Portables

From Astell&Kern 
A&futura is a premium line of players with advanced features that bring the original performance to life. The SE100, the first model of A&futura, is designed for you to feel the quality of premium Hi-Fi from the moment you hold it.

• Radically different sound by ES9038 Pro 8-channel DAC
• Next Level performance with Octa-core CPU
• 5-inch display with HD screen resolution and improved user interface
• Similar audio block design of SP1000 for premium Hi-Fi audio performance

A&futura SE100 shows our dedication to provide both premium quality and value to our listeners including an eye-catching design. It features a 5-inch touchscreen, Octa-core CPU, and the best audio performance in its league.Astell&Kern is committed to delivering the original performance as the artist intended you to hear and the SE100 is a symbolic example of this vision and effort.

A&futura SE100 introduces an 8-channel DAC chip. 8-channel DACs have previously only been available for premium home audio systems, pro-audio workstations, and recording studio equipment. It is making a debut for the first time in an Astell&Kern portable system. Your favorite tunes will now sound fundamentality different with even greater dynamic range and refined sound.

Maximum Output
It is common knowledge in the audio industry that the amplifier plays a critical role in Hi-Fi audio systems. The latest know-how and amplifier design technologies developed by Astell&Kern have brought 4.1Vrms of balanced output power with minimal noise. As the output power increases, the noise fluctuates louder as well. However, A&futura SE100 shows 123dB of SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio) at 4.1Vrms of audio output. At the same time, the noise level on single-ended is even smaller, it produces 122dB of SNR. Pure sound is the result in our technical achievement allowing for powerful, yet clean sound to be delivered gracefully by the SE100.

Femto-Second Clock for Exact Sonic Reproduction
An enhanced voltage-controlled crystal oscillator (VCXO) high-precision clock has been utilized in the A&futura SE100. The reference jitter of Astell&Kern's implementation has improved performance to 800fs (femto seconds), meaning that the SE100 faithfully reproduces your music by precisely measuring and accurately timing the synchronization of all instruments, vocal and even ambience sound recorded in your digital music file together.

Great Performance for the Ultimate Experience
The A&futura SE100 is equipped with an octa-core CPU which allows the player to produce the exact musical detail present in the original recording without distortion and provides a quick, lag-free operation.

The A&futura SE100 features faster booting times, speedy file transfers, lag-free processing and a new intuitive user interface for the ultimate player experience.

Ultimate Sound Quality
The A&futura SE100 supports native bit-to-bit DSD playback up to 11.2MHz for the best sound possible. The music is played back, bit-for-bit, just as the artist and engineer intended for it to be heard.

Audio
DAC	1 x ESS SABRE ES9038PRO 32-Bit
Audio Resolution	PCM: 8 ~ 384 kHz / 8-Bit PCM: 8 ~ 384 kHz / 16-Bit PCM: 8 ~ 384 kHz / 24-Bit PCM: 8 ~ 384 kHz / 32-Bit DSDNative: 2.8 MHz / 1-Bit DSD128: 5.6 MHz / 1-Bit DSD256: 11.2 MHz / 1-Bit
Frequency Response	20 Hz - 20 kHz±0.038 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out) 10 Hz - 70 kHz±0.074 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out) 20 Hz - 20 kHz±0.028 dB (Balanced Headphone Out) 10 Hz - 70 kHz±0.03 dB (Balanced Headphone Out)
Impedance	1 Ohms (Balanced Headphone Out) 1.5 Ohms (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
THD + N	0.0007% at 1 kHz (Unbalanced) 0.0006% at 1 kHz (Balanced)
Maximum Output Voltage	4.1 Vrms
Signal to Noise Ratio	122 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out) 123 dB (Balanced Headphone Out)
Clock Jitter	800 fs
Crosstalk	138 dB at 1 kHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out) 144 dB at 1 kHz (Balanced Headphone Out)
Custom Equalizer	Yes

Performance
CPU	Octa-Core
Internal Storage Capacity	128 GB
Maximum Storage Capacity	528 GB
Flash Media Slot	1 x microSDXC
Display	5" LCD (720 x 1280 Resolution)
Operation Method	Physical Buttons, Touchscreen, Volume Wheel

Media Support
FM Tuner	No
Video Recording	No
Video Playback	No
Formats Supported	Audio: WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF

Connectivity
Wireless	Bluetooth 4.1
Bluetooth Codecs	aptX HD
Connections	1 x USB Type-C 1 x 1/8" (3.5 mm) Stereo Headphone 1 x 2.5 mm Balanced Headphone
Built-In Mic	No

Power
Battery	1x Built-In Rechargeable Lithium-Polymer Battery 3700 mAh Providing up to 11 Hours per Charge for Audio Playback
Charging Time	Full Charge: 2 Hours

General
System Requirements	Operating System  Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 Mac OS X 10.7
Water Resistance	None
Dimensions (W x H x D)	3.0 x 5.2 x 0.6" / 75.8 x 132.7 x 15.3 mm
Weight	8.5 oz / 241 g

• SE100 Device
• USB Type-C Cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card
• microSD card slot cover x 2
• Protective Film (Front x 2, Back x 2)

 

From Astell&Kern 
A&norma sets the standard of Hi-Fi audio for novice listeners. The SR15, the first model of A&norma, is the beginning point of the Hi-Fi Audio experience that allows you to enjoy the philosophy and technologies of Astell&Kern, which is accoladed by audiophiles around the world.

