[Tristy]

Also, I don't understand this crimson UI thing....?

It’s the updated UI that AK refuses to roll out to existing models despite them being able to support it (most models use the same hardware) due to wanting to market it as a USP for new releases.

 

[JasonNYC]

Mellon Collie - great album!

Is the Ultra bigger/smaller than the Max? Heavier/Lighter? Thanks.

I don't have a Max with me, only a KANN Alpha. The Alpha and Max are pretty much the same size. Ultra has a 5" screen as opposed to the 4.1 inch on the Max. The Ultra is about 3 oz heavier.

 

[123peter]

The Lord heard our prayers.

Finally, A&K has an efficient 8 core processor!
With UI Crimson - I hope this product will finally start working really smoothly.
Modern ESS ES9039MPRO x2 chips with full MQA support.
High gain of 16Vrms (Super Gain - does it need an externally enabled USB-C power supply for this mode to work?)
I wonder how long the battery in Super Gain lasts.
Line-Our and Pre outputs isolated outside the amplifier.
Two ranges for WiFi - 2.4/5GHz
Better price than A&K flagships

But why is bluetooth only in BT 4.2 version ??

 

[ipaddy]

"Full MQA support."

That's funny.

 

[SynaestheticA]

all without the hassle of cables.

These products look cool. But I really wish the audio community would stop saying that BT DACs "eliminate cables". There are exactly the same amount of cables involved in using one + an extra device to carry around.

 

[ipaddy]

Can someone please do a direct comparison of sound quality to the Max?

 

[ozz007]

Can this dap logging to the hotel wifi?

Or download tidel without issues for off line listening?

Can I install wavelet?

 

[kel77]

"Full MQA support."

That's funny.

The format is not dead. The company was acquired.

 

[ipaddy]

The format is not dead. The company was acquired.

So was Sony VAIO.

 

[Lerrens]

Does the volume knob on AK HB1 control the system volume (on the phone / pc) or the device volume (HB1 itself)?

 

[C_Lindbergh]

CSR8675 in late 2023? Is this a joke?

 

[deroudist]

Roon Ready support will be added in a future firmware update pending testing and certification by Roon Labs.

Not going to hold my breath on that one. As much as i enjoy AK DAP's, they are the worst when it comes down to updating "older" players. And with older
i mean barely a year or two.

A new KANN is going to be released within a year and then this one here is dead wheight and people who are looking for updates will be screwed.
Has always been the case with AK, will always be that way.

 

[123peter]

Hi JasonNYC

I'm not the only one asking myself a few questions on the Internet that I can't find anywhere, can you explain them please?

1.Astell & Kern Kann Ultra - what Android version is it based on?
2.Do to run the highest SuperGain - Kann Ultra must be connected to a USB power supply?
3. In HighGain/SuperGain - how long does the battery last and is very hot ?
3. In the desired specification of this DAP
What is the rational reason and what determined the application
BT v4.2 - CSR8675 in late 2023?
When is the BT v 5.0 version available at A&K SR35 (800$) at half price of Kann Ultra (1600$) ?

Thank you

 

[Bondipix]

I just don’t understand the use of Bluetooth 4.2; it’s all about perception and this is off-putting to say the least.

 

[WDitters]

I don't have a Max with me, only a KANN Alpha. The Alpha and Max are pretty much the same size. Ultra has a 5" screen as opposed to the 4.1 inch on the Max. The Ultra is about 3 oz heavier.

And more or less same height as SE300 but approximately 1cm wider and 0.7 cm deeper ...