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Types of DACs & How They're Different | Moon Audio

A&norma SR35 DAP Music Player

Was: $799.00
Now: $649.00
In Stock

True to the core values of Astell&Kern, high fidelity sound lies at the heart of the SR35, deli… More details

Types of DACs & How They're Different | Moon Audio

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Hi-Fi Sound On-The-Go

The A&norma series was created to enjoy the premium sounds of Astell&Kern in a portable size with best-in-class specifications. SR25 MKII, the previous model in the series, was loved by audio enthusiasts and those just starting their personal audio journey thanks to its portable size and powerful Hi-Fi sound through a 4.4mm balanced jack.
The A&norma SR35 inherits these strengths while applying the amplifier and audio design that was applied to Astell&Kern's premium products to deliver the authentic sound quality that Astell&Kern is known so well for. The ultra-compact SR35 features 20 hours of continuous playback while supporting Quad DACs and two-step Gain control and the A&norma line's first introduction of New Generation Amp technology with Astell&Kern's long-standing know-how for an even more delicate and clear Hi-Fi sound at higher output. 

Quad-DAC (Quad/Dual Switching Mode)

New Generation AMP Technology

2-Step Gain ModeNew UI/UX - Crimson Theme

Dual Wi-Fi (2.4 & 5GHz)

20 Hours of Continuous Playback

Supports Two-Way Bluetooth and High-Definition Codecs (LDAC, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD)

Roon Ready (First in A&norma series)

Quad-DAC Mode for True Hi-Fi Sound

For the first time in the A&norma series, the SR35 deploys the CS43198 DAC from Cirrus Logic, in Quad DAC configuration. A very well-received DAC is praised for its outstanding spatial sense and resolution.

In addition to this, a new design of audio circuit has been implemented, incorporating Astell&Kern's unique technologies along with the Quad DAC and our patented TERATON ALPHA technology for outstanding advancement in the dynamics, sense of space, resolution, and the level of separation. Furthermore, our latest technologically advanced amplification circuitry, which was only available in our flagship products has now been incorporated to the SR35, boasting a dramatically improved and industry-leading SRN of 130dB.

A Dual/Quad DAC Switching mode is offered to enable users to adjust and improve power management efficiency, further improving the long continuous playtime, a core feature of the A&norma series.

The SR35 supports Native DSD256 and PCM playback of up to 32bit/384kHz allowing you to enjoy true Hi-Fi sound without any restriction and free from distortion.

The Essence of Astell&Kern Technology - Equipped with New Generation AMP

Astell&Kern's brand philosophy - refusing to overlook even the smallest differences in sound quality - has been recognized by numerous media and audiophiles through our multiple releases of premium audio players that combine innovative circuits and amplifier technologies.

The SR35 is equipped with New Generation AMP technology that was applied to the A&ultima line so that A&norma users can also enjoy the highest level of sound provided by the A&ultima line with this exclusive in-house technology.

The New Generation AMP technology applied to the SR35 is Astell&Kern's unique amplifier design that effectively improves noise reduction at high power output. With this new technology, the SR35 contains the same amplifier design as the latest A&ultima and A&futura products, completely transforming into an amplifier design worthy of premium audio, from OP-AMP selection to component placement and circuit design.

Moreover, in order to reliably operate different impedance output sources, the current handling capacity at the output end is increased to maximize the performance of various devices with one SR35.

2-Step Gain Mode for the Perfect Hi-Fi Experience

For seamless use of sensitive IEMs and hard-to-drive headphones, a device must provide suitable output, respective of the connected device's specification.
The SR35 supports a 2-Step Gain Level mode to create the perfect match for a wide range of headphones and IEMs, maintaining optimal sound output. The 2-step gain setting with "Normal Gain" and "High Gain" modes can generate a high current output to create a powerful sound and excellent driver control. With up to 6Vrms from the balanced connections, driving high-impedance headphones has never been easier.

SR25 MKII and SR35 Comparison (Output Level, S/N)

 SR25 MKII SR35
Output Level Unbalanced, 2.0Vrms
Balanced, 4.0Vrms
[Normal Gain] Unbalanced, 2.1Vrms / Balanced, 4.0Vrms
[High Gain] Unbalanced, 3.1Vrms / Balanced, 6.0Vrms
S/N

122dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced
124dB @ 1kHz, Balanced

127dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced
130dB @ 1kHz, Balanced

 

Audio Block Diagram

TERATON ALPHA, The Essence of A&K Audio Technologies

TERATON ALPHA, AK's ultimate sound solution, makes it possible to realize high output and Quad DAC for a wide variety of earphones and headphones whilst maintaining long playtime with minimal noise. We advanced the A&norma series one step further with audio technologies from other Astell&Kern products that were praised by countless audio lovers and media reviews as well as TERATON ALPHA gained through years of technical research and development.

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.

All-Day Music - Amazing Playtime

The SR35 provides premium-class audio specifications and genuine Hi-Fi sound by Astell&Kern.

Along with the core value of A&norma series that seeks to provide unlimited Hi-Fi audio anywhere and at any time, we offer you the best portability in the digital audio player market, with a class-leading long playtime and powerful output.

The compact size of the SR35 fits easily in your pocket and weighing in at only 184g is light enough to carry without any inconvenience. With a maximum of 20-hour continuous playtime, you can enjoy music without a recharge all day long.

