Astell&Kern's SA700 is a "past meets present" design according to the company.
While there is a whiff of retro around the SA700 digital audio player, there is a raft of bang-up-to-date tech too.
A&K SA700 Tech
Firstly, the SA700 is rocking bit-to-bit playback up to 32-bit, 384kHz and native DSD playback up to 11.2MHz thanks to being the first DAP to sport the AK4492ECB Dual DAC. Pretty much every audio file format is welcomed by the player it seems.
Additionally, the 4.1-inch (1280 x 720) touchscreen display also features a new graphic user interface.
We are already fans of the LED light indicator that surrounds the typical A&K volume wheel.
The different colours of the LED signify the track's bit rate so, red for 16-bit, green for 24-bit, blue for 32-bit, purple for DSD). Also, according to the Astell&Kern website, there are 150 levels of red saturation that indicates the playback volume.
Finally, you get USB-C input, both balanced (2.5mm) and unbalanced (3.5mm) outputs as well as Bluetooth aptX HD if you prefer to go untethered.
Price and availability
The SA700 will be available in two colours, onyx black and stainless steel.
Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but we reckon you should put away £1300 if you fancy one.
Posted in: Headphones
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