Very interesting, indeed. Thanks for sharing.

I find the Cayin post very informative, unlike the AK one. I also have the SP2000T and yes, the artefacts are there when streaming. Turning the WiFi off, which means downloading the content rather than streaming, fixes the problem. Sudden movements also induce some artefacts, so I don't use the tube amp when walking. Anyway, I have a smaller Hiby player for walks.

BTW, the announced price of the AK wasn't 2999? I see it already in Europe at 3400 Eur, that's significantly more expensive than the Cayin N3 Ultra. I was planning on getting it, but now that the Cayin was announced, I'm having second thoughts. I reckon the Cayin will be sold out immediately, so I won't have too much time to think about it.

You're right, of course. And the Cayin will probably be priced accordingly in Europe, around 700 Eur. That's still almost 5 times less than the AK 3000T. I was eyeing the SP3000, so for the same money I could buy both the 3000T and N3 Ultra, even though it probably doesn't make much sense. As an AK fanboy, it'll boil down to SP3000T vs SP3000.

I think the $2999 was a dollar price for the US. The €3400 is either because of currency exchange rates or includes VAT. Or not. In which case smile if you are a US citizen.

I would wait until you get feedback from users who’ve tried the SP3000T for confirmation of how much it’s moved on, or not, from the 2000T. Users who buy the DAP for home use e.g. in a small desk space, might get good use out of it, but if you’re a full-on mobile user it could be unusable if it has the same problems. I’m also an A&K committed user since buying the Junior a few (too many) years ago. I still have the SP2000Cu but it’s now only as a back up to my SP3000. I’ve never felt the need to try one of the other brands, nor to go in search of ‘tubes’ character. I tried the SP2000T and it did nothing for me. I’m very happy with the SP3000 and don’t need another DAP. However if my dealer calls and say he has something I should listen to then I’m always open for business.

And the show launch special is like 35% off!! ??

You said you don‘t need another DAP…wait until the SP4000 comes out. I hope they implement RTR technology in it but this thread is about the SP3000T so I digress.

Happy listening!