Astell&Kern A&ultima SP3000T Digital Audio Player

Astell&Kern A&ultima SP3000T Digital Audio Player

 

Elevate your auditory experience to unparalleled heights with the Astell&Kern A&ultima SP3000T Digital Audio Player. As the pinnacle of innovation and excellence in the A&ultima series, this remarkable device seamlessly blends the timeless warmth of analog audio with cutting-edge digital precision.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the SP3000T features dual RAYTHEON JAN6418 MIL-SPEC Vintage Vacuum Tubes, offering a truly authentic analog sound characterised by rich harmonics and immersive depth. But this is just the beginning of its sonic prowess.

Equipped with a TRIPLE AMP SYSTEM and a Tube Current option, the SP3000T allows you to tailor your listening experience with three levels of voltage, ensuring that every note resonates with precision and clarity. The result? A sound that transcends conventional boundaries, captivating your senses and stirring your emotions.

But innovation doesn't stop there. With a High-performance Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU and TERATON ALPHA audio technology, the SP3000T delivers unparalleled sound fidelity, free from distortion or interference. Each component is carefully selected and paired to minimise output deviation, guaranteeing a natural and immersive listening experience.

Designed for audiophiles and enthusiasts alike, the SP3000T boasts a stunning aesthetic to match its exceptional performance. Encased in 99.9% pure silver plating atop stainless steel, this device exudes luxury and sophistication at every turn. And with its sleek design and illuminated vacuum tubes, it's not just an audio player—it's a statement piece.

 

Features

• Dual RAYTHEON JAN6418 MIL-SPEC Vintage Vacuum Tubes
• Our TRIPLE AMP SYSTEM allows listeners to select the right tones for their music
• Three levels of voltage with Tube Current option
• Stainless steel with 99.9% pure silver plating
• Separate digital and analog signal processing (AK4191EQ x2 / AK4499EX x2)
• VU Meter
• High-performance Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU
• Supports Native DSD512, 32bit/768kHz
• QC 3.0 Fast Charging Supported
• AK File Drop to enjoy wireless transfers
• ReplayGain Automatically and Uniformly Adjusts Playback Volume
• Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz)

 

True Analog Sound with Real Vacuum Tube

The original vacuum tube is known for its warm sound, attributed to its distinctive rich harmonics, which have cemented its status as a cherished component of Hi-Fi audio. However, its impracticality in terms of miniaturisation, primarily due to power control and footprint issues, presented a formidable obstacle, rendering it unsuitable for
use in portable audio players.
In Astell&Kern's unyielding quest for innovation, we refused to settle for conventional sound and design, and instead worked to bridge the gap between stationary and portable audio by infusing the essence of analog sound into our devices.
These efforts eventually culminated in the pairing of the SP3000T with the RAYTHEON JAN6418 Miniature vacuum Tube. The RAYTHEON JAN6418 is a mini vacuum tube popular among audiophiles. Designed to meet military specifications and traditionally used in military communication equipment, it quickly garnered recognition for its distinctively warm and soft sound, leading to its integration into regular audio devices.

 

Sound Craftsmanship for the Ultimate Vacuum Tube Sound

Due to inherent differences in noise and amplification among original vacuum tubes, Astell&Kern adopted a meticulous selection process to adhere to our philosophy of addressing even the minutest differences in sound quality.
Astell&Kern carefully measures and pairs each JAN6418, a difficult process demanding both time and precision. This thorough selection method minimises output deviation between the left and right channels, resulting in more natural sound reproduction.
Every shielding operation on the vacuum tube is carefully executed by hand to minimise potential noise interference.
Thanks to our unwavering dedication to sound craftsmanship, we have successfully brought the distinctive spatial sense and balance found in our existing audio players into the analog realm of vacuum tube sound.

 

Minimising Microphonic Noise

The integration of vacuum tubes into compact, portable devices presents a formidable technical hurdle — maintaining low noise levels while delivering unparalleled resolution and robust output.
With the SP3000T, we've tackled this challenge head-on with a custom-made solution designed to minimise microphonic noise. Our team devoted extensive time to refining the structural integrity of the vacuum tubes, ensuring minimal noise even in the event of minor shocks or vibrations.

1. Independent modular, flexible PCB design engineered separately from the main PCB
2. Silicone module case designed to absorb primary shocks from the vacuum tube
3. Silicone tubing perfectly tailored to the vacuum tube leads to reduce shock transmission along the leads
4. Silicone dampers around the vacuum tube suspend the tube in the air from both ends

* Microphonic Noise might be audible when bumping against the player itself or knocking it against a table.