• Dual DAC of CS43198, MasterHIFI™ tier chipsets from Cirrus Logic
• Enhanced audio processing power and snappy UI with Quad-core CPU
• Native DSD playback and playback-focused User Interface
• Powerful audio performance curated by Astell&Kern's know-how

The A&norma SR15 uses two audio DAC chips for a Dual-DAC setup. These chips are known for their use in Home Hi-Fi systems which offer greater presence compared to the inferior DAC chips designed for mobile devices.

There are many devices that use DAC chips for audio processing, however there are different tiers and quality of chips sought by Hi-Fi audio manufacturers to deliver an experience close to the original performance.

A&norma SR15 has adopted the MasterHIFI™ class DAC, CS43198 for the first time in a portable system. At Astell&Kern, we believe that true Hi-Fi should sound as close as possible to the original performance. The CS43198 is one of few DAC chipsets that is capable of bringing us even closer to the original when it's matched with the analog amp design of Astell&Kern. In result, it brings even more liveliness and warmth of sound without distortion.

Furthermore, A&norma SR15 supports native DSD bit-to-bit, and gets one step closer to the Hi-Fi system.

Cirrus Logic and Hi-Fi Audio Evolution
Cirrus Logic has built its reputation as an expert in audio IC (Integrated Circuit) chips and solutions for more than three decades and has established its distinguished recognition in the audio industry.

Specializing in low power ICs for audio and voice signal processing applications, Cirrus Logic's products span the entire audio signal chain, from capture to playback, providing innovative products for the world's top smartphones, tablets, digital headsets, wearables and emerging smart home applications. Now they have introduced the MasterHIFI™ chipset solutions for excellent audio reproduction performance.

MasterHiFI™ class designation is only given to their chipsets that meet their highest audio performance standard. It will deliver your music as the musicians and producers wanted you to hear it.

Enhanced Audio Processing Power with Quad-core CPU
Some may think that only sound matters in Hi-Fi systems. While it does matter greatly, there are other factors that influence your immersive music experience as well. A&norma is designed to remove any distracting elements, including noise, distortion and unintuitive user interface.

The Quad-core CPU gives you even more processing power for your digital music and a lot faster, natural UI experience. Get lost in your music without distractions.

• 24-bit, 192 kHz Bit-to-Bit Playback
• The A&norma SR15 plays any resolution of digital files up to 24-bit/192 kHz, bit-for-bit.
• For 32-bit audio, downsampling is performed by the SRC (Sample Rate Converter) method.
• DSD is native up to 64 MHz and DSD 128 MHz is converted to PCM for playback.

New Intuitive User Interface
A&norma SR15 has adopted the user interface of the A&ultima SP1000, which has grown famous for its intuitiveness and simplicity.
- Player is in the main. All functions are centered on "music replay."
- Secure access to the music DB and features to manage music files
- Minimum menu depth and simple structure

DAC	2 x Cirrus Logic CS43198 24-Bit
External DAC Functionality	Yes
Audio Resolution	PCM: 192 kHz / 24-Bit DSDNative: 2.8 MHz / 1-Bit DSD128: 5.6 MHz / 1-Bit
Frequency Response	20 Hz - 20 kHz±0.03 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out) 20 Hz - 20 kHz±0.024 dB (Balanced Headphone Out) 10 Hz - 70 kHz±0.038 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out) 10 Hz - 70 kHz±0.065 dB (Balanced Headphone Out)
Impedance	1.6 Ohms (Balanced Headphone Out) 1.1 Ohms (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
Volume Control	Digital
THD + N	0.0008% at 1 kHz (Unbalanced) 0.0009% at 1 kHz (Balanced)
Signal to Noise Ratio	122 dB (Balanced) 122 dB (Unbalanced)
Clock Jitter	45 ps
Crosstalk	137 dB at 1 kHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out) 137 dB at 1 kHz (Balanced Headphone Out)

Performance
CPU	Quad-Core
Internal Storage Capacity	64 GB
Maximum Storage Capacity	400 GB
Flash Media Slot	1 x microSDXC
Display	3.3" LCD (480 x 800 Resolution)
Operation Method	Physical Buttons, Touchscreen, Volume Wheel

Media Support
FM Tuner	No
Video Recording	No
Formats Supported	Audio: WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF

Connectivity
Wireless	Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Bluetooth Codecs	aptX HD
Connections	1 x 2.5 mm Balanced Headphone 1 x 1/8" (3.5 mm) Stereo Headphone 1 x Micro-USB 2.0

Power
Battery	Built-In Rechargeable Lithium-Polymer Battery 3150 mAh

• SR15 Device
• 5-pin micro USB Cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card
• microSD card slot cover x 2
• Protective Film (Front x 2, Back x 2)

Our Take 
Taking what we firmly believed what was the best digital audio player on the market and making it more portable, while compromising nothing, was a very smart choice by our friends at Astell&Kern. The SP1000M is an endgame DAP that fits in your pocket like a dream – no better ultra-portable on the market.

From Astell&Kern 
We constantly strive to master the philosophy of delivering original sound. So far, we believe that the A&ultima SP1000 is the optimal product that produces the highest-quality audio.

We were not sure whether it was possible to come up with a product that is different from the SP1000 while delivering the same sound quality, but we decided to take up the challenge so that more people could experience our products’ fidelity.

There were many trials and tribulations in making the SP1000, our best product, smaller. We were determined to not compromise sound quality in the process, and we ultimately developed the second A&ultima product, the SP1000M.

• Octa-Core CPU for Next-Level Performance
• AK4497EQ Dual DAC for Highest Sound Quality
• 4.1 Inch HD Display
• Highest Quality Audio of SP1000
• Portable and Durable Aluminum Body
• DNLA-Based AK Connect App
• Open APP Service 
  

The lightweight and portability of the SP1000M enables the user to enjoy original sound playback anytime and anywhere. The A&ultima SP1000M achieves greater portability, without sacrificing the level of performance found in the original SP1000.

