Astell&Kern PD10 & Cradle Digital Audio Player

Breaking Away From The Normal

Astell&Kern has long maintained a diverse lineup tailored to the unique characteristics of each product. 

However, we have come to realize that a departure from conventional methods is essential for achieving true innovation.

The PD10 represents our first product that ventures beyond the constraints of our existing lineup, marking a new endeavor. 

It is designed to provide users with a more convenient and distinctive experience of 'optimal sound,' 

and even the iconic Astell&Kern volume wheel design has been reinterpreted in a novel way.

Experience the beginning of “Breaking Away From The Normal”, the Astell&Kern PD10 & Cradle.

First Application of AK4498EX in a DAP

By applying AKM's latest DAC AK4498EX, we have achieved a more natural sound. Adopting a HEXA audio circuit structure, featuring two AK4191EQs for processing digital signals 

and four of AKM's latest DACs, the AK4498EX, combined with Astell&Kern’s TERATON ALPHA technology, the highest level of sound quality is delivered.

HEXA Audio Circuit Structure with Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals

The PD10 employs four AK4498EX DACs incorporated in an innovative HEXA audio circuit design with two separately applied AK4191EQs for processing digital signals, 

resulting in the creation of the finest sound. 

The HEXA audio circuit is designed with a structure in which the AK4191EQ, a separate Digital delta-sigma modulator, reduces noise from the input digital signal, 

and then the AK4998EX, a completely isolated Analog DAC, processes only the analog signal separately.

By physically and perfectly separating digital and analog signal processing, The PD10 it delivers an astonishing level of sound that has never been experienced before.

Automatic Amplifier Matching Mode : Smart Gain

The PD10 instantly checks the impedance of the connected receiver upon plugging in your earphones or headphones and automatically sets the appropriate AMP.

Regardless of which earphones (headphones) are connected, the player automatically distinguishes between low and high impedance without cumbersome settings and matches the optimal AMP. Earphones with an impedance of 32ohm or less are set to Normal Gain, providing a maximum output of 5.5Vrms in Balanced, and earphones exceeding 32ohm are set to High Gain, providing ample output of up to 8.3Vrms based in Balanced output.

The customized amplifier matching function (Smart Gain) provides audio enthusiasts who use a variety of earphones and headphones with a fresh listening experience.

Equipped with Impedance-Adaptive Dual Amplifiers

To cater to the diverse listening environments of our users, the PD10 is equipped with two distinct amplifiers. Different sound tunings have been applied to each AMP, 

considering the average impedance of the connected earphones and headphones. 

The Normal Gain AMP reproduces delicate details and high-purity sound quality, faithfully expressing the original sound. 

The High Gain AMP specializes in handling complex and dynamic sounds, expressing audio signals more vividly and with greater clarity. 

Enjoy a variety of sounds from a single player, according to your preference and the earphones and headphones you use.

Overwhelming Audio Performance

 Through Independent Dual Audio Circuits

To create an innovative DAP beyond the level of excellent DAPs, a DAP that no one has ever attempted, we aimed to overcome the limitations of sound by designing independent dual audio circuits for Unbalanced and Balanced outputs. In most DAPs, Unbalanced and Balanced signals are used together in the internal DAC structure. Since the signal output from the DAC is divided into Unbalanced and Balanced signals and transmitted to the AMP, an Audio Switch is essential. However, the Audio Switch has a limit to the range of signals it can receive from the DAC, so it first reduces the signal size and then transmits it to the amplifier to restore it to its original signal size, which creates limitations in improving audio performance. By creating two separate, independent audio circuits, one for balanced output and a second for unbalanced output, Astell&Kern maximizes audio performance no matter what output is being used. We invite you to experience the high-level sound created by Astell&Kern's innovative circuit technology.

Provides a Docking Cradle forHome Audio Utilization

The included cradle allows for use not only as a portable device but also as a home audio source. When the PD10 is mounted on the cradle, it supports simultaneous device charging and digital input via the USB port. The XLR balanced analog outputs allow simple connection to a home audio system. Enjoy Astell&Kern sound more conveniently at home with the cradle.

* XLR output can be controlled by the PD10's volume or set at a fixed output level by enabling the line out option in settings.

* The LED on the front of the cradle displays the current playing song information, identical to the LED on the PD10 LED.

Bringing Original Sound to Life with Digital Audio Remaster Technology

Digital Audio Remaster technology is designed to overcome the limitations of source formats by upsampling the sample rate of the audio being played. 

Higher sample rates enable more precise playback, allowing for a more vivid reproduction of the original sound with delicate and analog-like sound expression, 

enhancing the subtle nuances and rich sound of the music to a higher level of appreciation.

Crossfeed, 

Speaker effect when listening through headphones

In a headphone environment in which the left and right channels are clearly separated, ear fatigue may increase during prolonged listening. The moment you turn on Crossfeed, the experience of crisp, but comfortable sound begins. Crossfeed mixes parts of the original signal from one channel and sends that signal to the opposite channel with a time difference to center the sound image. Through the use of detailed settings such as Shelf Cutoff, Shelf Gain, and Mixer Level, you can set the level of crossfeed according to your listening preferences.

* Crossfeed supports PCM formats of 24 bits / 192 kHz or less.

DESIGN

The design concept of the PD10 is 'Contrast Cube.'The harmony of Stainless Steel and Glass materials in the body creates a simple yet rich look through light reflection. 

Designed for easy one-handed operation in line with DAP characteristics, the intuitive button control enhances user immersion. 

To evoke the powerful performance of a high-output audio player, the design resembles a 'Control Tower' that focuses on the core functions of the DAP. 

For the first time in an Astell&Kern DAP, the volume wheel has been replaced with buttons, creating a clean and minimalist look while using distinct material contrast 

to draw the user's attention to the control buttons. The PD10’s carefully crafted design and production process, 

which enhance the unique colors of the materials, demonstrate Astell&Kern's exceptional craftsmanship.