A&ultima SP4000T is the culmination of nearly two years of dedication and exploration, beginning from the
planning and development stages of SP3000T.
DAC, Tube, and AMP — the essential elements of high-end audio — may be accessible to anyone. Yet even with
the same elements, what is ultimately created from them is an entirely different matter.
Using the canvas of SP4000, the essence of digital sound, Astell&Kern held onto one defining question over
the past two years:
“How can we bring deeper emotion through analog sound?”
The answer was drawn with sincerity and endless passion, stroke by stroke. Every trace of that journey is
distilled into SP4000T.
Astell&Kern’s own analog sound — comfortable to listen to, yet revealing new depth and character the longer
you experience it.
Discover it for yourself with A&ultima SP4000T.
AK4191EQ x2
AK4499EX x2
Octa-Core
Quad
Tube
Triple
AMP
Triple
Tube
Tube
Current
Full
AOS
The SP4000T is the industry's first DAP to feature the MIL-Spec vintage vacuum
tube RAYTHEON JAN6418 in a Quad configuration.
With independent dual-tube structures dedicated to the left and right channels respectively, the
channel-separated design — once exclusive to home audio high-end tube amplifiers — has finally
been brought to the world of DAPs.
But the essence is not the number of tubes. Managing multiple highly sensitive vacuum tubes is
far more than a simple matter of addition. It demands answers to countless questions: How do you
pair tubes with subtly different noise characteristics and gain rates? How do you overcome
microphonic noise? How do you minimize output variation between left and right channels?
The four tubes in the SP4000T do not operate independently — they work in a differential
configuration, with each pair facing the other in mirror symmetry. In this precise balance,
music signals are amplified with twice the clarity, while common-mode noise is mutually
cancelled and eliminated.
Each of the four tubes is precisely measured for its noise and gain characteristics before being
paired, then fully isolated from noise through independent modular flexible PCBs and a
multi-layered architecture — a design that only Astell&Kern, with its long experience in analog
circuits and vacuum tubes, could bring to life.
When four hearts beat as one in perfect balance, the tube's signature rich harmonics resonate
with the deepest, most resonant sound ever heard in the SP4000T.
The SP4000T is the industry's first DAP to feature Triple Tube Mode. Combined with the T Series
Signature Triple AMP Mode and the Tube Current level adjustment first found on the SP3000T, it offers up
to 54 possible combinations tailored to any genre or preference — a true Analog Sound Palette.
Because how you operate the same tube fundamentally changes its tonal character, Triple Tube Mode
encompasses the full expressive range of a tube amplifier. The delicacy of Triode, the balance of Ultra
Linear, the dynamics of Pentode — the extraordinary analog sound experience once exclusive to high-end
tube amplifiers is now yours in the SP4000T.
This mode brings out the richest harmonic texture unique to vacuum tubes, letting the breath of a vocalist and the trembling of strings gently dissolve into a lush, lingering reverb.
A design that blends the tonal color of Triode with the output of Pentode. The sound fades softly at its edges, yet carries a firm, solid core — a well-balanced mode capable of rendering every genre with authority.
Maximizing tube amplifier output and dynamic range, this mode retains the tube's signature warmth while stripping away reverb — delivering a clean, powerful presence that speaks with directness and force.
* Tube Mode applies only in Tube AMP and Hybrid AMP modes.
A&ultima SP4000T, built on Astell&Kern's exclusive Teraton Alpha technology, achieves a perfect fusion of
true analog sound from the Quad-configured Real Vacuum Tubes and the dynamic sound of the OPAMP.
SP4000T offers TUBE AMP mode for the authentic analog sound of a tube amplifier, OP AMP mode delivering
Astell&Kern's signature clarity and expansive soundstage, and HYBRID AMP mode combining the best of both
analog warmth and high-resolution output.
Experience a distinctly differentiated sound through the T Series' signature amplifier technology.
High resolution that reproduces the original sound without distortion, an unparalleled sense of space, and the ultimate in clarity and dynamics — OP AMP mode delivers the pinnacle of high-quality sound that Astell&Kern has pioneered across every product. The ultra-low noise and high resolution achieved through Astell&Kern's TERATON ALPHA technology will reveal new dimensions of music you have never experienced before, across every genre.
The warm texture and unique soundstage of a Tube Amp cannot be replicated by any modern digital amplifier. Beloved since the very first appearance of tube amplifiers, they remain unmatched in conveying the emotional depth of music. SP4000T's TUBE AMP mode pairs the deep, rich analog sound exclusive to its Quad-configured Real Vacuum Tubes with groundbreaking low noise achieved through cutting-edge technology and craftsmanship — letting you lose yourself entirely in the music.
