Astell&Kern - A&futura SE300
Hi-Res R-2R Digital Audio PlayerGET 18% GST INPUT
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15.99%
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15.99%
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16%
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15%
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16%
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Why Astell&Kern is Special
Designed in Korea
Established & Reputed
Trust us, our reputation speaks for itself 🏆!
I believe that when a brand has decades of proven excellence, you can invest with confidence knowing your purchase is backed by years of audio engineering expertise. These products come from manufacturers with extensive histories of innovation and unwavering commitment to sonic excellence. Think of them like luxury watch brands - their reputation has been earned through decades of consistent quality and innovation.
With their extensive history of innovation and countless satisfied customers worldwide, you can be confident your investment is backed by proven audio engineering expertise and industry leadership 📈.
When you see "🎖️ Established & Reputed" products, expect time-tested excellence from manufacturers who've consistently demonstrated mastery in audio engineering for generations.
Revered by Audiophiles
Audiophiles can be really picky 😤, and if the audiophile community says something sounds good, you can bet it's exceptional! I believe that earning audiophile reverence is like getting a standing ovation from music critics - it doesn't happen unless you've truly achieved something special. This audio gear has earned widespread acclaim from audiophiles worldwide, a community renowned for exacting standards and unwavering commitment to high-fidelity reproduction.
These discerning enthusiasts particularly value its extraordinary precision in sound reproduction and remarkable capability to create thoroughly immersive listening experiences. The audiophile community's endorsement carries significant weight because of their extensive experience with high-end equipment 🏆.
When you see "🙌🏻 Revered by Audiophiles" products, expect audiophile-grade excellence that satisfies even the most demanding listeners and consistently exceeds the highest standards.
Born in 2004
Why we love this DAP
Premium Economy
Sensible spending meets sophisticated quality in perfect harmony 💫.
I tend to describe premium economy products as finding that sweet spot where exceptional value meets refined performance. Think of it like business class comfort at economy prices - you're getting significantly more than what you paid for. These headphones deliver a refined listening experience that rivals more expensive alternatives, making them an intelligent choice for discerning listeners who appreciate both value and excellence.
This thoughtfully curated selection demonstrates our commitment to bringing you outstanding sound quality and robust construction without requiring a significant financial investment. Each product has been meticulously evaluated to ensure it delivers performance characteristics typically associated with higher price brackets.
When you see "💎 Premium Economy" products, expect refined audio experiences that bridge the gap between entry-level and high-end offerings, delivering impressive clarity and features at accessible price points.
Serious Audiophiles Only
For those who have ventured deep into high-fidelity audio 🎯, the pursuit of sonic excellence becomes an endless journey of discovery and refinement. I believe that serious audiophiles demand equipment that can satisfy the most exacting standards and deliver performance that pushes boundaries. These products represent the pinnacle of acoustic engineering, incorporating advanced technologies and meticulous craftsmanship that enable them to reproduce music with utmost fidelity.
Each product has undergone rigorous evaluation to ensure it delivers exceptional performance that discerning listeners demand, from precise frequency response to impeccable detail retrieval and sophisticated sound staging. These devices incorporate premium components and engineering excellence that justify their position at the apex of audio performance.
When you encounter "🦈 Serious Audiophiles Only" products, expect uncompromising performance that satisfies the most demanding requirements and elevates critical listening to new heights.
Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth
I tend to describe Bluetooth audio as wireless freedom with fewer strings attached — literally. When you see Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth, it means you can pair your headphones or IEMs with phones, laptops, or even TVs — all without reaching for a cable 🎶. It’s convenient, clutter-free, and great for everyday listening.
What’s happening behind the scenes is your gear is using Bluetooth codecs like SBC, AAC, LDAC, or aptX to compress and transmit your music wirelessly. Better codecs mean higher quality and lower latency. Of course, there’s a trade-off — Bluetooth won’t match the quality of wired gear, but today’s advancements have made the gap much smaller than before.
When you see '✂️ Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth' products, expect: tangle-free convenience and solid sound quality — great for commuting, workouts, or casual listening.
Battery Life
In my experience, battery life is one of those things that separates a good day from a frustrating one. It's like having a fuel gauge you can rely on — longer battery life means less charging and more uninterrupted music. Whether you're on a flight or just commuting across town, this is one spec you don’t want to overlook 🔋.
Technically, battery life refers to the hours your device can play music on a single charge. Today’s headphones and DACs can range from 4 to 40+ hours, depending on things like Bluetooth codec, volume, and active features like ANC. More battery life also means better travel and portability, though it might come at the cost of size or weight.
When you see '⏳ Battery Life' products, expect: longer listening sessions, fewer charging breaks, and stress-free portability for music that goes the distance.
