Astell&Kern AK HC3

Without VAT: $197.17

$238.58

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Description

If you need high-fidelity audio on-the-go, look to the AK HC3 from Astell & Kern, a highly portable USB-C DAC cable with dual ESS Sabre ES9219MQ DAC chips for true hi-fi sound quality. This convenient dual-shielded cable sports ultralow noise and built-in support for audiophile sound playback, including MQA 8X and DSD256 as well as a range of listening devices, including headset mics.

Virtually any USB-C connected audio source is fully compatible with AK HC3 as well as most iOS devices thanks to the included USB-C to Lightning adapter. Proprietary app control (Android devices only) makes it easy to dial in the perfect listening experience without touching your DAC, and the rugged aluminum housing ensures your AK HC3 will survive the rigors of travel, allowing you to enjoy maximal sound quality with minimal effort, anywhere.

Dual DACs for Ultrahigh Resolution Sound

The AK HC3 adopts dual ES9219MQ chips, the SABRE HiFi DACs from ESS that are highly regarded by audio fans for their ability to playback hi-fi sounds such as MQA in extremely high quality. These chips possess excellent noise control and low power consumption. In addition, they support native DSD256 and 32-bit / 384 kHz playback for true audiophile performance.

Ultrafine Audio Design Technology

With its compact size and uncompromising performance, the AK HC3 makes it easy to enjoy real hi-fi sound anytime, anywhere. A&K used micro resistors and capacitor parts to achieve it's small dimensions without compromising performance.

Tailored ultrasmall tantalum capacitors, which are used in A&K player products to create stable audio performance by controlling power fluctuations, are also included to create the optimal audio circuit. In addition, the output is enhanced with Astell & Kern's unique technology while minimizing current consumption based on the connected device.

Noise-Free Rear Output Structure

The AK HC3 incorporates a rear audio output design to minimize noise. Most USB DAC products have the DAC positioned in the USB terminal that is connected directly to the device to process and output audio. However, with the AK HC3, digital signals from the device go through a dual-shielded cable to the audio circuit before being converted to an analog signal by the DAC. By processing the digital signal after, the result is superior, noise-free sound compared to other USB DAC products.

Dual Noise Shielded Cable

The AK HC3 features a dual-shielded cable to minimize noise and deliver more vivid, original sound. The copper core wire is coated with tin to prevent corrosion and strengthen tensile force for enhanced durability.

In addition, the entire cable is wrapped in an aluminum film to block noise, the biggest issue in audio. Then, the tin-coated copper wire is woven to minimize noise interference.

MQA 8X Playback in Ultrahigh Resolution

The AK HC3 is built with a renderer that supports MQA 8X playback in ultrahigh quality to deliver sound that's much closer to the original sound. MQA is a high-quality sound source format that requires an external DAC or appropriate playback devices. AK HC3 is the right choice if you want to enjoy MQA anytime.

Pair your mobile device with AK HC3 to play any MQA sources up to MQA 8X. With AK HC3 and any device that supports MQA unfolding, anyone can unleash the superior quality of MQA through the proprietary app, with network play and streaming features.

Plug and Play

Connect directly to a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet with a USB-C port that supports plug and play, without needing a separate conversion adapter, and enjoy high-quality sound. The AK HC3 utilizes power from the connected playback device, so it does not need to be charged or connected to a separate external sound card, amp, or DAC.

Just connect AK HC3 to experience high-fidelity sound from a computer or mobile device. The AK HC3 is also compatible with iOS devices using the included USB-C to Lightning adapter.

Microphone and Controller Support

The AK HC3 has been improved to be compatible with any 3- or 4-pole 3.5mm plug earphones and headsets as well as the in-line controller and microphone features of 4-pole earphones and headsets. With AK HC3, you can enjoy a greater range of entertainment experiences with your mobile device.

The direct USB connection provides lower latency compared to other wireless solutions, enabling a sound performance that’s perfect for gaming. The voice chat features enhance your gaming experiences, so you can play with others, and the microphone input makes it even more useful for professional web conferencing. Plus, the rich sound capability adds to the utility of AK HC3 by making your video experiences more realistic and immersive.

Dedicated Android App for Volume Control

As is common with many USB DACs, compatibility issues can arise, such as different connected devices being set automatically to maximum volume output or playback at too low volume. To resolve such issues and offer greater control over the volume and function of the AK HC3, A&K have developed a companion app for Android OS devices.

LED for Realtime Indications

AK HC3 has an LED indicator that displays audio playback details. These include:

White = Standby
Red = PCM
Blue = DSD
Magenta = MQA

Roon Tested

Roon Tested devices are profiled by the Roon team to ensure simple setup and effortless daily use. The AK HC3 is a fully Roon tested device that is fully compatible with other Roon tested devices. If you own another Roon tested device or are considering purchasing one, you can have the confidence that you will enjoy the best possible audio experience with it.

Features

Portable DAC Cable for USB-C Devices
3.5mm Stereo Output
Dual Sabre ES9219MQ DAC Chips
32-Bit / 384 kHz Bit-to-Bit Playback
MQA 8X and Native DSD256 Support
Dual-Shielded Cable for Ultralow Noise
Supports Headset Mics and iOS Devices
Full Metal Housing
Proprietary Android App for Gain Control
Includes USB-C to Lightning Adapter

What's in the box?

Astell & Kern AK HC3 USB DAC Cable
USB-C to Lightning Adapter

Specification

Channels	1x D/A
AD Conversion	No
DA Conversion	No
Max. Sampling Rate	384 kHz / 32-Bit
S / PDIF	No
AES/EBU Connector	No
Word Clock	No
ADAT	No
Headphones DAC	No
Remote Control	No
Wireless Capability	No
Dimensions	5.9 x 1.8 x 1.1 cm
Weight	20 g

Product instruction

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