, strategically positioned on either side of the player for easy identification by touch alone, enabling effortless control of the P1 while in a pocket or bag. The three integrated keys (play/pause, next, and previous) further enhance convenience, allowing users to navigate the device without taking their eyes off the display.
The P1’s impressive specifications include:
* 3.5mm unbalanced and 4.4mm balanced headphone jacks
* Two ESS ES9219Q Sabre DACs in a dual-mono configuration
* OctaCore processor
* PCM support up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD256
* Full MQA decoding
* Dedicated AMP circuit based on Astell&Kern’s Teraton Alpha sound solution, found in the company’s more expensive models
* Dual-band Wi-Fi
* 64GB of internal memory and microSD card support up to 1.5TB
* 4.1-inch HD touchscreen
* Bluetooth 5.3
* Choice of LDAC or aptX HD codecs for 24-bit streaming to compatible wireless headphones and earbuds
* PD 3.0 fast charging
* Crossfeed and Roon Ready support (certification pending)
* USB audio mode, allowing the P1 to be used as a DAC/amp with Android phones, computers, and the iPhone 15
* Up to 20 hours of continuous music playback
However, it’s the P1’s unique features that truly set it apart from the rest of the A&K lineup. One of the most significant changes is the inclusion of Google Play Store support. Unlike other A&K players, which required sideloading Android apps, the P1 offers seamless access to the Play Store, allowing users to download and install any streaming music app just like on a regular Android smartphone.
The user interface has also undergone a makeover, adopting a minimalist approach with triangles, circles, and squares representing the main navigational elements. This design aims to create a familiar and intuitive experience that even first-time DAP users can easily navigate.
Despite its user-friendly design, the P1 doesn’t skimp on features for power users. It retains impressive levels of control, such as the parametric equalizer, which offers 20 frequency bands and the ability to adjust gain in 0.01dB increments. Q values can also be used to fine-tune the frequency range, and users have seven DAC filter options to choose from.
The P1’s combination of affordability, high-end features, and user-friendly interface makes it a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking a powerful and accessible entry point into the world of hi-res audio.