Battery Capacity
I usually think of battery capacity like the size of your water tank — it determines how long the tap can run before drying up. In audio gear, higher capacity means more playtime, more power for your amp section, and better performance during high-demand usage 🧠. It’s especially important if your gear also powers powerful drivers or amps.
Measured in mAh (milliamp-hours), battery capacity helps you gauge how long your headphones, DAC, or amplifier will last between charges. Devices with higher capacity (like 3500mAh+) are ideal for extended use or when you’re away from a power source. Just know, larger capacity often means longer charging time and a slightly bulkier design.
When you see '🔋 Battery Capacity' products, expect: more power and longer playtimes — ideal for travel, long workdays, or heavy use without worrying about recharging.
Storage
I tend to think of this like carrying your entire music library in your pocket — no cloud, no streaming, no internet required 📀. When you see “Up to 2TB Storage,” you’re looking at gear that lets you store thousands of high-res tracks, albums, and even DSD files offline, ready to play anytime.
Now, here’s what’s actually happening: the device features a microSD card slot that supports cards up to 2TB — that’s a massive amount of local storage. This is especially valuable for portable audio players and offline listeners who prefer to carry their music in the highest quality formats without compromising space. No buffering, no compression — just direct access to your favourite files.
When you see '🐘 Upto 2 TB Storage' products, expect: vast offline music access — perfect for DAP lovers, lossless audio fans, or travel-heavy audiophiles.
Built like a Tank
Durability concerns? Rest assured 💪.
I tend to describe these products as audio equipment that's built to survive anything you can throw at them. These headphones incorporate high-grade metal components and reinforced design elements that ensure they can handle demanding conditions while maintaining structural integrity. Think of them as the military-grade vehicles of the audio world - over-engineered for reliability and built to last decades, not just years.
The metal construction provides exceptional strength and longevity while contributing to a premium feel that serious audio enthusiasts appreciate. Whether you're a professional who needs reliable daily-use equipment or someone who values long-term investment in audio gear 🏗️.
When you encounter "🪖 Built like a Tank" products, expect unmatched robustness and durability you can count on for years of intensive use.
Why it Sounds Amazing
DAC Chip
I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.
Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips — like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic — offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.
When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high-quality headphones — perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.
Power Output
I like to think of power output in audio gear like engine horsepower, it determines how much muscle your setup really has 💪. Whether you’re trying to drive a pair of power-hungry planar headphones or just want headroom for dynamic peaks, power output is the spec you want to check first.
Technically, it refers to the amount of electrical power (measured in mW or Watts) an amp or DAC/Amp combo can deliver to your headphones. More power means better control, improved dynamics, and the ability to handle demanding gear without distortion. But more isn’t always better, too much power with sensitive IEMs can introduce hiss or harshness.
When you see '🚀 Power Output' products, expect: strong driving capability, better dynamics, and optimal performance with headphones that need serious juice to shine.
Balanced Output
I often say balanced output is like using both hands to carry something heavy — it distributes power evenly and keeps things stable. In audio gear, balanced output helps reduce unwanted noise and interference, especially over longer cables. Think of it as a cleaner, more efficient way to transmit your music, ideal for anyone using high-end DACs, amps, or studio-grade headphones 🎧. You’ll typically find it on gear with XLR or 4.4mm connectors, and it's a must-have if you’re chasing that ultra-clean signal path.
Here’s what’s actually happening: a balanced output uses two separate signals, one inverted, so when interference is picked up along the cable, it gets cancelled out when the signals are recombined. The result? Cleaner audio, better dynamic range, and more power output — especially when paired with balanced headphones. The trade-off? You’ll need gear that supports balanced connections on both ends to really enjoy the benefits.
When you see '⚖️ Balanced Output' products, expect: ultra-low noise, more headroom, and better synergy with high-impedance headphones or sensitive IEMs — ideal for serious listening setups.
The Astell&Kern SE300 is not just another DAP; it's a meticulously crafted audio masterpiece that delivers an unparalleled listening experience. With the SE300, Astell&Kern has crafted an uncompromising beast that seamlessly combines technical excellence with a passion for authentic sound reproduction. If you're in pursuit of a truly transcendent listening experience, the Astell&Kern SE300 should be your go-to choice.
About RAGHAV SOMANI
Raghav Somani is the Founder & CEO of Headphone Zone. An avid audiophile and musician since 2008, his choice of headphones include STAX Electrostats, Audeze LCD 3, and for music on the go, the JH Audio Roxanne + Astell&Kern SP1000 is never too far away. On his playlist, you'll find A.R. Rahman, Michael Jackson, and the Eagles.
