{"product_id":"astell-kern-ak-sp3000t-dap","title":"Astell\u0026Kern A\u0026ultima SP3000T | Vacuum Tube Digital Audio Player","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 70%;\" alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern SP3000T logo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-logo.jpg?v=1708978994\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIntroducing the Astell\u0026amp;Kern SP3000T, a Portable DAP that Defies Convention and Offers a Unique Fusion of Analog and Digital Excellence\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDAP with Snapdragon 6125 8-Core CPU\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeatures 316L Stainless Steel with 99.9% pure Silver-plating\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNow available in \u003cstrong\u003eCopper\u003c\/strong\u003e finish - \u003cstrong\u003eLimited to 1,000 units globally\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual RAYTHEON JAN6418 MIL-SPEC vintage vacuum tubes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTriple Amp System (OP-AMP\/Tube\/Hybrid Amp Mode) with 3-step tube current options\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete separation of digital and analog signal processing (uses [x2] AK4499EX flagship DAC chips and [x2] AK4191EQ)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes yellow calfskin case - Optional \u003ca title=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern A\u0026amp;ultima SP3000T Leather Case\" href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/products\/astell-kern-sp3000t-case\"\u003eBlack and Taupe leather cases\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-banner.jpg?v=1708980011\" alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern SP3000T banner with tubes and logo\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"bloom-take\"\u003e\n\u003ctable bgcolor=\"”#f6f6f6”\" width=\"90%\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #a30e0b;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBloom's Take\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2021, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/collections\/astell-kern\" title=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern\"\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern \u003c\/a\u003e took the plunge into the portable micro tube foray with their flagship SP2000T digital audio player. SP3000T brings a number of upgrades, adopting the new flagship platform pioneered by the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/products\/astell-kern-sp3000\" title=\"SP3000\"\u003eSP3000\u003c\/a\u003e but with a bump in sound, design, and UI performance. It starts with the same size and shape as the SP3000 along with similar build and materials. But what's new are a few functional changes, some slight technical variations, and a back panel window revealing warm LEDs with active tubes. You also get the standard A\u0026amp;amp;K premium DAP feature set with flexible amp mode and gain control options to find your preferred sweet spot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom build and design to sound quality and power, SP3000T exudes excellence. It yields a strong flagship experience across the board, and if you want something relaxed with a focus on vocals and immersive presentation of your music, SP3000T is as good as it gets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/blogs\/articles\/totally-tubular-astell-kern-sp3000t-review\" title=\"Totally Tubular? Astell\u0026amp;Kern SP3000T Review\"\u003eRead our full review\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/4rFgaNiZDNk?si=KOj04Qq2cb3e7zhH\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAnalog Warmth, Digital Precision\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern's ethos of producing immersive sound from high-resolution original music stands as a testament to the spirit of innovation and excellence embodied in the A\u0026amp;ultima series. Their goal was to surpass the impeccable design and high-resolution sound of their previous flagship SP3000 by crafting an audio player that truly captures the emotion and resonance of music.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeveloped with this vision in mind, the A\u0026amp;ultima SP3000T channels the profound emotion and lasting essence of analog audio. The integration of a real vacuum tube creates an authentic analog sound complemented by cutting-edge audio technology such as TERATON ALPHA for an immersive auditory experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroducing the A\u0026amp;ultima SP3000T — a portable audio player that defies convention, offering a unique fusion of analog and digital excellence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-ba0-features.jpg?v=1714434752\" alt=\"SP3000T with connected Empyrean 2 headphone on wood table with features banner\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSP3000T Copper Edition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern strives to create more than just sound, focusing on excellence in sound quality. The SP3000T Copper Edition demonstrates this philosophy by delivering exceptional sound characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCopper, known for its excellent sound transmission and resonance properties, typically enhances the brightness and richness of tones in musical instruments. \u003cbr\u003eThis quality has been repeatedly validated in A\u0026amp;K products using Copper for its outstanding electrical conductivity and high shielding performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of its material properties, Copper oxidizes and discolors upon contact with air. The SP3000T Copper Edition utilizes over 99.98% pure copper with a special multilayer coating that enhances durability, ensuring it maintains its beautiful color and luster without requiring special maintenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSP3000T Copper offers more than just music - it provides an emotional experience beyond music.