Astell&Kern AK100 II

Compact high-res digital audio player. Although the dramatic depth in sound quality delivered by the Balanced Out was proven in our flagship model, we wondered if the same benefit could be gained by implementing the Balanced Out with a Single DAC. The newly designed demo board delivered the ear-pleasing sound quality we needed. The value of a Balanced Out with a Single DAC is confirmed with every musical note. The unbalanced method is the most commonly used basic method which consists of ''left and right signals + ground line''. This setup includes a ground line which blocks out external noises from the outside. However, since the ground line cannot block out all of the external noises completely, external noises can be mixed into the signals that are transmitted, which then result in changes to the sound. The longer the signals travel, the more external noises that will be mixed into the sound which is why it is used within a short distance of 1 to 2 meters. We realized DSD playback through a firmware upgrade for the AK100. However, only 2,8 MHz DSD was supported (88,1 kHz PCM conversion/downsampling) due to hardware limitations. Now, 5,6 MHz DSD is supported via 'DSD to PCM' by utilizing a Dual Core CPU. The AK100 2nd Generation also functions as an external DAC (sound card) when connected to a PC or Mac via USB. The AK100 2nd Generation's sound quality is available for stored music on any PC or Mac as it serves as a built-in sound card. With the next-generation AK100, it's no longer necessary to turn on the PC, search for music, connect a device, and transfer files. Simply connect the AK100 2nd Generation to your PC or Mac via Wi-Fi on the same network and download or stream music wirelessly. A more accurate EQ setting is available by doubling the bands (from 5 to 10) and halving the dB steps (from 1 dB to 0,5 dB). In addition, multiple user EQs are supported so that users may create custom EQs to fit each music genre and change them whenever desired. The AK100 2nd Generation includes 64GB of internal flash storage. With the addition of a 128GB microSD card, the AK100 2nd Generation supports up to a total memory of 192GB. Frequency response: +/- 0,025 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz) // +/- 0,6 dB (10 Hz - 70 kHz). Max. SPL: 115 dB / 1 kHz. Impedance: 1/2 Ohm. Dimensions 55 x 11 x 14,9 mm. Weight: 170 g.