DESCRIPTION
PRESENTING THE ASTELL&KERN SE300, A PRIME EXAMPLE OF TRUE ANALOGUE SOUND
A&futura is a product line from Astell&Kern that exemplifies the company's never-ending pursuit of innovation. The SE300, the fourth model in the A&futura line, is a high-end Digital Audio Player that builds on this identity and broadens the sound's range with a completely new applied technology. The A&futura SE300 features an incredibly refined R-2R DAC, Class A/AB dual amps created with Astell&Kern's exclusive TERATON ALPHA technology, and for the first time, a self-created FPGA optimised technology. It offers the true sound philosophy and technology of Astell&Kern with these unmatched components. As for the headphone outputs it has 3.5mm, 2.5mm & 4.4mm outputs covering a range of use cases. Experience the first "true" analogue sound produced by an Astell&Kern player, the SE300, using Class-A/AB AMP and R-2R DAC technologies.
FEATURES A FULLY DISCRETE 24-BIT R-2R DAC FOR RICH SOUND
Instead of the Delta-Sigma DAC that is most frequently found in other audio players, the SE300 has an R-2R DAC. R-2R DAC, also known as Ladder DAC because resistors are arranged in a ladder form, provides natural yet dynamic Hi-Fi sounds, but it is very technical and challenging to implement because it calls for intricately crafted resistor units and is challenging to manage current controls. The 96 ultra-precision resistors were carefully chosen by a team of engineers as they finalised the R-2R DAC technology in SE300. You can now achieve analogue sound from a digital source thanks to Astell&Kern's SE300, the result of their exhaustive search for the ideal audio solution. With Astell&Kern's unmatched audio technology, the SE300 supports DSD256 and up to 32bit/384kHz, enabling you to enjoy your favourite music wherever you are.
ULTRA-PRECISION RESISTOR DESIGN FOR TRUE HI-FI SOUND
True Hi-Fi 24-bit decoding is made possible by the R-2R DAC embedded inside the SE300, which arranges 48 pairs (23xR and 25x2R) of 96 ultra-precision resistors to produce analogue signals. To present the Hi-Fi sound with an R-2R DAC, it is essential to add the precise current value with resistors with the tiniest error ranges. To achieve this, Astell&Kern examined each individually chosen ultra-precision resistor with an error range of 0.01% to finish designing the SE300. To create Hi-Fi sound without distortions within such an extreme precision design, a team of engineers at Astell&Kern analysed and preconceived any potential impacts that may be caused by changes in temperature. The SE300 comes with TCR10 specifications to minimise the changes in the 0.01% resistor error range.
EXCEPTIONAL AMPLIFICATION WITH CLASS A/AB DUAL AMP MODE
The Dual AMP mode is included with the SE300. You can choose between the two amplifiers based on your listening preferences and the type of music you prefer because Class A amplification produces low distortion and natural sounds, and Class AB amplification plays dynamic sounds with high efficiency. This design improves output and eliminates noise while consuming less power. The best linear audio output is provided by a Class A AMP, an analogue amplifier that produces smooth, warm, and natural tones by amplifying signals without distortion or signal loss. Through the natural and potent Class A AMP, the refined analogue signal created by the R-2R DAC reproduces a sound that is most similar to the original analogue audio. An analogue amp known as a class AB amp provides a potent output in addition to having high efficiency. Less harmonic distortion is presented with dynamic and crisp sounds.
2-STEP GAIN SETTINGS FOR SUITABLE OUTPUT AND WIDE DYNAMIC RANGE
The SE300 can perfectly match a wide range of headphones and IEMs, while still producing high-quality audio with its 2-step Gain Level mode. The two-step gain setting with the "Normal" and "High Gain" modes can produce a high current output with a powerful sound and excellent driver control. It has never been simpler to drive high-impedance headphones with up to 6 Vrms from the balanced connections.
OPTIMISED FPGA OS/NOS MODES FOR DIFFERENT SOUND PREFERENCES
The SE300 features an FPGA that Astell&Kern exclusively developed and offers OS/NOS modes that are optimised. Instead of using standard off-the-shelf commercial semiconductor chipsets, the SE300 relays digital signals to the R-2R DAC through its algorithm using an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) that a team of engineers at Astell&Kern self-developed for optimised design. The SE300-specific FPGA from Astell&Kern supports the ideal OS (Over Sampling) / NOS (Non-Over Sampling). Enjoy the carefully crafted sound styles that NOS and OS modes faithfully reproduce for the SE300's hardware and programs.
NOTE:
In NOS mode, the player reproduces the pure original sound without any digital processing, allowing users to enjoy the true unprocessed sounds decoded by the R-2R DAC itself.
OS mode offers partial digital processing that expands the bandwidth of the original signal, offering impressive details with an expansive sense of space and creating crisp and clear sounds.
