Astell & Kern, known for their high-end portable digital audio players (DAPs), has launched the P1 by Astell & Kern digital audio player. This new offering aims to make high-quality audio more accessible while still packing a robust set of features. Priced at $440/£399/€420, the P1 is positioned to compete with similar offerings from FiiO.
The P1 by Astell & Kern sports a compact and rounded design, crafted from a blend of aluminum and polycarbonate, making it both lightweight and durable. The 4.1-inch HD touchscreen facilitates easy navigation through its Android-based interface. Textured buttons on the sides provide tactile control over playback and volume, enhancing its usability during activities like running or working out.
The 4.1-inch touchscreen offers a user-friendly interface that is uncluttered and responsive. The device comes preloaded with the Google Play Store, allowing users to download their favorite music streaming apps such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Qobuz, Tidal, and Roon. This inclusion sets the P1 apart from many competitors, providing a versatile platform for both streaming and locally stored music.
Astell & Kern's reputation for high-quality audio is upheld with the P1. It features dual ESS ES9219Q SABRE DACs in a dual-mono configuration, supporting hi-res audio at up to 384kHz and 32 bits/sample, including native DSD256 playback. For wireless audio, the P1 by Astell & Kern supports Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC and aptX HD codecs, ensuring high-quality sound over wireless connections.
The P1 by Astell & Kern boasts a battery life of up to 20 hours, sufficient for extended listening sessions. It supports PD3.0 fast charging, capable of recharging the device within 1.5 hours. The internal storage is 64GB, which can be expanded up to 1.5TB with a microSD card, providing ample space for extensive music libraries.
In addition to the 3.5mm unbalanced output, the P1 includes a 4.4mm balanced output, catering to audiophiles who prefer balanced audio connections. It also functions as an external DAC for phones or laptops via USB-C. The device supports wireless streaming over dual-band Wi-Fi and includes Roon Ready certification, making it a versatile player for various audio setups.
The P1 by Astell & Kern is equipped with a built-in parametric EQ, allowing users to adjust up to 20 frequency bands with precise control over the Q value and gain. This level of customization enables users to fine-tune their listening experience to their preferences. The device also features Astell & Kern's Teraton Alpha amps and Digital Audio Remaster technology, which upscales non-hi-res audio files to enhance sound quality.
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Priced at $430 in the US, £399 in the UK, and €420 in Europe, the P1 is positioned competitively within the DAP market. It aims to bridge the gap between high-end audiophile devices and more affordable mainstream options. Its primary competitors include the Sony Walkman NW-A306 and the FiiO M11S, both of which are also available at similar price points.
The P1 by Astell & Kern is currently available for purchase on Amazon in the UK and will soon be available in the US. With its combination of high-quality audio components, robust connectivity options, and user-friendly design, the P1 is set to attract a wide range of music enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile portable audio player.