The “M” in SP1000M does not stand for one specific word, but rather encompasses many characteristics that the product aims to pursue.

• MINI: Smaller than the SP1000
• MOBILITY: More compact design for portability
• MAXIMUM: Produces the highest-quality audio
• MANIA: For users who are obsessed with true, original sound
• MATE: Perfect anytime and anywhere
• MOMENT: Free of distractions, get lost in the music 

 

Great Performance for the Ultimate Experience

The A&ultima SP1000M is equipped with an octa-core CPU which allows the player to produce the exact musical detail present in the original recording without distortion and provides a quick, lag-free operation.

The A&ultima SP1000M features faster booting times, speedy file transfers, lag-free processing and a new intuitive user interface for the ultimate player experience.

Ultimate Sound Quality

The latest AK4497EQ dual-DAC design and the upgraded CPU in the A&ultima SP1000M allows for accurate playback of native 32bit/384kHz audio with no compromise on sound quality. The music is played back, bit-for-bit, just as the artist and engineer intended for it to be heard.

The A&ultima SP1000M also supports native bit-to-bit DSD playback up to 11.2MHz for the best sound possible.

Model

SP1000M

Body Color

Lapis Blue, Onyx Black, or Royal Gold

Body Material

Aluminum(Blue/Black) or Brass (Gold)

Display

4.1 inch (720 x 1280) Touchscreen

Supported Audio Formats

WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF

Sample Rate

PCM: 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo
DSD128(1bit 5.6MHx), Stereo
DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo

Output Level

Unbalance 2.1 Vrms / Balance 4.2Vrms (Condition No Load)

CPU

Octa-Core

DAC

AKM AK4497EQ x2 (Dual DAC)

Decoding

Support up to 32bit / 384kHz Bit to Bit Decoding

Input

USB type-C (3.0) input (data transfer, PC & Mac) / Connection Mode : MTP (Media Device)

Outputs

PHONES (3.5mm) / Balanced Out (2.5mm, only 4-pole supported)

Wi-Fi

802.11 b/g/n (2.4GHz)

Bluetooth

V4.1 (A2DP, AVRCP, aptX™ HD)

Dimensions

2.67" x 4.60" x 0.66" (67.9mm x 117mm x 16.9mm)

Weight

7.16 oz (203 g) [Blue/Black] or 10.79 oz (306 g) [Gold]

Feature Enhancements

Firmware upgrades supported (OTA)

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AUDIO PERFORMANCE

Frequency Response

±0.062dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalance / ±0.061dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Balance
±0.68dB (Condition: 10Hz~70kHz) Unbalance / ±0.67dB (Condition: 10Hz~70kHz) Balance

Signal to Noise Ratio

120dD @ 1kHz, Unbalance / 123dB @ 1kHz, Balance

Crosstalk

138dD @ 1kHz, Unbalance / 144dB @ 1kHz, Balance

THD+N

0.0007% @ 1kHz, Unbalance / 0.0006% @ 1kHz, Balance

IMD SMPTE

0.0004% 800Hz 10kHz(4:1) Unbalance & Balance

Output Impedance

Balanced out 2.5mm (1ohm) / PHONES 3.5mm (2ohm)

---

CLOCK SOURCE

Clock Jitter

25ps(Typ)

Reference Clock Jitter

200 Femto Seconds

---

BATTERY

Capacity

3,300mAH 3.7V Li-ion Battery

Continuous Playback Time

Up to 10 hours (Standard - MUSIC FLAC, 16-bit/44khz, Volume 75, LCD Off)

Charge Time

About 3 hours (Standard - 9V/1.67A Fast charging)

---

MEMORY

Built-in Memory

128GB [NAND]

256GB [NAND] in Gold

External Memory

microSD (Max 400GB) x 1

---

OS

Supported OS

Windows 7,8,10 (32/64bit)
MAC OS X 10.7 and up

• SP1000M Device x 1
• Standard Black Leather Case x 1
• USB Type-C Cable x 1
• Quick Start Guide x 1
• Warranty Card x 1
• microSD Card Slot Cover x 2
• Protective Film (Front x 2, Back x 2)

To celebrate the launch of SP2000, all orders ship overnight for free! No discount code required. Simply select Free Shipping at checkout, shipping will be upgraded automatically on our end. All orders placed before 4pm EST ship same day.

Our Take 
This is it, ladies and gents. The very best DAP in the world. No hyperbole: you cannot find a better sounding, better built, higher performing DAP than the SP2000. If you want the best portable audio experience possible – this is it. Our highest recommendation.

 

From Astell&Kern 
A&ultima SP2000 is the third player released in the A&ultima lineup. SP2000 features the latest technologies of Astell&Kern with a newly developed audio circuitry and amplifier design. 

• Flagship AKM AK4499EQ Dual DACs
• Balanced 6Vrms, Unbalanced 3Vrms Output Level
• 32bit/768kHz, Native DSD512 Support
• 512GB Internal Memory
• Dual Band Wi-Fi Support5.0" 720x1280 HD TouchscreenOcta-Core CPU
• Open APP Support for Music Streaming

The Most Advanced Asahi Kasei DAC Chips, Dual AK4499EQ
The AK4499EQ DAC chip uses the most advanced ‘Current Output Architecture’ technology. To take full advantage of this new architecture, Astell&Kern redesigned the Op Amp and analog amp block configuration completely. The new circuit design optimizes the current consumption and brings out the most from these new DAC chips. The combination of the SP2000 and AK4499EQ chips provide mind-blowing audio quality.

