Astell & Kern presents the ACRO CA1000T, a complete portable desktop system that puts headphone listeners in front row.
The Astell & Kern ACRO CA1000T is the world’s first (at the time of writing) portable device using the ESS ES9039MPRO. Its technology is based on a dual DAC, followed by a proprietary “dual tube triple amp system”. The DAC chip should provide a clear, three-dimensional soundstage with improved modulation and reduced noise. As mentioned, it also uses tubes (from KORG) in the amplification stage, as well as a fully balanced and separated circuit for the left and right channels. The Triple Amp system thereby lets you easily switch between tube or semiconductor amplification (or even both at the same time).
Bluetooth and more
Supported is 32 bit / 768 kHz PCM, DSD up to and including DSD512, full MQA decoding and, on the wireless side, apt-X HD and LDAC via Bluetooth support. As icing on the cake, the Astell & Kern ACRO CA1000T is Roon Ready too. The unit is portable if desired; a built-in battery provides up to 10 hours of playing time when fully charged. Available per direct for $2300.