Astell & Kern PD5: eight DACs, hi-res audio and up to 28 hours of playback

Astell & Kern has introduced the portable PD5 audio player, positioned as the successor to the SR35. The new model is described as an entry-level device in the brand's range, although pricing and an exact launch date have not yet been announced. Its headline feature is a system built around eight digital-to-analog converters. Users can switch between four- and eight-DAC modes: the former is designed to reduce power use, while the latter unlocks the player's highest sound quality.

With four DACs active, energy consumption is reduced, while maximum battery life reaches 28 hours. The player supports PCM playback at up to 32-bit/384 kHz as well as DSD256. Another notable feature is EnviroTune, which analyzes ambient noise and automatically adjusts the sound to suit the surroundings. Astell & Kern has not yet explained the technology in detail.

The Astell & Kern PD5 also includes dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3 and support for a wide range of audio codecs. It runs Android, although the operating-system version has not been specified. The body is made from aluminum and adopts a more conventional shape than the unusually styled SR35. Dimensions, pricing and release timing will be revealed later.