{"product_id":"astell-kern-astell-kern-ak120","title":"Astell\u0026Kern AK120","description":"\u003cp\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern is the ultimate portable high-fidelity audio system capable of studio Mastering Quality Sound (MQS)\u003cbr\u003eMastering Quality Sound (MQS) is an acronym of collective lossless \u0026amp; high-resolution audio source formats, typically in 24-bit\/44 to 192kHz of bit\/sampling rates. Because MQS delivers about 6.5 times more detail than a conventional CD format (16bit\/44.1kHz), listeners can enjoy a better and a more realistic sound quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e24-bit\/44 to 192kHz is the music industry norm used in the mastering process during sound production. However, the result of high resolution music files has to be compressed down to 16bit\/44.1kHz so it can be stored into a single CD due to the memory storage shortcomings (~700MB). To produce the MP3 format, the high-resolution audio is compressed even further to 128 to 320kbps for the convenience of file size. These compressions remove the enormous amount of the details of the original recording because of memory storage limitations and listeners will never be able to hear the details.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eSource frequency analysis comparison\u003cbr\u003eWhen comparing the frequency of each digital audio format, data loss is even more visible. MP3 formats can only reproduce frequencies up to 16kHz. However, WAV formats sampled in 48kHz can be reproduced up to 22kHz and higher. Frequency rates of MQS files sampled in 44 to 192kHz can be reproduced even further than the WAV format.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHigh-Definition Digital Audio Formats and DSD Playback support with the AK120\u003cbr\u003eDSD(Direct Stream Digital) is the digital audio format found embedded into SACD(Super Audio CD) physical media. \u003cbr\u003eIn common digital audio recording, PCM(Pulse Code Modulation) is the Y-axis of a sine wave is divided into 65000 (16bit) to 1,670 million(24bit) and the X-axis is divided into 44,000(44.1kHz) to 192,000(192kHz) parts. When comparing a standard PCM digital recording to the DSD approach, the digital signal is transformed by Y-axis of the DSD sine waves that are measured at single bit(1bit, 0s and 1s) sequence and is divided 2.8 million(2.8MHz) to 5.6 million(5.6MHz) times into the X-axis. \u003cbr\u003eIn general, when comparing SACD and PCM 16bit\/44.1kHz Audio CDs, SACDs are recorded in frequency ranges up to 100kHz and greatly expand the dynamic range over 120dB while maintaining clarity of sound that a traditional PCM audio signal cannot reproduce. In order to listen to SACD, a dedicated SACD player is needed, but the AK120 brings SACD audio format playback to a portable player with DSD audio support. Enjoy the sound of DSD without a separate SACD player with the AK120. (AK120 supports the .dff and .dsf DSD formats up to 2.8MHz resolution.)\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAK120 DAC \u0026amp; Amp Creates a Dual Mono System that separates Left \u0026amp; Right Audio Channels\u003cbr\u003eFrom input to output, the design of the dual Wolfson WM8740 DAC implemented in the Astell\u0026amp;Kern AK120 independently separates the left and right audio channels, creating a true Dual-Mono audio output system.\u003cbr\u003eWhen the analog audio signal passes through the dual Wolfson WM8740 DAC, not only does the AK120 use the Ultralow Distortion and Noise Technology, but executes the optimal digital noise reduction technology combined into the analog amp. The dual DAC built-in to the AK120 forms a dual-monaural audio ecosystem that brings wider soundstage, channel separation, and an overall richer sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe AK120 is equipped with dual microSD card slots and supports up to 192GB of storage space.\u003cbr\u003eThe AK120 comes with 64GB of high-speed internal flash memory and dual microSD memory card slots capable of supporting up to 64GB of memory in each slot. Store up to 192GB of high-resolution audio with the AK120.\u003cbr\u003e4 generations of MQS Albums supported on microSD cards\u003cbr\u003eThe additional memory card slot holds an important point. 24-bit album recordings will soon be released with music files stored in microSD memory cards. For a mainstream album, LP (vinyl) records would be considered as first generation, second generations are cassette tapes, and Compact Discs (CDs) is the third and current generation. Fourth generation albums are considered as MQS albums that are released in high capacity microSD memory cards. Comfortably enjoy two albums at once through the dual memory card slots of the Astell\u0026amp;Kern.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Refined Design with an Analog Feel\u003cbr\u003eA brushed aluminum body with superior craftsmanship\u003cbr\u003eThe brushed aluminum pores finish represents a deep and refined craftsmanship not traditionally found in a combination.\u003cbr\u003eMore solid and refined design impression of the AK120\u003cbr\u003eThe design of the volume wheel protector resembles the bridge of a stringed instrument and hints at the more enriched sound from the AK120. Luxurious details are not missed at all with the AK120. The red ring wrapped around the volume wheel is a design statement of the Astell\u0026amp;Kern identity and the fine craftsmanship of all metal components reassures the long lasting quality of the Astell\u0026amp;Kern.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Astell \u0026 Kern","offers":[{"title":"Astell\u0026Kern AK120","offer_id":57851179434316,"sku":"AK120","price":916.63,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1053\/6891\/2204\/files\/93563-11_700x700_6fdf78a5-649d-4e38-8a48-96821f1397df.jpg?v=1781882987","url":"https:\/\/www.stoneaudio.co.uk\/products\/astell-kern-astell-kern-ak120","provider":"Stone Audio","version":"1.0","type":"link"}