Astell&Kern A&Futura SE180 | Digital Audio Player
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Our Take
As a player at $1499, the SE180 provides all of the qualities and technical capabilities that you have come to expect from Astell&Kern, and is a solid pick. But the SE180 is more than that: it’s All-in-One module system promises a step forward for DAP technology. If Astell&Kern is going to commit to this new tech, the SE180 could have a promising future as one of the most versatile DAPs we’ve ever seen. |
SE180 Combines Innovation and Fun
The third product in the A&futura line, the SE180, continues the trend of exciting innovation for Astell&Kern products,
while providing the uncompromised sound quality Astell&Kern is famous for. With the SE180, in addition to superb audio technology, we wanted to show users an element of fun that is hard to find in most Hi-Fi products.
The DNA of innovation found in the A&futura line continues with the SE180.
It is an advanced audio system created with the technology Astell&Kern is known for around the world.
- Interchangeable All-in-One Module
- TERATON ALPHA Audio Technology from Astell&Kern
- Next Generation Astell&Kern AMP Technology
- Updated UI with Added Functions for Convenience
With the SE180, premium Hi-Fi Sound is now available through the use of interchangeable, all-in-one modules, by Astell&Kern.
Interchangeable All-in-One
With the SE180, we wanted to expand on the multi-DAC idea that was first introduced with the SE200.
Like the SE200, different DACs can be used in one DAP, but we wanted to do something different for the SE180. The introduction of Interchangeable All-in-One Modules, carry on the multi-DAC experience, but add a new and fun experience. This reflects the DNA of the innovation that the A&futura line is known for.
The SE180 is a module-separated product that increases the convenience of connection between the main body of the player and the module. It features an innovative double-locking design that securely connects each component while providing smooth lines that naturally flow without any sense of separateness between the two pieces.
By applying different DAC/AMP configurations, adjusting tuning and outputs for each module, the user can choose the most suitable module for Premium Hi-Fi Sound.
The default configuration module contains the ESS ES9038PRO, an 8-channel DAC mainly used for premium home audio equipment. This DAC provides a wider dynamic range and more detailed sophistication. The module supports 2.5mm, 3.5mm and 4.4mm connections to allow for a greater variety of headphones/IEMs.
Circuit Separation Structure of Main Body and Module
By physically separating the main body from the All-in-One module,
we completely block power and RF noise that may occur from the main body. This creates an independent structure that prevents noise from interfering with music playback.
Astell&Kern Audio Technology Forms the TERATON ALPHA Sound Solution
TERATON ALPHA is AK's ultimate Sound Solution to produce audio playback that is close to the original sound through the audio output interface by use of effective power noise removal, efficient power management and amplification with minimal distortion.
TERATON ALPHA features Astell&Kern's patented technologies, which are the result of tens of thousands of hours of continuous research and development to produce sound close to the original sound the artist and producer intended.
Next Generation Advanced AMP technology
It is extremely difficult push beyond your previous best.
With the SE180, we applied Next Generation AMP technology to push beyond the sound quality others feel is acceptable for Premium Hi-Fi Sound to produce the best sound possible.
From the selection of OP-AMP parts, to circuit design, board layout and tuning, everything has been completely redesigned to produce the best sound.
It is difficult to improve the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) while maintaining a high output.
Upgrades to Enhance the User Experience
It is extremely difficult push beyond your previous best.
With the SE180, we applied Next Generation AMP technology to push beyond the sound quality others feel is acceptable for Premium Hi-Fi Sound to produce the best sound possible.
From the selection of OP-AMP parts, to circuit design, board layout and tuning, everything has been completely redesigned to produce the best sound.
It is difficult to improve the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) while maintaining a high output.
Now you can easily navigate with a single touch and deliver music playback information from any screen. The new one swipe feature moves you to the previous screen.
The new AK File Drop function in the SE180 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.
Wireless Hi-Fi Sound Through BT Sink
The newly introduced BT Sink function connects the SE180 to an external device via Bluetooth, similar to connecting a smartphone with a BT speaker. Music from an external device, such as a smartphone can now be played back in high-quality on the SE180 using the BT Sink function.
Real-Time Information Confirmed by Light
The SE180 features a LED volume wheel which displays various playback information, including volume level and bit-rate of the track currently playing.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and Support for Wireless 24-bit aptX-HD, LDAC Codecs
The latest Bluetooth version provides high sound quality with the convenience of wireless playback to headphones and IEMs. Bluetooth 5.0 features faster transmission speed, greater range and a more stable wireless connection when compared to Bluetooth 4.2. Both LDAC and aptX HD is supported to provide audiophiles with the best wireless sound possible.
Specs
Audio
DAC 1 x ESS ES9038PRO 32-Bit
External DAC Functionality Yes
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 ±0.04 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
- 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±0.04 dB (Balanced Headphone Out)
- 20 Hz to 70 kHz ±0.07 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
- 20 Hz to 70 kHz ±0.06 dB (Balanced Headphone Out)
Impedance
- 1 Ohms (Unbalanced Headphone Out)
- 1.5 Ohms (Balanced Headphone Out)
Gain Settings High1, Normal
THD + N
- 0.0004% at 1 kHz (Balanced Headphone Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- 0.0005% at 1 kHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- 0.0006% at 1 kHz (Balanced Headphone Out, High Gain)
- 0.0007% at 1 kHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out, High Gain)
Maximum Output Voltage
- 2 Vrms (Unbalanced 3.5 mm Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- 4 Vrms (Balanced Headphone Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- 3 Vrms (Unbalanced 3.5 mm Out, High Gain)
- 6 Vrms (Balanced Headphone Out, High Gain)
Signal to Noise Ratio
- 122 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- 126 dB (Balanced Headphone Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- 125 dB (Unbalanced Headphone Out, High Gain)
- 129 dB (Balanced Headphone Out, High Gain)
Clock Jitter 25 ps
Crosstalk
- -138 dB at 1 kHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- -145 dB at 1 kHz (Balanced Headphone Out, Typical/Mid Gain)
- -138 dB at 1 kHz (Unbalanced Headphone Out, High Gain)
- -147 dB at 1 kHz (Balanced Headphone Out, High Gain)
Performance
Internal Storage 256 GB
Media/Memory Card Slot
Single Slot: microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC [1 TB Maximum]
Maximum Storage Capacity 1.256 TB
Display 5" LCD (1920 x 1080 Resolution)
Operation Method Touchscreen, Volume Wheel
Formats Supported Audio: WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF, & MQA
Connectivity
Wireless
- Bluetooth 5.0: aptX HD, LDAC
- Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Connections
- 1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm Headphone Output
- 1 x 2.5 mm Balanced Headphone Output
- 1 x 4.4 mm Balanced Headphone Output
- 1 x USB Type-C USB (Unspecified Version) Input/Output
Power
Battery 1 x Built-In Rechargeable Lithium-Polymer Battery 3800 mAh, Providing up to 10.5 Hours per Charge for Audio Playback
Charging Time Full Charge: 5 Hours
General
Dimensions (W x H x D) 3.0 x 5.4 x 0.8" / 77.0 x 137.2 x 19.9 mm
Weight 13.4 oz / 380 g
In the Box
- SE180 Device x 1 (Main Body)
- SEM1 x 1 (Module)
- 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)