The A&ultima series continues to present advanced and innovative technology and the standard of perfect
sound.
We renewed our 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; we had to overcome numerous unending challenges in keeping the perfect sound
performance on par with SP3000 while reducing the device’s size. We 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, we finally present you with 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.
AK4499EX
Quad-DAC
Octa-Core
Snapdragon
TERATON
ALPHA
VU METER
aptX™-HD
LDAC
NATIVE
DSD 512
The “M” in SP3000M represents the diverse features that we offer in the player.
Smaller in size than SP3000
Even better portability
The product with the best audio performance
A product for those with a passion for the vivid sounds that SP3000M provides
A companion with you anywhere and at anytime
Adding sentiment to life's mundane moments
We proudly introduce the Copper-Nickel edition of our renowned SP3000M. Combining cutting-edge audio
technology and superior sound performance, this new edition integrates the unique characteristics and
beauty of luxurious materials to elevate the SP3000M to new heights.
Astell&Kern’s previous copper editions have been praised by audiophiles for their ability
to authentically capture and reproduce the natural tones of musical instruments. Building on this, the
SP3000M Copper-Nickel is crafted from copper-nickel alloy, selected for its unparalleled ability to
enhance both sound quality and design. The copper-nickel alloy, commonly used in the crafting of wind
instruments for its rich tonal resonance, brings profound depth to the sound. This alloy, also known as
cupronickel, features a silvery luminosity often found in fine jewelry and crafts, adding a refined
elegance to the SP3000M's design.
Not only does the new material elevate the product's aesthetic presence, but it also offers
exceptional durability. With its superior corrosion resistance, the SP3000M Copper-Nickel maintains its
brilliance while providing antibacterial properties. The copper-nickel alloy boasts high electrical
conductivity and low magnetism, ensuring excellent shielding performance and a distinct tonal character.
Unlike the original SP3000M, this material allows listeners to experience a uniquely rich and detailed
sound.
Every detail of the SP3000M Copper-Nickel reflects a dedication to sound innovation and design
perfection. Experience the pinnacle of audio fidelity and artisanal craftsmanship with the SP3000M
Copper-Nickel.
* Audio Spec is based on Balanced
We equipped the SP3000M 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.
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.
In order to create a truly innovative DAP, not just a great DAP, we 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, our 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 can't experience in any other DAP.
* SP3000M and SP3000 are based on the condition no-load, Balanced, and there may be differences depending on the measurement method.
* Third-party models are the specifications listed on the official website.
In order to develop the ultimate audio player that has never been experienced before, not only do we use the
latest DAC and technology available, but we 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.
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.
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.
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.
* The DAR function can be turned on and off and you may select it to suit the source sound and your own preferences.
* Max PCM rate 384kHz/DSD64 conversion play is supported, and the files will be converted to and played in the sample rates that fit the source sound.
With the SP3000M, you can have fun creating your own sound style by selecting various DAC filters provided
by the DAC manufacturer.
Design your own sound with 6 different DAC filters.
Super Slow Roll-off
No echo reproduces
Short Delay Slow Roll-off
Minimal echo reproduces
Slow Roll-off
Minimal echo reproduces
Low dispersion
Short echo reproduces
Short Delay Sharp Roll-off
Post echo enhances
Sharp Roll-off
Pre and post echoes make
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.
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.
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.
SP3000M supports Native DSD512 and up to 32bit/768kHz with Astell&Kern’s excellent audio technology, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite music.
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.
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, 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.
SP3000M offers Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 Ghz), providing enhanced network performance to enjoy Hi-Fi music through various streaming services.
MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the
original master recording.
The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download. Visit
mqa.co.uk for more information.
Astell&Kern SP3000M includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and
streams,
delivering the sound of the original master recording.
The MQA logo is a trade mark of MQA Limited. © MQA Limited 2018
Qualcomm aptX is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.
Qualcomm is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other
countries.
aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd., registered in the United States
and other countries.
LDAC and LDAC logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
Discover more
Roon Ready network players from our partners have Roon’s high-resolution streaming technology
built right in.
They combine simple setup, daily reliability, and support for the highest level of digital audio
performance in the industry.
Every Roon Ready player is certified by Roon to guarantee the same stellar experience, regardless
of its manufacturer, its price, or its features.
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.
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.
The design concept of SP3000M is “Tension.”
While keeping the diamond-shaped front of SP3000, we added new features to emphasize it as one of our
flagship models.
The design of SP3000M was inspired by a diamond ring’s diamond and its prong. Like the dramatic
melodies of music, we added tension to the alignment of the volume knob and protector. The volume wheel knob
meets the protector at the top and bottom ends, creating an image of the wheel being held with tight
tension.
We also placed triangular shapes growing smaller toward the wheel, maximizing a sense of tension
focusing on the wheel.
The design of SP3000M brings a rhythmic tension from its edges and guides your focus to the volume
wheel knob. Other design details include the cross patterns etched on the glass surface at the back.
Reminiscent of the SP3000’s design, it also adds SP3000M’s unique concept of
“Tension” in the two patterns meeting at the corners.
