Astell&Kern ACRO CA1000T

ACRO CA1000T

All-In-One Head-Fi Audio System

All-In-One Head-Fi Audio System,
ACRO CA1000T

ACRO CA1000T is an all-in-one Head-Fi audio system created for those who want to enjoy the best sound wherever they are.

ACRO CA1000T is a multifunctional device that can play ultra-high quality sound sources and provide diverse input/output options for the perfect desktop companion. Complete with a powerful headphone amplifier and Astell&Kern’s proprietary TERATON ALPHA technology making it a versatile option for the home or office. It offers ultra-high quality sound anywhere using optimal battery power, with no need for a mains power supply connection.

Complete the Head-Fi audio system of your dreams using just an ACRO CA1000T to provide true Astell&Kern sound thanks to its dual-tube applied Triple Amp System, 4-levels of gain that can operate the most detailed IEMs and hard to drive headphones, and ESS Technology’s flagship ES9039MPRO Dual-DAC.

Convenient, High-Quality Head-Fi Sound

The ACRO CA1000T goes beyond the limitations of a fixed headphone amp with its ideal Head-Fi audio system that can be setup anywhere you want and can run independently from its internal battery supply.
The ACRO CA1000T offers detailed headphone sound thanks to its built-in high-power headphone amp that does not require a connection to other devices.
It's an all-in-one Head-Fi audio system that provides great connectivity with external audio devices and speakers thanks to its diverse range of input/output ports, allowing you to easily enjoy network audio playback and music streaming.

Extensive Input/Output Options

The ACRO CA1000T offers an extensive range of input/output options that can meet the needs of audiophiles looking to build their ideal
Head-Fi system with maximum utility.
For greater ease of use, you can change the input/output settings using the touch screen on top of the product while multiple cables and
devices are connected.

1. 3.5mm, 6.35mm Unbalanced, 2.5mm 4.4mm Balanced Output

2. Mini XLR, RCA Output

3. 4.4mm, Coaxial, Optical Input

4. USB Input, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Mini XLR cable PIN Map

TERATON ALPHA,
The Essence of A&K Audio Technologies

It would have been impossible to realize the powerful output from the most detailed headphones and the complicated signal path of a dual tube and triple amp system with minimal noise without TERATON ALPHA, AK's Ultimate Sound Solution. Astell&Kern further improved TERATON ALPHA using knowledge learned from the design of the Hybrid Tube System found in our SP2000T and the noise removal from the CA1000.

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.

Discover more:  https://astellnkern.com/story/story_detail.jsp?storyNo=9&categoryCode=Sound

4-levels of gain and up to 15Vrms output for the Perfect Head-Fi Setup

To run the most detailed IEMs and most demanding headphones perfectly, an output that matches the characteristic of the receiving device is required. The ACRO CA1000T supports 4 gain level settings so that almost any headphones can be driven to an optimal state.
The 4-levels of gain setting can create the ideal output for a device’s characteristics and sound, allowing users to fine tune and dial in their desired volume output. And with up to 15 Vrms output, it can run high-impedance headphones with ease.

The output ports' electrical capacity has been raised to add stability when operating devices with different impedances at the gain level setting, and the separate balanced and unbalanced volume controllers optimize electricity flow and reduce noise for the best sound.

With the ACRO CA1000T, you can enjoy optimal device performance and pure sound that touches your heart.

Upgraded Sound
The world's first Use of the Newest ESS Flagship DAC

The ACRO CA1000T is designed with dual ES9039MPRO, using the newest flagship DAC from ESS for the first time ever to offer more vivid and voluminous sounds that surpass your imagination.

The ES9039MPRO is an additional ES9039PRO model that has a built-in stereo hardware MQA renderer. It has even more advanced modulation than the existing flagship DAC to reduce power consumption, noise and distortions inside the DAC for enhanced audio performance.

Astell&Kern invented and optimized a new design of amp block to heighten the performance of the ES9039MPRO, allowing it to offer more balanced and intense sounds with deeper and richer bass sounds and clear highs.

Sound Design by DAC Filter

With the ACRO CA1000T, you can pick and choose from seven DAC filters to create your own sound style.

Design your own sound with the seven DAC filters.

Full Balanced Circuit with Dual-Tube

The ACRO CA1000T has dual Twin Triode KORG Nutube tubes, which were implemented for the first time in our award winning SP2000T, offering advanced tube sounds.

When a product is equipped with a Dual DAC, and one vacuum tube there must be a separate circuit to convert the signal to Balanced right before the output terminal. This structure requires a process to convert an unbalanced signal to a balanced signal, during which, noise gets amplified in the process.
The CA1000T, however, offers a complete balanced circuit that separates left and right channels with two vacuum tubes, creating even more natural and softer sounds.