Newly Designed Audio Circuitry
The SP2000 is the first Astell&Kern player to use separate, independent audio channels between the Unbalanced and Balanced outputs. This design offers much more power than ever before, with 6Vrms for Balanced output and 3Vrms for Unbalanced output. With this design, the SP2000 offers the ultimate audio experience as Astell&Kern’s newest flagship player.

Two Times the Internal Storage, 512GB
512GB internal storage can hold up to 700+ CDs or 8,000+ tracks of FLAC files (60MB/track). With the addition of a 512GB microSD card, the SP2000 can support over 1TB of storage space.

Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5Ghz)
With streaming music services becoming more popular, stronger and more reliable network reception becomes even more important for your audio experience. The SP2000 supports Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5Ghz, b/g/n/ac) with an improved 3-dimensional antenna design. With a stronger wi-fi signal and faster speeds, music streaming from the most popular services is better than ever on the SP2000.

Great Performance for the Ultimate Experience
The A&ultima SP2000 is equipped with an octa-core CPU which allows the player to produce the exact details present in the original recording without distortion and provides a quick, lag-free operation. The A&ultima SP2000 features faster booting times, speedy file transfers, lag-free processing and an intuitive user interface for the ultimate player experience. 

Model

SP2000

Body Color

Stainless Steel
Copper

Body Material

Stainless Steel : Stainless Steel
Copper : Copper

Display

5inch (720 x 1,280) Touch display

Supported Audio Formats

WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF, MQA(Support Scheduled)

MQA playback

Services(Tidal Masters), Local files, External USB, MQA-CD(ripped)

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), Stereo
DSD512(1bit 22.4MHz), Stereo

Output Level

Unbalance 3.0Vrms
Balance 6.0Vrms (Condition No Load)

CPU

Octa-Core

DAC

AKM AK4499EQ x2 (Dual DAC)

Decoding Support

up to 32bit
768kHz Bit-to-Bit Playback

Input

USB 3.0 Type-C input (for PC & MAC)

Outputs

PHONES (3.5mm)
Optical Out (3.5mm)
Balanced Out (2.5mm, only 4-pole supported)

Wi-Fi

802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5GHz)

Bluetooth

V4.1 (A2DP, AVRCP, aptXTM HD)

Dimensions

3.00” W x 5.19" H x 0.61" D (76.3 mm x 132 mm x 15.7 mm)

Weight

Stainless Steel : 14.49 oz (410.8 g)
Copper : 15.25 oz (432.4 g)

Feature Enhancements

Firmware upgrades supported (OTA)

Frequency Response

±0.015dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalance
±0.010dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Balance
±0.050dB (Condition: 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalance
±0.030dB (Condition: 20Hz~70kHz) Balance

Signal to Noise Ratio

124dB @ 1kHz, Unbalance
125dB @ 1kHz, Balance

Crosstalk

-138dB @ 1kHz, Unbalance
-144dB @ 1kHz, Balance

THD+N

0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalance
0.0004% @ 1kHz, Balance

IMD SMPTE

0.0003% 800Hz 10kHz(4:1) Unbalance & Balance

Output Impedance

Balanced out 2.5mm (1ohm)
PHONES 3.5mm (1.5ohm)

Clock Jitter

25ps(Typ)

Reference Clock Jitter

200 Femto Seconds

Battery Capacity

3,700mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer Battery

Continuous Playback Time

Up to 8 hours (Standard - MUSIC: FLAC, 16-bit/44.1kHz, Unbalance, Volume 80, EQ OFF, LCD OFF)

Charge Time

About 2.5 hours (Standard - 9V/1.67A Fast charging)
About 5 hours (Standard - 5V/2A General charging)

Built-in Memory

512GB [NAND]

External Memory

microSD (Max. 512GB) x1

Supported OS

Windows 7,8,10 (32/64bit)
MAC OS X 10.7 and up

• A&ultima SP2000 Device
• Leather Case
• Stainless Steel: Green Leather Case
• Copper: Brown Leather Case
• USB Type-C Cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card
• microSD card slot cover x 2
• Protective Film (Front x 2, Back x 2)

Our Take 
Sweet Baby Moses! You've never seen a beefy boy quite like the KANN CUBE. When we first set our eyes on this juggernaut, our mouth dropped in awe of its magnificence. If you're looking for massive power with brilliant sound quality, look no further that this. Just don't expect to fit it in your skinny jeans any time soon.

From Astell&Kern 
KANN CUBE is the second model of the KANN line, which focuses on high fidelity with powerful output and low noise. The newly designed powerful amplifier and audio circuitry have been strategically implemented to offer a very low noise floor, even with its massive power output, making it an Audio Powerhouse capable of driving the most power-hungry headphones.

• Three Audio Output Modes
• Up to 12V of PowerDual ESS ES9038PRO DACs, designed for Pro Audio Equipment
• 5-pin Mini XLR Output for Even Less Noise
• Quad-Core CPU5.0" 720x1280 HD Touchscreen
• 32bit/384kHz, Native DSD256 Support
• Open APP Support for Music Streaming

Introducing the Astell&Kern KANN CUBE, which achieves a more powerful output and lower noise than ever before.

Absolute Audio Powerhouse

KANN CUBE offers 3 different power output options of High / Mid / Low, which can drive any headphone with unprecedented power never seen before in any portable device - 12Vrms for Balanced output and 6Vrms for Unbalanced output. To provide a natural and neutral audio experience with minimal distortion, a newly designed OP Amp and Volume IC manages power optimally and efficiently.

