Product Previews

Astell & Kern L1000 Headphone Amplifier Preview

One look at the L1000 from Astell & Kern and you would know immediately why I requested one for review. This company, known for some of the best high end sound available in portables as well as beautiful designs must have had an itch to apply those skills to something a little larger. Skills applied, no doubt.

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See the complete review for the Astell & Kern L1000 Headphone Amplifier.

Features, other than that big, beautiful volume knob: a dual-dac arrangement supporting true balanced driving of headphones that support that, standard 1/4 inch and 1/8 inch headphone jacks as well, and the ability to drive a set of desktop speakers from the built-in amp (not a line-out for use with amplified speakers). Input is via a USB Micro connector.

Initial Impressions

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The big, beautiful knob is about as glorious to use as it is to look at. Sound is detailed and musical (ie, not digital sounding) with excellent rhythm and pace and quiet, quiet backgrounds. I’m very much looking forward to finding out more of what this elegant, angled box can do!

Stay Tuned

I’ve got a variety of DAC/Headphone amps for comparison and will endeavor to get some headphone models to match. Review is coming up.

See the complete review for the Astell & Kern L1000 Headphone Amplifier.

Rick Schmidt

Rick has been into audio ever since 9th grade when he commandeered a Pioneer receiver and Celestion speakers that his dad received in trade for a rusty station wagon. The stereo's original owner was forced into the deal by his newly pregnant wife. Hopefully that kid was re-exposed to hifi at a later date. Rick went on to make many extravagant stereo and home theater purchases of his own, not to mention LP's, CD's and DVD's. All financed by Rick's job as an engineer and engineering manager deep in the computer industry (ASIC design). When he's not listening or watching he might be working on the next screenplay for GenerosityFilms or painting.