 

Tube Current option for premium analog sound

After testing the operational range of the vacuum tube, we developed an internal plate voltage control system, which can be adjusted in three stages and directly affects the amplification rate of the vacuum tube amplifier, resulting in nuanced changes in sound texture. Experience the subtle shifts in density and spatial presence in your headphones or earphones as you fine-tune the current of the vacuum tube amplifier.

 

Vacuum Tube LED

While in vacuum tube mode or hybrid mode, the vacuum tubes on the back of the SP3000T emit light, enhancing the device's subtle and stylish analog feel.

* Please note that the Tubes do not light up when the device is in OP AMP Mode.

 

99.9% Pure Silver Plating

While crafting the SP3000T, we spent a long time searching for a material that seamlessly blends high-resolution digital sound with the rich analog warmth of a vacuum tube. After rigorous research, Astell&Kern proudly emerged as a pioneer in selecting and applying material featuring 99.9% pure silver plating.

Silver boasts superior electrical conductivity compared to copper and gold, making it a popular choice for premium semiconductors and high-end audio components.
The body of the SP3000T is coated in 99.9% pure silver plating atop 316L stainless steel, which is renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance.
Since silver can tarnish over time due to exposure to air, we've taken extra steps to increase its longevity, such as adding a special multi-layer coating to prevent sulfurisation, to enhance durability and prevent exposure with air.

 

TERATON ALPHA, AK's Flagship Audio Technology

To take you on an unparalleled audio journey with our groundbreaking DAP, we've incorporated the latest DAC and vacuum tube specifications, and added our revolutionary audio technology, TERATON ALPHA, Astell&Kern's ultimate sound solution.

TERATON ALPHA, the result of relentless research, encapsulates Astell&Kern's unique approach to achieving sound fidelity akin to the original recording. Thanks to its effective power noise removal, efficient power consumption, vibration-free amplification and meticulously engineered audio output interfaces, TERATON ALPHA delivers a sound experience that is second to none.
The combination of the SP3000T's innovative real vacuum tubes and separate digital and analog architecture with our TERATON ALPHA solution has produced a masterpiece of an audio player that embodies the essence of pure, unadulterated sound.

 

Achieving Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals

Building upon the design principles of the popular A&ultima SP3000, the SP3000T has undergone enhancements that have garnered widespread acclaim for exceptional sound quality.

Achieving remarkably low noise levels within the compact confines of the SP3000T's circuitry, which includes various resistance elements, components and vacuum tubes, posed a challenge beyond the capabilities of conventional design approaches. To solve this issue, the SP3000T boasts two of AKM's latest flagship AK4499EX DACs as well as a separate audio circuit design featuring the AK4191EQ, which is applied independently to the left and right channels responsible for processing digital signals.

Unlike most digital players, which typically process digital and analog signals within the DAC, the SP3000T utilises a unique audio circuit configuration. This setup involves reducing the noise of the input digital signal through the AK4191EQ, which acts as a separate digital delta-sigma modulator. In this unique design, only analog signals are processed within the DAC AK4499EX, ensuring that digital and analog signals are processed separately.

We've also improved sound separation by adopting a new design that completely segregates the OP AMP and TUBE AMP signals. This refinement also maximises the DAC's performance, resulting in enhanced depth and richness in the lower frequency range.

 

 

Silver Plated Shield Can

A shield can is applied to prevent various noise and electromagnetic interference from affecting the audio block.
The SP3000T takes it a step further to achieve excellent audio performance and perfect shielding by applying highly conductive, high-purity silver on the existing shield can, and physically separating digital and analog signals.

 

Seamless Fusion of Real Tube and OP AMP — Astell&Kern's TRIPLE AMP SYSTEM

Harnessing the power of Astell&Kern's unique TERATON ALPHA technology, the A&ultima SP3000T achieves seamless harmony between the rich, authentic analog sound of a real tube and the dynamic clarity of an OP AMP. The SP3000T offers three distinct modes to cater to your audio preferences: TUBE AMP Mode, which delivers the natural warmth of a vacuum tube amplifier; OP AMP Mode, which is renowned for Astell&Kern's crystal-clear resolution and expansive soundstage; and Hybrid AMP Mode, which expertly blends the richness of analog with high-resolution clarity. Upgrade your listening experience with our cutting-edge amplifier technology.

 

OP AMP Mode — Unparalleled High Resolution and Dynamics

Immerse yourself in high-resolution audio that faithfully reproduces the original sound without distortion, offering a newfound sense of space and unparalleled clarity and dynamics. OP AMP Mode represents the pinnacle of high-quality sound, a hallmark of all Astell&Kern products.

Enjoy exceptionally low noise interference and high resolution thanks to Astell&Kern's TERATON ALPHA technology and uncover unexplored nuances in your music across any genre.