5-pin Mini XLR Output for Even Less Noise

KANN CUBE offers a 5-pin mini XLR connector for the first time in an Astell&Kern player. Thanks to the even lower noise floor and higher audio output through the XLR connection, you can enjoy pure, clear audio playback. It offers easier connection to your home audio systems and active speakers with balanced connections.

Enhanced Audio Processing Power with Quad-core CPU

Some may think that only sound matters in Hi-Fi systems. While it does matter greatly, there are other factors that influence your immersive music experience as well. KANN CUBE is designed to remove any distracting elements, including noise, distortion and unintuitive user interface.

The Quad-core CPU gives you even more processing power for your digital music and a lot faster, natural UI experience. Get lost in your music without distractions.

Ultimate Sound Quality

The latest ESS ES9038PRO dual-DAC design and the upgraded CPU in the KANN CUBE allows for accurate playback of native 32bit/384kHz audio with no compromise on sound quality. The music is played back, bit-for-bit, just as the artist and engineer intended for it to be heard.

KANN CUBE also supports native bit-to-bit DSD playback up to 11.2MHz for the best sound possible. 

32-Bit Bit-to-Bit Playback by KANN CUBE  32-Bit Playback by Other Players

DAC

2 X ESS ES9038PRO SABRE 32-Bit

Audio Resolution

PCM: 8 ~ 384 KHz / 32-Bit
DSDNative: 2.8 MHz / 1-Bit
DSD128: 5.6 MHz / 1-Bit
DSD256: 11.2 MHz / 1-Bit

Frequency Response

20 Hz To 20 KHz ±0.027 DB (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
20 Hz To 20 KHz ±0.025 DB (Balanced Headphone Out)
10 Hz To 70 KHz ±0.07 DB (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
10 Hz To 70 KHz ±0.087 DB (Balanced Headphone Out)
20 Hz To 20 KHz ±0.025 DB (Balanced XLR Out)
10 Hz To 70 KHz ±0.032 DB (Balanced XLR Out)

Impedance

1.2 Ohms (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
1.6 Ohms (Balanced Headphone Out)

Gain Settings

High1
Normal
Low1

Volume Control

Analog

THD + N

0.0004% At 1 KHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
0.0005% At 1 KHz (Balanced Headphone Out)
0.0004% At 1 KHz (Balanced XLR Out)

Maximum Output Voltage

12 Vrms

Signal To Noise Ratio

117 DB (Balanced Headphone Out)
117 DB (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
128 DB (Balanced XLR Out)

Clock Jitter

250 Fs

Crosstalk

129 DB At 1 KHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
136 DB At 1 KHz (Balanced Headphone Out)
146 DB At 1 KHz (Balanced XLR Out)

Internal Storage Capacity

128 GB

Flash Media Slot

1 X MicroSDXC

Display

5" LCD (1280 X 720 Resolution)

Operation Method

Physical Buttons
Touchscreen
Volume Wheel

Formats Supported

WAV
FLAC
WMA
MP3
OGG
APE
AAC
ALAC
AIFF
DFF
DSF
And MQA (Support Scheduled)

Wireless

Bluetooth 4.2
Bluetooth AVRCP
Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)

Bluetooth Codecs

AptX HD

Connections

1 X 1/8" / 3.5 Mm Stereo Headphone
1 X 2.5 Mm Balanced Headphone
1 X 5-Pin Mini XLR Output

Battery

1x Built-In Rechargeable Lithium-Polymer Battery 7400 MAh
Providing Up To 9 Hours Per Charge For Audio Playback

Charging Time

Quick Charge: 4 Hours
Full Charge: 5.5 Hours

System Requirements

Windows 7, 8, 10
Mac OS X 10.7

Water Resistance

None

Dimensions (W X H X D)

3.5 X 5.5 X 1.2" / 87.7 X 140.0 X 31.5 Mm

Weight

1.08 Lb / 493 G

• KANN CUBE
• USB Type-C Cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card
• microSD Card Slot Cover x 2
• Protective Film (Front x 2, Back x 2)

Our Take 
"Astonishing" is the best word we can use to describe the Hugo 2. Chord Electronics' cutting-edge proprietary DAC technology will leave you hopelessly addicted. Easily a true reference DAC that can be added to any serious high end speaker system, you can also slip the Hugo 2 in your bag and take what may be the ultimate portable DAC/amp experience anywhere you want. An endgame transportable without a doubt; our highest recommendation.

 

From Chord Electronics 
In 2014, we introduced Hugo, a revolutionary portable DAC and headphone amp that became a landmark product in the audio landscape. Advances in digital technology, including the latest FPGAs and WTA (Watts Transient Aligned) filters, have enabled us to introduce a next-generation version, Hugo 2, featuring flexible new features, plus next-generation technical and sonic performance.

Hugo 2 can be used both at home and on-the-go, either with headphones or within a conventional audio system. Its line-level output and full-function remote control adds real flexibility in full-size and desktop systems.

The device offers four digital inputs (optical, coaxial and HD USB) plus extended-range Bluetooth, with high-resolution file playback up to 768kHz and up to DSD512 (Octa DSD), via its HD USB input. Analogue outputs include 2x RCA, plus 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone outputs.

A four-function switch filter offers a useful degree of user-selectable frequency-shaping, bringing warm and soft or transparent and incisive presentations, giving additional flexibility and user control. For headphone-listening, Hugo 2 retains the popular digital crossfeed function of the original and offers three operation modes. The system duplicates the effect of listening to speakers and is based on advanced binaural audio research.

Hugo 2 features four spherical control buttons, which illuminate with colour-coding information and control power, input, filtering, plus the unit’s crossfeed functions.

