Award-winning Astell & Kern SR25 music player gets 'Black Edition'

By
last updated

One of our favourite portable music players is now available in an all-new black finish

Astell & Kern SR25
(Image credit: Astell & Kern)

Astell & Kern's A&norma SR25 has recently won a What Hi-Fi? Award in the portable music player category, having found a way to squeeze even more performance into its entry-level form factor than its predecessor, the former-Award-winning SR15. 

The US firm launched the £649 ($699, AU$1199) player back April in a solo Silver Moon finish, and now there's a second colourway – Black Edition. Don't worry, SR25 owners, the SR25 Black Edition simply introduces a new aesthetic, matching the silver version for features and performance.

Astell & Kern SR25

(Image credit: Astell & Kern)

Astell & Kern SR25

(Image credit: Astell & Kern)

Speaking of which, the impressive calibre of both the SR25's sound and functionality has led to a very rounded offering from Astell & Kern at this price point.

Music file support (up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD256), storage (64GB and expandable) and battery life (21 hours) are pleasing across the board, while the SR25's richly detailed and enjoyably rhythmic sonic delivery seals its favourable fate.

Whichever colour you choose – Silver Moon or Black Edition – the SR25 won't disappoint those who're ready to up their portable music game from their smartphone or cheaper dedicated player.

MORE:

Read the full Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 review

Best portable MP3 players 2020: from budget to hi-res music players

The best hi-fi and audio deals 2020

Becky Roberts
Becky Roberts

Becky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of Australian Hi-Fi magazine. During her 10+ years in the hi-fi industry, she has reviewed all manner of audio gear, from budget amplifiers to high-end speakers, and particularly specialises in headphones and head-fi devices. In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake.