Astell&Kern has introduced the PS10, a compact digital music player designed to fit conveniently in your pocket or handbag. Additionally, the PS10 includes a docking station for straightforward connection to an amplifier or active speakers. This innovative device is set to make its worldwide debut at CanJam Singapore in April 2025.
Astell&Kern PS10
The Astell&Kern PS10 is compatible with all contemporary file formats and codecs, and it is also Red Ready.
Central to the PS10’s exceptional performance is Astell&Kern’s HEXA audio circuitry, which incorporates four AKM AK4498EX DAC chips along with two AK4191EQ chips. This sophisticated configuration reduces digital signal noise and enhances audio clarity by processing analogue signals independently.
In contrast to conventional digital audio players that utilize a single DAC chip for both balanced and single-ended outputs, the PS10 features separate dual audio circuits. This design guarantees optimal audio quality for any output used, effectively preventing signal degradation that often occurs during switching and amplification in other devices.
The PS10 features impedance-adaptive dual amplifiers, making it compatible with a diverse array of in-ear and over-ear headphones. The Normal Gain AMP is specifically calibrated for lower impedance devices, providing a refined and high-fidelity sound, while the High Gain AMP is designed to accommodate higher impedance headphones, offering enhanced dynamic range and clarity. This dual-amplifier configuration is further enhanced by the Smart Gain function, which automatically selects the appropriate amplifier based on the impedance of the connected headphones, ensuring an optimal listening experience without requiring manual adjustments.
It comes with 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card up to 2TB. The PS10 supports dual-band Wi-Fi and DLNA networking, with USB-C serving as the standard for file transfers and charging. Additionally, it can operate as an external DAC through Bluetooth or a direct USB connection to computers. The device supports high-resolution playback up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512, with an LED ring around the power button that indicates the bitrate. Users can also access crossfeed settings, ReplayGain, and a wide range of Bluetooth codec support, including aptX HD, LHDC, and LDAC.
Drawing inspiration from the ‘Contrast Cube’, the PS10’s design merges stainless steel and glass, resulting in a sleek, contemporary appearance that facilitates intuitive one-handed operation. The traditional volume wheel has been replaced with buttons, enhancing the minimalist design and user interaction. With a robust 5,770mAh battery providing up to 15 hours of playback and support for Power Delivery 3.0, the PS10 effectively combines portability with impressive performance.
This latest model not only underscores Astell&Kern’s dedication to portable audio but also presents a compelling alternative to dedicated high-end network streamers, making it a desirable option for discerning audiophiles.
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