Astell&Kern Virtuoso Closed-Back Headphones

The Astell&Kern Virtuoso represents a refined evolution of Ultrasone’s flagship Signature MASTER MKII, combining elevated sound performance with masterful craftsmanship. True to its name, the Virtuoso captures the essence of musical artistry and technical excellence. Much like a virtuoso performer, these headphones are designed to deliver outstanding audio fidelity with expressive depth. Listening with the Virtuoso is not merely an act of hearing—it is a heightened, immersive experience that resonates with the skill and emotion behind every note.

Features

• Ultrasone X Astell&Kern, A collaboration between two artistry and technical excellence brands
• Ultrasone’s proprietary technology, S-Logic®3
• Equipped with a closed dynamic 40mm titanium-plated Mylar driver
• 4.4mm Balanced cable
• Designed with Ultrasone’s exclusive DDF technology
• Manufactured in Germany

Engineered in Germany

Ultrasone has been a respected name in high-fidelity audio since its founding in 1989 in Bavaria, Germany. With a singular focus on headphone production, the company handcrafts each product at Gut Raucherberg using only high-quality materials. This dedication to precision and quality has established Ultrasone as a trusted manufacturer among both audiophiles and professional users. Every detail—from acoustic design to finishing—is carefully considered, reinforcing a long-standing commitment to innovation, authenticity, and technical mastery.

S-Logic®3 & DDF

Central to the Virtuoso’s performance is Ultrasone’s proprietary S-Logic®3 technology, the product of over 30 years of research. This innovation delivers a natural spatial listening experience, creating an expansive soundstage that closely mirrors the acoustics of studio monitors. By reducing sound pressure levels by up to 40%, S-Logic®3 also helps minimise listening fatigue during extended use. Enhanced further by Double Deflector Fin (DDF) technology, the Virtuoso presents finely layered sound imaging, delivering greater depth, detail, and directional accuracy.

Superior Components and Balanced Audio

The Virtuoso features a 40mm titanium-coated diaphragm Mylar driver, inherited from Ultrasone’s prestigious Edition series. This driver achieves an impressively wide playback frequency range, low distortion, and deep, powerful bass—while preserving the clarity and delicate sound tuning of its predecessor. The model supports balanced audio connections, incorporating an upgraded internal circuit to accommodate a 4.4mm balanced plug. This ensures optimal performance in a range of professional and enthusiast audio environments, allowing users to tailor their listening experience to suit individual needs.

ULE (Ultra Low Emission) Technology

In addition to its acoustic capabilities, the Virtuoso includes Ultrasone’s proprietary ULE (Ultra Low Emission) technology. This feature significantly reduces electromagnetic radiation emitted by the drivers by using a newly enhanced material based on military-grade MU Metal. The improved shielding is thinner yet more effective, protecting the listener by deflecting electromagnetic waves before they reach the body. This design reduces emissions by approximately 98%, ensuring safer, more comfortable listening sessions over long durations.

Design

A collaborative design with Astell&Kern, the Virtuoso’s visual identity reflects elegance and purpose. The soft curves and X-shaped motif align with Astell&Kern’s design language, achieving a balance between modern aesthetics and functional sophistication. Comfort is prioritised through FGC technology, which disperses pressure across the headband, and premium Alcantara materials, which enhance fit and reduce fatigue. These elements make the Virtuoso ideal for prolonged use, while maintaining the aesthetic standards expected of a high-end audio device that blends performance with refined design.

Specifications