The latest portable from the South Korean audio leader debuts vast technological advancements to take us one step closer to pure analog sound

Astell&Kern, the global audio pioneer, has revealed the A&futura SE300 digital music player at High End Munich 2023. 

Equipped with trailblazing audio technology developed in-house and uncompromising craftsmanship, the fourth model in the A&futura range reproduces an entirely new, natural yet dynamic sound.

A new analog sound is born

Harnessing decades of audio research and development, the A&futura SE300 expands the scope of analog sound with entirely new audio technology. 

A&futura SE300 is built with an ultra-refined R-2R DAC, instead of a Delta-Sigma DAC which is most commonly used in audio players. 

R-2R DAC, also known as Ladder DAC as it arranges resistors in a ladder form, offers a natural Hi-Fi sound with unrivalled dynamism.

The SE300 comes with a Dual AMP mode with Class A amplification which reproduces a natural sound as close as possible to the original, while Class AB amplification introduces crisp, dynamic sounds with high efficiency. 

The SE300 allows listeners to choose from the two amps according to their listening preferences and music genre.

It would not have been possible to combine the exquisitely designed R-2R DAC with ultra-precision resistors and Class A AMP, without the innovative audio technology of TERATON ALPHA.

Engineered through endless research, TERATON ALPHA is Astell&Kern's own unique technology that has been designed to produce audio playback that is as close to the original sound as possible through effective power noise removal, efficient power management and unwavering amplification.

Flowing, ergonomic design

Crafted from a blend of aluminum and stainless steel, the A&futura SE300 has streamlined surfaces to create a firm yet flexible image to reflect the flow of music. 

The polished right side of the SE300 features a triangular-patterned volume wheel to create powerful and visually striking contrasts while subtle lighting is also found behind the volume wheel to create the effect of light bursting from the inside the music player.

The rear glass features a new etching pattern designed to amplify the sense of flow with the differences in inclinations, adding a sense of depth. Elsewhere, the bottom section of the device curves outward, allowing for a more ergonomic grip whilst using the player.

Reimagined user interface

The SE300 also comes with a redesigned Crimson-theme UI/UX so listeners can deeply connect with their music listening experience. The new interface comes with an easy album art search function so that users can quickly browse music categories while re-discovering the joy of viewing and interacting with music album art as part of the listening experience.