Description
SE200 is the second model from the Astell&Kern A&futura premium line of Digital Audio Players, and the world’s first Multi DAC player (1x AK4499EQ + 2x ES9068AS).
Since the release of the Dual DAC AK120 player in 2013, there have been no products featuring more than two DACs in the same unit. So Astell&Kern set out to become the first manufacturer to use more than two DACs – the result is the SE200.
Featuring the latest audiophile DACs from ESS, the ES9068AS in a Dual DAC configuration, plus a single AK4499EQ, AKM’s flagship DAC (as used in the A&K flagship SP2000).
The SE200 is therefore the first true multi-DAC DAP. In addition, SE200 was designed with but multiple AMP circuits and different AMP designs to optimise the different characteristics of the AKM and ESS DACs that are used in the player.
By separating the signals for each channel of balanced and unbalanced, Astell&Kern designed independent circuits that do not interfere with each other to provide the best sound possible.
The SE200 maintains a similar design identity to the SE100 which combines trapezoidal straight lines and curves. These curves are the result of ultra-precision metal processing that has been perfected by Astell&Kern. After experimenting with different materials for the rear of the SE200, we created a new ceramic rear cover, instead of the glass found on the previous generation SE100.
This material not only improves wireless network performance, but produces a more premium feel to the player. New manufacturing techniques were developed to precisely mold the high-gloss ceramic cover involving seven separate processes. A low-speed processing method is used to prevent cracking and produce a durable backing. The results are a rear cover that is not just beautiful, but functional.