Astell & Kern
About Astell & Kern
Astell & Kern is a premium South Korean audio equipment manufacturer founded in 2012 in Seoul as a subsidiary of Dreamus Company (formerly iRiver), specializing in high-resolution portable audio players and audiophile equipment that delivers uncompromising sound quality. The company name combines 'Astell' meaning 'star' in Greek and 'Kern' meaning 'core' in German, reflecting their mission to be 'the center of music.' Founded by seven former Samsung executives who initially created iRiver in 1999, Astell & Kern emerged as the premium successor to iRiver products, launching with the groundbreaking AK100 portable media player in 2013 followed by the AKR01 in-ear monitors. Headquartered at multiple Seoul locations including Gangnam-daero, the company is wholly owned by the $100M+ Dreamus enterprise and specializes in Mastering Quality Sound (MQS) technology delivering 24-bit audio with 44.1kHz to 192kHz sampling rates, providing 6.5 times more detail than conventional CDs through their premium portable players, in-ear monitors, and home audio systems for discerning audiophiles worldwide.
Founded: 2013
Astell & Kern Unveils the Luna: Premium In-Ear Headphones for Audiophiles
Astell & Kern's Luna headphones feature a single 13mm micro planar magnetic driver, "Katabiki," designed for precise sound with minimal distortion.
Titanium shell inspired by lunar curves ensures durability, comfort, and refined acoustic performance.
Comes with a premium cable (oxygen-free copper and high-purity silver) and seven ear tip pairs for tailored fit and sound.
Digital Audio Players (DAPs) in 2024: Trends and the Best Models Across Budgets
High-resolution audio as a standard in modern DAPs enhances immersive, studio-quality listening.
Android integration turns many DAPs into multifunctional devices while appealing to purists with dedicated music-only options.
Connectivity advancements include Wi-Fi streaming, robust Bluetooth codecs, and offline flexibility.
Astell & Kern and 64 Audio: Collaboration Brings XIO IEMs to Audiophiles
The XIO IEMs feature 10 drivers, including dual dynamic and balanced armature drivers, for full-spectrum audio (5Hz-22kHz). * The 904L stainless steel housings with diamond-like carbon coatings ensure durability and a premium aesthetic. * 64 Audio's innovations, like tubeless audio and air pressure exchange, optimize sound quality and wearing comfort. * The included silver-plated UP-OCC copper Litz cable enhances signal purity and reduces interference. * Retailing for $3,000, the XIO IEMs represent a premium choice for audiophiles, launching August 2025 in the U.S.