Astell&Kern – A&Ultima SP3000M

The A&ultima series continues to present advanced and innovative technology and the standard of perfect sound. A&K renewed their commitment to this goal and began to delve deep into the concept of true portability with unrivaled performance and unmatched sound performance. The process was not easy; they had to overcome numerous unending challenges in keeping the perfect sound performance on par with SP3000 while reducing the device’s size.

Compact Size, Limitless Sound

They began the development of an audio device that is smaller and lighter, while still delivering perfect sound. After dozens of changes were made to the circuit, they finally present the SP3000M. The innovative Hexa audio structure separates digital and analog signal processing and independent dual audio circuit for unrivaled audio performance SP3000M offers all these features in its lighter, compact design allowing you to enjoy incredibly vivid sounds you will not experience anywhere else. A true Hi-Fi portable audio player with the best audio performance and equally sophisticated design, the SP3000M offers all of this in the palm of your hand.

Features Summary

• The successor to the SP3000’s global, top-notch audio performance
• Lightweight and portable, anywhere and at any time
• TERATON ALPHA Sound Solution, the essence of AK’s audio technology
• Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals in a HEXA Structure
• Equipped with proven independent dual audio circuits
• High-performance Qualcomm Snapdragon 6125 CPU
• Analog Sensitivity VU Meter

What does the “M” stand for?

The “M” in SP3000M represents the diverse features that the player has to offer:

• Mini: Smaller in size than SP3000
• Mobility: Even better portability
• Maximum: The product with the best audio performance
• Mania: A product for those with a passion for the vivid sounds that SP3000M provides
• Mate: A companion with you anywhere and at any time
• Moment: Adding sentiment to life’s mundane moments

Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals in a HEXA Structure

Tthe SP3000M id equipped with the same innovative Hexa audio circuit design first found in the SP3000, that has four of AKM’s flagship AK4499EX DACs and two separate AK4191EQ chips that handle digital signals. Thanks to this technology, you can enjoy amazingly vivid sounds only Astell&Kern can create. Most digital players process digital and analog signals together inside the DAC. However, the SP3000’s advanced HEXA structure reduces the noise of the digital signal input through the AK4191EQ, a separate digital delta-sigma modulator, and the AK4499EX DAC is then designed to process the analog signals separately. With such an unparalleled design, SP3000M physically separates digital and analog signals, completely boasting the perfect A&ultima sounds through the unmatched 130 dB SNR, equal to the SP3000, despite its much smaller size.

Silver Plated Shield Can

A shield can is applied to prevent various noise and electromagnetic interference from affecting the audio block. The SP3000M takes it a step further to achieve excellent audio performance and perfect shielding by applying highly conductive, high-purity silver on the existing shield can, and physically separating digital and analog signals.

Stunning Audio Performance with Independent Dual Audio Circuits

In order to create a truly innovative DAP, not just a great DAP, A&K tried to overcome the limitations of sound by envisioning an independent dual audio circuit that has never been attempted by anyone featuring a HEXA structure with unbalanced and balanced outputs. Almost all other DAPs, including Astell&Kern, use an internal DAC for both unbalanced and balanced outputs. Since the signal from the DAC is divided into unbalanced and balanced then delivered to the AMP, an Audio Switch is essential. However, when using a switch, there is a limit to the range that can receive the signal sent by the DAC, so most DAPs reduce the signal size first and then when the signal is transmitted back to the amplifier, it is necessary to restore the original signal size. This causes a limitation in improving the audio performance. To overcome the limitations, the engineers designed a HEXA structure using two AK4191EQs and four AK4499EXs, creating an innovative unbalanced and balanced independent dual audio circuit design. As a result, the SP3000M achieves a SNR of 130dB, the best of any DAP available. You can feel the clean, pure delicacy of sound with the SP3000M that you cannot not experience in any other DAP.