Beyond just two modes — Tube AMP and OP AMP — a next-generation Hybrid AMP mode lets you handpick your preferred tonal character. Combining the analog sensibility with the advantages of high-resolution output, the five-stage HYBRID AMP mode allows you to freely dial in the perfect sound for your taste and your music.
The greatest technical challenge in applying vacuum tubes to a compact portable device is achieving
low noise even at high resolution and high output.
The SP4000T features twice as many tubes as its predecessor — four in total — and introduces an
upgraded 5-stage 2nd Generation Architecture (up from the previous 4-stage design) to suppress
microphonic noise (noise generated in vacuum tubes from even minor external vibrations).
Drawing on Astell&Kern's proprietary know-how and years of experience, repeated rounds of design,
testing, and verification led to the optimal solution for overcoming the structural limitations of
microphonic noise.
1. Separate modular Flexible PCB, isolated from Main PCB
2. Silicone base cushion for primary shock absorption of the tube
3. Custom-fit silicone tube around tube leads to absorb impact transmitted through the leads
4. Silicone damper encasing the tube, suspending it mid-air at the damper tip
5. Copper Shield Can covering the entire tube, suppresses even the faintest micro-noise
We verified the safe operating range of the vacuum tubes and developed a system that adjusts the internal plate voltage across 3 levels, each of which changes the amplification of the tube amp — and with it, the tonal texture of the sound. Experience the subtle yet striking shifts in density and soundstage — the most delicate nuances a headphone or IEP can reveal — through tube current adjustment.
While operating in Tube or Hybrid mode, the vacuum tube on the back of the SP4000T glows with a soft, warm light — amplifying the subtle, stylish analog aesthetic.
* Tube LED does not illuminate in OPAMP mode.
The SP4000T integrates dual AK4499EX DACs—AKM’s latest flagship, proven across Astell&Kern devices—paired
with dedicated AK4191EQ processors for each left and right channel, forming a fully discrete audio circuit
architecture.
Unlike conventional DAPs that handle both digital and analog signals inside the DAC, the SP4000T's audio
circuit uses a dedicated digital delta-sigma modulator (AK4191EQ) to reduce noise in the digital signal
before passing it to a completely isolated Analog DAC (AK4499EX) for independent analog signal
processing.
Built on this physically complete separation of digital and analog signal paths, the SP4000T's signature
analog sound is realized with greater depth than ever before.
The SP4000T inherits the beloved High Driving Mode from the SP4000, acclaimed by audiophiles worldwide. With twice as many OPAMPs arranged horizontally, it delivers even greater sonic density. Like a four-wheel-drive vehicle conquering rough terrain, High Driving Mode channels superior driving power to produce a stronger, more stable sound — precisely articulating even the most easily missed sonic details, and designed for a deeper, more vivid listening experience.
Driving range increases linearly, but with increased noise and reduced SNR. While the sound may feel more powerful, it tends to become rougher or harsher.
The driving range expands horizontally, with no increase in noise or reduction in SNR. This results in increased dynamic range and enhanced sound detail.
The SP4000T dramatically improves Group Delay — one of audio's most persistent challenges — through its proprietary ESA (Enhanced Signal Alignment) technology. ESA aligns frequency signals so they arrive more uniformly, minimizing frequency distortion and delivering sound with greater clarity and purity.
[ Without ESA ]
[ With ESA ]
*What is Group Delay?
Group delay refers to the difference in time it takes for each frequency to pass through an internal audio
system. In simple terms, it describes a phenomenon where different frequencies within an audio signal do not
arrive simultaneously, resulting in slight timing delays across frequencies.
Advanced DAR is the 2nd-generation DAR technology, delivering even more natural and refined sound. Rather than passing audio directly to the DAR engine, it first routes the signal through VSE (Virtual Sound Extender) to virtually restore lost harmonics and enhance audio quality — then applies DAR technology in a second stage for a more complete upsampling result. This allows listeners to enjoy a deeper, more immersive sound that is truer to the original recording.
To create the ultimate DAP unlike anything experienced before, we went beyond simply adopting the latest
DACs and new specifications. We further evolved and applied TERATON ALPHA, Astell&Kern’s Ultimate Sound
Solution, incorporating its advanced and innovative audio technologies.
Refined through continuous research, TERATON ALPHA represents Astell&Kern’s integrated audio engineering
expertise. Through effective power noise reduction, efficient power consumption with stable
amplification, and a precisely engineered audio output interface, it delivers sound that remains
faithful to the original source.