Both Tube AMP mode and OPAMP provide a powerful 15 Vrms output, and the headphone ports allow you to enjoy the unique sounds of vacuum tubes without any limitations.

TRIPLE AMP SYSTEM is the Next Generation of AMP Technology

The ACRO CA1000T exceeds the standard approach to AMP Mode selection, based on the type of music you are listening to.
Select between TUBE AMP mode, OP AMP mode, or the brand-new HYBRID AMP mode.
OP AMP mode puts Astell&Kern's AMP technology expertise to use, delivering extreme clarity and dynamic sound,
while TUBE AMP mode prov ides a uniquely warm and musical sound.
HYBRID AMP mode - a first for digital audio players - enhances the resolution and clarity of the existing TUBE AMP mode to express more musical detail.
HYBRID AMP mode, combines the advantages of retro analog performance and high-resolution output, giving you the pleasure of a brand new tonal characteristic.
Experience the unique sound enhancements that this AMP technology has to offer.

[ OP AMP Mode ] Extreme clarity and dynamic
[ TUBE AMP Mode ] Uniquely warm and musical
[ HYBRID AMP Mode ] A fresh combination of retro vibes and high-resolution output.

Custom design to minimize microphonic noise

A special custom design minimizes microphonic noise that may be caused by external shocks and vibrations.

To address the structural issue of vacuum tubes, where microphonic noise is created even by the smallest shocks or vibrations, we repeatedly developed new designs and conducted thorough reviews and testing during prototyping.
Both sides of the vacuum tube are fixed with flexible silicon covers to minimize shocks and a magnetic force is used to physically separate it from the PCB, offering greater stability and isolation when the tube is operational.

Astell&Kern is committed to designing these small elements and aspects that create the unrivaled differences between our products and the sound of competitors.

* A patent application has been made for this technology

Crossfeed, Speaker effect when listening through headphones

In a headphone environment in which the left and right channels are clearly separated, ear fatigue may increase during prolonged listening. The moment you turn on Crossfeed, the experience of crisp, but comfortable sound begins.

Crossfeed mixes parts of the original signal from one channel and sends that signal to the opposite channel with a time difference to center the sound image.

Through the use of detailed settings such as Shelf Cutoff, Shelf Gain, and Mixer Level,
you can set the level of crossfeed according to your listening preferences.

Optimized device care with USB-PD 2.0 charging and
battery protection mode

The ACRO CA1000T supports USB-PD 2.0 charging with 9V/3A and provides 11 hours of continuous playback when fully charged.

Due to the long-term connection to the power supply while connected to various audio devices, long-term charging can shorten battery life.

The ACRO CA1000T has a battery protection mode feature that helps extend battery life.
When battery protection mode is enabled, the battery is charged up to 85%, and then the charge stops. If the battery drops below 80%, the battery will start charging again and charge up to 85%.

Enjoy the ACRO CA1000T's powerful sound while being optimized for longer with the ACRO CA1000T's battery protection mode.

* Battery protection mode will be supported through a firmware update.

Real-time information using light

The LED light reminiscent of the vacuum tube light allows you to check bit depth information of currently playing music or the amp mode being used.

[ Playback mode ] 16bit : red, 24bit : green, 32bit : blue, DSD : purple
[ Amp mode ] OP AMP : red, Tube Amp : orange, Hybrid Amp: blue green

Silver Plating Shield Can

A shield can is applied to prevent various noise and electromagnetic interference from affecting the audio block. The ACRO CA1000T takes it a step further to achieve excellent audio performance and perfect shielding by applying highly conductive, high-purity silver on the existing shield can, and physically separating digital and analog signals.

MQA 16X Full Decoder and Optical In/Out Support

The ACRO CA1000T supports the MQA 16X Full Decoder via the hardware renderer. In addition, MQA sound sources can be input and output through Optical In/Out.
*Input: HW rendering of the primary unfolded signal of the connected output device
*Output: CA1000T outputs signal after MQA primary unfold

AK File Drop to enjoy wireless transfers

The new AK File Drop function in the ACRO CA1000T makes file 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.

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 ACRO CA1000T.
* ReplayGain supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz sound sources.

Supports Native DSD512, 32bit/768kHz

ACRO CA1000T supports Native DSD512 and up to 32bit/768kHz with Astell&Kern’s excellent audio technology, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite music.

Wireless Hi-Fi Sound Through BT Sink

BT Sink function connects the ACRO CA1000T 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 ACRO CA1000T using the BT Sink function.

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 CA1000T includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams,
delivering the sound of the original master recording.

The MQA logo is a trade mark 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.

LDAC and LDAC logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

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.

DESIGN

The ACRO CA1000T inherits its form and style from the previous model, the CA1000, with subtle redesigns to better represent its improved powerful performance.
We chose a darker color to tone down the increased complexity of the parts such as the amp button and the upper lighting glass, giving it a more impactful design aesthetic compared to the CA1000.

