Astell & Kern AK HC4 Hi-Fi USB DAC

Astell&Kern offers a Hi-Fi USB DAC cable product range for a true Hi-Fi experience on smartphones and PCs.
The Hi-Fi sound provided by Astell&Kern's design, which was completed in a small size, has won praise from countless audiophiles and media.

The AK HC4 continues the advantages of its highly acclaimed predecessors, delivering even more perfected sound in various usage scenarios through advanced design. Featuring Dual Output, compatible with most IEMs and headphones, the AK4493S DAC for true Hi-Fi sound, and Digital Audio Remaster technology, it brings the level of Hi-Fi sound previously exclusive to Astell&Kern's digital audio players to the AK HC4. Enjoy Hi-Fi sound like never before.

• 3.5mm, 4.4mm Dual Output
• AKM AK4493S
• DAR (Digital Audio Remaster)
• Supports iOS devices
• Interchangeable Cable (Type-C / Lightning Cable Included)
• Supported UAC1.0 (For Gaming System)
• Roon Tested

Ultra-High Resolution Audio with AK HC4:

The AK HC4 USB DAC Cable introduces AKM's acclaimed AK4493s DAC, renowned for its presence in Astell & Kern's digital audio players. Overcoming size constraints, this cable achieves top-tier audio quality through improved noise control, low-power design, and advanced amp technology. Supporting Native DSD256 and up to 32bit/384kHz, it ensures superior sound quality for an immersive experience.

Precision DAC and AMP Design for Hi-Fi Sound:

AK HC4 employs exclusive AMP circuitry for stable output power and exceptional Hi-Fi sound. Despite its compact 29.5 x 64.5 x 14.5mm size, micro resistors and capacitors maintain performance. Unique power management technology and ultra-small tantalum capacitors enhance output and audio performance while minimizing current consumption.

Dual Output Versatility:

Featuring both 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors, the AK HC4 eliminates the need for adapters. The 4.4mm Balanced output delivers 3Vrms for sensitive headphones, ensuring clear channel separation. The 3.5mm Unbalanced output is compatible with a wide range of IEMs and headphones, providing 2Vrms output for an optimal listening experience.

Digital Audio Remaster Technology:

Equipped with DAR technology, the AK HC4 upsamples sound sources beyond their format limits. The DAR slide key offers intuitive options for PCM and DSD playback conversion rates, allowing you to enjoy the refined, analogue-like original sound with increased richness and nuance.

High Compatibility and Simultaneous UAC Support:

The AK HC4 supports UAC 1.0 and 2.0 connections, ensuring compatibility with various devices, from modern smartphones to gaming consoles like PlayStation and Switch. This cross-platform support provides low latency and enhanced sound for an immersive gaming experience.

Noise-Free Rear Output Structure:

AK HC4 adopts a unique rear audio output design, processing digital signals through a dual-shielded cable before DAC conversion. This approach minimizes noise, resulting in superior, noise-free sound compared to traditional USB DAC products.

Specifications:

Model: AK HC4

Body Color: Moon Silver

Body Material: Aluminium

DAC: AKM AK4493S

Sample Rate:

• PCM: 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32 bits per Sample)
• DSD Native:
  • DSD64 (1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo
  • DSD128 (1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo
  • DSD256 (1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo

Output Level:

• Unbalanced: 2Vrms
• Balanced: 3Vrms (Condition: No Load)

Input: USB Type-C (Supports UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0)

Output:

• 3.5mm (Unbalanced)
• 4.4mm (Balanced, Only 5-pole supported)

Dimensions: 29.5mm[W] x 64.5mm[H] x 14.5mm[D]

Weight: About 1.09oz (31g)

Audio Specifications:

• Frequency Response:
  • ±0.062dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced
  • ±0.063dB (Condition: 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced
  • ±0.066dB (Condition: 20Hz~70kHz) Unbalanced
  • ±0.067dB (Condition: 20Hz~70kHz) Balanced
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 118dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 118dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
• Crosstalk:
  • -134dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced
  • -136dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
• THD+N:
  • 0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced
  • 0.0009% @ 1kHz, Balanced
• IMD SMPTE:
  • 0.0005% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced
  • 0.0004% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Balanced
• Output Impedance:
  • Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (0.9ohm)
  • Balanced Out 4.4mm (1.6ohm)