Astell & Kern SR35
The SR35 makes portable listening feel expansive, precise and effortlessly musical, with a near-silent noise floor that flatters sensitive IEMs. What Hi-Fi? highlights its mature power, finesse and rhythmic cohesion, while its quad-DAC architecture, Roon Ready streaming and three headphone outputs make this compact player a remarkably complete high-end travel source.
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Deliciously Crispy
Sound Quality
93/100
Build Quality
91/100
Features Usability
95/100
Value for Money
91/100
Pros
Rich, controlled and highly detailed sound with strong rhythmic drive and dynamic expression.
Exceptionally low noise floor makes it an excellent match for sensitive IEMs.
Compact, premium aluminium build with flexible 3.5mm, 2.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs.
Comprehensive connectivity, including Roon Ready operation, streaming support, USB DAC functionality and expandable storage.
Cons
Its $799 price places it above genuinely entry-level and budget-oriented portable players.
Quad-DAC playback reduces battery endurance significantly compared with the quoted dual-DAC figure.
The compact 3.6-inch touchscreen can make keyboard input and precise navigation less comfortable.
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What Reviewers Are Saying
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 93/100
Reviewers consistently find the SR35 exceptionally clear, detailed and musically engaging, combining a slightly rich or gently rounded tonality with strong control and dynamic expression. It is also notably quiet with sensitive IEMs and has enough authority to work successfully with most headphones, though ultimate resolution trails Astell & Kern's far more expensive players.
Transparency Resolution
94/100
MajorHiFi hears pure detail, clarity and a reference-style presentation, while Sound Advice praises its ability to uncover very minor and transient information. What Hi-Fi? calls its detail and subtlety unusually strong at this price, although ecoustics notes a slight smoothing of fine detail and greater ultimate resolution from the N7 and SP3000.
Tonal Balance Musicality
93/100
The presentation is widely described as natural, highly musical and non-fatiguing. What Hi-Fi? finds the balance slightly rich but mature, while ecoustics hears a largely neutral tuning with softened sharp edges; Head-Fi's only tonal reservation is that vocals could use a little more body.
Dynamics
93/100
Sound Advice reports considerable dynamic headroom and an ability to convey large shifts in intensity without strain. What Hi-Fi? likewise praises punch, rhythmic drive and nuanced dynamic expression, while HomeTheaterHifi found it handled demanding orchestral material without strain or distortion.
Noise Floor
94/100
ecoustics found background noise superbly low, requiring maximum volume with playback stopped to detect hiss through notoriously sensitive Campfire Andromeda IEMs. In low gain, it describes the noise floor with sensitive headphones and IEMs as subterranean.
Headphone Compatibility
91/100
What Hi-Fi? says the SR35's blend of power and finesse should suit most headphones, and Sound Advice found it ready to play very loud while retaining treble composure. Its low-gain performance is particularly well suited to sensitive IEMs, while the 3.5mm, 2.5mm and 4.4mm outputs provide useful connection flexibility.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
Build Quality
91/100
Reviewers praise the compact aluminium construction, premium finish and tactile volume control. MajorHiFi calls the chassis rigid and premium, while ecoustics specifically commends the even anodising, softened edges and well-matched volume knob; What Hi-Fi? notes that it does not visually project its asking price.
Features Usability
95/100
The SR35 is unusually complete for a compact player: it offers three headphone outputs, quad-DAC operation, USB DAC use, microSD expansion, dual-band Wi-Fi, Roon Ready operation and broad streaming-service support. Two-way Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX HD, native high-resolution playback, selectable DAC filters and near-20-hour quoted battery life further strengthen its everyday versatility.
Value for Money
91/100
At $799, the SR35 is clearly a premium portable player, and What Hi-Fi? notes that its price has risen and sits above budget-oriented rivals. Even so, HomeTheaterHifi considers it high value against more expensive players, while MajorHiFi and What Hi-Fi? argue that its sonic performance is difficult to match at the price.
Reviews & Sources
Professional reviews and sources for this product's Watt'n Potatoes analysis.