The SR35 is the perfect companion that you can use for long-haul flights as well as full days at work and vacations, guaranteeing you Hi-Fi sound anywhere, anytime.

New Experience, New User Interface

The SR35 comes with a redesigned Crimson-themed UI/UX transforming into a "true music player" for users to deeply connect with their music listening experience.

The new UI/UX is designed so that users can quickly browse music categories and re-discover songs within their music library. We also added an easy album art search function so that users can re-discover the joy of viewing and interacting with music album art whilst listening to their music.

The crimson theme focuses on edge, simplicity, and dark mode keywords. The color theme of black and red highlights lowers visual fatigue and offers intuitive user experiences, and many other improvements were made to the device's user-friendliness of app service, artist view, album sorting, and the album art search function.

Immerse yourself in music with the new UI/UX.

Sound Design by DAC Filters

With the SR35, you can pick and choose from four DAC filters to create your own sound style. Design your own sound with 4 different DAC filters.

Roon Ready and MQA Support for Hi-Fi Fans

Roon Ready is a service for Hi-Fi fans who wish to play the best Hi-Fi sound without compromise on various devices through network systems.

Roon Ready, available on some premium audio products, now comes with the A&norma series for the first time, offering you a SR35-controlled network audio system to deliver the best sound quality.

Additionally, it supports the full decoder of MQA 8X so that the SR35 can play and stream Hi-Fi MQA sound natively, true to the concept of A&norma that plays original sounds anywhere and at any time.

Dual-Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz)

SR35 offers Dual-Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz), providing enhanced network performance to enjoy Hi-Fi music through various streaming and Roon Ready services.

ReplayGain Automatically and Uniformly Adjusts Playback Volume

ReplayGain, which adjusts sound sources with different volumes to an identical level, has been applied. Now, enjoy your own playlists seamlessly through the ReplayGain feature on the SR35.

*ReplayGain supports up to 24bit/192kHz sound sources.

Wireless Hi-Fi Sound Through BT Sink

BT Sink function connects the SR35 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 SR35 using the BT Sink function.

Support Native DSD256, 32bit/384kHz

SR35 supports Native DSD256 and up to 32bit/384kHz with Astell&Kern's excellent audio technology, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite music.

AK File Drop to Enjoy Wireless Transfers

The new AK File Drop function in the SR35 makes files transfers easier and more convenient. Using AK File Drop, you can freely 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.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download. Visit mqa.co.uk for more information. Astell&Kern A&ultima SP3000 includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording. Learn More.The MQA logo is a trademark of MQA Limited. © MQA Limited 2018 

Qualcomm aptX is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd., registered in the United States and other countries. Learn More.

LDAC and LDAC logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. Learn More.

Roon Ready network players from our partners have Roon’s high-resolution streaming technology built right in.
They combine simple setup, daily reliability, and support for the highest level of digital audio performance in the industry.
Every Roon Ready player is certified by Roon to guarantee the same stellar experience, regardless of its manufacturer, its price, or its features. Learn More.

General Specifications

Model SR35
Body Color Charcoal Gray
Body Material Aluminum
Display 3.6 inch HD (720 x 1,280) TFT LCD
Supported Audio Formats WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DIFF, DSF, MQA
Sample rate PCM: 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample) / DSD Native: DSD64 (1bit 2.8mHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo
Output Level

Unbalanced 2.1Vrms / Balanced 4Vrms (Normal)

Unbalanced 3.1Vrms / Balanced 6Vrms (High Gain)

CPU Quad-Core
DAC Cirrus Logic CS43198 x 4 (Quad-DAC)
Decoding Support up to 32bit / 384kHz Bit-to-Bit Playback and Native DSD256
Input USB Type-C input (for charging PC & MAC)
Outputs Unbalanced Out (3.5mm), Balanced Out (2.5mm, only 4-pole supported | 4.4m, only 5-pole supported)
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4&5GHz)
Bluetooth V5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, LDAC)
Dimensions 2.51" (64mm) [W] x 4.26" (108.3mm) [H] x 0.63" (16.1mm) [D]
Weight about 6.49 oz (about 184 g)
Opeating Temperature 0*C ~ + 40*C (32* ~ 104*F)

Audio Performance

Fequency Response ± 0.012dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced / ±0.011dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced ±0.125dB (Condition: 20Hz~70kHz) Unabalanced / ±0.126dB (Condition 20Hz~70kHz) Balanced
Signal to Noise Ratio 127dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced / 130dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
Crosstalk -133dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -145dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
THD+N 0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced / 0.0006% @ 1kHz, Balanced
IMD SMPTE 0.0002% 800Hz 10kHz(4.1) Unbalanced / 0.0002% 800Hz 10kHz(4.1) Balanced
Output Impedance Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (1.1ohm) / Balanced out 2.5mm, 4.4mm (2.7ohm)

Clock Source

Clock Jitter 25ps(Typ)
Reference Clock Jitter 70ps

Battery

Capacity 3,150mAh 3.7V Li-Polymer Battery
Continuous Storage Time about 20 hours (Standard: FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Unbalanced, Vol. 50, EQ Off, LCD Off)
Charge Time about 2.5 hours (5V 2A General Charging)

Memory

Built-in Memory 64GB [NAND]
External Memory microSD (Max. 1TB) x1

OS

Supported OS Windows 8,10 (32/64bit), MAC OS X 10.7 and up

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