 

TUBE AMP Mode — The Authentic Essence of Analog Sound

Nothing compares to the warm texture and distinctive sense of space delivered by a Tube Amp — qualities that remain unmatched by even the most advanced digital amplifiers. Renowned for their ability to convey the raw emotion of music, the timeless appeal of vacuum tube amplifiers has captivated audiophiles since their inception.

The SP3000T's TUBE AMP Mode allows you to enjoy the smooth and inviting analog sound unique to real vacuum tube technology, complemented by ground-breakingly low noise levels.

 

Hybrid AMP Mode — Astell&Kern's Cutting-Edge Amp Technology 

Departing from the traditional Vacuum Tube AMP and OP AMP modes, the SP3000T features a groundbreaking HYBRID AMP Mode — a new concept in audio technology that puts tone control at your fingertips. HYBRID AMP Mode seamlessly blends the best of analog warmth and high-resolution output to create a unique tonal experience. With five adjustable levels, users can tailor the sound to their preferences and the unique characteristics of each song, ensuring an optimal listening experience every time.

 

Snapdragon Octa-Core CPU

A&ultima SP3000T is equipped with a Snapdragon 6125 Octa-core processor, so you can enjoy the overwhelming sound, with faster system response and a redesigned generation user interface that moves comfortably and smoothly.

Featuring a high-performance CPU and improved 8GB of DDR4 memory, which is twice the amount commonly used in other digital audio players, the more powerful system is stable with fast and fluid movement.

The CPU, memory and wireless communication parts are configured as one module, with the digital circuit parts arranged in the same area creating a single system on a chip (SoC). This maximises the efficiency of the overall circuit configuration by providing more dedicated audio-only circuit space as well as reducing heat and noise from digital circuits.

 

VU Meter GUI for complete musical immersion

The SP3000T marks a milestone for Astell&Kern as the first device to feature a VU Meter GUI, elevating your listening experience by providing a visual representation of sound levels as you indulge in your favourite music. The VU Meter, an iconic piece of audio equipment with a long-standing history, displays voltage levels of voice signals to aid volume measurement and adjustment. Beyond its utilitarian function, the VU Meter's unique design and retro charm help to enhance the immersive music-listening experience. Conveniently accessible via the bottom navigation bar, the VU Meter on the SP3000T allows you to monitor sound levels while viewing album art or streaming via our Open App Service. Immerse yourself in the rich analog sound and emotional depth of the SP3000T's vacuum tube through the captivating interface of the VU Meter.

 

Digital Audio Remaster Technology for Even More Vivid Original Sound

The SP3000T is equipped with Digital Audio Remaster(DAR) technology, which was developed to deliver fine sound at higher sample rates. DAR technology is developed to upsample the sample rate of the sound source being played to go beyond the limits of the source format. The high sample rate allows more refined play and offers delicate and analog-like original sound, helping you to enjoy the richness of the original sound, subtle differences in the nuance of the music and rich sounds at a higher level.

 

Streaming and AK Connect Network Play — Designed for Convenience

Astell&Kern's audio players are seamlessly integrated with external streaming apps through the Open App Service. Enjoy high-quality streaming from platforms like Tidal and Apple Music with the unparalleled fidelity of the SP3000T.
With AK Connect, our network play feature, you can easily access and play/download music from PCs and devices connected to the same network as the SP3000T
in real-time. Elevate your streaming experience to new heights with Open App Service and AK Connect.

 

High-Quality Wireless Hi-Fi Sound with BT Sink

BT Sink allows you to connect the SP3000T to external devices such as smartphones and PCs via Bluetooth. Transmit sound from an external device directly to the SP3000T with just one pairing. Enjoy superior sound quality with support for high-quality codecs such as LDAC and AptX. Elevate your listening experience with seamless wireless connectivity through BT Sink.

 

Real-Time Information Confirmed by Light

Inside the A&ultima's beautiful volume wheel are LED lights shaped like a majestic musical sound swirling through the unit. You can check the bit depth information of the currently playing song or view the set AMP mode through the LED light that spreads intensely from the inside of the SP3000T.

 

High-End Shrunken Calfskin Case

The SP3000T comes with a deluxe case crafted from shrunken calf leather sourced from Perlinger in Germany and Alcantara in Italy, ensuring a level of style and quality that matches the quality of the device. The shrunken method used to craft the leather results in natural wrinkles, creating an irregular, yet distinctive texture that enhances its luxurious appearance. Unlike regular embossing techniques, this process preserves the leather's natural texture and minimises discolouration, ensuring the colour remains vibrant even after prolonged use.

 

Design

The A&ultima SP3000T symbolises the pinnacle of analog sound and embodies an unwavering dedication to timeless audio elements such as vacuum tubes and turntables.

Integrating iconic design elements from the SP3000 with the analog essence of the SP2000T, every detail of the SP3000T reflects a seamless fusion of these two models. From its meticulously crafted volume wheel to its protective casing, the design of the SP3000T pays homage to both heritage and innovation.

