Astell&Kern Debuts AK UW100 True Wireless Earbuds Primed for Immersive Hi-fi Grade Sound
The AK UW100’s superior sonic credentials are endorsed by a dedicated high performance 32-bit DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter), support for the latest high quality wireless connectivity options aptX Adaptive and Bluetooth 5.2, alongside ultra-detailed Knowles Balanced Armature drivers.
Astell&Kern AK UW100’s key features at a glance:
- Dedicated, high performance 32-bit hi-fi grade DAC.
- aptX Adaptive wireless codec for low latency and support for 24-bit audio quality.
- Features Bluetooth 5.2 wireless technology for a more stable connection.
- Knowles Balanced Armature drivers deliver ultra-detailed sound.
- Best-in-class passive noise isolation (PNI) with ambient mode.
- Battery: 6 hours playback, 18 hours from the case (24 hours total).
- Case supports wireless and fast charging.
- Touch controls for easy control on-the-move.
- Proprietary iOS and Android app for customisation.
- Dedicated DAC
In many true wireless headphones, the DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) is integrated into the Bluetooth chipset, with its fundamental physical limitations focused on lower power consumption rather than improving sound quality. With its separate and dedicated AK4332, 32-bit high-performance DAC, working in tandem with Astell&Kern’s proprietary AMP technology employed in its award-winning DAPs (Digital Audio Players), the AK UW100 is geared for a clearer, more accurate and dynamic audio performance.
Typically used in more premium IEMs the AK UW100 features Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, chosen over the more common dynamic driver type for its ultra-detailed performance, to deliver a realistic and distortion-free audio across all genres of music.
Latest wireless technology
To realise the AK UW100 leading wireless performance, the next gen, high-quality aptX Adaptive codec is supported, expertly adjusting the bite rate according to the wireless environment it is operating to reduce latency issues (it supports up to 24-bit audio at a bit rate of 420kps). Support for the latest Bluetooth 5.2 provides greater range and a more stable wireless connection when streaming from a compatible device such as an Astell&Kern portable digital audio player, smartphone, tablet or laptop. Furthermore, anyone using a smartphone running Qualcomm True Wireless Stereo Plus will enjoy a more robust connection between both earbuds and the compatible device, seamless pairing between both earbuds and reduce power consumption.
Best in-class passive noise isolation
With an ergonomic and lightweight earbud design developed through countless simulations, the AK UW100 offers best-in-class passive noise isolation (PNI) to enable a truly immersive experience when listening to music in clamorous environments. Unlike generic Active Noise Cancellation that concentrates on blocking out low-frequency noise, PNI efficiently minimises unwanted ambient noise in the mid and high range. If the user wants to hear outside sounds, just a single tap of the left earbud will activate ambient mode, with the ability to easily switch between the four ambient levels using the earbud’s touch controls or via the app.
Intuitive touch controls
For easy control on-the-move, the AK UW100 sports responsive touch controls for commands such as play, pause, skip track, volume adjustment, activating Ambient mode, answering calls and enabling voice assistant from a compatible device. A proprietary iOS and Android app also allows users to customise touch controls, ambient levels and various EQ settings.
Music for 24 hours
With the earbuds boasting six hours of battery life and a further 18 hours via the case (24 hours in total) users can enjoy music all day. With the convenience of wireless charging supported, the AK UW100 charging case also features fast charging, with a 10-minute charge providing an hour of playback.
Crystal-clear voice calls
A dual mic set-up integrates a Voice Communication Package (VCP) from voice application specialist Alango, to provide crystal-clear voice call quality. Based on special Acoustic Echo-Canceller and Noise-Suppressor technologies, these wireless earbuds effectively reduce noise in a variety of settings and environments, always ensuring call stability.
Signature design
Sporting an angular, almost Deco motif with a pentagon shape to fit snugly in the ear, the AK UW100 continues Astell&Kern’s signature and recognisable ‘light and shadow’ design language. Alongside the charging case, the AK UW100 comes supplied with a choice of five different sized silicone ear tips (XS, S, M, L, XL) and a USB-C charging cable.
The Astell&Kern AK UW100 is priced £249 / $260 / €299 and will be available from April 2022 from www.astellkern.co.uk and local independent dealers.