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All-In-One Head-Fi Audio System, ACRO CA1000T
The ACRO CA1000T is an all-in-one Head-Fi audio system designed for those who want to enjoy the best sound anywhere.
The ACRO CA1000T is a multifunctional device that can play ultra-high-quality sound sources and offers various input/output options for the perfect desktop companion. Equipped with a powerful headphone amplifier and Astell&Kern's TERATON ALPHA technology, it is a versatile option for home or office. It provides ultra-high sound quality everywhere with optimal battery performance and does not require a power outlet.
Complete the Head-Fi audio system of your dreams with just one ACRO CA1000T, which delivers true Astell&Kern sound thanks to its triple-amp system with two tubes, four gain stages that can drive even the most detailed IEMs and hard-to-drive headphones, and the flagship ES9039MPRO dual DAC from ESS Technology.
- Equipped for the first time with a ES9039MPRO Dual-DAC!
- Perfect drive for any headphone/IEM with 4 gain levels and up to 15Vrms output voltage
- Triple amplifier system with a dual vacuum tube for hybrid sound options
- Multiple inputs and outputs offer maximum options and compatibility
- Built-in battery for portability and optimal power supply
Convenient, high-quality head-fi sound
The ACRO CA1000T breaks the boundaries of a stationary headphone amplifier with its ideal head-fi audio system that can be placed anywhere and runs independently of its internal battery supply.
The ACRO CA1000T provides detailed headphone sound thanks to its built-in high-performance headphone amplifier that does not require connection to other devices.
It is an all-in-one head-fi audio system that, thanks to its diverse input/output connections, offers excellent connectivity with external audio devices and speakers, allowing you to easily enjoy network audio playback and music streaming.
Extensive input/output options
The ACRO CA1000T offers a wide range of input and output options that meet the demands of audiophiles who want to build their ideal head-fi system with maximum utility.
To facilitate operation, you can change the input/output settings via the touchscreen on the top of the device while multiple cables and devices are connected.
1. 3.5 mm & 6.35 mm unbalanced, 2.5 mm & 4.4 mm balanced outputs
The output on the front of the device is compatible with a range of sizes, allowing various headphones and IEMs to be connected, including both low-impedance and high-impedance variants. The 3.5mm jack can also be used as an optical output.
Enjoy powerful output and dual-tube sound with any device of your choice.
2. Mini XLR, RCA output
The balanced mini-XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs with circuits that minimize noise and distortion provide the amplifier and external audio devices with the best sound via the line-out, so both active speakers and a desktop head-fi sound environment can be effortlessly supported.
3. 4.4mm, coaxial, and optical input
ACRO CA1000T can receive signals from various external devices through its coaxial and optical digital inputs as well as a 4.4mm analog input, allowing the user to build their perfect audio system. Receive digital and analog signals from an external DAC, an interface, and an external source device and use them with the convenient integrated CA1000T system.
4. USB input, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
ACRO CA1000T supports USB Type-C DAC functionality. Enjoy perfect sound from both Mac and Windows PCs, as the CA1000T can reproduce sound sources in the highest quality.
Additionally, it supports network playback such as AK Connect and Roon Ready, as well as various streaming apps via high-quality Bluetooth and dual-band Wi-Fi, completing a perfect all-in-one Head-Fi audio system for audiophiles.
*The Roon Ready feature is unlocked through a firmware update.
Mini XLR cable PIN assignment
TERATON ALPHA, the essence of A&K audio technologies
Without TERATON ALPHA, AK's ultimate sound solution, it would have been impossible to realize the powerful performance of the most detailed headphones and the complex signal paths of a dual-tube and triple amplifier system with minimal noise. Astell&Kern has further improved TERATON ALPHA by leveraging insights from the development of the hybrid tube system of our SP2000T and the noise reduction of the CA1000.
TERATON ALPHA is a unique technology from Astell&Kern that enables the most faithful audio reproduction through effective noise reduction, efficient power management, unchanged amplification, and a fully converted audio output interface. The HEXA-Audio Circuitry structure and the independent dual audio circuit, first implemented in the SP3000, are paired with the TERATON ALPHA sound solution to produce the purest original sound.
