Astell&Kern SP4000 High Resolution Digital Audio Player (Black)

The Closest you can get, to the true natural way our ears + brain receptors Hear Harmony/Melody & tone colouration, = MUSIC :-)

### SP4000: A Stunning Audiophile Upgrade That Redefines Excellence **5.0 out of 5 stars** As a dedicated audiophile, I thought my setup with the Hegel H590 integrated amplifier and Rose RS130 network player/streamer was close to perfection. Then I replaced the RS130 with the SP4000, and it’s left me questioning whether even my Hegel H590 is worthy of this extraordinary component. Hands down, the SP4000 is the finest audiophile product I’ve ever experienced. The SP4000’s build quality is exceptional—sleek, robust, and meticulously crafted, it exudes high-end engineering that perfectly complements my setup. Integration was seamless, taking over the RS130’s role with effortless precision. Sonically, the SP4000 is a revelation. It delivers a soundstage so expansive and precise it feels almost three-dimensional. Instruments are rendered with breathtaking clarity, vocals carry an intimate, lifelike texture, and the bass is deep yet controlled, never overshadowing the pristine mids or sparkling highs. It unveils details in my music I didn’t know existed, all while maintaining a smooth, fatigue-free listening experience. The SP4000’s refinement is on par with—or arguably surpasses—the Hegel H590, making me wonder if my amp is fully up to the task of showcasing this component’s brilliance. If you’re an audiophile with a high-end system, the SP4000 isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a game-changer. It’s replaced my RS130 and elevated my setup to new heights. Pro tip: Allow 50-100 hours of burn-in to unlock its full potential. Worth every penny for those chasing sonic perfection.

I have just bought and tried the SP4000, it is terrific player, which stands out against some of its rivals as being probably the best. My specific comments are as follows: 1. A&K Support - The support from A&K has been magnificent, I can’t praise them enough for their help and support truly exemplary! 2.Presentation - the player comes in a very high quality box with a clasp, and all the necessary accessories including a leather cover, leather folio for earphones, etc, and screen protectors, quick start guide and much more support. 3.Soundstage & Sound - excellent soundstage, you feel as if you are in front of the music playing a 360 experience, trebles are noticeable and the lower more bass sounds are clear and supportive. 4.Operating System - with the introduction of Android, the OS is much more receptive to apps being used, note I have not tried Netflix or other Mainstream TV/Film apps, all in all a much better experience than the SP3000. 5.Build - the build quality is superb, stainless steel polished, and you can feel from its weight a well engineered player, with volume control tactile and responsive. 6.Comparison - The player is a step up from the SP3000, and whilst heavier it’s a great bit of kit! 7.Improvements - suggested minor improvements are a) include screen wipe and cloth for the screen protectors, b) when the screen protector leather cover are fitted bring down the quick menu can be hit and miss but this is something that is a refinement. 8.Overall - Definitely a 5 star product and good buy for audiophiles whilst being on the upper end of the market, great quality and would recommend. Hope this helps Since writing this A&K have updated the software, and it is now possible to swipe down for the shortcut menu with case and screen protector on, from the top. Thanks A&K….