Battery playing time is around seven hours and two modes of automatic charging are included using the dedicated Micro USB charging port; an indicator shows charging and battery-charge status.

Materials: Clamshell precision machined aluminium casing with polycarbonate  buttons, acrylic signal window, and glass viewing portal. Available in a choice of two colours – natural silver, and satin black

Battery: 2x Rechargeable custom Enix Energies 3.7v 9.6Wh Li-ion (lithium-ion (2600mAh) batteries*

Tap length filter: 49,152 – 10 element Pulse Array design

Play time: In excess of seven (7) hours

Charging: Nominal four (4) hours via Micro USB at 1.8amps (fast charge) – Nominal eight (8) hours at 1amp (slow charge)

Connectivity (input): Micro USB (White): 44.1kHz – 768kHz – 16bit – 32bit

Coax via 3.5mm Jack (Red): 44.1kHz – 384kHz – 16bit – 32bit

Dual data mode input (using both BNC coax inputs together): 44.1kHz – 768kHz – 16bit – 32bit

Optical (Green): 44.1kHz – 192kHz – 16bit – 24bit

Connectivity (input wireless): Bluetooth (Apt X) (Blue): 44.1kHz – 48kHz – 16bit

Connectivity (output): 1x ¼” jack headphone output

1x 3.5mm jack headphone output

1x stereo (L & R) RCA output

PCM support: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 358.8kHz, 384kHz, 717.6kHz, and 768kHz.

DSD support: Native playback supported. DSD64 (Single) to DSD512 (Octa-DSD)

Volume control: Digital, activated in 1dB increments. Last known state saved upon shutdown, with exception of line-level mode

Line-level mode: Activated via dual press of middle ‘Source’ and ‘Crossfeed’ buttons. Line level = 3v via all outputs. Reset by power cycle

Power saving mode: Auto-shutdown after ten minutes of input inactivity

Driver support: Driverless with Mac OS X and Linux, driver required for Windows OS

Chipset:	Chord Electronics custom coded Xilinx Artix 7 (XC7A15T) FPGA
Tap-length:	49,152
Pulse array:	10 element pulse array design
Frequency response:	20Hz – 20kHz +/- 0.2dB
Output stage:	Class A
Output impedance:	0.025Ω
THD:	<0.0001% 1kHz 3v RMS 300Ω
THD and noise at 3v RMS:	120dB at 1kHz 300ohms ‘A’ wighted (reference 5.3v)
Noise 2.6 uV ‘A’ weighted:	No measurable noise floor modulation
Signal to noise ratio:	126dB ‘A’ Weighted
Channel separation:	135dB at 1kHz 300Ω
Power output @ 1kHz 1% THD:	94mW 300Ω 740mW 33Ω 1050mW 8Ω
Weight:	450g
Dimensions:	130mm (L) x 100mm (W) x 21mm (H)

• 2 amp USB Charger

• 1.2m USB to Micro USB Cable

• 15cm Micro USB Cable to Micro USB OTG Cable

• Hugo 2 Owners Overview Manual

• IR Remote control

Our Take 
The Mojo might as well be the Bob Ross of the audiophile world: a true classic that everyone universally loves. If you want to get a taste of that iconic Chord Electronics sound and need a simple, no-compromises pocket-sized DAC/amp...gosh, you can't beat the Mojo.

From Chord Electronics 
Chord Electronics’ Mojo (Mobile Joy) digital to analog converter (DAC) and headphones amplifier create a new approach to high-end digital audio sound via headphones and in-ear monitors (IEMs). Chord’s Mojo magical “converter box” external DAC is as mobile as Apple’s iPhones, iPads or any Android smartphone, PC or pad. Chord’s mighty Mojo crystal clear audio is warm and detailed with soundstage breadth, and intimacy believed lost as analog-to-digital converters (ADC) gave way to digital-to-analog conversion.

Despite the small footprint of Chord's Mojo, Chord's new DAC only needs a few hours to charge. And your Mojo can keep rising for 10 hours continuous listening! Even better, thanks to a separate Micro USB charging port, you can charge and play Mojo at the same time. External power banks can also be used to charge Mojo on the move so long as they have a 1 amp output.

Advanced Design 
Designed and manufactured in England by Chord Electronics Mojo stands for 'Mobile Joy'. Chord says Mojo is a true reference-quality mobile DAC and high level headphone amplifier and Mojo's sound rivals DACs at twenty times the price. Chord's Mojo is also easy to operate. Mojo is devoid of bewildering number of switch options common on similar DACs.

Headphones 
Mojo drives any headphone between 4 ohms and 800 ohms (so most headphones). Mojo can drive two pairs of headphones simultaneously. Mojo works with any music file from 44.1kHz up to 768kHz and DoP DSD files: DSD 64; DSD 128 and DSD 256. 

Music Decoding 
Mojo can play all of today’s music formats. Mojo delivers breath-taking realism from digital music files such as: PCM; WAV; AAC; AIFF; MP3 and FLAC. Chord's Mojo works with smartphones and digital audio players. Mojo even covers specialist high-resolution formats such as DoP DSD files: DSD 64; DSD 128 and DSD 256. Mojo’s three high-resolution digital input options comprise optical (to 192kHz), plus Micro USB and RCA (mini-jack) which operate at up to an incredible 768kHz.

Fully Automatic 
Input selection is automatic: if more than one input is active they are prioritized as USB first, coax second, optical third. File frequency is shown by an indicator color option on the power switch, from 44.1kHz (red), 48kHz (orange) through a rainbow of colors to bright white for DSD.

