Astell&Kern (A&K) has revealed plans to launch its new flagship digital audio player, the A&Ultima SP4000, at High End Munich in Germany on May 15. The iRiver subsidiary also announced it will introduce two new in-ear monitors (IEMs) in the third quarter of 2025.
According to a press release issued on Thursday, the A&Ultima SP4000 will be the first digital audio player in the series to offer complete Android compatibility. Users can now download any app from the Google Play Store, including popular streaming services like Spotify, SoundCloud, and Pandora, while enjoying lossless playback of their favorite tracks.
On a technical level, the SP4000 features a newly designed Octa audio circuit architecture that combines the AK4191 processor with a single AK4499EX analog DAC, aiming to reduce noise in digital signal delivery. It also includes an upgraded LDO regulator that minimizes noise by up to 97% compared to its predecessors, such as the A&Ultima SP3000 and SP3000M. Additionally, A&K’s second-generation Digital Audio Remaster (DAR) technology ensures a more natural and nuanced sound experience. Notably, the SP4000 introduces a 99.9% pure copper Shield Can, precisely engineered to eliminate various types of noise and electromagnetic interference, thereby preserving audio quality.
Regarding the new in-ear monitors, A&K has teamed up with 64 Audio to create a 10-driver Universal Fit model. This monitor features an advanced isobaric cone-to-magnet driver setup, ensuring high sound fidelity. Additionally, A&K is introducing its Luna IEM, which includes a single transducer unipolar micro planar magnetic driver capable of a frequency response from 20Hz to 30KHz.
Attendees of High End Munich can experience the SP4000 and the new IEMs from May 15 to May 18. Pricing details for these devices will be disclosed closer to the release date.
