Astell&Kern AK70MKII HRA MusicPlayer

Astell&Kern AK70 MKII - Premium Hi-Res Audio Music Player

The Astell&Kern AK70 MKII is a compact, portable Hi-Res Audio (HRA) player delivering exceptional sound quality with advanced dual DAC technology. Ideal for audiophiles, it offers powerful output and refined audio performance on the go.

Key Features

• Dual DAC separates left and right audio channels for reduced noise and clearer imaging
• High audio output of 4.0Vrms balanced output to drive hard-to-drive headphones
• Compact, ergonomic design for easy carrying and one-handed operation
• Supports bit-perfect playback up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD 64/128 via conversion
• 2.5mm 4-pole balanced output for powerful, low-noise audio signal
• USB Audio and USB DAC functionality for digital music storage and enhanced PC/Mac playback
• AK Connect app for wireless playback control and streaming via Wi-Fi (iOS and Android)
• Compatible with AK CD-RIPPER accessory for easy CD ripping with metadata tagging

Product Details

The AK70 MKII builds on the original AK70 with Astell&Kern's expertise, featuring a dual DAC player under R1000. Its separated channel circuit design minimises interference, delivering a wider soundstage and clearer audio imaging when paired with headphones or speakers.

With a balanced output power of 4.0Vrms, the AK70 MKII effortlessly drives demanding headphones while maintaining Astell&Kern's natural and neutral sound signature. The redesigned audio circuit improves on previous Hi-Fi specifications including SNR, crosstalk, and THD+N, ensuring authentic and detailed sound reproduction.

Playback supports digital files up to 24-bit/192kHz bit-perfect. While 32-bit audio and single or double rate DSD files are supported, these are downsampled or converted to PCM for playback. The 2.5mm balanced output provides a stronger audio signal with less noise interference.

USB Audio mode allows the AK70 MKII to function as a digital music storage device or pre-amp, transferring native DSD via DoP or converting DSD to PCM for devices without DoP support. As a USB DAC, it enhances PC or Mac audio playback up to 24-bit/96kHz, delivering richer sound and a larger soundstage than standard embedded sound cards.

The AK Connect app enables wireless control of playback, volume, and streaming over Wi-Fi. It supports access to music libraries on smart devices, computers, NAS drives, and other DLNA-compatible systems. The app is available for free download on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

For CD enthusiasts, the AK70 MKII supports the AK CD-RIPPER accessory, which rips CDs directly to the player with 100% error correction. When connected to Wi-Fi, metadata and tagging information are automatically downloaded from the Gracenote™ database, making digitising your CD collection effortless.

Specifications

• Audio Output: 4.0Vrms balanced (2.5mm 4-pole)
• Playback Formats: Up to 24-bit/192kHz bit-perfect, DSD 64/128 (converted)
• USB Audio Class: 1.0 (up to 24-bit/96kHz)
• DSD Support: Native DSD via DoP, DSD-to-PCM conversion for unsupported devices
• Dimensions: Compact, ergonomic design for one-handed use

What's in the Box

• Astell&Kern AK70 MKII Music Player
• USB Cable
• User Manual
• Note: AK CD-RIPPER and OTG cables sold separately

Note: The AK CD-RIPPER may not function correctly with power adapters rated below 5V 2A. OTG cable compatibility varies depending on the portable amplifier used and is not included with the AK70 MKII.