ASTELL&KERN; INTROS THREE NEW PRODUCTS AT MUNICH
Shown for the first time at an exclusive party for Astell&Kern customers and press at Munich's High End Show, A&K has expanded its line-up with the introduction of two new portable player series: the A&norma standard and A&futura premium ranges, as well as their new Billy Jean addition to the Siren in-ear monitor series.
Norma and Futura
Kicking off with the debut of A&norma SR15 and A&futura SE100 at High End Munich, these join the flagship A&Ultima SP1000 and feature-packed KANN in the company’s high-resolution player portfolio.
The A&futura SE100 is equipped with a SABRE ES9038Pro DAC chip that offers 8-channel procession of sound inputs. With 4-channels of dedicated processing per left and right channel, the SE100 is capable of producing even more detailed and clear sound with an excellent signal-to-noise ratio. The SE100 can play back up to 32 bit/384kHz PCM audio and can play Quad DSD natively.
The SE100 also features an Octa-core CPU, 5-inch touchscreen, 128GB internal storage, support for fast charging, and can play back music for up to 10 hours. Its aluminium alloy body design is solid and durable and, of course, features the classic volume knob and diamond-patterned glass back plate.
Moving on to the SR15, this is to be the first model from Astell&Kern’s new standard line of players. The A&norma line is designed to provide those new to high-resolution audio a feature-packed introduction to the brand. The A&norma SR15 features tech trickled down from their flagship devices so you still will enjoy the fullest musical details.
Under the hood is the Master HIFI level DAC chip, the Cirrus Logic CS43198, and features a Quad-core CPU. The A&norma SR15 can playback up to 24bit/192kHz PCM audio, and single-rated DSD natively. All of these features are packaged in a solid aluminum alloy body that resembles the popular AK70 series.
Billy Jean
Rounding off the new announcements is the latest addition to the Siren series of earphones, Billy Jean.
The new in-ear monitor combines patented Jerry Harvey Audio tech, such as Freqphase waveguide, and Astell&Kern’s build quality.
The two-way, dual balanced armature design is equipped with a new internal sound bore in order to deliver impeccably balanced audio. Boasting 19 ohm impedance and -26dB noise isolation. They are fitted with strong yet flexible cable that is made from Kevlar and silver-coated copper.
The A&futura SE100 is launching with a suggested retail price of $1,699, the A&norma SR15 $699. Both should be available by June. Exact UK pricing and availability for both new models will be confirmed shortly.
The Billie Jean earphones have a suggested retail price of £299, and will be available from a range of UK retailers later in May.
For more information visit Astell&Kern.
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Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. Jay heads up StereoNET as Editor for the United Kingdom and Europe regions. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in: Headphones
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