Astell&Kern A&ultima SP4000 – Flagship Digital Audio Player
The Astell&Kern A&ultima SP4000 represents the pinnacle of portable high-resolution audio, designed for audiophiles seeking uncompromising sound quality. As the successor to the acclaimed SP3000, the SP4000 introduces a new Octa audio circuit architecture, delivering unmatched clarity, detail, and dynamics in a portable player. With its combination of advanced DAC technology, refined circuitry, and luxurious design, it sets a new benchmark in reference-grade digital audio players.
Key Features
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Octa Audio Circuit Architecture: Innovative design with eight DAC chips (AKM4191 x4 + AKM4499EX x4) for true Quad DAC performance
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Enhanced ESA Technology: Proprietary Enhanced Signal Alignment minimizes group delay and improves time-domain accuracy
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Powerful Output: High Driving Mode delivers 4.1 Vrms unbalanced and 8.2 Vrms balanced for demanding headphones
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Noise Suppression: Ultra Low Noise LDO Regulator and 99.9% pure copper shielding for pristine playback
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Full Android OS: First Astell&Kern flagship player with open Android system for broader app compatibility
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Premium Design: Stainless steel 904L chassis with a 6” 2K touch display and 4.5th gen UI
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Comprehensive Wireless Support: Dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC, aptX HD, LHDC, AAC, and SBC
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Generous Storage: 256 GB internal memory plus microSD expansion up to 1.5 TB
Quick Specs
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DAC: 4x AKM4191 + 4x AKM4499EX (Quad DAC)
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CPU: Octa-core
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Display: 6" 2K (2160 × 1080) touchscreen
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Output Level: 4.1 Vrms unbalanced, 8.2 Vrms balanced
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Frequency Support: PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz, DSD512 native
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Outputs: 3.5 mm unbalanced/optical, 4.4 mm balanced
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Wireless: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0
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Internal Memory: 256 GB NAND
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Expandable Memory: microSD (up to 1.5 TB)
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Battery: 8,000 mAh lithium-ion
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Dimensions: 85 × 149.8 × 19.5 mm
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Weight: approx. 615 g
What’s in the Box
- Astell&Kern A&ultima SP4000
- Protective film
- microSD card slot cover
- USB Type-C cable
- Quick Start Guide & Warranty Card
Use Cases / Ideal For
The SP4000 is ideal for audiophiles, recording professionals, and discerning listeners who demand studio-grade playback on the go. Perfect for high-resolution streaming, reference listening with flagship IEMs and headphones, and use as a high-quality DAC in desktop setups.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Class-leading Octa audio circuit for unmatched sound quality
- Quad DAC implementation with ultra-low noise design
- Premium stainless steel build with 6” 2K display
- Full Android OS for app flexibility
- Expandable storage up to 1.5 TB
⚠️ Cons:
- Large and heavy compared to entry-level DAPs
- Flagship performance comes at a premium price
The Astell&Kern A&ultima SP4000 is more than a music player—it is a flagship reference instrument for those who want nothing less than the very best portable audio experience.
