What is new with the Memory Player?


I have read that this player is the next great source at the online mags. Have others heard this player and is it currently being sold? What are the impressions of those who have heard this machine? Any information would be nice since I have read almost nothing other than what is contained in the magazines. Bob
128x128baranyi
Vinlorjazz,
I happen to be in San francisco right now on a trip. Would it be possible to arrange an audition of your equipment in the next few days? Bob Aranyi
"Tokyo, Japan, June 27, 2007—Asahi Kasei EMD today launched the AK4397, a 32-bit 192kHz high performance audio DAC for professional audio equipment and top-of-the-line consumer DVD/DVD-Audio/SACD player, AV receiver and digital mixer product applications. The AK4397 is the newest line-up of our Audio4proTM product range.

The new 32-bit digital operation block provides a fully 32-bit processing for the audio interface, perfect linear phase digital filter and delta-sigma modulator. It allows high accuracy D/A conversion of 32-bit audio signal generated by high accuracy processor such as 32-bit DSP.

Innovative design techniques include a symmetrical layout for the left-right switched capacitor DAC and fully separated analog power routing to avoid any degradation by cross talk and common impedance. Additionally, own unique switched capacitor DAC with excellent anti-jitter performance, circuit design to suppress the jitter generated internally, dedicated power supply pin for clock circuit result in unprecedented sound quality.

The AK4397 further provides a dedicated input port for direct stream digital (DSD) data input, sampling rate from 30kHz to 216kHz, fully differential analog outputs, digital attenuator, de-emphasis filters, soft mute and zero detection functions. The performance is THD+N of -103dB and S/N of 120dB. The operating voltage is 5V.

The AK4397 is available in a 44-pin LQFP package. Function and software compatibility with the industry standard AK4396 24-bit Audio DAC means a simple upgrade path for AK4396-based systems. For a demo of its high quality sound, the AK4397 evaluation boards and samples are available now. To obtain more information, contact Asahi Kasei EMD Corporation, Audio & Video Business Operation, Nishi-Shinjuku 1-23-7, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan."
I want to point out that both Vincent and his partner both contacted me about auditioning their player. Unfortunately, I had a sudden change of plans was not able to audition this noteworthy piece of gear. I hope to go the Rocky Mountain Audiofest in October to hear it then. Bob
Well, now you all know it, the AK4397 is, to my knowledge, the first 32 bit DAC ever, incorporating unique and patented technologies. I was honored to evaluate it at various development stages, including the latest finalized one. It is a "true miracle", IMO!

Needless to say, the AK4397 will be used in all flagship APL Hi-Fi digital products the moment it becomes available.

Since I know that AK4397 was very recently finalized and, at this time, only samples are available, I was very curious to find out what is the "mystery 32 bit DAC" claimed to be in the MP ever since it was introduced? I was just not aware that such thing exists besides the brand new, and until recently, "top secret" AK4397.

Regards,
Alex