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Specifications
- Model
- SR35
- Body Color
- Charcoal Gray
- Body Material
- Aluminum
- Display
- 3.6inch HD 720 x 1280 touch screen
- Supported Audio Formats
- WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF
- Sample rate
- PCM : 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample) DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo
- Output Level
- [Normal] Unbalanced 2.1Vrms │ Balanced 4Vrms (Condition No Load) [High] Unbalanced 3.1Vrms │ Balanced 6Vrms (Condition No Load)
- CPU
- Quad-core
- DAC
- Ciruss Logic CS43198 x4 (Quad-DAC)
- Decoding
- Support up to 32bit / 384kHz Bit to Bit playback
- Input
- USB Type-C input (for charging & PC & MAC)
- Outputs
- Unbalanced Out (3.5mm), Balanced Out (2.5mm, only 4-pole supported | 4.4m, only 5-pole supported)
- Wi-Fi
- 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4&5GHz)
- Bluetooth
- V5.0 (A2DP, AVRCP, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, LDAC)
- Dimensions
- 2.51” (64mm)[W] x 4.26” (108.3mm)[H] x 0.63” (16.1mm)[D]
- Weight
- about 6.49oz (184g)
- Feature Enhancements
- Firmware upgrade supported (OTA)
- Operating Temperature
- 0℃ ~ + 40℃ (32℉~ 104℉)
- Frequency Response
- ±0.012dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.011dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced ±0.125dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.126dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Balanced
- S/N
- 127dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 130dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
- Crosstalk
- -133dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -145dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
- THD+N
- 0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.0006% @ 1kHz, Balanced
- IMD SMPTE
- 0.0002% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │ 0.0002% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Balanced
- Output Impedance
- Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (1.1ohm) │ Balanced Out 2.5mm, 4.4mm (2.7ohm)
- Clock Jitter
- 25pS (Typ)
- Reference Clock Jitter
- 70ps
- Built-in Memory
- 64GB [NAND]
- External Memory
- Micro SD x1 (Max. 1TB)
- Capacity
- 3,150mAh 3.7V Li-Polymer
- Charge Time
- about 2.5hours (5V 2A General Charging)
- Playback Time
- about 20hours (Standard : FLAC, 16bit, 44.1kHz, Normal Gain, Unbalanced, Vol.50, LCD Off, Dual DAC Mode)
- Supported OS
- Windows 10, 11(32/64bit) MAC OS X 10.7
- Specification
- - Audio was NOT muted during the measurement. -The image/specification may be changed without notice to improve product performance and quality.
Manufacturer's Description — Astell & Kern
Hi-Fi Sound on-the-go
The A&norma series was created to enjoy the premium sounds of Astell&Kern in a portable size with best in class specifications.
SR25 MKII, the previous model in the series, was loved by audio enthusiasts and those just starting their personal audio journey thanks to its portable size and powerful Hi-Fi sound through a 4.4-mm balanced jack.
The A&norma SR35 inherits these strengths while applying the amplifier and audio design that was applied to Astell&Kern's premium products to deliver the authentic sound quality that Astell&Kern are so well known for.
The ultra compact SR35 features 20 hours of continuous playback, while supporting Quad DAC and two-step Gain control, and the A&norma line's first introduction of New Generation Amp technology with Astell&Kern's long-standing know-how for an even more delicate and clear Hi-Fi sound at higher output.
We have also applied our new UI/UX with improved visuals and usability to the SR35 for a more immersive music experience. In addition to this the SR35 is equipped with Roon Ready and MQA full decoder support to further enhance the performance of our A&norma line.
- Quad-DAC (Quad/Dual Switching Mode)
- New Generation AMP Technology
- 2-Step Gain Mode
- NEW UI/UX - Crimson Theme
- Dual Wi-Fi (2.4 & 5 GHz)
- 20-hour continuous playtime
- Supports two-way Bluetooth and LDAC, aptX™ HD
- Roon Ready (First in A&norma series)
Quad DAC Mode for True Hi-Fi Sound
For the first time in the A&norma series, the SR35 deploys the CS43198 DAC from Cirrus Logic, in Quad DAC configuration. A very well-received DAC praised for its outstanding spatial sense and resolution.
In addition to this, a new design of audio circuit has been implemented, incorporating Astell&kern’s unique technologies along with the Quad DAC and our patented TERATON ALPHA technology for outstanding advancement in the dynamics, sense of space, resolution, and level of separation. Furthermore, our latest technologically advanced amplification circuitry,
which was only available in our flagship products has now been incorporated to the SR35, boasting a dramatically improved and industry leading SNR of 130dB.
A Dual/Quad DAC Switching mode is offered enabling users to adjust and improve power management efficiency, further improving the long continuous playtime, a core feature of the A&norma series.
The SR35 supports Native DSD256 and PCM playback of up to 32 bit/384 kHz allowing you to enjoy true Hi-Fi sound without any restriction and free from distortion.
The Essence of Astell&Kern Technology – Equipped with New generation AMP
Astell&Kern's brand philosophy - refusing to overlook even the smallest differences in sound quality - has been recognized by numerous media and audiophiles through
our multiple releases of premium audio players that combine innovative circuits and amplifier technologies.
The SR35 is equipped with New generation AMP technology that was applied to the A&ultima line so that A&norma users can also enjoy the highest level of sound provided by the A&ultima line with this exclusive inhouse technology.
The new generation AMP technology applied to the SR35 is Astell&Kern's unique amplifier design that effectively improves noise reduction at high power output.
With this new technology, the SR35 contains the same amplifier design as the latest A&ultima and A&futura products, completely transforming into an amplifier design worthy of premium audio, from OPAMP selection to component placement and circuit design.
Moreover, in order to reliably operate different impedance output sources, the current handling capability at the output end is increased
to maximize the performance of various devices with one SR35.
2-Step Gain Mode for the Perfect Hi-Fi Experience
For seamless use of sensitive IEMs and hard to drive headphones, a device must provide suitable output, respective of the connected device’s specification.