At the core of the SP3000T lies its dual vacuum tubes, which emit an ethereal glow that complements the rich analog sound, while the rear glass panel, decorated with a subtle pattern, gently disperses this luminous aura to create a mesmerising effect.

The rear glass panel is contrasted to visually separate the vacuum tube area and accentuate this feature, while the black tinting ensures a refined appearance even when the lights are dimmed.

Light flows smoothly through the wheel protector that frames the volume wheel, producing an elegant visualisation of the "radiance" of the vacuum tubes from the rear side to the volume wheel.

With its silver-plated body and hairline finish, the SP3000T exudes a luxurious aura that is characteristic of Astell&Kern's flagship A&ultima lineup and embodies the craftsmanship and prestige synonymous with the brand.

 

Specification

• Model: SP3000T
• Body Color: Silver
• Body Material: Stainless Steel with Pure Silver Plating
• Display: 5.5 inch 1080 x 1920 Full HD touch screen
• Supported Audio Formats: WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF, MQA
• Sample rate 
  • PCM : 8kHz ~ 768kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
  • DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), DSD512(1bit, 22.4MHz) Stereo
• Output Level: Unbalanced 3.3Vrms │ Balanced 6.3Vrms (Condition No Load)
• CPU: Octa-Core
• DAC: AKM AK4191 x2 (Dual Modulator) & AKM AK4499EX x2 (Dual DAC)
• Vacuum Tube: RAYTHEON JAN6418 x2
• Decoding Support: up to 32bit / 768kHz Bit to Bit playback
• Input: USB Type-C input (for charging & PC & MAC)
• Outputs
  • Unbalanced Out (3.5mm), Optical Out(3.5mm)
  • Balanced Out (2.5mm, only 4-pole supported | 4.4m, only 5-pole supported)
• Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5GHz)
• Bluetooth: V5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP │ Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, LDAC, LHDC)
• Dimensions: 3.33" (84.7mm)[W] x 5.57" (141.5mm)[H] x 0.70" (18mm)[D]
• Weight: about 17oz (483g)
• Feature: Enhancements Firmware upgrade supported (OTA)
• Operating Temperature: 0℃ ~ + 40℃ (32℉~ 104℉)

Audio Specifications

• Frequency Response 
  • ±0.005dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.003dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced
  • ±0.006dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.024dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Balanced
• S/N: 120dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 124dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
• Crosstalk: -136dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -145dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
• THD+N: 0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.0004% @ 1kHz, Balanced
• IMD SMPTE: 0.0007% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │ 0.0007% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Balanced
• Output Impedance: Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (1.5ohm) │ Balanced Out 2.5mm (1.5ohm), 4.4mm(1.4ohm)

Clock Source

• Clock Jitter 25ps (Typ)
• Reference Clock Jitter 200 Femto Seconds

Storage Capacity

• Built-in Memory 256GB [NAND]
• External Memory microSD x1 (Max. 1TB)

Battery

• Capacity 5,050mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer
• Charge Time about 3.5hours (QC3.0 Charging)
• Playback Time about 10hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Unbalanced, Vol.50, LCD Off, LED On, OP AMP Mode)

Supported OS

• Supported OS Windows 7,8,10(32/64bit) MAC OS X 10.7

 

About Astell&Kern

Astell&Kern is the ultimate digital music source that brings you Mastering Quality Sound or MQS. Astell means ‘Stars’ in Latin and Kern means ‘Center’ in German. We believe Astell&Kern is the center of music.

Today, original music performances can be captured in digital almost exactly as they were performed due to new, advanced recording technology currently available. However, these high quality recordings are mainly listened to through inferior sound formats, such as MP3 or through streaming services. With the debut of the MP3 format, music lovers sacrificed sound quality for the convenience of being able to carry their music collection wherever they went. Because the MP3 format heavily compresses files for the sake of convenience, the vocals and instruments you hear are only an inferior version of the original. The soundstage and the ambience of the original performance often disappears when listening to compressed MP3 music. After pondering these issues, Astell&Kern was our solution to poor sound quality for the sake of portability, and our way in reviving the original sound quality of music, MQS, for music artists, recording engineers, and professionals.

Astell&Kern's pursuit is to provide natural and original sound without distortion. It showcases the presence of the original recording with miniscule details you may not have noticed from other music systems, while playing back high-resolution music bit by bit, exactly as it was recorded. The ability to play back the exact recording of any live performance is what Astell&Kern is known for.

The power of true sound from Astell&Kern can now be experienced and has been part of many famous audio exhibitions around the world. Astell&Kern is now admired by music lovers from many countries, including the USA, China, Japan, UK, France, and many more around the world.