Astell&Kern AK240Next Gen PortableHiFi

Experience Original Sound with the Astell&Kern AK240 Portable HiFi System

The Astell&Kern AK240 is a next-generation portable HiFi system delivering high-resolution audio with native DSD support and balanced output. Designed for audiophiles, it offers uncompromised sound quality and massive storage, bringing you closer to the artist's original intent wherever you go.

Key Features

• Dual DAC setup with Cirrus Logic CS4398 chips for superior left and right channel separation
• Native DSD playback without conversion to PCM, enabled by an exclusive XMOS chip
• Balanced output reduces external noise and enhances sound clarity
• 256GB internal storage holds approximately 2,500 MQS (24bit/96kHz) songs
• Expandable memory via microSD slot supporting up to 128GB, for a total of 384GB storage

Closer to Original Sound

Building on the success of the AK100 and AK120 models, the AK240 advances sound quality by combining balanced output with native DSD playback through its Dual DAC setup. This configuration reproduces audio exactly as the artist intended, delivering an authentic listening experience.

Native DSD Support Explained

DSD (Direct Stream Digital) is a high-resolution digital audio format originally developed for SACDs (Super Audio CDs). Unlike PCM (Pulse Code Modulation), which uses multiple bits and lower sampling rates, DSD uses a 1-bit signal with extremely high sampling frequencies (2.8MHz to 5.6MHz), resulting in superior sound clarity and a dynamic range beyond 120dB.

The AK240 supports native DSD playback without converting to PCM, thanks to the Cirrus Logic CS4398 DAC chips and an exclusive XMOS chip. This setup ensures the highest fidelity by processing DSD data directly, preserving the nuances of original recordings.

Balanced Output for Noise Reduction

The AK240’s balanced output includes an additional cold signal alongside the hot signal, effectively cancelling out external noise that can degrade audio quality. This method offers increased output and cleaner sound compared to common unbalanced outputs, which are more susceptible to interference over longer cable runs.

Massive Storage Capacity

With 256GB of internal memory, the AK240 can store approximately 2,500 MQS (24bit/96kHz, 4-minute) songs. Additionally, a microSD slot supports cards up to 128GB, expanding total storage to 384GB—ideal for large high-resolution audio libraries.

Specifications

• Dual DAC: Cirrus Logic CS4398
• Native DSD Playback: Supported via XMOS chip
• Internal Storage: 256GB
• Expandable Storage: microSD slot up to 128GB
• Audio Formats: Native DSD, PCM, MQS
• Output: Balanced and unbalanced

What's in the Box

Contents not specified.