ESSENCE OF A&K AUDIO TECHNOLOGIES - THE TERATON ALPHA
It would not have been possible to combine the exquisitely designed R-2R DAC with ultra-precision resistors and Class A AMP, which was considered impossible to miniaturise, without the innovative audio technology of TERATON ALPHA. SE300 is an innovative audio player that is applied with current and temperature control of TERATON ALPHA technology and an optimised FPGA design. TERATON ALPHA, engineered through endless research, is Astell&Kern's unique technology that has been designed to produce audio playback that is as close to the original sound through effective power noise removal, efficient power management and unwavering amplification, and a fully converted audio output interface. Circuit structures of R2R DAC and Dual A/AB AMP that are applied for the first time in the SE300 are completed with the sound solution of TERATON ALPHA, creating the purest form of sound and music.
EXPERIENCE MUSIC WIRELESSLY THROUGH BLUETOOTH 5.0 AND MQA SUPPORT
The Astell&Kern SE300 is compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 and the newest codecs, including Qualcomm® aptX™ HD and LDAC. The battery life of your SE300 will last longer when using Bluetooth than it would when using earlier versions, thanks to Bluetooth 5.0's improved power efficiency. For a portable device like the SE300, on which users might rely for extended periods, this is especially crucial. You are less likely to experience dropouts or interruptions in your music playback thanks to Bluetooth 5.0's improved connectivity and reliability, which offers a seamless listening experience. Astell&Kern SE300 includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording.
STAGGERING BATTERY LIFE OF UP TO 12 HOURS FOR UNINTERRUPTED PLAYBACK
When playing high-resolution music files (FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Vol.50, LCD Off, Normal Gain), the Astell&Kern SE300's battery life can last up to 12 hours. However, this may differ based on elements like volume level and screen brightness. It's also crucial that other features, like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which can consume more power, may have an impact on the SE300's battery life. The SE300 can be fully charged in about 3.5 hours. However, the SE300 is a great portable music player if you need something that can keep up with your active lifestyle without requiring frequent recharging due to its long battery life and small size.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES THAT TRULY TRANSFORM YOUR LISTENING EXPERIENCE
ReplayGain Automatically and Uniformly Adjusts Playback Volume. ReplayGain adjusts sound sources with different volumes to an identical level. Now, enjoy your playlists seamlessly through the ReplayGain feature on SE300. The new AK File Drop function in the SE300 makes file transfers more convenient. Using AK File Drop, you can transfer files wirelessly through a PC, smartphone, or FTP program located on the same network. Music file management is now possible with a cableless, wireless solution. The BT Sink function connects the SE300 to an external device via Bluetooth, similar to connecting a smartphone with a BT speaker. Music from an external device, such as a smartphone can now be played back in high quality on the SE300 using the BT Sink function. Behind the exquisite A&futura SE300 volume wheel is an LED light reminiscent of rising waves. With the LED light that radiates from the inside of the SE300, you can check the Bit Depth information of the currently playing music or the current AMP mode.
NOTE:
The LED can be turned on or off according to the your preference.
ReplayGain supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz sound sources.
REDESIGNED CRIMSON-THEMED UI/UX AND 5.46-INCH SCREEN FOR A TRULY RICH EXPERIENCE
The SE300 comes with a redesigned Crimson-themed UI/UX transforming into a "true" music player with which you can deeply connect with your music-listening experience. The new UI/UX is designed so that you can quickly browse music categories and re-discover songs within your music library. Astell&Kern also added an easy album art search function to re-discover the joy of viewing and interacting with music album art whilst listening to your music. The crimson theme focuses on edge, simplicity, and dark mode keywords. The colour theme of black with red highlights lowers visual fatigue offering intuitive user experiences. Immerse yourself in music with the new UI/UX and experience the SE300 more vividly and comfortably with a wide 5.46-inch, large-screen Full HD display.
THEMED STREAM DESIGN USING STAINLESS STEEL AND GLASS ENHANCES VISUAL AESTHETICS
Astell&Kern added intensity by using contrasting materials such as stainless steel and glass, enhancing the theme of 'Stream'. In addition to this, the bottom section of the device curves outward, allowing for a more ergonomic grip whilst using the player. The polished side and triangular-patterned volume wheel create powerful and visually striking contrasts. The straight pattern on the rear of the volume wheel elevates the visual density and allows you to control volume and visually check the changes. The wheel lighting is placed behind the volume wheel to avoid direct exposure whilst allowing the light to be reflected on the side decorations and volume wheel knurl, creating the effect of light bursting from the inside. The rear glass also features a new etching pattern, continuing the concept of 'Stream'.
