Astell&Kern A&ultima SP2000T Portable Audio Player

The SP2000T exceeds the standard approach to AMP Mode selection, based on the type of music you are listening to. Select between TUBE AMP mode, OP AMP mode, or the brand-new HYBRID AMP mode. OP AMP mode puts Astell&Kern's AMP technology expertise to use, delivering extreme clarity and dynamic sound, while TUBE AMP mode provides a uniquely warm and musical sound. 

 

HYBRID AMP mode - a first for digital audio players - enhances the resolution and clarity of the existing TUBE AMP mode to express more musical detail. HYBRID AMP mode, combines the advantages of retro analog performance and high-resolution output, giving you the pleasure of a brand new tonal characteristic.

Equipped with the portable-friendly dual-triode KORG Nutube, for a unique TUBE AMP sound. Nutube offers a reliable continuous playback time of approximately 30,000 hours.It features an anode grid filament structure which operates the same as a triode vacuum tube.It's much smaller, consumes far less power and yet delivers the same audio with rich overtones. The SP2000T supports all output types, with no restriction on the type of receiver used, so listeners can enjoy the unique characteristics of the vacuum tube.

HYBRID AMP mode supported for the first time by DAP is the essence of Astell&Kern's advanced AMP design technology. New combinations of sounds can be enjoyed in HYBRID AMP mode, which is based on the OP AMP sound and addition of tasteful warm tones unique to TUBE AMP technology.

SP200T features a special design tailored to minimize microphonics (the phenomenon wherein the vacuum tubes generate noise even from a small external impact). Multiple design iterations and verifications have been performed over a long period of time to fix the structural issues of vacuum tubes that generate microphonics noise even from a small impact or vibration.

 

For minimization of mechanical impact and vibration, both sides of the vacuum tube are fixed with flexible silicone covers, and the vacuum tube has been modularized so it is physically separate from the PCB. Astell&Kern goes to great lengths to innovate and design these small components that make a big difference in the quality and sound of our products that no other manufacturer can match.