High End 2018 • Hot Product

Askell & Kern was present in its usual giant enclosed space. iRiver, the owner of the Askell & Kern brand, launched two new Astell & Kern player lines at the show as the latest step in rebranding its product line. The two new lines are A&futura, a new premium line; and A&norma, a new standard line. These two lines join the current flagship line, A&ultima.

The A&futura SE100 ($1699) is equipped with a professional-grade DAC from ESS, the Sabre ES9038Pro, which offers eight-channel processing. With four channels per left and right channel, iRiver claims that the SE100 is capable of producing even more detailed and clear sound. The SE100 can play back up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM audio and Quad DSD natively. The SE100 produces 4.1V (balanced output) from its built-in amp. The SE100 also features an Octa-core CPU, 5" touch screen, 128GB internal storage, support for fast charging, and can play back music for about ten hours. It has an aluminum-alloy body and a diamond-patterned glass back plate.

The A&norma SR15 ($699) is the first model from the new standard. The SR15 uses the Master HIFI-level DAC chip, the Cirrus Logic CS43198, and features a Quad-core CPU. The A&norma SR15 can play back up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM audio and single-rated DSD natively. It is packaged in a solid aluminum-alloy body that resembles that of the AK70 series.

In addition to the two new players, Astell & Kern also showcased its latest IEM, the Billie Jean ($349), which was announced at the 2018 Fujiya AVIC Headphone Festival in Tokyo, Japan. Billie Jean is the latest Siren-series IEM from the collaboration between Astell & Kern and Jerry Harvey Audio. Billie Jean features Jerry Harvey's patented freqphase waveguide technology.

The A&futura SE100 and the A&norma SR15 will launch globally in May and June, respectively. The Billie Jean is available now.