A&K DOUBLES DOWN ON DACs

It’s one thing to have dual DACs running on separate channels. And it’s not uncommon to be offered a choice of DAC filters with which you can experiment to find your perfect response. But with its SE200, the second model in the premium ‘A&futura’ line of portable audio players, Astell&Kern has actually installed two separate DACs, and with two separate amp stages to optimise their different characteristics.

In fact it’s really three DACs, since the SE200 is fitted with the latest audiophile ES9068AS from ESS running in a dual-DAC configuration. But Astell&Kern then added a single AK4499EQ, AKM’s flagship DAC, which is used in its flagship SP2000. This is, says A&K proudly, “the world’s first multi-DAC DAP”. And you can further customise your sound by choosing from the DAC filters provided by each DAC manufacturer.

The SE200 supports native 32bit/384kHz and DSD256 playback, with both DAC/amp paths playing to either the unbalanced minijack or balanced 3.5mm headphone connections. Feedback on DAC choice, bit-rate and volume is neatly provided by a chameleon LED around the volume wheel which displays red, green, blue or purple, while highgloss ceramic has replaced the usual Gorilla glass on the aluminium body to deliver both premium feel and improved wireless performance. The A&K SE200 sells for $2299. More info: www.busisoft.com.au