Astell & Kern – PD10

The PD10 is Astell&Kern’s first product to break free from the constraints of the existing lineup, representing a bold new direction in product design and innovation.

Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals in a HEXA-Audio Circuitry Structure

Astell&Kern equipped the PD10 with the same innovative HEXA audio circuit design first developed for the flagship SP3000.  The PD10 consists of four AKM AK4498EX DACs and two separate AK4191EQ chips that handle digital signals.  The PD10 is the world’s first DAP incorporating the newly released AK4498EX chip.

By physically and perfectly separating digital and analog signal processing, the PD10 delivers an astonishing level of sound that has seldom been experienced before.

Stunning Audio Performance with Independent Dual Audio Circuits

Unlike conventional DAPs that share the same DAC for balanced and unbalanced outputs, the PD10 features two separate audio circuits. This unique design eliminates signal loss and restores audio integrity, providing optimal performance regardless of the selected output.

Impedance-Adaptive Dual Amplifiers

The PD10 is equipped with two distinct amplifiers designed to adapt to different headphone impedance levels. The Normal Gain AMP delivers high-purity sound, while the High Gain AMP enhances complex, dynamic sounds with greater clarity and immersion.

Smart Gain – Automatic Amplifier Matching Mode

With Smart Gain technology, the PD10 automatically detects the impedance of connected headphones and selects the optimal amplifier setting. Low-impedance headphones (≤32Ω) use Normal Gain, while high-impedance headphones (>32Ω) switch to High Gain, ensuring the perfect audio balance.

Home Audio Integration with Docking Cradle

The included docking cradle transforms the PD10 into a high-fidelity home audio source. Featuring XLR balanced outputs, simultaneous charging, and digital signal input via USB, it seamlessly integrates with two-channel audio systems or powered speakers. The LED display on the cradle provides real-time bit-rate information.

Advanced Features for Ultimate Convenience

1. 6-inch Full HD Touchscreen – A stunning 1080×2160 display for an intuitive user experience.
2. 256GB Internal Storage – Expandable via microSD up to 2TB.
3. High-Resolution Audio Support – Native playback of PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512.
4. Bluetooth 5.3 with High-Resolution Codecs – Supports aptX HD, LHDC, and LDAC for wireless 24-bit audio.
5. BT Sink Mode – Use the PD10 as a Bluetooth DAC for high-quality playback from external devices.
6. ReplayGain – Uniform volume adjustment across music tracks.
7. AK File Drop & AirPlay Support – Wireless file transfer and Apple device integration.
8. Roon Ready Certification – Seamless integration with Roon for music library management.
9. Crossfeed Mode – Reduces ear fatigue by creating a more natural soundstage in headphone listening.
10. Power Delivery 3.0 (PD 3.0) – Fast charging in approximately 3.5 hours, with up to 15 hours of playback.

Sleek and Intuitive Design

Inspired by the ‘Contrast Cube’ concept, the PD10 combines stainless steel and glass for a sophisticated look. For the first time in an Astell&Kern DAP, the volume wheel has been replaced with buttons, creating a clean and minimalist look while using distinct material contrast to draw the user’s attention to the control buttons.

Designed for effortless one-handed operation, the PD10 delivers both form and function in a premium package.

Specifications

Audio Specifications

Frequency Response:

±0.066dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.066dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced

±0.62dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.61dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Balanced

S/N: 125dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 128dB @ 1kHz, Balanced

Crosstalk: -137dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -138dB @ 1kHz, Balanced

THD+N: 0.0007% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.0006% @ 1kHz, Balanced

IMD SMPTE: 0.0004% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │Balanced

Output Impedance: Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (1ohm) │ Balanced Out 4.4mm(1.6ohm)

Clock Source　    　

Clock Jitter: 25pS (Typ.)

Reference Clock Jitter: 250 Femto Seconds

Storage Capacity  　       　

Built-in Memory: 256GB [NAND]

External Memory: microSD x1 (Max. 2TB)

Battery          　       　

Capacity: 5,770mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer

Charge Time: about 4hours (PD3.0 Charging)

Playback Time: about 15hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Vol.50, LCD Off, Normal Gain)

Supported OS        　       　

Supported OS: Windows 8,10,11(32/64bit) MAC OS X 10.7