Description
Astell&Kern HC5
Astell&Kern HC5 is a beautifully designed DAC/amp built to exacting standards and offering a performance that belies its compact dimensions.
Created to achieve perfect sound, AK HC5 sets a new standard for USB DAC cables. The AK HC5 embodies Astell&Kern’s audio philosophy and precise engineering in a compact form, delivering a level of perfection beyond its predecessors. Equipped with a flagship-grade DAC and optimized power control, it delivers flawless sound performance unmatched by any other USB DAC.
- AK4191EQ + AK4499EX
- Constant High Driving, DAR (Digital Audio Remaster) Support
- 1.62″ OLED Display
- 150-step Volume Control
- Dual Noise-Shielded Cable
The First USB DAC Cable with AK4499EX
For the first time in a USB DAC cable, the AK4499EX DAC— previously only used in flagship DAPs—delivers top-tier sound performance.
The combination of the AK4191EQ digital processor and AK4499EX DAC perfectly separates and processes digital and analog signals, minimizing noise interference and reproducing even the finest details with precision. Experience premium, digital-audio-player–level sound quality through a USB DAC cable.
Compact Body, Ultimate Performance
The High Driving Mode technology perfected in the SP4000 now powers the AK HC5, achieving exceptional sound performance in a remarkably compact form. A horizontal OPAMP layout delivers driving power on a completely different level from typical portable USB DACs. Rich density, deep spaciousness, and powerful energy — experience flagship-grade sound from a compact size.
Noise Suppression Design for Pure, Clean Sound
Due to the nature of USB DAC cables that receive power from external devices, minimizing sound degradation caused by incoming noise is essential.
The AK HC5 features a dedicated amplifier with excellent PSRR (Power Supply Rejection Ratio) / CMRR (Common Mode Rejection Ratio) noise-suppression performance, delivering pure and clean sound no matter what device it is connected to.
Dual Noise Shielded Cable
To minimize noise and deliver clean, lifelike original sound even over wired connections, a Dual Noise-Shielded Cable design was adopted. The internal conductors are made of tin-plated copper wire to prevent corrosion and oxidation, while their high tensile strength enhances durability. Each conductor is individually insulated with TPE to minimize signal interference, and an aluminum film shield provides the first layer of protection against external electromagnetic noise. An additional tinned copper braided shield further suppresses any remaining noise, ensuring exceptional signal purity. The outer fabric jacket not only enhances durability and flexibility but also adds a refined, premium appearance.
Precision You Can See and Feel
The 150-step volume wheel, using the same encoder system found in Astell&Kern players, allows for precise and fine-tuned volume adjustment. A 1.62-inch OLED display provides a quick overview of current settings and playback information, transforming every touch and adjustment into a seamless and intuitive experience.
Beyond Protection
More than just protection, the case enhances the design and presence of the AK HC5 even when covered. Made with a premium polyurethane material from Synt3, an Italian specialist manufacturer, the case provides perfect protection while delivering a soft, refined texture that feels both luxurious and comfortable to the touch.
Specifications Astell&Kern HC5:
- Model AK HC5
- Body Colour Satin Silver
- Body Material Aluminium
- DAC AKM AK4191EQ + AK4499EX
- Sample rate PCM : 8kHz ~ 768kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo / DSD512(1bit 22.4MHz) Stereo - Output Level Unbalanced 2.5Vrms / Balanced 5Vrms (Condition No Load)
- Input USB Type-C (Supports UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0)
- Output 3.5mm (Unbalanced), 4.4mm (Balanced, Only 5-pole supported)
- Dimensions 32mm[W] x 64.3mm[H] x 16mm[D]
- Weight About 1.62oz (46g)
Peter (verified owner) –
Great all-round service. Quick delivery. Item as described. Even checked to see if product had arrived ok. Recommended seller.