Complete Separation of Digital and Analog Signals in a HEXA Audio Circuit Structure
Astell&Kern has 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 process digital signals. The PD10 is the world’s first DAP to include the new AK4498EX chip.
By perfectly physically separating digital and analog signal processing, the PD10 delivers an astonishing level of sound rarely experienced before.
Impressive Audio Performance with Independent Dual Audio Circuits
Unlike conventional DAPs that use 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, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the selected output.
Impedance Adaptive Dual Amplifiers
The PD10 is equipped with two different amplifiers that adapt to various headphone impedance values. The Normal Gain AMP delivers highly pure sound, while the High Gain AMP amplifies complex, dynamic sounds with greater clarity and intensity.
Smart Gain – Automatic Amplifier Adjustment Mode
With Smart Gain technology, the PD10 automatically detects the impedance of connected headphones and selects the optimal amplifier setting. Low impedance headphones (=32O) use Normal Gain, while high impedance headphones (< encoded_tag_closed >32O) switch to High Gain, ensuring the perfect audio balance.
Home Audio Integration with Docking Station
The included docking station transforms the PD10 into a high-fidelity home audio source. With balanced XLR outputs, simultaneous charging, and digital signal input via USB, it seamlessly integrates with two-channel audio systems or active speakers. The LED indicator on the charging station provides real-time bitrate information.
Advanced Features for Ultimate Convenience
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6-inch Full HD Touchscreen – A stunning 1080x2160 resolution display for an intuitive user experience.
- 256GB Internal Storage – Expandable via microSD up to 2TB.
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High-Resolution Audio Support – Native playback of PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512.
- Bluetooth 5.3 with High-Resolution Codecs – Supports aptX HD, LHDC, and LDAC for wireless 24-bit audio.
- BT-Sink Mode – Use the PD10 as a Bluetooth DAC for high-quality playback from external devices.
- ReplayGain – Uniform volume adjustment for all music tracks.
- AK File Drop & AirPlay Support – Wireless file transfer and Apple device integration.
- Roon Ready Certification – Seamless integration with Roon for music library management.
- Crossfeed Mode – Reduces ear fatigue by creating a more natural soundstage for headphone listening.
- Power Delivery 3.0 (PD 3.0) – Fast charging in approx. 3.5 hours, with up to 15 hours of playback time.
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 by buttons, creating a clean and minimalist appearance, while a distinct material contrast draws the user's attention to the control buttons.
The PD10 was designed for effortless one-handed operation, offering both form and function in a high-quality package.
Technical data
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 Output 3.5mm (1 Ohm) ¦ Balanced Output 4.4mm (1.6 Ohm)
Clock Source
Clock Jitter: 25pS (Typ.)
Reference Clock Jitter: 250 femtoseconds
Memory Capacity
Built-in Memory: 256GB [NAND]
External Storage: microSD x1 (Max. 2TB)
Battery
Capacity: 5,770mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer
Charging Time: Approx. 4 hours (PD3.0 Charging)
Playback Time: Approx. 15 hours (Standard: FLAC, 16-bit, 44.1kHz, Vol. 50, LCD off, normal gain)
Supported Operating Systems
Supported Operating Systems: Windows 8, 10, 11 (32/64-bit) MAC OS X 10.7
