Astell & Kern AKHC5 USB-DAC

Astell & Kern AKHC5 USB-DAC

Compact Form, Complete Perfection

With the AK HC5, Astell&Kern introduces a USB DAC that redefines what is possible in a compact format. Designed for listeners who demand uncompromising performance everywhere they go, the AK HC5 combines flagship-level digital processing, an exceptionally clean power design, and an intuitive control concept in a body small enough to take anywhere. It is the first USB DAC cable to feature the AK4499EX—Astell&Kern’s top-tier DAC normally reserved for their flagship players—paired with the AK4191EQ digital processor. Together, they deliver a sonic performance far beyond what portable DACs have offered until now.

Flagship DAC Architecture in Your Pocket

The AK HC5 employs the same high-end components used in Astell&Kern’s reference DAPs:

• 4 × AK4191EQ for advanced digital processing
• 4 × AK4499EX for high-precision analog conversion

By separating the digital and analog stages, signal contamination is minimized, resulting in remarkable clarity, low noise, and lifelike detail. This is portable audio on the level of a premium digital audio player.

High Driving Mode – Power and Control Without Compromise

Borrowed from the SP4000, Astell&Kern’s High Driving Mode delivers exceptional output power. A horizontal OPAMP layout provides substantially higher drive capability than conventional portable DACs. The result:

• Rich, dense tonal textures
• Expansive spatial imaging
• Effortless drive even for demanding headphones

The AK HC5 plays with authority and weight rarely seen in its category.

Ultra-Low-Noise Power Design

USB-powered DACs are especially vulnerable to noise introduced by smartphones, tablets, and laptops. To counter this, Astell&Kern developed a dedicated amplifier with excellent PSRR and CMRR performance.

This ensures:

• Ultra-clean signal paths
• Stable operation regardless of the connected device
• Consistent, pure sound in any environment

Dual Noise-Shielded Cable – Purity in Every Detail

The integrated cable is engineered to preserve signal integrity under all conditions:

• Tin-plated copper conductors for corrosion resistance and reliability
• Individual TPE insulation to reduce crosstalk
• Aluminum foil shielding against electromagnetic noise
• Additional braided copper shielding for extra protection
• Durable fabric jacket for flexibility and longevity

This multi-layer construction ensures exceptionally clean and stable transmission.

Precise Control with OLED Display

A 1.62-inch OLED display provides clear information on volume, filters, and playback settings. The 150-step mechanical volume wheel—the same encoder system used in AK DAPs—offers precise, tactile volume adjustment, far superior to digital-only control schemes.

DAR – Digital Audio Remastering Technology

DAR upsamples the incoming digital signal using a high-precision algorithm to enhance detail and dynamic range.

Examples:

• 44.1 kHz PCM → 352.8 kHz
• 48 kHz PCM → 384 kHz
• PCM < 96 kHz → converted to DSD128
• PCM > 96 kHz → converted to DSD256
• DSD → up to DSD256

DAR can be toggled on/off depending on preference and source material, allowing listeners to tailor their experience.

Six DAC Filters for Personalised Sound

With six selectable filter modes, the AK HC5 lets users refine the sound signature—from natural, smooth playback to sharper and more dynamic profiles. This flexibility makes it easy to match the DAC to musical taste, headphones, and genre.

Wide Device Compatibility – Including Gaming Consoles

Thanks to support for UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0, the AK HC5 works seamlessly with:

• Android and iOS devices
• Windows 10/11 and macOS
• PlayStation & Nintendo Switch (UAC 1.0)

Whether for high-resolution music listening or immersive gaming, the AK HC5 delivers premium sound across all platforms.

Premium Protection Case

The optional case—made from Synt3’s high-quality polyurethane—adds both protection and refinement. Its smooth, luxurious texture complements the AK HC5’s design and ensures long-term durability.

Key Technical Highlights

• DAC Configuration: 4 × AK4191EQ + 4 × AK4499EX
• Display: 1.62″ OLED
• Volume Control: 150-step mechanical encoder
• Features: DAR upsampling, six DAC filters
• Cable: Dual noise-shielded, tin-plated copper, fabric outer jacket
• Compatibility: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch
• Certification: Roon Tested (in progress)

Specifications

Kategorie	Spezifikation
Modell	AK HC5
Farbe	Satin Silver
Material	Aluminum
DAC	AKM AK4191EQ + AK4499EX
PCM-Unterstützung	8 kHz – 768 kHz (8/16/24/32 Bit)
DSD-Unterstützung (Native)	DSD64 / DSD128 / DSD256 / DSD512
Ausgangspegel	2.5 Vrms (Unbalanced) / 5 Vrms (Balanced)
Eingang	USB-C (UAC 2.0 & UAC 1.0)
Ausgänge	3.5 mm Unbalanced / 4.4 mm Balanced (5-polig)
Frequenzgang	±0.006 dB (20–20 kHz) / ±0.06 dB (20–70 kHz)
Signal-Rausch-Verhältnis	121 dB (Unbalanced) / 125 dB (Balanced)
Crosstalk	–139 dB (Unbalanced) / –141 dB (Balanced)
THD+N	0.0005% (Unbalanced) / 0.0004% (Balanced)
IMD (SMPTE)	0.0006% (Unbal.) / 0.0005% (Bal.)
Ausgangsimpedanz	0.5 Ω (3.5 mm) / 1.1 Ω (4.4 mm)
Abmessungen	32 × 64.3 × 16 mm
Gewicht	ca. 46 g (1.62 oz)