Tag: high-end audio

  • Astell & Kern SP4000T: Best Quad-Tube Hi-Res Audio Player

    Astell & Kern SP4000T: Best Quad-Tube Hi-Res Audio Player

    – Quad-tube vacuum tube design with Triode, Pentode, and Ultra Linear modes
    – Dual AKM DACs and DSPs for ultra-low distortion (THD < 0.0006%) - High-resolution audio support up to DSD512 and PCM 768kHz - Android 15 with octa-core CPU, 256GB storage, and 1.5TB expandable - Expected price above $3,900; debuts at High End Show Vienna 2026[/key]

    Astell & Kern’s Latest Flagship DAP

    The A&ultima SP4000T quad-tube digital audio player has been unveiled by Astell & Kern, making its debut at the High End Show Vienna 2026 on June 4. This device is powered by an octa-core CPU running Android 15, it also has 256 GB of internal storage that can be expanded up to 1.5 TB using microSD cards, plus a 6-inch Full HD touchscreen. Dual-band 802.11ax Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity is included, and you can use it as a USB DAC with computers.

    Audio Processing and Tube Modes

    Dual AKM4191EQ digital signal processors and dual AKM4499EX DACs process the audio, integrated with four Raytheon JAN6418 vacuum tubes that bring the warmth of desktop tube amplifer decks. The tubes can be operated in Triode, Pentode, and Ultra Linear modes, also allowing fine-tuning of other processing settings to bring out sound characteristics that favor each user. This makes the device highly customizable for different listening preferences.

    Technical Specifications and Connectivity

    The resulting audio has a frequency response of ±0.006dB at 20Hz to 20kHz and ±0.06dB at 20Hz to 70kHz, THD is less than 0.0006%, and the SNR is under 124dB. It supports both 3.5 mm unbalanced and 4.4 mm balanced wired headphones, along with aptX HD, LDAC, LHDC, SBC, and AAC codecs for wireless headphones. This ensures compatability with a wide range of audio gear.

    Lossless Playback and Battery Life

    DSD512 and PCM 768kHz lossless music streams are supported, and the player can restore lost harmonics in compressed music using VSE (Virtual Sound Extender). The 7,450 mAh battery runs up to 10 hours between charges, which take five hours according to the company. Battery performance is decent for a high-end portable device.

    Pricing and Availability

    The A&ultima SP4000T in copper or stainless steel will likely be priced above the SP4000’s entry-level price of $3,900. Readers who can only dream of spending that much might look into a more affordable DAP. Astell & Kern has not yet confirmed final pricing for this model.


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  • Honor Earbuds 4: Wireless with Titanium Drivers & 50dB Noise Cancellation

    Honor Earbuds 4: Wireless with Titanium Drivers & 50dB Noise Cancellation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dual Drivers: Each earbud features an 11-mm and a 6-mm driver with titanium coating for enhanced audio quality across the frequency spectrum.

    2. Stylish Design and Battery Life: Available in two colors with metal accents, the charging case provides up to 46 hours of battery life without ANC and 25 hours with charging breaks.

    3. Active Noise Cancellation: The earbuds can reduce background noise by up to 50 dB and have two transparency modes for safety in urban environments.

    4. Gaming Features: They include a low-latency mode, making them suitable for gamers who need quick audio feedback.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Currently priced at about $49 in China, with no information on international availability.

    The Honor Earbuds 4 are marketed as premium earbuds, showcasing two drivers in each ear. These consist of an 11-millimeter driver paired with a 6-millimeter driver, aiming to deliver a well-rounded audio experience throughout the full frequency spectrum. Both of these drivers have a titanium coating.

    Design and Battery Life

    Available in two stylish colors, the Honor Earbuds 4 also feature unique metal accents on the earbuds and their charging case. The charging case boasts a maximum battery life of 46 hours, but this number is achieved with intermediate charging and only when active noise cancellation (ANC) is turned off. When ANC is in use, the earbuds can last up to 5 hours at a moderate volume and approximately 25 hours with charging breaks, as reported by Honor.

    Noise Cancellation Features

    The earbuds can minimize disruptive background sounds by as much as 50 dB, and they are said to provide a surround sound experience. Additionally, there are two transparency modes that enable users to hear nearby vehicles or voices, which can be beneficial for joggers, urban residents, or commuters who need to stay alert to potential dangers or important announcements. The earbuds are claimed to meet IP54 standards and come with a low-latency mode, which is especially important for gamers.

    In China, the Honor Earbuds 4 are currently priced at about $49. There’s no news yet on whether they will be available internationally.

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    Honor Earbuds 4: Wireless with Titanium Drivers & 50dB Noise Cancellation

     

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  • Astell and Kern Launches $2,700 Luna IEMs for Groundbreaking Sound

    Astell and Kern Launches $2,700 Luna IEMs for Groundbreaking Sound

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique unipolar planar 13mm drivers designed for superior sound quality and clarity.
    2. Earbuds feature a frequency range of 20Hz to 30kHz, impedance of 5 ohms, and sensitivity of 105 dB/mW.
    3. Durable aluminum body with a titanium casing, handcrafted in Japan, inspired by the shape of the moon.
    4. Swappable 4.4mm oxygen-free copper cable coated in silver, compatible with third-party 2-pin cables.
    5. Priced at $2,700, includes seven pairs of ear tips and an Alcantara carrying case.

    The new Astell & Kern Luna earbuds are being hailed as “revolutionary.” This statement is largely backed by the unique unipolar planar 13mm drivers, which are specifically created for the Luna and encased in a sturdy aluminum body.

    Superior Sound Quality

    These drivers are designed to deliver remarkably quick response times, natural sound qualities, and exceptional clarity, enabling them to reproduce the most minute acoustic details accurately. According to Astell & Kern’s official specifications, these earbuds have a frequency range stretching from 20Hz to 30kHz, an impedance of 5 ohms, and a sensitivity level of 105 dB/mW.

    Quality Build and Features

    The earbuds come with a cable featuring a 4.4mm connector, made from oxygen-free copper that is coated in silver to ensure optimal sound quality. If the cable gets damaged, it can be swapped out, and the earbuds also work with third-party cables that have a 2-pin connector. Manufactured in Japan, these headphones boast a titanium casing that is reportedly handcrafted. The design of the casing draws inspiration from the “gentle shape of the moon,” which is why these IEMs have their unique name.

    Pricing and Accessories

    Currently, the Astell & Kern Luna flagship headphones are priced at $2,700 on select online platforms like Bloom Audio. Along with the earbuds and the cable, Astell & Kern provides seven pairs of ear tips made from various materials, as well as an Alcantara carrying case.

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    Astell and Kern Launches $2,700 Luna IEMs for Groundbreaking SoundAstell and Kern Launches $2,700 Luna IEMs for Groundbreaking SoundAstell and Kern Launches $2,700 Luna IEMs for Groundbreaking Sound
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