Astell&Kern has introduced a new sub-brand of desktop audio products called ACRO. The new line-up launches with the ACRO L1000, a 32bit desktop headphone amplifier/DAC unit
The ACRO L1000 provides multiple audio output options. It can be connected to a 3.5mm/6.3mm jack or to a headphone or earphone with a 2.5mm/4-pole XLR balanced jack.
USB connectivity means the ACRO L1000 can be used as a desktop amp/DAC. You can also use an Astell&Kern portable player as a source device.
The ACRO L1000 also offers the option to connect to desktop speakers via the binding-post outputs. These offer a maximum audio output of up to 15W per channel at 4 Ohms.
The ACRO L1000 features two AK4490 DAC chips. A 32-bit CPU has also been added. As a result, the ACRO L1000 can reproduce up to 32bit/384kHz PCM as originally recorded, with no down-sampling. The L1000 also supports native DSD playback up to 11.2MHz, without conversion.
The ACRO L1000, in aluminium and designed at a 30-degree angle to aid desktop usability, includes a large volume wheel with the knurled edges.
The volume wheel is haloed by LED lights. The colour of these lights also indicates which of the L1000’s sound settings you’re using: Blue for the neutral, default setting; Green when the Bass-Boost Filter is applied and Red LED for High-Gain mode.
Available in a Gunmetal finish, the Astell&Kern ACRO L1000 is priced at £799.
To learn more, click www.unlimited.com.
2 Comments
Andrew Johnson
25th February 2018 at 7:59 amI like it a lot … perfect size for cramped desktops.
I wonder if the amp can drive m Q acoustics 3020 speakers to decent level? Does anyone know of any brick and mortar sellers that have the item?
Paul Rigby
25th February 2018 at 12:51 pmI’ve yet to try the match myself, Andrew, so cannot confirm either way. That said, for bookshelf speakers, the 3020s are relative sensitive but I’d recommend a demo before you buy to see if they meet your needs. At 15W if may be touch and go. I’ve seen a range of dealers sell the A&K. No recommendations here, only observations but here’s a few I’ve seen:
https://www.audiologica.co.uk/astellnkern/acro-l1000.html
http://www.stoneaudio.co.uk/?product=astell%26kern+acro+l1000+desktop+amp%2Fdac
http://hifilounge.co.uk/astell-and-kern-acro
https://www.vickershifi.com/products/akacrol1/astell-and-kern-acro-l1000-desktop-headphone-amplifier-dac