{"product_id":"astell-kern-ak-hc5-hi-fi-usb-dac-amplifier","title":"Astell \u0026 Kern AK HC5 Portable USB DAC\/Amp","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"info\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAK HC5\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAK4191EQ + AK4499EX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConstant High Driving, DAR (Digital Audio Remaster) Support\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1.62\" OLED Display\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e150-step Volume Control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual Noise-Shielded Cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoon Tested (Certification in progress)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe First USB DAC Cable with AK4499EX\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the first time in a USB DAC cable, the AK4499EX DAC— previously only used in flagship DAPs—delivers top-tier sound performance.\u003cbr\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20251126094432_af8a059b-fd12-4069-a907-8a7e493867d9.png?v=1777656873\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCompact Body, Ultimate Performance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20250526153643_d0327f3e-baf8-40e8-974f-24f6890095e3.png?v=1777656985\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Image_4_753da4e7-fbe3-48ba-8639-bbce658ebff2.jpg?v=1777656917\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNoise Suppression Design for Pure, Clean Sound\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDue to the nature of USB DAC cables that receive power from external devices, minimizing sound degradation caused by incoming noise is essential.\u003cbr\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20251201160335_3b06b0bb-bcfc-4570-aa75-8d847f754fb1.png?v=1777656885\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDual Noise Shielded Cable\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Image_7_92ef209f-ea92-477f-841f-46c795eaf144.jpg?v=1777656917\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePrecision You Can See and Feel\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 150-step volume wheel, using the same encoder system found in Astell\u0026amp;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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20251125111206_f3370aa7-9d3d-42fb-b679-006e85771b05.png?v=1777656885\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"inner\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eVivid Sound Perfected with DAR\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDAR (Digital Audio Remaster) technology upsamples the input digital audio’s sample rate using a high-precision algorithm, delivering playback quality that surpasses the limits of the original data. This results in more detailed expression and an expanded dynamic range, reproducing natural, lifelike sound that’s closer to the original recording.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Image_8_8cdae815-75ca-4b86-b247-19cc40fc9441.jpg?v=1777656917\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Screenshot_2026-05-01_at_1.32.35_PM.png?v=1777657148\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCreate Your Own Sound with 6 DAC Filters\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith six DAC filter options, users can choose their preferred sound character. From natural tones to dynamic sound, you can fine-tune and create your own unique sound to match your taste and music genre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Screenshot_2026-05-01_at_1.32.27_PM.png?v=1777657131\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"dv3\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWide Compatibility, UAC 2.0 \u0026amp; 1.0 Dual Support\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupporting both UAC 2.0 and 1.0, the AK HC5 ensures perfect compatibility with a wide range of devices.\u003cbr\u003eWith UAC 1.0 mode, it can be directly connected to gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, delivering dynamic, immersive sound for gaming. From music listening to gaming, the AK HC5 provides high-resolution sound in any situation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Image_9_c665bebe-10d2-42dc-8f1f-20868968010b.jpg?v=1777656917\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBeyond Protection\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Image_10_e251a313-f5e2-4c1b-a441-89161f9b5c42.jpg?v=1777656917\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNotes for Product Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCompatible with most Android and iOS smartphones\/tablets, as well as Windows 10\/11 and macOS. Compatibility may vary depending on the connected device’s hardware, software, and system limitations.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDriver Installation (Windows)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen connected to a Windows PC, the driver will install automatically. For high-resolution audio playback, please install the dedicated USB DAC driver available under Support -\u0026gt; Download on our website.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEarphone\/Headphone Standards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSupports CTIA-standard 4-pole earphones\/headphones. OMTP standard is not supported.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-Resolution Playback (Smartphones)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor DSD and high-resolution PCM playback on smartphones, a separate playback app (free or paid) must be installed. Using the default player will cause downsampling, so use a dedicated playback app for full-quality sound.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHearing Protection Notice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBefore connecting earphones or headphones, always check the volume level. Depending on the connected device, the output may automatically default to maximum volume upon initial connection—please verify volume before use. When connecting to an Astell\u0026amp;Kern player, the output volume will be fixed at maximum and cannot be adjusted from the player. Listening at maximum volume may cause serious hearing damage. Astell\u0026amp;Kern is not responsible for any injury or damage resulting from improper or careless use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirmware Updates\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirmware updates may be released to improve system stability. For details, please refer to Support -\u0026gt; Download on our website.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20251125111713_16a9fd01-51b7-4676-9b3b-3380b823d50e.png?v=1777656884\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDESIGN\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Solid Flow - The Harmony of Solidity and Flexibility’\u003cbr\u003eThe design concept of the AK HC5 is “Solid Flow.” “Solid” represents Astell\u0026amp;Kern’s unwavering commitment to powerful, high-fidelity sound performance, while “Flow” embodies the elegant curves and smooth usability that enhance everyday convenience.\u003cbr\u003eBy merging these two contrasting ideals, the AK HC5 expresses Astell\u0026amp;Kern’s harmony of strength and fluidity, a design that feels both dynamic and refined when held in the hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20251125111744_0ea74fab-9f60-4064-a1d5-4e85eb71e7f0.png?v=1777656885\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20251125111748_e21043ea-9fc8-4bac-ae71-07c86b6db24a.png?v=1777656885\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/20251125111750_10e08bbc-5b59-4fb6-93e8-6036aaa849b7.png?v=1777656885\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSpecification\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGeneral Specifications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eModel: AK HC5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBody Color: Satin Silver\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBody Material: Aluminum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDAC: AKM AK4191EQ + AK4499EX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eSample rate: PCM : 8kHz ~ 768kHz (8\/16\/24\/32bits per Sample)\u003cbr\u003eDSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo \/ DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo \/ DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo \/ DSD512(1bit 22.4MHz) Stereo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutput Level: Unbalanced 2.5Vrms \/ Balanced 5Vrms (Condition No Load)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInput: USB Type-C (Supports UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutput: 3.5mm (Unbalanced), 4.4mm (Balanced, Only 5-pole supported)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 32mm[W] x 64.3mm[H] x 16mm[D]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeight: About 1.62oz (46g)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAudio Performance \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrequency Response: ±0.006dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced, Balanced │ ±0.06dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced, Balanced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eSignal to Noise Ratio: 121dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 125dB @ 1kHz, Balanced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eCrosstalk: -139dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -141dB @ 1kHz, Balanced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eTHD+N: 0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.0004% @ 1kHz, Balanced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eIMD SMPTE: 0.0006% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │ 0.0005% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Balanced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eOutput Impedance: Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (0.5ohm) │ Balanced Out 2.5mm 4.4mm(1.1ohm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Astell \u0026 Kern","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50959465906409,"sku":"AK HC5 (PEE55)","price":450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/Image_77609f16-8079-4956-ac1b-6dcf7df902d5.jpg?v=1777655928","url":"https:\/\/audio46.com\/products\/astell-kern-ak-hc5-hi-fi-usb-dac-amplifier","provider":"Audio46 Headphone Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}