Astell&Kern has unveiled its second-generation A&norma SR25 MKII portable hi-res audio player. This updated version now includes a balanced 4.4mm headphone jack, joining its balanced 2.5mm and unbalanced 3.5mm outputs.

Further upping the new features list is A&K’s Replay Gain, which automatically adjusts volume playback from sources up to 24-bit/192kHz ,so playlists can be enjoyed at consistent levels without manual fine-tuning. And the addition of AK File Drop allows for wireless file transfers through a PC, smartphone, or FTP program running on the same network.

Astell&Kern A&norma SR25 MKII

A trio of SR25 MKIIs sporting optional protective cases made from A&K’s Laskina polyurethane fabric, available in black, denim blue and orange

As with the first-generation model, the SR25 MII handles an array of hi-res music formats and sample rates including DSD256 and 32-bit/384KHz PCM alongside the latest LDAC and apt HD Bluetooth codecs.

The Astell&Kern A&norma SR25 MKII costs £699 plus £59 for a dedicated case. Find out more on Astell&Kern’s website.