The highly accurate low-distortion digital volume is controlled via two color-illuminated buttons. Many low-cost apps now make high-resolution music files playable from all smart phones. Mojo has three different high-resolution digital inputs: optical to 192kHz, plus USB and RCA (mini-jack) which operate up to 768kHz.

Advanced Battery Technology 
Mojo utilizes new advanced high-temperature battery technology. Benefits of advanced batteries include faster re-charging (up to 20 hours faster than competitive DAzCs). Mojo Charging is via a standard USB port. Mojo can play music while it charges. Mojo's charging Micro USB port has a battery status and charging indicator light. Mojo's casework is machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminum and has a hard matte black fine finish that does not finger-mark. All inputs are denoted with a fine laser ablated permanent white lettering.

Inputs:

• 1x Micro USB 768kHz/32-bit Capable Input
• 1x 3.5mm Jack Coaxial 768kHz/32-bit Capable Input
• 1x Optical TOSLINK 192kHz/24-bit Capable Input
• 1x 1amp Micro USB Charging Port Input

Output:

• 2x 3.5mm Headphone Jacks

• Output Power @ 1kHz – 600Ω 35mW
• Output Power @ 1kHz – 8Ω 720mW
• Output Impedance: 75mOhms
• Dynamic Range: 125dB
• THD @ 3v: 0.00017%
• Weight: 180g (0.4lbs)
• Dimensions: 82mm (l) x 60mm (w) x 22mm (h)

Our Take
The first thing that came to mind when we first started testing the Micro iDSD Black Label was, "how is this thing only six hundred bucks?" This thing could easily sell for a thousand and still be considered a great value given its capabilities and sound quality. 

 

From iFi Audio
The micro iDSD BL is a portable DAC and headphone amp intended for use at home, in the office, in a professional system, casual settings, or on the go. It features a specially selected Burr Brown chipset in a Dual Core configuration with PCM384, DSD256 and MQA, or playback up to DSD512 and double speed DXD 705.6/768kHz with a quick complimentary firmware update. With customizable features, turned on/off with the flick of a switch, 3D+, X Bass+, iEMatch, positive or negative polarity, power mode, filter, and direct/preamp, the micro BL handles ultra sensitive In Ear Monitors as well as demanding Over Ear headphones, or speakers with ease.

Designed with a femto clock system and a digital engine using custom OV2028 and OV2627 op amps. The analogue section benefits from OS CONs and Panasonic ECPU capacitors. Inputs include digital high speed asynchronous USB 2.0 A male (32bit/768khz), SPDIF Coaxial + Optical, and 3.5mm line in while featuring a digital coax output, 6.3mm jack (1/4 inch adapter included) and RCA line out (2V fixed, 2V-5V variable).

Item	Description	Remarks
Inputs/Outputs
Inputs (rear)	USB 2.0 type A “OTG” Socket (with iPurifier® technology built-in)	Compatible with computers (Apple/Win/Linux), iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and Android Devices, camera kit or USB-OTG cable required. (Full USB3.0 port compatible)
	Intelligent SPDIF® Coaxial	3 Way combo SPDIF port (Coaxial In/Out; Optical In); Up to 192kHz PCM
	SPDIF Optical
Outputs (rear)	Audio RCA L+R
	Intelligent SPDIF® Coaxial	Up to 192kHz PCM
Output (right side)	SmartPower® Socket	Fast charge all portable devices. Compliant with USB Battery Charging Standard 1.2 – 5V @ 1.5A
Controls
Controls (front)
– HP Output	Audio 6.3mm Headphone Jack
– Volume with Power On/Off switch	Precision analogue volume control	<2dB Tracking error
– 3.5mm Input		Auto disable the digital section when this is in use
– X-Bass®	On/Off
– 3D Holographic Sound®	On/Off	Auto-switching for Speakers® and Headphones® (two separate and distinct circuits)
Controls (left side)
– Power Mode	Turbo, Normal, Eco	Computer controlled power and gain scaling
– Polarity	Normal/Inverted
– Filter	3 positions, 6 filters	(see filter section below)
Controls (bottom)
– Line Direct/Preamplifier	Preamplifier function Enable/Disable, 0/9dB gain selectable	Fixed 2V or variable with up to 5V available
– iEMatch®	Perfect-matching circuit for IEMs (eliminate hiss)	Off / High Sensitivity Headphone / Ultra Sensitivity Headphone
DAC section
DAC	Dual-core DSD, DXD, PCM DAC by Burr Brown	2-DAC Chip; 4-Channel; 8-Signals, custom interleaving for maximum SNR
	Bit-Perfect DSD processing, Bit-Perfect PCM processing
Clock	Ultra low jitter GMT computer controlled Femto Clock	RMS jitter 12kHz – 1MHz < 280 Femtoseconds
Audio Formats	DSD 512/256/128/64 24.6/22.6/12.4/11.2/6.2/5.6/3.1/2.8	All native decoding, no internal hardware conversion
	DXD 2x/1x 768/705.6/384/352.8kHz	All native decoding, no internal hardware conversion
	PCM 768/705.6/384/352.8/192/176.4/96/88.2/ 48/44.1kHz	All native decoding, no internal hardware conversion
Filters
– PCM	Bit-Perfect Processing/Minimum Phase/Standard	Digital filters selectable
– DSD	Extreme/Extended/Standard Range	Analogue filters selectable
– DXD	Bit-Perfect Processing	Fixed analogue filter
Specifications (DAC Section)
Dynamic Range (Line)	>117db(A)
THD & N (0dBFS Line)	<0.003%
Output Voltage (Line)	>2V
Output Impedance (Zout)	< 240Ω
Jitter (correlated)	Below AP2 test set limit
Headphone Power Output
HP Amp Output	Power (max)	Power (continuous.)
– Turbo mode	10.0V/4,000 mW @ 16 Ohm	>1560 mW @ 64 Ohm
		> 166 mW @ 600 Ohm
– Normal mode	5.5V/1,900 mW @ 16 Ohm	> 950 mW @ 32 Ohm
		> 100 mW @ 300 Ohm
– Eco mode	2.0V/500 mW @ 8 Ohm	> 250 mW @ 16 Ohm
Specifications (Headamp Section)
Dynamic Range (HP)	>115dB(A) (Eco Mode, 2V Out)
THD &N (HP 500mW/16R)	< 0.008%
Output Voltage (HP)	>8V (Turbo Mode)
Output Impedance (Zout)	<1Ω (iEMatch not engaged)
Maximum Output Power	4,000mW @ 16 Ohm Load	when using sinewave testing the micro iDSD BL may engage protection circuits
Continuous Output Power	1,000mW @ 64 Ohm Load