ADP (Astell&Kern Direct Path) — Astell&Kern's proprietary customization technology — bypasses the Sample Rate Conversion (SRC) limitation inherent to the Android OS, enabling lossless Bit-perfect playback even in streaming environments for the highest possible audio quality.
Keeping pace with the shift toward streaming-centric listening, the SP4000T runs the latest Android 15 — delivering top-tier analog sound quality alongside exceptional convenience.
The SP4000T uses the same Any Layer HDI PCB for high performance as the SP4000. Commonly found in smartphones and high-end electronics, this high-density circuit board enables the precise design of complex circuits within a smaller footprint — minimizing signal loss and delivering more refined sound.
The SP4000T employs a complete Shield Can design to block noise and electromagnetic interference that could affect the audio block. Using a 99.9% pure copper Shield Can, it goes beyond basic shielding to deliver an even cleaner, more vivid sound.
Design your own sound style with 7 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 makeThe battery protection mode — previously fixed at 85% — now offers a wider range of options. Choose the option that best fits your Music Lifestyle.
The LED light surrounding the power button provides information on the Bit Depth of the currently playing song, and also adds a visually pleasing element by making it shine and stand out.
* The LED light can be turned on or off according to user settings.
16bit
24bit
32bit
DSD
Crossfeed mixes part of the opposite channel signal with a slight time delay and sends it to each channel, creating the effect of positioning the sound toward the center, similar to listening through speakers. This provides a more natural listening experience and helps reduce ear fatigue. With detailed settings such as Shelf Cutoff, Shelf Gain, and Mixer Level, you can fine-tune the sound to your personal preference.
ReplayGain has been applied to automatically adjust tracks with different volume levels to a
consistent loudness. Enjoy your own playlists more comfortably with ReplayGain.
* ReplayGain supports audio files up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Complete premium sound with Astell&Kern’s exclusive technology. With support for Native DSD512 and up to 32-bit/768kHz high-resolution playback, you can enjoy the music you love with outstanding performance.
With BT Sink, you can connect SP4000T to an external device via Bluetooth, just like connecting a smartphone to a Bluetooth speaker. Music playing on the external device can then be transmitted to SP4000T through BT Sink.
With USB PD 3.0 fast charging support, SP4000T can be fully charged in approximately 5 hours.
With its larger 6-inch Full HD display offering outstanding image quality, you can enjoy the SP4000T more comfortably and conveniently.
Experience faster, more stable downloads with Astell&Kern’s first-ever dual-antenna design. Based on internal testing, 5GHz download speeds are approximately 2x faster compared to the previous model.
The bundled leather case for the SP4000T was crafted using 'MINERVA' leather from 'BADALASSI CARLO',
a renowned leather workshop located in the San Miniato district of Florence, Italy.
Badalassi Carlo is a tannery that has been producing leather for over 40 years, combining the
traditional Tuscan vegetable tanning methods with the theories and techniques of CARLO BADALASSI, a
former leather-school professor from the Santa Croce region.
Vegetable tanning is an eco-friendly leather-making process — slow and time-intensive — that tans
hides using only plant-derived tannin extracts.
Badalassi Carlo leathers employ the Tuscan vacchetta technique — after removing the hair from the
hide, bovine bone powder-derived tallow is added during the vegetable oil tanning process.
Pursuing small-batch, high-quality production over mass output, the workshop is highly regarded as
the preferred leather artisan for renowned brands that place a premium on material quality.
The case is available in 'Cognac' color and wraps snugly around the entire device, offering a
perfect fit while featuring a rear pattern cutout designed to showcase the tube LED glow.
“Burst”
The Astell&Kern SP4000T is a model within the flagship lineup that focuses on the very essence of analog
sound. To realize the highest level of analog sensibility, Real Vacuum Tubes are applied in Quad
configuration for the first time in a DAP, completing a deeply immersive analog sound that transcends the
boundaries of digital players.
The SP4000T is the successor flagship to the SP4000, and its design concept keyword is "Burst."
Interpreting through formal language the moment when concentrated energy explodes outward from the center,
the design gives visual form to the source of power from which sound erupts.
The structure tightly centered around the Volume Wheel expresses a sense of focused, tensioned energy, while
the sculptural surface composition and contrast of light clearly convey the presence and physical weight of
interaction.
A design where mechanical precision and sculptural beauty coexist intuitively communicates a sense of
'power' through the fingertips. The Volume Wheel on the side is a defining element that symbolizes
Astell&Kern's heritage — and the deep groove carved into its center symbolically represents the rich density
of analog sound and the powerful driving energy of the device.