SPECS
| MODEL | SE300 |
| BODY COLOR | Platinum Silver |
| BODY MATERIAL | Aluminum and Stainless Steel |
| DISPLAY | 5.46inch HD 1080 x 1920 touch screen |
| SUPPORTED AUDIO FORMATS | WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF |
| SAMPLE RATE | PCM : 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample) DSD : DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | [Normal] Unbalanced 2Vrms │ Balanced 4Vrms (Condition No Load) [High] Unbalanced 3Vrms │ Balanced 6Vrms (Condition No Load) |
| CPU | Quad-core |
| DAC | Full Discrete R-2R |
| DECODING | Support up to 32bit / 384kHz playback |
| INPUT | USB Type-C input (for charging & PC & MAC) |
| OUTPUTS | Unbalanced Out (3.5mm), Optical Out(3.5mm) Balanced Out (2.5mm, only 4-pole supported | 4.4m, only 5-pole supported) |
| WIFI | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5GHz) |
| BLUETOOTH | V5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, LDAC) |
| DIMENSIONS | 3.01” (76.45mm)[W] x 5.49” (139.45mm)[H] x 0.69” (17.6mm)[D] |
| WEIGHT | About 11.18oz (317g) |
| FEATURE ENHANCEMENTS | Firmware upgrade supported (OTA) |
| OPERATING TEMPERATURE | 0℃ ~ + 40℃ (32℉~ 104℉) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | ±0.038dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced │Balanced ±0.45dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced │Balanced |
| S/N | 114dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 115dB @ 1kHz, Balanced (Normal Gain) 115dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 115dB @ 1kHz, Balanced (High Gain) |
| CROSSTALK | 135dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -144dB @ 1kHz, Balanced |
| THD+N | 0.006% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.006% @ 1kHz, Balanced |
| IMD SMPTE | 0.005% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │Balanced |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (1.3ohm) │ Balanced Out 2.5mm (1.3ohm), 4.4mm(1.3ohm) |
| CLOCK JITTER | 25pS (Typ) |
| REFERENCE CLOCK JITTER | 500 Femto Seconds |
| BUILT-IN MEMORY | 256GB [NAND] |
| EXTERNAL MEMORY | microSD x1 (Max. 1TB) |
| CAPACITY | 5,050mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer |
| CHARGE TIME | about 3.5hours (9V 1.67A Charging) |
| PLAYBACK TIME | about 12hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Vol.50, LCD Off, Normal Gain) |
| SUPPORTED OS | Windows 10,11(32/64bit) MAC OS X 10.7 |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. Astell&Kern A&futura SE300 Player |
OTHER DETAILS
| GENERIC NAME | Digital Audio Player |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | Korea |
| IMPORTER DETAILS | Importers Name: Ferrari Video Address: 63/18, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Chennai - 600020 Contact No: 044-24420733 |
| NET QUANTITY | 1 |
| MANUFACTURER DETAILS | Name: Dreamus Company Address: 18-gil 5, Bangbaero, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Korea 06664 |
| PACKAGE CONTENTS | Astell&Kern A&futura SE300 |
User Manual | A&futura SE300
Hi-Res R-2R Digital Audio Player
|
PRESENTING THE ASTELL&KERN SE300, A PRIME EXAMPLE OF TRUE ANALOGUE SOUND
A&futura is a product line from Astell&Kern that exemplifies the company's never-ending pursuit of innovation. The SE300, the fourth model in the A&futura line, is a high-end Digital Audio Player that builds on this identity and broadens the sound's range with a completely new applied technology. The A&futura SE300 features an incredibly refined R-2R DAC, Class A/AB dual amps created with Astell&Kern's exclusive TERATON ALPHA technology, and for the first time, a self-created FPGA optimised technology. It offers the true sound philosophy and technology of Astell&Kern with these unmatched components. As for the headphone outputs it has 3.5mm, 2.5mm & 4.4mm outputs covering a range of use cases. Experience the first "true" analogue sound produced by an Astell&Kern player, the SE300, using Class-A/AB AMP and R-2R DAC technologies.
FEATURES A FULLY DISCRETE 24-BIT R-2R DAC FOR RICH SOUND
Instead of the Delta-Sigma DAC that is most frequently found in other audio players, the SE300 has an R-2R DAC. R-2R DAC, also known as Ladder DAC because resistors are arranged in a ladder form, provides natural yet dynamic Hi-Fi sounds, but it is very technical and challenging to implement because it calls for intricately crafted resistor units and is challenging to manage current controls. The 96 ultra-precision resistors were carefully chosen by a team of engineers as they finalised the R-2R DAC technology in SE300. You can now achieve analogue sound from a digital source thanks to Astell&Kern's SE300, the result of their exhaustive search for the ideal audio solution. With Astell&Kern's unmatched audio technology, the SE300 supports DSD256 and up to 32bit/384kHz, enabling you to enjoy your favourite music wherever you are.