4 gain levels and up to 15Vrms output for the perfect Head-Fi setup
To perfectly drive the most detailed IEMs and the most demanding headphones, an output matching the characteristics of the receiving device is required. The ACRO CA1000T supports 4 gain level settings, so almost any headphone can be optimally driven.
The 4 gain levels can produce the ideal output for the characteristics and sound of a device, allowing the user to fine-tune and set the desired output volume. With an output power of up to 15Vrms, even high-impedance headphones can be easily driven.
The electrical capacity of the outputs has been increased to enhance stability when operating devices with different impedances at the gain setting, and the separate balanced and unbalanced volume controls optimize current flow and reduce noise for the best sound.
With the ACRO CA1000T, you can enjoy optimal device performance and pure sound that touches your heart.
Improved sound, the world's first use of the latest ESS flagship DAC
The ACRO CA1000T is equipped with two ES9039MPRO and uses the latest flagship DAC from ESS for the first time to deliver an even more vivid and voluminous sound that surpasses your imagination.
The ES9039MRO is an additional ES9039PRO model that features an integrated stereo hardware MQA renderer. It offers even more advanced modulation than the previous flagship DAC to reduce power consumption, noise, and distortion within the DAC, thereby improving audio performance.
Astell&Kern has developed and optimized a new amplifier block design to enhance the performance of the ES9039MPRO and achieve a more balanced and intense sound with deeper, richer bass and clearer highs.
Sound shaping through DAC filters
With the ACRO CA1000T, you can choose from seven DAC filters to create your own sound style. Shape your own sound with the DAC filters.
Fully balanced circuit with dual tubes
The ACRO CA1000T features two Twin Triode KORG Nutube tubes, first used in our award-winning SP2000T, providing advanced tube sounds.
When a product is equipped with a dual DAC and a tube, there must be a separate circuit that converts the signal directly before the output terminal into a balanced signal. This structure requires a process to convert an unbalanced signal into a balanced signal, during which noise is amplified. However, the CA1000T offers a fully balanced circuit that separates the left and right channels with two vacuum tubes, producing an even more natural and smoother sound.
Both the Tube AMP mode and the OP AMP provide a powerful 15Vrms output, and the headphone jacks allow you to enjoy the unique sounds of vacuum tubes without any limitations.
TRIPLE AMP SYSTEM is the next generation of AMP technology
The ACRO CA1000T surpasses the standard approach of selecting the AMP mode depending on the type of music you listen to. Choose between the TUBE AMP mode, the OP AMP mode, or the brand-new HYBRID AMP mode.
In OP AMP mode, Astell&Kern's AMP technology is used to deliver an extremely clear and dynamic sound, while the TUBE AMP mode provides a uniquely warm and musical sound. The HYBRID AMP mode - a first in digital audio players - improves the resolution and clarity of the existing TUBE AMP mode to express more musical details. The HYBRID AMP mode combines the advantages of analog retro performance and high-resolution output, offering you a completely new sound character.
Experience the unique sound enhancements that this AMP technology has to offer.
- OP AMP Mode - extreme clarity and dynamics
- Tube AMP Mode - uniquely warm and musical
- HYBRID AMP Mode - A fresh combination of retro vibes and high-resolution output
Custom design to minimize microphonic noise
A special custom design minimizes microphonic noise caused by external shocks and vibrations.
To solve the structural issue of vacuum tubes where even the slightest shocks or vibrations cause microphonic noise, we have repeatedly developed new designs and conducted thorough inspections and tests during prototype production.
Both sides of the vacuum tube are covered with flexible silicone caps to minimize shocks, and magnetic force is used to physically separate the tube from the circuit board, providing greater stability and isolation when the tube is in operation.
Astell&Kern is dedicated to developing these small elements and aspects that create the unparalleled difference between our products and the sound of competitors.
*A patent has been filed for this technology.