 

• micro iDSD BL Main Accessories
• 3.5mm rubber feet
• USB A Female > B Female Cable
• Caps for RCA sockets
• iFi bag
• USB3.0 A MALE > A FEMALE
• Silicone bracelet
• Label of battery charging
• RCA cable
• 6.35mm > 3.5mm adapter
• 3.5mm male > male cable
• Optical Adapter
• USB A Female > B Female Adapter
• User manual
• STS card

From iFi Audio
If you have high quality or hi fidelity headphones you are going to need some power in the form of an amplifier to drive them to their true performance potential. You are also going to need an exceptional external HiFi Digital to Analog Converter or DAC to process your music files in high resolution to enhance your experience even further. The DACs in a smartphone, computer, tablet or audio player on the market are not designed for processing high quality sound. iFi audio has developed top of the line products to meet the various needs and preferences whether you are an everyday listener or an experienced audiophile.

 

The nano BL is a MQA compatible DAC and headphone amp that can be both portable or home based. At 285 mW max output power at 32R, it can drive almost any set of headphones without a problem. With it’s Burr Brown True Native Chipset, and added MQA rendering, you have even more file or format choices from MP3, DXD384, PCM384kHz, to DSD256.

With it’s S Balanced technology headphone channel separation is unchanged with load (requires balanced wired In Ear Monitors, also known as IEM, or over the ear headphones to benefit). Running a high-voltage Direct Drive Amp, the BL gets 3.5V into high impedance headphones making it suited even for 600 Ohm headphones. The built in iEMatch means it can drive high sensitivity headphones at 0.5V with a dynamic range that is virtually identical to that at "normal" output at 2V.

It is compatible with an Apple iPhone or Android smartphone and tablet, PC, Mac, desktop or laptop, and DAP (USB C adapter or cable is needed for some Macs and sold separately). 

General
Input(rear):	USB2.0 type A ‘OTG’ Socket (with iPurifier® technology built-in)
Output(rear)；	1 x audio fixed line out L+R 3.5mm
Digital Filter:	2 positions. 2 filters
Outputs(front):	2 x 3.5mm headphone audio outputs. ‘Direct’ and ‘iEMatch®’
DAC
DAC:	DSD, DXD, PCM DAC by Burr Brown Bit-Perfect DSD processing, Bit-Perfect DXD processing
Clock:	Low-jitter crystal clock
Audio Formats:	DSD 256/128/64/12.4/11.2/6.2/5.6/3.1/2.8
	DXD 384/352.8kHz
	PCM 384/352.8/192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1kHz
	MQA 88.2/96/176.4/192kHz filters
Filter–PCM:	Listen (transient optimised minimum phase)
	Measure (frequency response optmised)
–DSD:	Listen (extended bandwidth transient optimised)
	Measure (narrow bandwidth, low output band noise optimised)
–DXD:	Fixed Bit-Perfect Processing
–MQA:	Fixed MQA Filter
Headphone Amplifier
Amplifier:	Dual Mono 2 x 285mW Direct Drive, coupling capacitor free circuit for highest fidelity
Volume Control:	3.5mm TRRS with Balanced compatible wiring
Dynamic Range(including DAC):	> 109dB(A) @ 3v (Direct)
	> 107dB(A) @ 0.5V (iEMatch®)
THD &N (@ 125mW/30R):	< 0.005%
Max. Output (<10% THD):	> 3.5V @ 600Ω Load (Direct) (20mW/600Ω)
	> 2.9V @ 30Ω Load (Direct) (285mW/30Ω)
	> 1.7V @ 15Ω Load (Direct) (200mW/15Ω)
Output Impedance :	< = 1Ω (Direct)
	< = 4Ω (iEMatchsup>®)
Channel Separation:	> 79dB @ 600Ω Load (Direct)
	> 79dB @ 15Ω Load (Direct) (1kHz, TRRS plug Balanced wiring)
Line Output
Dynamic Range(Line):	> 109dB(A)
THD & N(0dBFS Line):	< 0.004%
Output Voltage(Line): :	2.15V (+/-0.05V)
Output Impedance:	< 240Ω
Channel Separation:	> 99dB (@ 1kHz)
Jitter(correlated):	Below test set limit
Dimensions:	96(l) x 64(w) x 25.5(h)mm
Weight:	139g (0.31 Ibs)
Warranty period:	12 months

 

• IFi AUDIO Nano IDSD Black Label Portable USB DAC \ Headphone Amplifier
• IFi Bag
• Silicone Bracelet
• USB Type-A Female To USB Type-B Female Adapter
• USB 3.0 Type-A Male To USB Type-A Female
• USB Type-A Female To USB Type-B Female Cable
• Limited 1-Year Warranty