Astell&Kern SP3000T Review

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Firmware / User Interface / Usability

Using the SP3000T is easy, especially if you’re already familiar with their firmware and menu structure. The swiping menus are all easy to use and all the settings and options are straightforward. The shortcuts to the VU meters and the AMP section are smart additions to the player which we applaud.

On the inside of the player we find a 5,050mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer battery which charges in around 3.5hours with QC3.0 Charging.  In return you get a playback time of about 10hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Unbalanced, Vol.50, LCD Off, LED On, OP AMP Mode). Of course this depends on how you use the player and the screen, but all-in-all I am very happy with the performance. Talking about that, the AK’s menus are very responsive and the SP3000T works fast. The only issue I had in the very beginning was that the player wouldn’t shut down. It did that twice but then after the latest update at that time, this issue disappeared.

As said, I don’t always find it easy to use the left side control buttons in the dark or in my pocket, and it does happen that I take the player out of its case, when it’s safe to do so. I’m also not a fan of the volume dial in the case. The one of the SP3000 is much easier to turn as the case gives it more room.

I tend to stream a lot of music from Tidal and Spotify, but all that works flawlessly. I also love the ROON Ready feature, which lets me use my laptop in combination with the SP3000T. 

Sound

Sound – Intro Pt. 1

In this section we check how the brands describe the sound signature of their products and in this case Astell&Kern focuses on the differences in amplification modes. From AK:

OP AMP Mode — Unparalleled High Resolution and Dynamics

Immerse yourself in high-resolution audio that faithfully reproduces the original sound without distortion, offering a newfound sense of space and unparalleled clarity and dynamics. OP AMP Mode represents the pinnacle of high-quality sound, a hallmark of all Astell&Kern products.

Enjoy exceptionally low noise interference and high resolution thanks to Astell&Kern’s TERATON ALPHA technology and uncover unexplored nuances in your music across any genre.

TUBE AMP Mode — The Authentic Essence of Analog Sound

Nothing compares to the warm texture and distinctive sense of space delivered by a Tube Amp — qualities that remain unmatched by even the most advanced digital amplifiers. Renowned for their ability to convey the raw emotion of music, the timeless appeal of vacuum tube amplifiers has captivated audiophiles since their inception.

The SP3000T’s TUBE AMP Mode allows you to enjoy the smooth and inviting analog sound unique to real vacuum tube technology, complemented by groundbreakingly low noise levels.

Astell&Kern’s Cutting-Edge Amp Technology — Hybrid AMP Mode

Departing from the traditional Vacuum Tube AMP and OP AMP modes, the SP3000T features a groundbreaking HYBRID AMP Mode — a new concept in audio technology that puts tone control at your fingertips. HYBRID AMP Mode seamlessly blends the best of analog warmth and high-resolution output to create a unique tonal experience. With five adjustable levels, users can tailor the sound to their preferences and the unique characteristics of each song, ensuring an optimal listening experience every time.

Now let’s see how the SP3000T really performs in all the different modes!

Sound –  Intro Pt.2

For this section I have used a multitude of IEMs, with my main one being the UM Multiverse Mentor. While the SP3000T – and most of the AK top models – does work well nicely with easier to drive full-sized headphones, I do personally find the SP3000(T) to perform best with IEMs. If you want to use more full-sized gear, perhaps the KANN series will suit you more.

I have used the SP3000T as a DAP, DAC and as a ROON Ready device. I have streamed music from Tidal, Spotify as well as the internal memory

Sound –  General

Of course it here is important to distinguish the three different amplification modes.

OP AMP Mode

In OP AMP or solid state mode you get the more typical reference tuning we know from Astell&Kern. This means we get a neutral and uncolored tuning, combined with an always natural delivery. Key words here are clarity, speed, resolution and extension. The SP3000T in this mode (and in general) has a nicely wide and deep soundstage with really good layering, yet the latter depends on the IEM in use.

In this amplification circuit there is no room for warmth or smoothness and it is really a typical high-end tuning, but with a musical presentation. If you like technicalities, then this is the mode for you. That said, it doesn’t reach the same level as the SP3000K in this regard. The Astell&Kern SP3000T in SS mode is in perfect control, and it processes and perform in an effortless way.

Tube Mode

In Tube mode the effect of the Tube current is different depending on the IEM used, but there is a clear difference when switching between these modes. In this mode the SP3000T becomes slower, smoother and it on top of more bass presence and weight, also shows more warmth in the delivery. The energy level here goes down, and vocals become softer and less focused. Differently said, they blend in more. The top end is soft yet precise, though this isn’t the amplification mode if you’re looking for the best decay and extension (in both notes and sound stage).

The tube mode is very interesting depending on the music you’re playing and of course the characteristics of the IEM in use. A hotter sounding IEM in the higher frequencies, can quickly be tamed a bit in this mode.

Hybrid Mode

This mode is very interesting because it on top of the Current settings gives you five extra levels to tune the sound, with the fifth one being the most tube like.

This mode brings you the best of both worlds, with the option to tune the tonality the way prefer. In Hybrid mode I absolutely love the mid timbre and vocals. I have to say I usually end up going for level 4, as the point of balance for me sits perfect there. I especially like the body and weight in Hybrid mode, as you get the weighty and impactful bass and mids, combined with good clarity, speed and energy.

This probably is the mode I have used most but that doesn’t mean it will be the main mode for you. The good thing here is that the Astell&Kern SP3000T allows you to switch between different modes and settings in only a few clicks, so it is very easy to switch between amplification modes and to finetune the signature.

The part on sound continues on the third page. Click here or use the jumps below.

Page 1: Astell&Kern, SP3000T, Design/Lay-out, Box/Accessories/Price

Page 2: Firmware/Usability/User Interface, Sound Pt. 1, Sound Pt. 2, Sound General

Page 3: Sound Synergy, Vs SP3000T, Synergy, End Words, Conclusion