The SR35 supports a 2-step Gain Level mode to create the perfect match for a wide range of headphones and IEMs, maintaining optimal sound output.
The two-step gain setting with "Normal Gain" and "High Gain" modes can generate a high current output to create a powerful sound and excellent driver control.
With up to 6 Vrms from the balanced connections, driving high-impedance headphones has never been easier.
TERATON ALPHA, The Essence of A&K Audio Technologies
TERATON ALPHA, AK’s ultimate sound solution, makes it possible to realize high output and Quad DAC for a wide variety
of earphones and headphones whilst maintaining long playtime with minimal noise. We advanced the A&norma series
one step further with audio technologies from other Astell&Kern products that were praised by countless audio
lovers and media reviews as well as TERATON ALPHA gained through years of technical research and development.
TERATON ALPHA, engineered through endless research, is Astell&Kern's unique technology that has been designed
to produce audio playback that is as close to the original sound through effective power noise removal,
efficient power management and unwavering amplification, and a fully converted audio output interface.
All-Day Music – Amazing Playtime
The SR35 provides premium-class audio specifications and genuine
Hi-Fi sound by Astell&Kern.
Along with the core value of A&norma series that seeks to provide unlimited Hi-Fi audio anywhere and at any time, we offer you the best portability in the digital audio player market, with a class leading long playtime and powerful output.
The compact size of the SR35 fits easily in your pocket and weighing in at only 184g is light enough to carry without any inconvenience.
With a maximum of 20-hour continuous playtime, you can enjoy music without a recharge all day long.
The SR35 is the perfect companion that you can use for long-haul flights as well as full days at work and vacations, guaranteeing you Hi-Fi sound anywhere, anytime.
New Experience, New User Interface
The SR35 comes with a redesigned Crimson-themed UI/UX transforming into a "true music player" for users to deeply connect with their music listening experience.
The new UI/UX is designed so that users can quickly browse music categories and re-discover songs within their music library.
We also added an easy album art search function so that users can re-discover the joy of viewing and interacting with music album art whilst listening to their music.
The crimson theme focuses on edge, simplicity, and dark mode keywords. The color theme of black with red highlights lowers visual fatigue and offers intuitive user experiences, and many other improvements were made to the device’s user-friendliness of app service, artist view, album sorting, and the album art search function.
Immerse yourself in music with the new UI/UX.
Roon Ready and MQA Support for Hi-Fi Fans
Roon Ready is a service for Hi-Fi fans who wish to play the best Hi-Fi sound without compromise on various devices through network systems.
Roon Ready, available on some premium audio products, now comes with the A&norma series for the first time, offering you a SR35-controlled network audio system to deliver the best sound quality.
Additionally, it supports the full decoder of MQA 8X so that SR35 can play and stream Hi-Fi MQA sound natively, true to the concept of A&norma that plays original sounds anywhere and at any time.
Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz)
SR35 offers Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 Ghz), providing enhanced network performance to enjoy Hi-Fi music through various streaming and Roon Ready services.
Supports Native DSD256, 32bit/384kHz
SR35 supports Native DSD256 and up to 32bit/384kHz with Astell&Kern’s excellent audio technology, allowing you to fully enjoy your favorite music.
ReplayGain Automatically and Uniformly Adjusts Playback Volume
ReplayGain, which adjusts sound sources with different volumes to an identical level, has been applied. Now, enjoy your own playlists seamlessly through the ReplayGain feature on SR35. * ReplayGain supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz sound sources.
AK File Drop to enjoy wireless transfers
The new AK File Drop function in the SR35 makes file transfers easier and more convenient. Using AK File Drop, you can freely transfer files wirelessly through a PC, smartphone, or FTP program located on the same network. Music file management is now possible with a cableless, wireless solution.
Wireless Hi-Fi Sound Through BT Sink
BT Sink function connects the SR35 to an external device via Bluetooth, similar to connecting a smartphone with a BT speaker. Music from an external device, such as a smartphone can now be played back in high-quality on the SR35 using the BT Sink function.
DESIGN
The SR35 visualizes the powerful portability of the A&norma series into its design.
The intense dynamics of the A&norma series are symbolized as a mighty warrior's sword and shield on the device. The single bold line on the side and the surface that gets bigger at the bottom represent a sword of battle, and the delicately refined volume control and its concave surface symbolize a shield. These symbolic shapes found in the SR35’s design represent a warrior’s powerful force and characteristic.
An "A" pattern on the rear glass creates a sophisticated rectangular pattern. This unique pattern on the SR35 symbolizes the first use of Quad DAC architecture in the A&norma series.
We kept our iconic angular display which works perfectly in the hand, further redefining the characteristic of the series.
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- Addicted to Audio — online and in-store — Epping, Victoria, Australia (website)
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- ALAIN CHOUKROUN — online and in-store — Paris, Île-de-France, France (website)
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- Audio 46 — online and in-store — New York, New York, United States (website)
- Audio Advice — online and in-store — Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (website)
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