Astell & Kern PS10 Digital Audio Player with Docking Cradle (Pre-Order)

PS10 & Cradle

• World's First Application of AK4498EX in a DAP
• HEXA Audio Circuit Structure : Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signal Processing
• Equipped with Impedance-Adaptive Dual Amplifiers
• Automatic Amplifier Matching Mode: Smart Gain
• Overwhelming Audio Performance Through Independent Dual Audio Circuits
• Includes a Docking Cradle for Home Audio Use

First Application of AK4498EX in a DAP

By applying AKM's latest DAC AK4498EX, we have achieved a more natural sound.

Adopting a HEXA audio circuit structure, featuring two AK4191EQs for processing digital signals and four of AKM's latest DACs, the AK4498EX, combined with Astell&Kern's TERATON ALPHA technology, the highest level of sound quality is delivered.

HEXA Audio Circuit Structure with Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals

The PS10 employs four AK4498EX DACs incorporated in an innovative HEXA audio circuit design with two separately applied AK4191EQs for processing digital signals, resulting in the creation of the finest sound.

The HEXA audio circuit is designed with a structure in which the AK4191EQ, a separate Digital delta-sigma modulator, reduces noise from the input digital signal, and then the AK4998EX, a completely isolated Analog DAC, processes only the analog signal separately.

By physically and perfectly separating digital and analog signal processing, The PS10 it delivers an astonishing level of sound that has never been experienced before.

Equipped with Impedance-Adaptive Dual Amplifiers

To cater to the diverse listening environments of our users, the PS10 is equipped with two distinct amplifiers.

Different sound tunings have been applied to each AMP, considering the average impedance of the connected earphones and headphones.

The Normal Gain AMP reproduces delicate details and high-purity sound quality, faithfully expressing the original sound.

The High Gain AMP specializes in handling complex and dynamic sounds, expressing audio signals more vividly and with greater clarity.

Enjoy a variety of sounds from a single player, according to your preference and the earphones and headphones you use.

Automatic Amplifier Matching Mode: Smart Gain

The PS10 instantly checks the impedance of the connected receiver upon plugging in your earphones or headphones and automatically sets the appropriate AMP.

Regardless of which earphones (headphones) are connected, the player automatically distinguishes between low and high impedance without cumbersome settings and matches the optimal AMP.

Earphones with an impedance of 32ohm or less are set to Normal Gain, providing a maximum output of 5.5Vrms in Balanced, and earphones exceeding 32ohm are set to High Gain, providing ample output of up to 8.3Vrms based in Balanced output.

The customized amplifier matching function (Smart Gain) provides audio enthusiasts who use a variety of earphones and headphones with a fresh listening experience.

In order to complete the ultimate DAP that has never been experienced before, we have not only applied the latest DAC and new specifications, but also further developed and applied Astell&Kern's revolutionary audio technology, TERATON ALPHA, our Ultimate Sound Solution.

Boasting effective power noise removal, efficient power consumption, stable amplification, and a perfectly converted audio output interface, TERATON ALPHA is Astell&Kern's unique technology, focused on realizing sound close to the original.

Overwhelming Audio Performance Through Independent Dual Audio Circuits

To create an innovative DAP beyond the level of excellent DAPs, a DAP that no one has ever attempted, we aimed to overcome the limitations of sound by designing independent dual audio circuits for Unbalanced and Balanced outputs.

In most DAPs, Unbalanced and Balanced signals are used together in the internal DAC structure. Since the signal output from the DAC is divided into Unbalanced and Balanced signals and transmitted to the AMP, an Audio Switch is essential.

However, the Audio Switch has a limit to the range of signals it can receive from the DAC, so it first reduces the signal size and then transmits it to the amplifier to restore it to its original signal size, which creates limitations in improving audio performance. By creating two separate, independent audio circuits, one for balanced output and a second for unbalanced output, Astell&Kern maximizes audio performance no matter what output is being used.

We invite you to experience the high-level sound created by Astell&Kern's innovative circuit technology.

Provides a Docking Cradle for Home Audio Utilization

The included cradle allows for use not only as a portable device but also as a home audio source.

When the PS10 is mounted on the cradle, it supports simultaneous device charging and digital input via the USB port. The XLR balanced analog outputs allow simple connection to a home audio system.

Enjoy Astell&Kern sound more conveniently at home with the cradle.

• XLR output can be controlled by the PS10's volume or set at a fixed output level by enabling the line out option in settings.

• The LED on the front of the cradle displays the current playing song information, identical to the LED on the PS10 LED.

Supports AirPlay

Supports AirPlay for iPhone users, allowing direct control while listening to music via AirPlay.