TERATON ALPHA – The Essence of A&K Audio Technologies Merged Into the SP3000M

In order to develop the ultimate audio player that has never been experienced before, not only do A&K use the latest DAC and technology available, but they use the innovative audio technology of TERATON ALPHA, AK’s Ultimate Sound Solution. TERATON ALPHA, engineered through endless research, is Astell&Kern’s unique technology that has been designed to produce audio playback that is close to the original sound through effective power noise removal, efficient power management and unwavering amplification, and a fully converted audio output interface. HEXA-Audio Circuitry structure and independent dual audio circuit  implemented to the SP3000 was completed with TERATON ALPHA’s sound solution, to create the purest  original sound, and was inherited to the SP3000M.

Drive Your Music, Latest Snapdragon Octa-Core CPU

A&ultima SP3000M is equipped with a Snapdragon 6125 Octa-core processor, so you can enjoy the overwhelming sound, with faster system response and a redesigned generation user interface that moves comfortably and smoothly. Featuring a high-performance CPU and improved 8GB of DDR4 memory, which is twice the amount commonly used in other digital audio players, the more powerful system is stable with fast and fluid movement. The CPU, memory and wireless communication parts are configured as one module, with the digital circuit parts arranged in the same area creating a single system on a chip (SoC). This maximizes the efficiency of the overall circuit configuration by providing more dedicated audio-only circuit space as well as reducing heat and noise from digital circuits.

VU Meter GUI for complete musical immersion

SP3000M comes with a VU Meter GUI, which debuted on the SP3000T and was well-received by consumers for an even more immersive experience. The VU Meter, an iconic piece of audio equipment with a long-standing history, displays voltage levels of voice signals to aid volume measurement and adjustment. Beyond its utilitarian function, the VU Meter’s unique design and retro charm help to enhance the immersive music-listening experience. Conveniently accessible via the bottom navigation bar, the VU Meter on the SP3000M allows you to monitor sound levels while viewing album art or streaming via our Open App Service.

Digital Audio Remaster Technology for Even More Vivid Original Sound

The SP3000M is equipped with Digital Audio Remaster(DAR) technology, which was developed to deliver fine sound at higher sample rates. DAR technology is developed to upsample the sample rate of the sound source being played to go beyond the limits of the source format. The high sample rate allows more refined play and offers delicate and analog-like original sound, helping you to enjoy the richness of the original sound, subtle differences in the nuance of the music and rich sounds at a higher level.

Streaming and AK Connect Network Play — Designed for Convenience

Astell&Kern’s audio players are seamlessly integrated with external streaming apps through the Open App Service. Enjoy high-quality streaming from platforms like Tidal and Apple Music with the unparalleled fidelity of the SP3000M. With AK Connect, our network play feature, you can easily access and play/download music from PCs and devices connected to the same network as the SP3000M in real-time. Elevate your streaming experience to new heights with Open App Service and AK Connect.

High-Quality Wireless Hi-Fi Sound with BT Sink

BT Sink allows you to connect the SP3000M to external devices such as smartphones and PCs via Bluetooth. Transmit sound from an external device directly to the SP3000M with just one pairing. Enjoy superior sound quality with support for high-quality codecs such as LDAC and AptX. Elevate your listening experience with seamless wireless connectivity through BT Sink.

Crossfeed, Speaker effect when listening through headphones

In a headphone environment in which the left and right channels are clearly separated, ear fatigue may increase during prolonged listening. The moment you turn on Crossfeed, the experience of crisp, but comfortable sound begins. Crossfeed mixes parts of the original signal from one channel and sends that signal to the opposite channel with a time difference to center the sound image. Through the use of detailed settings such as Shelf Cutoff, Shelf Gain, and Mixer Level, you can set the level of crossfeed according to your listening preferences. * Crossfeed supports PCM formats of 24 bits / 192 kHz or less.

Supports Native DSD512, 32bit/768kHz

SP3000M supports Native DSD512 and up to 32bit/768kHz with Astell&Kern’s excellent audio technology, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite music.