ULTRA-PRECISION RESISTOR DESIGN FOR TRUE HI-FI SOUND
True Hi-Fi 24-bit decoding is made possible by the R-2R DAC embedded inside the SE300, which arranges 48 pairs (23xR and 25x2R) of 96 ultra-precision resistors to produce analogue signals. To present the Hi-Fi sound with an R-2R DAC, it is essential to add the precise current value with resistors with the tiniest error ranges. To achieve this, Astell&Kern examined each individually chosen ultra-precision resistor with an error range of 0.01% to finish designing the SE300. To create Hi-Fi sound without distortions within such an extreme precision design, a team of engineers at Astell&Kern analysed and preconceived any potential impacts that may be caused by changes in temperature. The SE300 comes with TCR10 specifications to minimise the changes in the 0.01% resistor error range.
EXCEPTIONAL AMPLIFICATION WITH CLASS A/AB DUAL AMP MODE
The Dual AMP mode is included with the SE300. You can choose between the two amplifiers based on your listening preferences and the type of music you prefer because Class A amplification produces low distortion and natural sounds, and Class AB amplification plays dynamic sounds with high efficiency. This design improves output and eliminates noise while consuming less power. The best linear audio output is provided by a Class A AMP, an analogue amplifier that produces smooth, warm, and natural tones by amplifying signals without distortion or signal loss. Through the natural and potent Class A AMP, the refined analogue signal created by the R-2R DAC reproduces a sound that is most similar to the original analogue audio. An analogue amp known as a class AB amp provides a potent output in addition to having high efficiency. Less harmonic distortion is presented with dynamic and crisp sounds.
2-STEP GAIN SETTINGS FOR SUITABLE OUTPUT AND WIDE DYNAMIC RANGE
The SE300 can perfectly match a wide range of headphones and IEMs, while still producing high-quality audio with its 2-step Gain Level mode. The two-step gain setting with the "Normal" and "High Gain" modes can produce a high current output with a powerful sound and excellent driver control. It has never been simpler to drive high-impedance headphones with up to 6 Vrms from the balanced connections.
OPTIMISED FPGA OS/NOS MODES FOR DIFFERENT SOUND PREFERENCES
The SE300 features an FPGA that Astell&Kern exclusively developed and offers OS/NOS modes that are optimised. Instead of using standard off-the-shelf commercial semiconductor chipsets, the SE300 relays digital signals to the R-2R DAC through its algorithm using an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) that a team of engineers at Astell&Kern self-developed for optimised design. The SE300-specific FPGA from Astell&Kern supports the ideal OS (Over Sampling) / NOS (Non-Over Sampling). Enjoy the carefully crafted sound styles that NOS and OS modes faithfully reproduce for the SE300's hardware and programs.
NOTE:
In NOS mode, the player reproduces the pure original sound without any digital processing, allowing users to enjoy the true unprocessed sounds decoded by the R-2R DAC itself.
OS mode offers partial digital processing that expands the bandwidth of the original signal, offering impressive details with an expansive sense of space and creating crisp and clear sounds.
ESSENCE OF A&K AUDIO TECHNOLOGIES - THE TERATON ALPHA
It would not have been possible to combine the exquisitely designed R-2R DAC with ultra-precision resistors and Class A AMP, which was considered impossible to miniaturise, without the innovative audio technology of TERATON ALPHA. SE300 is an innovative audio player that is applied with current and temperature control of TERATON ALPHA technology and an optimised FPGA design. TERATON ALPHA, engineered through endless research, is Astell&Kern's unique technology that has been designed to produce audio playback that is as close to the original sound through effective power noise removal, efficient power management and unwavering amplification, and a fully converted audio output interface. Circuit structures of R2R DAC and Dual A/AB AMP that are applied for the first time in the SE300 are completed with the sound solution of TERATON ALPHA, creating the purest form of sound and music.
EXPERIENCE MUSIC WIRELESSLY THROUGH BLUETOOTH 5.0 AND MQA SUPPORT
The Astell&Kern SE300 is compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 and the newest codecs, including Qualcomm® aptX™ HD and LDAC. The battery life of your SE300 will last longer when using Bluetooth than it would when using earlier versions, thanks to Bluetooth 5.0's improved power efficiency. For a portable device like the SE300, on which users might rely for extended periods, this is especially crucial. You are less likely to experience dropouts or interruptions in your music playback thanks to Bluetooth 5.0's improved connectivity and reliability, which offers a seamless listening experience. Astell&Kern SE300 includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording.
