Astell & Kern launches flagship AK380 high-res audio player

The AK380 builds on the company's previous flagship model, the AK240 by adding a raft of extra features and functionality, including dual 32-bit DACs and advanced jitter reduction. Astell & Kern is also introducing an optional headphone amp module, which the AK380 slots into.

You control the player through its 4in touchscreen. Built-in memory is 256GB, which is expandable via microSD card. There's also wi-fi connectivity, native DSD playback and Bluetooth connectivity. Battery capacity (and hence battery life) is larger on the new model (3400mAh against 3250mAh).

While the AK380 goes on sale in June for £3000, pricing and availability for the optional amp module is yet to be confirmed.

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Andy is Deputy Editor of What Hi-Fi? and a consumer electronics journalist with nearly 20 years of experience writing news, reviews and features. Over the years he's also contributed to a number of other outlets, including The Sunday Times, the BBC, Stuff, and BA High Life Magazine. Premium wireless earbuds are his passion but he's also keen on car tech and in-car audio systems and can often be found cruising the countryside testing the latest set-ups. In his spare time Andy is a keen golfer and gamer.

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