Astell&Kern
Astell & Kern A&ultima SP4000 Digital Audio Player
Best portable player for audiophiles seeking uncompromising high-fidelity sound quality.
The Astell&Kern A&ultima SP4000 is a flagship portable music player engineered for serious audiophiles. It features an advanced Octa audio circuit architecture and a true Quad DAC implementation, delivering an exceptional 131dB SNR. With full Android OS integration, bit-perfect lossless streaming, and a precision-crafted 904L stainless steel body, it provides elite-level audio performance and a seamless user experience.
$160.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 134
Best MP3 Players
Price vs Category Average
-87%
Below average
Material
904
/ L stainless steel
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking the ultimate high-resolution listening experience
- Collectors who appreciate premium build quality and sophisticated design
- Listeners requiring seamless integration with diverse audio gear
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level audio solutions
- Commuters needing a lightweight device for easy portability
- Travelers who prioritize long-lasting battery life for extended trips
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Quad DAC architecture delivers an unmatched, studio-grade listening experience.
Build Quality
Precision-crafted 904L stainless steel offers a premium, indestructible feel.
Signal Clarity
Advanced LDO regulation effectively eliminates background noise for pure playback.
Interface Fluidity
Android integration and the 4.5th-gen UI ensure smooth, intuitive navigation.
Driving Power
High Driving Mode effortlessly powers even the most demanding audiophile headphones.
Storage Versatility
Massive internal capacity with easy expansion for extensive high-resolution libraries.
Key Specs
Material
904L stainless steel
Audio Circuit
Octa audio circuit
DAC
True Quad DAC (AK4191 + AK4499EX)
SNR
131dB
Processor
Snapdragon 6125 Octa-core
RAM
8GB DDR4
Storage
256GB internal, expandable to 1.5TB
Display
6-inch Full HD 2160x1080
Features
- Octa audio circuit architecture
- High Driving Mode for premium sound quality
- Proprietary ESA technology for minimized group delay
- Ultra Low Noise LDO Regulator for noise suppression
- Any Layer HDI PCB for precision sound
- 99.9% Pure Copper Shield Can
- Full Android OS integration with Google Play
- Advanced DAR technology with VSE
- 4.5th-generation UI with LP animation
- 904L stainless steel construction
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Astell & Kern A&ultima SP4000 for its unparalleled sound quality, describing an immersive and detailed listening experience that truly elevates their music. The device's exquisite design and premium build materials also receive widespread acclaim, reflecting a commitment to luxury and durability. While a significant investment, enthusiasts often view it as a benchmark for portable audio, appreciating the meticulous craftsmanship and sonic fidelity it delivers.
Know before you buy
The Quad DAC setup, utilizing the AK4191 and AK4499EX chips, separates digital and analog signal processing. This architecture significantly reduces noise and distortion, resulting in a cleaner, more detailed soundstage with an impressive 131dB signal-to-noise ratio.
Yes, the device runs on a full Android OS with integrated Google Play support. This allows you to download and use popular streaming apps directly, ensuring bit-perfect playback for your lossless music libraries.
The player comes with 256GB of internal storage, which is plenty for a large collection of high-resolution files. If you need more space, it supports microSD cards, allowing you to expand your total capacity up to 1.5TB.
Beyond its premium look and feel, the 904L stainless steel construction provides excellent durability and superior shielding against electromagnetic interference. This material choice helps protect the sensitive internal audio components from external noise.
The SP4000 features a dedicated High Driving Mode specifically engineered to provide the necessary power and current for demanding, high-impedance audiophile headphones, ensuring they perform at their full potential.
The Ultra Low Noise LDO Regulator is designed to suppress power supply noise by 97%. By providing a cleaner power source to the audio circuit, it ensures that your music remains free from background hiss and electrical interference.
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