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"SP3000T Copper finish over copper colored hexagonal plate with A\u0026amp;K Novus earphones\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-cop-lifestyle.jpg?v=1722520176\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTrue Analog Sound with Real Vacuum Tube\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original vacuum tube is known for its warm sound, attributed to its distinctive rich harmonics. However, its impracticality in terms of miniaturization, primarily due to power control and footprint issues, presented a formidable obstacle, rendering it unsuitable for use in portable audio players.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn A\u0026amp;K's unyielding quest for innovation and refusal to compromise, they worked to bridge the gap between stationary and portable audio by infusing the essence of analog sound. These efforts eventually culminated in the pairing of the SP3000T with the RAYTHEON JAN6418 miniature vacuum tube, a mini vacuum tube popular among audiophiles. Designed to meet military specifications and traditionally used in military communication gear, it quickly garnered recognition for its distinctively warm and soft sound, leading to its integration into regular audio devices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-tubes.jpg?v=1714401477\" alt=\"SP3000T quarter rear eye-level warm with assorted tubes on black table\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSound Craftsmanship for the Ultimate Vacuum Tube Sound\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDue to inherent differences in noise and amplification in original vacuum tubes, Astell\u0026amp;Kern adopted the meticulous selection process of carefully and precisely measuring and pairing each JAN6418. This minimizes output deviation between the left and right channels, resulting in more natural sound reproduction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery shielding operation on the vacuum tube is carefully executed by hand to minimize potential noise interference. And thanks to their unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, A\u0026amp;K has successfully brought the distinctive spatial sense and balance found in their existing players into the analog realm of vacuum tube sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMinimizing Microphonic Noise\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: right;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 20px; float: right;\" alt=\"SP3000T vertical explosion internal tube diagram\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-stack_240x240.jpg?v=1714402591\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe integration of vacuum tubes into compact, portable devices presents a formidable technical hurdle: maintain low noise level while delivering resolution and robust output. This challenge was tackled in the SP3000T with a custom-made solution designed to minimize microphonic noise, even during minor shocks or vibrations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIndependent modular, flexible PCB design-engineered separately from the main PCB\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilicone case designed to absorb primary shocks from the vacuum tube\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilicone tubing tailored to the vacuum tube leads to reduce shock transmission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilicone dampers around the vacuum tube suspend the tubes in the air\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTube Current Option\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; float: left;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-tube-current_240x240.jpg?v=1714408683\" alt=\"SP3000T Tube Current interface screenshot\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA\u0026amp;K developed an internal plate voltage control system which can be adjusted in three stages and directly affects the amplification rate of the vacuum tube amplifier, resulting in nuanced changes in sound texture. Experience the subtle shifts in density and spatial presence in your headphones or IEMs as you fine-tune the current of the tube amp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eVacuum Tube LED\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: right;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 20px; float: right;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-glow_240x240.jpg?v=1714408683\" alt=\"SP3000T rear tube LED glowing\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile in vacuum tube mode or hybrid mode, the vacuum tubes on the back of the SP3000T emit light, enhancing the device's subtle and stylish analog feel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*Please note the tubes do not light up when the device is in OP AMP Mode.