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Astell&Kern’s impressive AK70 (HFC 428) has been given a reboot and for just £100 extra now offers a dual-DAC design, enhanced amplification, wi-fi connectivity and the ability to also be used as a USB DAC when it’s not playing back hi-res music files. Unlike the original AK70, the MK II version has a Cirrus Logic CS4298 chipset for both left and right channels, offering bit-to-bit playback of files up to 24/192 and DSD128. Its stylish block aluminium casing remains finished in two-tone black with a 3.3in touchscreen, but now is a fraction larger and weighs 18g more than its predecessor.

It comes equipped with 64GB of built-in memory, which thanks to the inclusion of a microSD slot, can be expanded up to 264GB. Connections include balanced and standard 3.5mm headphone jacks and Bluetooth is supported for playback to suitably equipped devices. Wi-fi connectivity and Astell&Kern’s AK Connect App enables easy network streaming and Tidal is supported. Available now for £599, you can find out more about the AK70 MKII here.