AKM
About AKM
AKM (Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation) is a leading Japanese semiconductor company specializing in high-quality audio DACs and analog/digital mixed-signal technology. Part of the Asahi Kasei Group since its establishment, AKM operates from Tokyo and is renowned for its VELVET SOUND audio converters used in AV receivers, set-top boxes, speaker systems, digital TVs, and car entertainment systems. After a major factory fire in October 2020 destroyed production, AKM resumed operations in 2022 with new products including AK4493S and AK4490R DACs. The company combines compound semiconductor technology with sophisticated IC products to provide advanced sensing devices and audio solutions for professional and consumer markets worldwide.
Astell&Kern Launches PD10 Black High-Resolution Audio Player
Astell&Kern introduces new "PD10 Black" and "PD10 Silver" DAP models, priced at ¥363,000, with advanced DAC technology for superior audio processing.
The PD10 features the latest HEXA audio circuit, integrating AK4498EX and AK4191EQ DACs for enhanced digital and analog signal separation and processing.
It supports Full Android OS with ADP technology, enabling unrestricted high-resolution lossless playback and compatibility with streaming services like Qobuz Connect.
Questyle Introduces Sigma and Sigma Pro: Portable Hi-Res Audio DAC/Amps for Exceptional Sound
Questyle has introduced the Sigma and Sigma Pro portable DAC/amps, delivering high-resolution audio with remarkable output power in a compact design.
The Sigma Pro features dual ESS ES9069 DACs in a dual-mono configuration, supporting up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512 audio formats.
Both models include balanced 4.4mm outputs, LDAC, Snapdragon Sound, and Bluetooth 5.4 technology, enhancing connectivity and audio quality.
Questyle SIGMA: Portable Headphone Amplifier DAC with Current Mode
Questyle SIGMA, a portable DAC/headphone amplifier, integrates cutting-edge technologies for superior audio quality in a compact design.
Equipped with AKM AK4493 DAC chip, SIGMA supports PCM decoding up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512.
Features a symmetrical current-mode amplifier architecture with four modules, offering improved linearity and reduced distortion.
Shanling EC Zero AKM – Portable CD Player Featuring AKM AK4493S DAC Chips
Shanling EC Zero AKM is a portable CD player featuring AKM AK4493S DAC chips and SGM8262-2 amplifiers for high-quality audio output.
Offers Hi-Res USB-DAC capabilities with support for up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512, enhancing audio fidelity.
Includes both balanced (4.4mm Pentaconn) and unbalanced (3.5mm mini jack) headphone jacks, alongside line and SPDIF outputs for versatile connectivity.
Fosi Audio ZH3 Release: Unveiling the All-in-One DAC, Headphone Amplifier, and Preamp
The Fosi Audio ZH3 is an all-in-one DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamp designed for high-resolution audio in a compact design.
Featuring the AKM 4493SEQ DAC, XMOS XU316 processor, and 4 OPA1612 op-amps, it supports PCM 768kHz/32-bit and DSD512.
Outputs include 650mW single-ended and 2570mW balanced at 32Ω, with three gain settings supporting headphones from 16–300Ω.
Luxsin X9 - High-End R2R DAC with Advanced Features
Luxsin X9 integrates advanced HP-EQ technology, enabling headphone-specific frequency tuning with access to profiles for over 2500 models.
Powered by an AK4499EX DAC paired with AK4191EQ, the Luxsin X9 achieves >128 dB dynamic range and -120 dB THD+N distortion.
Features R2R volume control, ensuring precise adjustments up to 0.1 dB while preserving audio quality and phase integrity.