Astell&Kern PA10

The Astell&Kern PA10 is a premium portable headphone amplifier designed for on-the-go audio enthusiasts. It combines pure Class A amplification with proprietary technologies, meeting all your sound quality needs.

A Powerhouse in a Portable Format

The PA10 stands out for its ability to deliver impressive power in an ultra-compact design. With dimensions of 73 mm x 140 mm x 23.3 mm and a weight of 325 g, it easily fits into a pocket or bag. Despite its small size, it provides generous amplification, reaching up to 6.2 Vrms in balanced output, enough to drive even the most power-hungry headphones.

The device features a built-in 4200 mAh battery, offering up to 12 hours of playback. Fast charging via USB-C ensures you can quickly restore full capacity. A multicolor LED indicator displays battery level and charging status.

Uncompromising Class A Amplification

At its core, the PA10 features pure Class A amplification, renowned for its superior linearity and minimal distortion. Astell&Kern has successfully integrated this demanding technology into a portable format through a unique circuit design. This innovation reduces power consumption while preserving the sonic benefits of Class A amplification: smooth, warm, and natural sound reproduction with zero distortion.

The amplifier also incorporates Astell&Kern’s proprietary TERATON ALPHA technology. The result of years of research, this technology aims to reproduce sound as close to the original as possible by optimizing every stage of audio processing: power management, noise suppression, amplification, and signal conversion.

Rich, Spacious Analog Sound

The PA10’s sound signature is defined by its tonal richness and excellent sense of space. The amplifier delivers a wide and deep soundstage with precise instrument separation. The timbre is warm and natural, with a pleasing density in the midrange that particularly enhances vocals.

In the bass, you’ll enjoy powerful and controlled performance, with impactful yet well-contained lows. The highs are detailed and airy, adding vibrancy without ever becoming harsh.

The PA10 masterfully combines analytical precision with musicality, offering a listening experience that is both richly detailed and emotionally engaging.

Options to Fine-Tune Your Sound

Astell&Kern has equipped the PA10 with several features to tailor its sound output:

• A three-level current control (low, medium, high) allows you to adjust the sound signature based on the headphones used. Higher settings enhance the Class A amplification characteristics for a more intense and spacious sound.

• A two-position gain setting (low and high) optimizes output power according to headphone sensitivity.

• A hardware crossfeed function simulates speaker listening by subtly blending the left and right channels. This widens the soundstage and reduces listening fatigue during long headphone sessions.

Comprehensive and Versatile Connectivity

The PA10 offers both 3.5 mm single-ended and 4.4 mm balanced Pentaconn input and output jacks. This dual connectivity makes it compatible with both mainstream and high-end audiophile equipment.

The amplifier can connect to a wide range of devices, including audiophile players, smartphones, and computers. It operates in plug-and-play mode without requiring specific drivers.

Elegant and Functional Design

True to Astell&Kern’s aesthetic, the PA10 features a sophisticated, angular design. Its CNC-machined aluminum body boasts a flawless finish. The front panel has a distinctive slight slope, while the back is covered with a textured silicone grip featuring kaleidoscopic patterns.

The large volume knob, seamlessly integrated into the chassis, allows for precise adjustments. Three side switches provide direct access to various options. The overall design exudes a sense of durability and premium quality.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

• Model: AK PA10
• Case Color: Graphite Gray
• Materials: Aluminum and Silicone
• Audio Inputs: Unbalanced 3.5 mm, Balanced 4.4 mm
• Headphone Outputs: Unbalanced 3.5 mm, Balanced 4.4 mm
• Maximum Input Level:
  • Unbalanced: 2 Vrms
  • Balanced: 4 Vrms
• Output Level:
  • Low Gain: Unbalanced 2.1 Vrms, Balanced 4.2 Vrms (no load)
  • High Gain: Unbalanced 3.1 Vrms, Balanced 6.2 Vrms (no load)

Audio Performance

• Frequency Response:
  • Low Gain: ± 0.2 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz) Unbalanced, ± 0.2 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz) Balanced
  • High Gain: ± 0.06 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz) Unbalanced, ± 0.06 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz) Balanced
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR):
  • Low Gain: 111 dB at 1 kHz Unbalanced, 115 dB at 1 kHz Balanced
  • High Gain: 114 dB at 1 kHz Unbalanced, 117 dB at 1 kHz Balanced
• Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N):
  • Low Gain: 0.0045% at 1 kHz Unbalanced, 0.0015% at 1 kHz Balanced
  • High Gain: 0.0027% at 1 kHz Unbalanced, 0.0013% at 1 kHz Balanced
• Crosstalk:
  • Low Gain: -83 dB at 1 kHz Unbalanced, -110 dB at 1 kHz Balanced
  • High Gain: -83 dB at 1 kHz Unbalanced, -110 dB at 1 kHz Balanced
• Output Impedance: 3.5 mm (1.1 Ω), 4.4 mm (1.3 Ω)

Battery

• Capacity: 4,200 mAh 3.8 V Lithium-Polymer
• Charging Time:
  • Fast Charging (9 V / 1.67 A): Approximately 3 hours
  • Standard Charging (5 V / 2 A): Approximately 4 hours
• Battery Life: Approximately 12 hours (Unbalanced / 1 Vrms input / Low Gain / 30% volume)

Miscellaneous

• Recommended Headphone Impedance: 16-300 Ω
• Audio maintained during measurements
• Images and specifications are subject to change without notice to improve product performance and quality

General Information

• Dimensions: 73 mm (W) × 140 mm (H) × 23.3 mm (D)
• Weight: Approximately 325 g
• Charging Port: USB Type-C
• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to +40 °C