QC 3.0 Fast Charging Supported

The SP3000M supports Qualcomm QC 3.0 fast charging, so you can charge your DAP faster and more efficiently than previous models, reaching a full charge in about 3.5 hours.

AK File Drop to enjoy wireless transfers

The new AK File Drop function in the SP3000M makes files transfers easier and more convenient. Using AK File Drop, you can freely transfer files wirelessly through a PC, smartphone, or FTP program located on the same network. Music file management is now possible with a cableless, wireless solution.

ReplayGain Automatically and Uniformly Adjusts Playback Volume

ReplayGain, which adjusts sound sources with different volumes to an identical level, has been applied. Now, enjoy your own playlists seamlessly through the ReplayGain feature on SP3000M. * ReplayGain supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz sound sources.

Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz)

SP3000M offers Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 Ghz), providing enhanced network performance to enjoy Hi-Fi music through various streaming services.

Premium Leather Case

The SP3000M’s bundle case is crafted from soft cowhide by GRUPPO MASTROTTO, boasting a superior level of craftsmanship that befits the A&ultima SP3000M. The leather case features a soft touch and has undergone a proprietary patented “anti-bacterial” and “anti-virus” process. Using chrome tanning and dyeing with high-quality pigments, the leather maintains a uniform surface quality and showcases the distinctive vibrant colors characteristic of Italian leather. The rear pattern of the case expresses the same pattern as the SP3000M, providing a perfect sense of unity.

Leather from GRUPPO MASTROTTO

GRUPPO MASTROTTO is a leather specialist manufacturer that continues a tradition of over 60 years since the Mastrotto family established ‘Conceria Mastrotto’ in Arzignano, Italy, in 1958. With more than 2,200 employees worldwide, they produce high-quality leather through 18 rigorous processes across 15 factories. They are one of Italy’s most authoritative groups in the leather industry.

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Tech Facts

General Specifications
Model	SP3000M (PPF43)
Body Color	Black
Body Material	Aluminum
Display	4.1inch HD 720 x 1280 touch screen
Supported Audio Formats	WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF
Sample rate	PCM : 8kHz ~ 768kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample) DSD : DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), StereoDSD512(1bit, 22.4MHz), Stereo
Output Level	Unbalanced 3.3Vrms │ Balanced 6.3Vrms (Condition No Load)
CPU	Octa-core
DAC	AKM AK4191EQ x2 & AK4499EX x4
Decoding	Support up to 32bit / 768kHz playback
Input	USB Type-C input (for charging & PC & MAC)
Outputs	Unbalanced Out (3.5mm), Balanced Out  4.4m (only 5-pole supported)
Wi-Fi	802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5GHz)
Bluetooth	V5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, LDAC, LHDC)
Dimensions	2.72” (69.1mm)[W] x 4.70” (119.6mm)[H] x 0.74” (18.8mm)[D]
Weight	Aluminum about 8.36oz (237g)
Feature Enhancements	Firmware upgrade supported (OTA)
Operating Temperature	0℃ ~ + 40℃ (32℉~ 104℉)
Audio Specifications
Frequency Response	±0.020dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.025dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced ±0.032dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.025dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Balanced
S/N	126dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 130dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
Crosstalk	-140dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -144dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
THD+N	0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.0003% @ 1kHz, Balanced
IMD SMPTE	0.0004% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │Balanced
Output Impedance	Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (0.6ohm) │ Balanced Out 4.4mm(1.2ohm)
Clock Source
Clock Jitter	25pS (Typ)
Reference Clock Jitter	200 Femto Seconds
Storage Capacity
Built-in Memory	256GB [NAND]
External Memory	microSD x1 (Max. 1.5TB)
Battery
Capacity	4,200mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer
Charge Time	about 3.5hours (QC3.0 Charging)
Playback Time	about 10hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Vol.80, LCD Off, Low Gain)
Supported OS
Supported OS	Windows 10,11(32/64bit) MAC OS X 10.7