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eA\u0026amp;K Triple Amp System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHarnessing the power of Astell\u0026amp;Kern's unique TERATON ALPHA technology, the A\u0026amp;ultima SP3000T achieves seamless harmony between the rich, authentic analog sound of a real tube and the dynamic clarity of an OP AMP. The SP3000T offers three distinct modes to cater to your audio preferences:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOP AMP Mode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUnparalleled high resolution and dynamics that faithfully reproduces the original sound without distortion - an Astell\u0026amp;Kern hallmark sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTUBE AMP Mode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe authentic essence of analog sound, nothing compares to the warm texture and distinctive sense of space delivered by a Tube Amp. Enjoy the smooth and inviting analog sound unique to real vacuum tube technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHYBRID AMP Mode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeparting from the traditional Vacuum Tube AMP and OP AMP modes, the SP3000T features a groundbreaking HYBRID AMP mode that seamlessly blends the best of analog warmth and high-resolution output to create a unique tonal experience. With five adjustable levels, tailor your sound for an optimal listening session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-ba1-ampmode.jpg?v=1714436151\" alt=\"three thumbnails highlighting each SP3000T Amp mode\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNEW VU Meter GUI\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SP3000T marks a milestone for Astell\u0026amp;Kern as the first device to feature a VU Meter GUI, providing a visual representation of sound levels as you indulge in your favorite music.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe VU Meter, an iconic piece of audio equipment with a long-standing history, displays voltage levels of voice signals to aid volume measurement and adjustment. Beyond its utilitarian function, the VU Meter's unique design and retro charm help to enhance the immersive music-listening experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern SP3000T front displaying VU UI on wood table with decorative tubes\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-vu.jpg?v=1708981263\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdditional Features and Enhancements\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSnapdragon Octa-Core CPU\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA\u0026amp;ultima SP3000T is equipped with a Snapdragon 6125 Octa-core processor. Paired with 8GB of DDR4 memory as a SoC and a redesigned user interface, you'll experience a faster system response and fluid, smooth engagement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital Audio Remaster\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe SP3000T is equipped with Digital Audio Remaster (DAR) technology, developed to deliver fine, vivid sound at higher sample rates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSound Design with DAC Filters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith the SP3000T, have fun creating your own sound style by selecting up to 6 various DAC filters provided by the DAC manufacturer. Choose from Natural, Acoustic, or Traditional tones along with Harmonic, Acoustic, or Traditional sound types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStreaming \u0026amp; AK Connect\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA\u0026amp;K DAPs are seamlessly integrated with external streaming apps through the Open App Service. And with AK Connect, you can easily access and play\/download music from your PCs and devices connected to the same network in real-time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5.5\" Full HD Display\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExperience the SP3000T more comfortably with a wide 5.5\", large-screen, full 1080x1920 HD touch display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWireless Hi-Fi Sound via BT Sink\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEnjoy playback from an external device (ie. smartphone) in high-quality using the BT Sink function.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAK File Drop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith the new AK File Drop function in the SP3000T, you can freely transfer files wirelessly through a PC, smartphone, or FTP program located on the same network.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAutomatic 'ReplayGain' and Uniform Volume Adjust\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReplayGain adjusts sound sources with different volumes to identical levels so you can enjoy your own playlists seamlessly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNative DSD512\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe SP3000T supports Native DSD512 and up to 32bit\/768kHz!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQC 3.0 Fast Charging\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe SP3000T supports Qualcomm QC 3.0 fast charging, so you can charge your DAP faster and more efficiently than previous models.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShrunken Calfskin Leather Case\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe SP3000T comes with a deluxe case crafted from shrunken calf leather sourced from Perlinger in Germany and Alcantara in Italy, ensuring a level of style and quality that matches the quality of the device. Check out Astell\u0026amp;Kern's \u003ca title=\"Astell\u0026amp;Kern A\u0026amp;ultima SP3000T Leather Case\" href=\"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/products\/astell-kern-sp3000t-case\"\u003eoptional Black and Taupe leather cases\u003c\/a\u003e available separately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"SP3000T bird's eye on wood desk with retail box and all accessories\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-ba1-inthebox.jpg?v=1714436482\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Astell\u0026Kern","offers":[{"title":"Silver","offer_id":40796231073867,"sku":"AK-SP3000T-SLV","price":2699.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Copper","offer_id":40955211776075,"sku":"AK-SP3000T-COP","price":3299.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0023\/9255\/5595\/files\/astell-kern-sp3000t-cop-0-thumb.jpg?v=1722519363","url":"https:\/\/bloomaudio.mom\/products\/astell-kern-ak-sp3000t-dap","provider":"Bloom Audio","version":"1.0","type":"link"}