Astell & Kern adds the A&futura SE300 to its respected line of portable players and boasts it offers "a natural hi-fi sound with unrivalled dynamism" thanks in no small part to its R-2R DAC, aka Ladder DAC and Class A amplification with the option of switching to Class AB via its Dual AMP mode.
Naturally, the SE300 benefits from A&K's noise removal tech dubbed Teraton Alpha, which is also said to bring efficient power management and "unwavering amplification", resulting in "playback that is as close to the original sound as possible".
The new A&futura DAP will play all the expected hi-res files up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 while support for TIDAL, Qobuz Spotify, Amazon, and more can also be ticked off the shopping list of specifications. In addition, Bluetooth aptX HD and LDAC codecs are also welcomed, as is Wi-Fi connectivity.
The A&futura SE300 is constructed of stainless steel and aluminium, featuring an ergonomically curved surface and control wheel. Furthermore, it hosts balanced (2.5mm, 4.4mm) and unbalanced (3.5mm) outputs. Meanwhile, the 5.46-inch touchscreen displays the company's latest user interface bringing an improved album art search function, enabling you to seamlessly browse categories while viewing and interacting with album art.
ASTELL & KERN AURA
A&K collaborated with German company Vision Ears to produce the high-end Aura wired in-ears.
Hand-made in Cologne, the Aura utilises a pair of 8mm low dynamic drivers in isobaric configuration, eight armature drivers covering low and high mids (four each), and a BA super tweeter, all controlled by a five-way crossover. The result is a 10 Hz-24 kHz claimed frequency response with an impedance rated at 10.5Ω @ 1kHz and 115dB @ 1kHz, 1mW stated sensitivity.
Cased in an aluminium, corrosion-resistant shell sporting a grey finish and dark bronze faceplate, they certainly look high-end. So, to match the premium experience, the Aura in-ears comes with a selection of leather carry cases, earphone pockets and cable clips.
Astell&Kern's SE300 music player has a recommended retail price of £1,899/ €2,199, while the Aura earphones have an asking price of £4,199/ €4,799.
Visitors to this week's High End Munich Show can get up close and personal with both products at Booth H1, E03.
Visit Astell&Kern for more information
Posted in: Hi-Fi | Headphones | HiFi Show
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