STAGGERING BATTERY LIFE OF UP TO 12 HOURS FOR UNINTERRUPTED PLAYBACK
When playing high-resolution music files (FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Vol.50, LCD Off, Normal Gain), the Astell&Kern SE300's battery life can last up to 12 hours. However, this may differ based on elements like volume level and screen brightness. It's also crucial that other features, like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which can consume more power, may have an impact on the SE300's battery life. The SE300 can be fully charged in about 3.5 hours. However, the SE300 is a great portable music player if you need something that can keep up with your active lifestyle without requiring frequent recharging due to its long battery life and small size.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES THAT TRULY TRANSFORM YOUR LISTENING EXPERIENCE
ReplayGain Automatically and Uniformly Adjusts Playback Volume. ReplayGain adjusts sound sources with different volumes to an identical level. Now, enjoy your playlists seamlessly through the ReplayGain feature on SE300. The new AK File Drop function in the SE300 makes file transfers more convenient. Using AK File Drop, you can transfer files wirelessly through a PC, smartphone, or FTP program located on the same network. Music file management is now possible with a cableless, wireless solution. The BT Sink function connects the SE300 to an external device via Bluetooth, similar to connecting a smartphone with a BT speaker. Music from an external device, such as a smartphone can now be played back in high quality on the SE300 using the BT Sink function. Behind the exquisite A&futura SE300 volume wheel is an LED light reminiscent of rising waves. With the LED light that radiates from the inside of the SE300, you can check the Bit Depth information of the currently playing music or the current AMP mode.
NOTE:
The LED can be turned on or off according to the your preference.
ReplayGain supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz sound sources.
REDESIGNED CRIMSON-THEMED UI/UX AND 5.46-INCH SCREEN FOR A TRULY RICH EXPERIENCE
The SE300 comes with a redesigned Crimson-themed UI/UX transforming into a "true" music player with which you can deeply connect with your music-listening experience. The new UI/UX is designed so that you can quickly browse music categories and re-discover songs within your music library. Astell&Kern also added an easy album art search function to re-discover the joy of viewing and interacting with music album art whilst listening to your music. The crimson theme focuses on edge, simplicity, and dark mode keywords. The colour theme of black with red highlights lowers visual fatigue offering intuitive user experiences. Immerse yourself in music with the new UI/UX and experience the SE300 more vividly and comfortably with a wide 5.46-inch, large-screen Full HD display.
THEMED STREAM DESIGN USING STAINLESS STEEL AND GLASS ENHANCES VISUAL AESTHETICS
Astell&Kern added intensity by using contrasting materials such as stainless steel and glass, enhancing the theme of 'Stream'. In addition to this, the bottom section of the device curves outward, allowing for a more ergonomic grip whilst using the player. The polished side and triangular-patterned volume wheel create powerful and visually striking contrasts. The straight pattern on the rear of the volume wheel elevates the visual density and allows you to control volume and visually check the changes. The wheel lighting is placed behind the volume wheel to avoid direct exposure whilst allowing the light to be reflected on the side decorations and volume wheel knurl, creating the effect of light bursting from the inside. The rear glass also features a new etching pattern, continuing the concept of 'Stream'.
| MODEL | SE300 |
| BODY COLOR | Platinum Silver |
| BODY MATERIAL | Aluminum and Stainless Steel |
| DISPLAY | 5.46inch HD 1080 x 1920 touch screen |
| SUPPORTED AUDIO FORMATS | WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF |
| SAMPLE RATE | PCM : 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample) DSD : DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo |
| OUTPUT LEVEL | [Normal] Unbalanced 2Vrms │ Balanced 4Vrms (Condition No Load) [High] Unbalanced 3Vrms │ Balanced 6Vrms (Condition No Load) |
| CPU | Quad-core |
| DAC | Full Discrete R-2R |
| DECODING | Support up to 32bit / 384kHz playback |
| INPUT | USB Type-C input (for charging & PC & MAC) |
| OUTPUTS | Unbalanced Out (3.5mm), Optical Out(3.5mm) Balanced Out (2.5mm, only 4-pole supported | 4.4m, only 5-pole supported) |
| WIFI | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5GHz) |
| BLUETOOTH | V5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, LDAC) |
| DIMENSIONS | 3.01” (76.45mm)[W] x 5.49” (139.45mm)[H] x 0.69” (17.6mm)[D] |
| WEIGHT | About 11.18oz (317g) |
| FEATURE ENHANCEMENTS | Firmware upgrade supported (OTA) |
| OPERATING TEMPERATURE | 0℃ ~ + 40℃ (32℉~ 104℉) |
| FREQUENCY RESPONSE | ±0.038dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced │Balanced ±0.45dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced │Balanced |
