Astell&Kern SP3000M - music player, Vantaa

Used, includes protective case and charger.

The SP3000M represents Astell&Kern’s goal to create an audiophile player that combines top-tier sound quality with true portability. As the successor to the well-known SP3000, this new model retains its predecessor’s groundbreaking audio architecture while being significantly smaller. Equipped with four high-end AK4499EX digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and an innovative HEXA layout that fully separates digital and analogue signals, the SP3000M delivers uncompromising sound in a portable form. Its 130 dB signal-to-noise ratio—matching the SP3000 despite the smaller size—sets new limits for what a portable device can achieve.

A pinnacle of miniature audio

The technical achievement of the SP3000M lies in its ability to preserve exceptional sound quality despite its reduced size. Astell&Kern addressed this by keeping the SP3000’s HEXA architecture, a sophisticated structure that physically separates digital and analogue signals. This approach, unique in the industry, removes interferences that normally degrade audio quality.

The SP3000M includes four AKM AK4499EX DACs, regarded as some of the best converters on the market, and two AK4191EQ delta-sigma modulators dedicated to digital signal handling. This configuration enables the SP3000M to achieve an outstanding 130 dB signal-to-noise ratio, demonstrating the purity of the reproduced audio signal.

Physically separating digital and analogue circuits is a significant advancement over traditional players that usually process both signal types within the DAC. In the SP3000M, digital signals are first handled by the AK4191EQ modulators, which significantly reduce digital noise before the signal reaches the AK4499EX DACs dedicated solely to analogue processing.

Uncompromising audio design

Most digital players, including some Astell&Kern models, use a single internal DAC to handle both unbalanced and balanced outputs. This approach requires splitting the signal after the DAC and using an audio switch, which limits the signal’s dynamic range. To avoid this, manufacturers often reduce the signal amplitude before restoring it to the amplifier during transfer, inevitably impacting sound quality.

The SP3000M uses a radically different approach with independent dual audio circuits. Each circuit has its own DAC and modulator system—one dedicated to the unbalanced (3.5 mm) output and the other to the balanced (4.4 mm) output. This architecture removes the need for an audio switch and allows the signal to preserve full integrity up to the amplifier.

This innovative design enables the SP3000M to offer superior sound, with total harmonic distortion as low as 0.0005% in unbalanced mode and 0.0003% in balanced mode. Channel separation is also exceptional, reaching -140 dB unbalanced and -144 dB balanced, demonstrating perfect stereo separation.

TERATON ALPHA technology

At the core of the SP3000M is TERATON ALPHA technology, the result of Astell&Kern’s extensive research to create an ideal sound solution. This patented technology aims to reproduce original sound with maximum accuracy through several complementary innovations.

TERATON ALPHA is based on four pillars: effective power-noise elimination, optimised power management, stable amplification and a fully converted audio output interface. The goal is to preserve the integrity of the audio signal at every processing stage, from digital reading to analogue conversion.

To protect the audio circuits from electromagnetic interference, Astell&Kern added a high-purity silver layer inside the SP3000M. This extra shielding improves the device’s excellent audio performance by effectively isolating sensitive components from external disturbances.

TERATON ALPHA enables the SP3000M to deliver an impressive output level of 3.3 Vrms unbalanced and 6.3 Vrms balanced, enough to drive even demanding headphones without an external amplifier.

Power and responsiveness

The SP3000M is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6125 octa-core processor, which provides substantially more computing power than traditional audiophile players. This setup ensures smooth UI navigation and flawless decoding of demanding high-resolution audio formats.

Compared with the typical 4 GB RAM in many digital players, the SP3000M has 8 GB DDR4 memory, doubling the usual capacity. This generous memory ensures optimal system responsiveness even when playing large files or using streaming apps.

The SP3000M’s system architecture uses a modular approach where the processor, memory and wireless components are assembled into one module. This layout optimises the circuit arrangement, freeing more space for audio components while reducing heat and noise from digital circuits.

The SP3000M supports an impressive range of audio formats including WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF and DSF. It can decode PCM files up to 768 kHz (8/16/24/32 bit) and DSD files up to DSD512 (1-bit, 22.4 MHz), covering the full spectrum of current audiophile formats.

Connections and compatibility

The SP3000M offers comprehensive connectivity for all uses. Its unbalanced 3.5 mm output has an impedance of just 0.6 ohms, while the balanced 4.4 mm output has an impedance of 1.2 ohms, enabling efficient use with a wide range of headphones and models.

For connecting to a computer or charger, the SP3000M has a versatile USB Type-C port. This port not only charges the device but allows connection to a PC or Mac for file transfer or use as an external USB DAC.

Wireless connectivity is also strong, with Bluetooth 5.0 supporting several high-resolution codecs such as Qualcomm aptX HD, LDAC and LHDC. This broad compatibility allows the SP3000M to be used with wireless headphones while maintaining optimal sound quality.

The SP3000M is compatible with Windows 10 and 11 (32/64 bit) and macOS X 10.7 and later, making it easy to manage your music library on any computer.

Design and ergonomics

The SP3000M’s design combines refined aesthetics and functionality. Its black aluminium body is modern and minimal, with careful attention to detail. The volume dial, a signature feature of Astell&Kern players, is central to the design and allows precise volume control.

The rear panel is glass engraved with a lattice pattern. This echoes the SP3000’s design while adding a unique touch with two corner motifs that create a sense of “tension”.

A 104 mm (4.1 in) HD touchscreen (720 x 1280 pixels) provides a bright and responsive interface that makes browsing your music library and using the device’s functions straightforward.

A visually distinctive feature is the analogue VU meter, accessible from the sub-menu bar. This element not only shows volume levels but also adds a retro feel that enhances immersion in the music.

Despite its exceptional performance the SP3000M is relatively compact, measuring 69.1 x 119.6 x 18.8 mm and weighing 237 g. This is a significant reduction compared with the SP3000 while retaining full audio capability.

Battery life and daily use

The SP3000M has a 4200 mAh lithium-polymer battery, which provides approximately 10 hours of playback under normal conditions (FLAC, 16 bit, 44.1 kHz, volume 80%, screen off). This runtime allows enjoyment of the device’s excellent sound throughout the day without worrying about the battery running out.

Charging is rapid thanks to Quick Charge 3.0 technology, which enables a full charge in just 3.5 hours. This feature is especially valuable for users on the move who rarely have long charging windows.

The SP3000M’s user interface is optimised for smooth and intuitive navigation. The Android-based OS fully utilises the octa-core processor and 8 GB RAM to provide excellent responsiveness even when using streaming apps or browsing a large music library.

Operating temperature range is 0 °C to 40 °C, making it suitable for most use environments. This durability combined with the aluminium body makes the SP3000M a reliable companion for demanding music lovers, whether at home or on the move.

Buying a used device is an environmentally friendly choice!

Devices are sold wiped and tested as functional, and purchases are also covered by consumer protection law with a 14-day right of return.