Astell&Kern has announced an exclusive collaboration with Blue Note to mark the 75^th anniversary of the legendary jazz label. Astell&Kern has produced a limited edition of its flagship AK240 high-resolution music player; the AK240 Blue Note 75 is pre-loaded with 75 classic Blue Note albums, all in studio master quality audio (24bit/96kHz and 24bit/192kHz). This collection, from Thelonious Monk’s first sessions in 1947 to Gregory Porter’s 2014 Grammy Award-winning Liquid Spirit, includes 5 albums previously unreleased in high-res format.

As well as the pre-loads, the player will be packaged with all 75 albums on micro SD card, in unique cases that fit into a flexible display stand, which is also included. Completing the exclusive package is a 100-page book that guides listeners through the exclusive 75-album collection; featuring front and back cover art, track listings and detailed credits.

Only 1000 of these exclusive packages will be available worldwide. Both the AK240 Blue Note 75 player – featuring a blue finish, engraving and an exclusive leather case – and the accompanying display stand will be stamped with their limited edition number. 

Astell&Kern AK240 Blue Note 75: the complete package

• Limited edition of 1000 – each stand and player pairing individually serial numbered
• Custom blue colour AK240 with Blue Note engraving on edge of device and 75 year laser etch on back
• Custom Leather case with 75 year logo
• 75 albums each stored on a micro SD card, each one presented in an acrylic block to make up the Blue Note stand
• Stand can make many shapes, from straight to blocked to a spiral (right)
• Complete catalogue pre-loaded on the AK240
• 75 year anniversary Blue Note book with album information
• Available from specialist resellers from late October, priced £4999.99.