The upper lighting glass shows an image of the amp gleaming through the vacuum glass when the vacuum amp is in operation in an etched pattern, while simultaneously allowing users to easily understand the amp mode’s current status.
The volume wheel design, which is the key AK interface and has a gently widening diameter, expressing a powerful burst of output that has been compressed through the vacuum amp. The golden-colored accent ring was changed from aluminum to stainless steel to add a hint of luxury to the design, while also allowing it to have a more intense reflection that juxtaposes it against the dark color of the rich gray body.

We aim to deliver the unique and beautiful design identity of Astell&Kern along with convenient utility that conveys the sheer joy of sound. The ACRO CA1000T has a tilted display that can be adjusted with just a gentle touch, but is still heavy enough to stand firmly on a desk or a table. You may adjust it by up to 60 degrees to suit your environment and preferred viewing angle.

Specification

General Specifications

• Model 

  ACRO CA1000T

• Body Color 

  Rich Gray

• Body Material 

  Aluminum

• Display 

  4.1 inch 720 x 1280 touch screen

• Supported Audio Formats 

  WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF

• Sample rate 

  PCM : 8kHz ~ 768kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
  DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), DSD512(1bit, 22.4MHz) Stereo

• Output Level (Headphone Out) 

  [Low] Unbalanced 2Vrms / Balanced 4Vrms (Condition No Load),
  [Mid] Unbalanced 4Vrms / Balanced 8Vrms (Condition No Load),
  [High] Unbalanced 6Vrms / Balanced 12Vrms (Condition No Load),
  [Super] Unbalanced 8Vrms / Balanced 15Vrms (Condition No Load)

• Output Level (RCA Out) 

  2Vrms (Condition No Load)

• Output Level (XLR Out) 

  4Vrms (Condition No Load)

• Recommended headphone impedance 

  32 ohm – 600 ohm

• CPU 

  Quad-Core

• DAC 

  ESS ES9039MPRO x2 (Dual-DAC)

• Vacuum Tube 

  KORG Nutube 6P1 x2

• Decoding 

  Support up to 32bit / 768kHz Bit to Bit playback

• Headphone Outputs 

  Unbalanced (3.5mm, 6.35mm) / Balanced (2.5mm, 4.4mm)

• Analog Inputs 

  4.4mm x1

• Analog Outputs 

  XLR (Stereo pair) x1, RCA (Stereo pair) x1

• Digital Inputs 

  Coaxial x1, Optical x1, USB(Type-C) x1

• Digital Outputs 

  Optical(3.5mm) x1, USB(Type-C) x1

• Wi-Fi 

  802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4/5GHz)

• Bluetooth 

  V5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, LDAC)

• Dimensions 

  4.12"(104.9mm)[W] x 1.77"(45mm)[H] x 6.13"(155.8mm)[D]

• Weight 

  about 34.56oz (980g)

• Feature Enhancements 

  Firmware upgrade supported (OTA)

• Operating Temperature 

  0℃ ~ + 40℃ (32℉~ 104℉)

Audio Specifications

• Frequency Response 

  ±0.031dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced / ±0.029dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced /
  ±0.033dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) RCA / ±0.002dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) XLR
  ±0.079dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced / ±0.029dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Balanced /
  ±0.080dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) RCA / ±0.008dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) XLR

• S/N 

  108dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced / 112dB @ 1kHz, Balanced / 121dB @ 1kHz, RCA / 128dB @ 1kHz, XLR

• Crosstalk 

  -115dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced / -112dB @ 1kHz, Balanced / -138dB @ 1kHz, RCA / -145dB @ 1kHz, XLR

• THD+N 

  0.004% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced / 0.002% @ 1kHz, Balanced / 0.0005% @ 1kHz, RCA / 0.0003% @ 1kHz, XLR

• IMD SMPTE 

  0.0007% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced / 0.0007% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Balanced /0.0007% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) RCA / /0.0007% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) XLR

• Output Impedance 

  3.5mm, 6.35mm (1ohm) / 2.5mm, 4.4mm (2ohm) / RCA (4ohm) / XLR (9ohm)

Clock Source

• Clock Jitter 

  25ps (Typ)

• Reference Clock Jitter 

  70ps

Storage Capacity

• Built-in Memory 

  256GB [NAND]

• External Memory 

  microSD x1 (Max. 1TB)

  Battery

• Capacity 

  10,100mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer

• Charge Time 

  about 5hours (9V / 3A PD2.0 Fast Charging)

• Playback Time 

  about 11hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Unbalanced, Vol.40, LCD Off, OP AMP, Low Gain)

• Supported OS 

  Windows 10, 11(32/64bit), MAC OS X 10.7 and up