Crossfeed, speaker effect when listening through headphones
In a headphone environment where the left and right channels are sharply separated, prolonged listening can cause ear fatigue. The moment you turn on crossfeed, you begin to experience a sharp yet pleasant sound.
Crossfeed mixes parts of the original signal from one channel and sends this signal with a delay to the opposite channel to center the sound image.
With detailed settings like Shelf Cutoff, Shelf Gain, and Mixer Level, you can adjust the crossfeed level according to your listening preferences.
Optimize device care with USB-PD 2.0 charging function and battery protection mode
The ACRO CA1000T supports USB-PD 2.0 charging at 9V/3A and offers 11 hours of continuous playback on a full charge.
Since the device remains connected to power for extended periods while connected to various audio devices, prolonged charging can shorten battery lifespan.
The ACRO CA1000T features a battery protection mode that extends battery life. When activated, the battery charges up to 85%, then charging stops. When the battery falls below 80%, charging restarts and the battery is charged up to 85% again.
Enjoy the powerful sound of the ACRO CA1000T while it is optimized for longer lifespan with the ACRO CA1000T's battery protection mode.
*The battery protection mode is supported through a firmware update.
Real-time Information Through Light
The LED light, reminiscent of a vacuum tube glow, allows you to check the bit depth of the currently playing music or the amplifier mode in use.
Playback Mode - 16bit: Red / 24bit: Green / 32bit: Blue / DSD: Violet
Amplifier Mode - OP AMP: Red / Tube Amplifier: Orange / Hybrid Amplifier: Blue Green
Silver-plated shielding case
A shielding case is used to prevent various noises and electromagnetic interference from affecting the audio block. The ACRO CA1000T goes a step further to achieve excellent audio performance and perfect shielding by applying highly conductive, high-purity silver to the existing shielding case and physically separating digital and analog signals.
AK File Drop for wireless transfers
The new AK File Drop function of the CA1000T makes file transfer easier and more convenient.
With AK File Drop, you can wirelessly transfer files via a PC, smartphone, or FTP program on the same network.
Managing music files is now possible with a wireless solution.
Supports Native DSD512, 32bit/768kHz
ACRO CA1000T supports Native DSD512 and up to 32bit/768kHz with Astell&Kern's excellent audio technology, so you can fully enjoy your favorite music.
MQA 16X Full Decoder and support for optical inputs and outputs
The ACRO CA1000T supports the MQA 16X Full Decoder via the hardware renderer. Additionally, MQA audio sources can be input and output via the optical input/output.
*Input: Hardware rendering of the primarily unfolded signal of the connected output device
*Output: CA1000T outputs the signal after primary MQA unfolding
ReplayGain automatically and evenly adjusts playback volume
ReplayGain, which adjusts audio sources with different volumes to the same level, has been introduced. Now enjoy your own playlists seamlessly with the ReplayGain function of the ACRO CA1000T.
*ReplayGain supports audio sources up to 24bit/192kHz.
Wireless Hi-Fi sound via BT Sink
The BT Sink function connects the ACRO CA1000T to an external device via Bluetooth, similar to connecting a smartphone to a BT speaker. Music from an external device, such as a smartphone, can now be played in high quality on the ACRO CA1000T via the BT Sink function.
MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is an award-winning British technology that reproduces the sound of the original master recording. The MQA master file is fully authenticated and small enough to stream or download. Visit mqa.co.uk for more information. The Astell&Kern CA1000T is equipped with MQA technology, allowing you to play MQA audio files and streams and preserve the sound of the original master recording. Learn more. The MQA logo is a trademark of MQA Limited. © MQA Limited 2018
Qualcomm aptX is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd, registered in the United States and other countries.
LDAC and the LDAC logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. Learn more.
Roon Ready network players from our partners have already integrated Roon's high-resolution streaming technology. They combine easy setup, daily reliability, and support for the highest level of digital audio performance in the industry. Every Roon Ready player is certified by Roon to guarantee the same outstanding experience regardless of manufacturer, price, or features. Learn more.
