Astell & Kern Kann Cube DAP Music Player

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KANN CUBE is the second model of the KANN line, which focuses on high fidelity with powerful output and low noise. The newly designed powerful amplifier and audio circuitry have been strategically implemented to offer a very low noise floor, even with its massive power output, making it an Audio Powerhouse capable of driving the most power-hungry headphones.

Introducing the Astell&Kern KANN CUBE, which achieves a more powerful output and lower noise than ever before.

Absolute Audio Powerhouse

KANN CUBE offers 3 different power output options of High / Mid / Low, which can drive any headphone with unprecedented power never seen before in any portable device - 12Vrms for Balanced output and 6Vrms for Unbalanced output. To provide a natural and neutral audio experience with minimal distortion, a newly designed OP Amp and Volume IC manages power optimally and efficiently.

A Comparison of outputs of KANN CUBE vs KANN vs AK380+AMP

ESS ES9038PRO SABRE Dual DACs

KANN CUBE uses two 8-channel DACs, the ES9038PRO, one for the left and one for the right channel. As each DAC chip sends out 8 channels of audio signal through the Astell&Kern Analog AMP Block, you experience unlimited sound stage and the full depth of the original performance.

About ESS SABRE PRO DAC

The ESS SABRE PRO series of Digital-to-Analog Converters (DAC) is targeted for premium audiophile and professional recording studio equipment. The SABRE PRO series sets a new benchmark in high-end audio by offering the industry's highest dynamic range (DNR) with impressively low levels of total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) in a 32-bit, 8-channel DAC. All PRO SABRE DACs feature ESS's patented 32-bit HyperStream DAC technology which delivers outstanding sound quality and industry leading performance.

ESS DAC Line-Up

ESS has two major lines of DAC chips – the ‘SABER PRO’ for audiophile systems and ‘SABER HIFI’ for mobile devices, such as the LG V10, V20, V30 smartphones or Onkyo DAPs. The SABER PRO DACs are seldomly used for DAPs and are primarily used with Pro-Audio systems or traditional Hi-Fi products. The ES9038PRO is the latest DAC from ESS and the SABER PRO line. KANN CUBE is the first DAP device to adopt the SABER PRO DACs in a dual DAC configuration, dedicating 8-channels for the left and 8-channels for the right side.

5-pin Mini XLR Output for Even Less Noise

KANN CUBE offers a 5-pin mini XLR connector for the first time in an Astell&Kern player. Thanks to the even lower noise floor and higher audio output through the XLR connection, you can enjoy pure, clear audio playback. It offers easier connection to your home audio systems and active speakers with balanced connections.

KANN CUBE + 5-pin Mini XLR to 3-pin XLR Cable Application Diagram

Cable PIN Map

Enhanced Audio Processing Power with Quad-core CPU

Some may think that only sound matters in Hi-Fi systems. While it does matter greatly, there are other factors that influence your immersive music experience as well. KANN CUBE is designed to remove any distracting elements, including noise, distortion and unintuitive user interface.

The Quad-core CPU gives you even more processing power for your digital music and a lot faster, natural UI experience. Get lost in your music without distractions.

Ultimate Sound Quality

The latest ESS ES9038PRO dual-DAC design and the upgraded CPU in the KANN CUBE allows for accurate playback of native 32bit/384kHz audio with no compromise on sound quality. The music is played back, bit-for-bit, just as the artist and engineer intended for it to be heard.

KANN CUBE also supports native bit-to-bit DSD playback up to 11.2MHz for the best sound possible. 

32-Bit Bit-to-Bit Playback by KANN CUBE 

Using Open APP Service

The Open APP Service enables you to install specific APK music streaming apps to the device. Copy the desired APK into the Open Service folder of the product and install the relevant App in the Menu-->Services of the player.

Using Open APP Service

MQA Technology

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download. Visit mqa.co.uk for more information. Astell&Kern KANN CUBE includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording.

MQA and the Sound Wave Device are registered trade marks of MQA Limited. © 2016