Astell & Kern – A&futura SE300

The Astell & Kern SE300 series by Astell&Kern embodies the company’s relentless pursuit of innovation. The SE300, as the fourth model in this distinguished line, stands as a premium digital audio player that not only inherits this tradition of innovation but also pushes the boundaries of sound with the introduction of groundbreaking technology.

The SE300 boasts an ultra-refined R-2R DAC, along with Class A/AB dual amplifiers crafted using our exclusive TERATON ALPHA technology. Breaking new ground, the SE300 features, for the first time, a self-developed FPGA optimized technology. These unparalleled components collectively embody the true sound philosophy and technological prowess of Astell&Kern.

Immerse yourself in the authentic analog sound produced by the SE300, made possible through the harmonious integration of Class-A AMP and R-2R DAC technologies. This marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time such a combination is featured in an Astell&Kern player. With the SE300, Astell&Kern invites you to experience a new dimension of audio fidelity, where innovation meets a commitment to delivering an unparalleled listening experience.

• Fully Discrete 24 bit R-2R DAC
• Equipped with 96 ultra-precision 0.01% & TCR10 resistors
• New Dual AMP (Class A/AB) mode
• Option for OS / NOS modes
• Implemented self-developed and optimized FPGA technology
• New Crimson theme UI/UX
• Supports Bluetooth 5.0 and wireless Hi-Fi

Fully Discrete 24bit R-2R DAC

In the pursuit of faithfully reproducing analog sounds, the design philosophy of the A&futura SE300 audio player took a groundbreaking approach by integrating the DAC and AMP sections for the first time during the initial design phase.

Distinguishing itself from conventional audio players that typically employ Delta-Sigma DACs, the Astell&Kern SE300 features an R-2R DAC, also known as a Ladder DAC. This unique configuration, arranging resistors in a ladder form, delivers natural yet dynamic Hi-Fi sounds. While the R-2R DAC presents a technical challenge due to its intricate requirements, involving complex refined resistor units and intricate current controls, Astell&Kern took on the challenge.

Overcoming these technical hurdles demanded several years of development, involving extensive trial and error. The result is a meticulously crafted analog sound that pushes the boundaries of what is achievable. Astell&Kern dedicated time and effort to select each of the 96 ultra-precision resistors, finalizing the R-2R DAC technology that now defines the Astell&Kern SE300.

The Astell & Kern SE300 signifies a significant leap toward achieving analog sound from a digital source. It represents the culmination of Astell&Kern’s unwavering commitment to uncompromising craftsmanship, showcasing the brand’s dedication to finding the ultimate sound solution through a journey marked by precision and innovation.

Supporting Class A/AB Dual AMP Mode

The Astell & Kern SE300 introduces a versatile Dual AMP mode, offering users the flexibility to tailor their listening experience to their preferences and music genres. It incorporates both Class A amplification, characterized by low distortions and natural sounds, and Class AB amplification, known for delivering dynamic sounds with high efficiency. This dual-amp feature empowers users to select the amplification mode that aligns with their musical preferences at any given moment.

In this audio player, Astell&Kern’s proprietary designs give birth to Class A/AB Dual AMPs, ensuring that users experience the distinctive and authentic sounds for which Astell&Kern is renowned. These amplifiers not only contribute to the reduction of power consumption but also enhance output and eliminate unwanted noise, resulting in a pristine and immersive listening experience.

With the Astell & Kern SE300, Astell&Kern invites users to immerse themselves in the true sounds that only their unique combination of R-2R DAC and Class A/AB Dual AMPs can deliver, offering a personalized and high-fidelity audio journey.

Class A AMP Mode

The Class A AMP featured in the SE300 is an analog amplifier renowned for its exceptional linear output. It excels in amplifying signals without introducing distortion or signal loss, resulting in a soft, warm, and natural sound reproduction. This amplifier, working in harmony with the refined analog signal generated directly by the R-2R DAC, is designed to reproduce audio with unparalleled fidelity.

The organic and powerful nature of the Class A AMP enables the Astell&Kern SE300 to deliver a sound that closely mirrors the original analog audio. The seamless integration of the R-2R DAC and the Class A AMP in the SE300 underscores Astell&Kern’s commitment to providing audiophiles with an authentic and immersive listening experience, capturing the essence of the source material with remarkable precision.

Class AB AMP Mode

The Class AB AMP integrated into the SE300 is an analog amplifier known for delivering a powerful output while maintaining high efficiency. This design combines the best of both Class A and Class B amplifier characteristics. It provides a dynamic and crisp sound profile with the added advantage of reduced harmonic distortion.

The inherent efficiency of the Class AB AMP makes it well-suited for reproducing music with impactful dynamics, ensuring that the Astell&Kern SE300 can handle a wide range of genres and musical nuances. Astell&Kern’s inclusion of the Class AB AMP in the SE300 reflects a commitment to versatility, allowing users to enjoy a broad spectrum of audio experiences with clarity and precision.

2-Step Gain Mode for the Perfect Hi-Fi Experience

The SE300 features a 2-step Gain Level mode for optimal adaptation to a variety of headphones and in-ear monitors (IEMs). The “Normal” and “High Gain” settings enable powerful sound reproduction and excellent driver control. The balanced connection supports up to 6 Vrms, making it effortless to drive high-impedance headphones.

Supporting Optimized FPGA OS / NOS Modes

The Astell&Kern SE300 incorporates Astell&Kern’s exclusively developed FPGA, offering optimized OS/NOS (Over Sampling/Non-Over Sampling) modes for enhanced audio performance.

Unlike conventional approaches using off-the-shelf commercial semiconductor chipsets, the SE300 employs a self-developed FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). This FPGA facilitates the relay of digital signals to the R-2R DAC through a proprietary algorithm, ensuring a customized and optimized design unique to Astell&Kern.

Specifically tailored for the SE300, Astell&Kern’s FPGA supports the most ideal OS/NOS configurations. Users can enjoy distinct sound styles produced by the meticulously designed NOS and OS modes, fine-tuned to complement the SE300’s hardware and programs.

Design

The A&futura SE300 embodies the design concept of ‘Stream’, drawing inspiration from the fluidity and movement of water. The aluminum main body, with streamlined surfaces, represents the flow of music, creating a harmonious blend of firmness and flexibility. Contrasting materials such as stainless steel and glass intensify the ‘Stream’ theme, and the curved bottom enhances ergonomic grip.

The stainless steel-coated right side, polished surfaces, and triangular-patterned volume wheel contribute to powerful visual contrasts. The straight pattern on the rear of the volume wheel adds visual density, allowing users to control volume and monitor changes. The wheel lighting, strategically placed, creates an effect of light bursting from the inside, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

The rear glass features a new etching pattern, extending the ‘Stream’ concept with the Astell&Kern A logo. The varying inclinations and sizes of the logo amplify the sense of flow, adding depth to the rectangular rear glass. The SE300’s design not only captures the essence of ‘Stream’ but also ensures a visually striking and ergonomic user experience.