Equipped with a 5,770mAh High-Capacity Battery

The PS10 enables up to 15 hours of continuous playback with its optimized circuit configuration. Although the screen is larger and the performance is upgraded, you can enjoy music without worrying about battery life with the extended playback time.

• Standard: FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Vol.50, LCD Off, Normal Gain

• Continuous playback time may vary depending on the usage environment.

Sound Design Through DAC Filters

With the PS10, you can enjoy the fun of creating your own sound style by directly selecting various DAC filters provided by the DAC manufacturer.

Design your own sound through 6 DAC filters.

Bringing Original Sound to Life with Digital Audio Remaster Technology

Digital Audio Remaster technology is designed to overcome the limitations of source formats by upsampling the sample rate of the audio being played.

Higher sample rates enable more precise playback, allowing for a more vivid reproduction of the original sound with delicate and analog-like sound expression, enhancing the subtle nuances and rich sound of the music to a higher level of appreciation.

* The DAR function can be turned on and off and you may select it to suit the source sound and your own preferences.

* Max PCM rate 384kHz/DSD64 conversion play is supported, and the files will be converted to and played in the sample rates that fit the source sound.

Crossfeed, Speaker effect when listening through headphones

In a headphone environment in which the left and right channels are clearly separated, ear fatigue may increase during prolonged listening.

The moment you turn on Crossfeed, the experience of crisp, but comfortable sound begins.

Crossfeed mixes parts of the original signal from one channel and sends that signal to the opposite channel with a time difference to center the sound image.

Through the use of detailed settings such as Shelf Cutoff, Shelf Gain, and Mixer Level,

you can set the level of crossfeed according to your listening preferences.

* Crossfeed supports PCM formats of 24 bits / 192 kHz or less

Real-Time Information with LED Lights

The LED light surrounding the power button provides information on the Bit Depth of the currently playing song, and also adds a visually pleasing element by making it shine and stand out.

**The LED light can be turned on or off according to user settings.

Features

Supports Native DSD512, 32bit/768kHz

SP3000M supports Native DSD512 and up to 32bit/768kHz with Astell&Kern's excellent audio technology, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite music.

AK File Drop to enjoy wireless transfers

The new AK File Drop function in the SP3000M makes files transfers easier and more convenient. Using AK File Drop, you can freely transfer files wirelessly through a PC, smartphone, or FTP program located on the same network. Music file management is now possible with a cableless, wireless solution.

PD 3.0 Fast Charging Supported

Contents to be added later

Equipped with a 6-inch Large Screen Full HD Display

Experience the PS10 more conveniently and comfortably through the wider and higher-quality 6-inch large screen display

ReplayGain for Automatic Volume Level Adjustment

ReplayGain functionality, which adjusts audio sources with varying volume levels to a uniform loudness, has been implemented.

Enjoy your personalized playlists with the ReplayGain feature.

• ReplayGain supports up to 24bit/192kHz audio sources.

Wireless Hi-Fi Sound via BT Sink

The BT Sink function allows you to connect the PS10 to an external device via Bluetooth, similar to connecting a smartphone to a BT speaker. Music being played on the external device can be transmitted to the PS10 through the BT Sink function.

Leather Case

The PS10 bundle case is made using polyurethane fabric from the Italian company Synt3.

Synt3 is an eco-friendly material certified under RCS (Recycled Claim Standard) version 2.0, which verifies the use of recycled materials from raw materials to the final product. It is highly durable and resistant to contamination.

Synt3's eco-friendly leather maintains its quality even after long-term use, ensuring continuous usability.

Designed to highlight the unique features of the PS10, the case is engineered for easy access to all buttons and offers an optimized fit that provides perfect protection while ensuring the best grip. It not only enhances visual appeal but also elevates the overall PS10 experience.

Synt3 from Milan

The various patterns and colors of new brands developed and introduced by Synt3 are always considered the new standard in the industry.

This demonstrates Synt3's outstanding design sensibility, which stays ahead of the industry and leads global design trends.

Design

Contrast Cube

The design concept of the PS10 is 'Contrast Cube.'

The harmony of Stainless Steel and Glass materials in the body creates a simple yet rich look through light reflection. Designed for easy one-handed operation in line with DAP characteristics, the intuitive button control enhances user immersion.

To evoke the powerful performance of a high-output audio player, the design resembles a 'Control Tower' that focuses on the core functions of the DAP.

For the first time in an Astell&Kern DAP, the volume wheel has been replaced with buttons, creating a clean and minimalist look while using distinct material contrast to draw the user's attention to the control buttons.

The PS10's carefully crafted design and production process, which enhance the unique colors of the materials, demonstrate Astell&Kern's exceptional craftsmanship.

Specifications

General

Audio Specifications

*Audio measurement specifications are based on Normal gain.

Clock Source

Storage Capacity

Battery

Supported OS

Cradle