| S/N | 114dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 115dB @ 1kHz, Balanced (Normal Gain) 115dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 115dB @ 1kHz, Balanced (High Gain) |
| CROSSTALK | 135dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -144dB @ 1kHz, Balanced |
| THD+N | 0.006% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.006% @ 1kHz, Balanced |
| IMD SMPTE | 0.005% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │Balanced |
| OUTPUT IMPEDANCE | Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (1.3ohm) │ Balanced Out 2.5mm (1.3ohm), 4.4mm(1.3ohm) |
| CLOCK JITTER | 25pS (Typ) |
| REFERENCE CLOCK JITTER | 500 Femto Seconds |
| BUILT-IN MEMORY | 256GB [NAND] |
| EXTERNAL MEMORY | microSD x1 (Max. 1TB) |
| CAPACITY | 5,050mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer |
| CHARGE TIME | about 3.5hours (9V 1.67A Charging) |
| PLAYBACK TIME | about 12hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Vol.50, LCD Off, Normal Gain) |
| SUPPORTED OS | Windows 10,11(32/64bit) MAC OS X 10.7 |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. Astell&Kern A&futura SE300 Player |
OTHER DETAILS
| GENERIC NAME | Digital Audio Player |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | Korea |
| IMPORTER DETAILS | Importers Name: Ferrari Video Address: 63/18, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Chennai - 600020 Contact No: 044-24420733 |
| NET QUANTITY | 1 |
| MANUFACTURER DETAILS | Name: Dreamus Company Address: 18-gil 5, Bangbaero, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Korea 06664 |
| PACKAGE CONTENTS | Astell&Kern A&futura SE300 |
|
User Manual | A&futura SE300
Hi-Res R-2R Digital Audio Player
|
Full Discrete R-2R
Dual ESS ES9039MPRO
AKM AK4191EQ x2 & AK4499EX x4
Battery Life: Upto 12 Hours
Battery Capacity: 5050mAh
Battery Life: Upto 11 Hours
Battery Capacity: 8400mAh
Battery Life: Upto 10 Hours
Battery Capacity: 4200mAh
3.5mm (Single-Ended)
2.5mm (Balanced)
4.4mm (Balanced)
3.5mm (Single-Ended)
4.4mm (Balanced)
3.5mm (Single-Ended)
4.4mm (Balanced)
Upto 6 Vrms
Upto 16 Vrms
Upto 6.3 Vrms
Upto 1 TB Storage
Upto 1 TB Storage
Upto 1.5 TB Storage
USB Type-C & Bluetooth
USB Type-C & Bluetooth
USB Type-C & Bluetooth
PCM : 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
DSD : DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz),
Stereo
PCM : 8kHz ~ 768kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo / DSD512(1bit 22.4MHz), Stereo
PCM : 8kHz ~ 768kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
DSD : DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo DSD512(1bit, 22.4MHz), Stereo
1. Astell&Kern A&futura SE300 Player
1. Astell&Kern KANN ULTRA Digital Audio Player
1. Astell&Kern A&ultima SP3000M
Don't sweat it, this
Astell&Kern - A&futura SE300 comes with a 1 Year warranty
from Astell&Kern that covers manufacturing defects.
All products featured on Headphone Zone are backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.
Read more about Astell&Kern's warranty in India.
Gold Award
Major HiFi
Aug, 2023
"The classy design and the new polished/modern user interface are very refreshing features indeed. And the sound quality is satisfying, especially in terms of mid-range tonality and layering."
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"The SE300 keeps up with Astell & Kerns’s high standards while implementing new technology that keeps things fresh. Its design is as impeccable as ever, with its beautiful touch-screen display and sleek construction."
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"Yes, at the moment SE300 is my top 1 among daps because it sounds natural, realistic, exciting and with really classy technical stuff. A bit a uncompromising beast. I have to say, it messed with my head."
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"The A&futura line brings something new to the table with each new DAP - always raising the bar and changing the status quo. The SE300 is no different, offering a number of new things to come to an Astell&Kern DAP."
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"When you add up the performance, discrete R-2R DAC, dual amplifier modes, Crimson UI, and new Bluetooth features — this might be one of the best performing DAPs in the entire A&K catalog."
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"SE300 will appeal not just to diehard fans of A&K DAPs, but also to many other audiophiles looking to complement their one-trick pony sources with something different and more fun. "
Read MoreHave a question? Get in touch!
Check out the most common questions our customers ask. Still have questions? Talk to our Headphone Gurus.
What is an R-2R DAC architecture?
What are the features that sets apart the SE300 from other Digital Audio Players?
What are the sampling/decoding rates supported?
Does it support MQA?
What is MQA and how does it make a difference or how is it different from regular PCM & DSD files?
What are the various Open APP Service and APK versions supported by SE300?
What is the warranty? How do I claim it?