Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000 Hi-Res Music Player
Serious audiophiles demand only the best when it comes to their gadgets. Years of listening to high-definition music are training their ears to appreciate subtle nuances. By now, we know that the quality of the headphones or earphones really matters. However, without the aid of a capable audio player, you might as get a regular pair of cans. The Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000 is a premium piece of equipment that delivers top-notch music playback.
When it comes to performance and features, this flagship model is ready to deliver. Within its metallic shell resides two Asahi Kasei AK4499EQ DACs for superior audio reproduction. It sports a 5-inch 1,280 x 720-resolution touchscreen with a metal housing crafted from stainless steel or copper. We think the latter version just oozes a classy vibe that accentuates the angular form factor of the frame. On the right flank sits an analog volume knob that matches the shade of the body.
The Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000 comes with a 512 GB internal memory, which is more than enough even for lossless audio formats. Nevertheless, just in case you need more space, the device supports microSD card expansion up to 512 GB. Meanwhile, a full charge offers up to eight hours of continuous playback. Moreover, it supports fast charging technology to completely fill up its 3,700 mAh battery from empty in just 2.5 hours. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity are likewise available just in case you need it. Finally, with an asking price of around $3,499, it’s a pricey investment for portable audio bliss.