Skip to content
Pre-order. Available from February 2023
Hi-Fi Sound Everywhere - AK HC3
Astell&Kern offers a range of Hi-Fi USB DAC cables for a true Hi-Fi experience on the go. Designed to minimize noise while maintaining the ultra-high sound quality of built-in Hi-Fi DACs, it satisfies music lovers' desire for a true Hi-Fi experience when they're on the go.
Astell&Kern didn't settle for the status quo, but strived to bring more Hi-Fi quality features to our users.
Hi-Fi Dual DAC Cable - AK HC3
AK HC3 is the result of these efforts and was developed to offer all the advantages of its predecessors, AK HC1 and HC2, while enabling high-quality sound in different environments. AK HC3 features a microphone input that allows for even more entertainment and voice capabilities. The double-shielded cable and proprietary Android app help users experience Hi-Fi effortlessly and without compromise.
ES9219MQ dual DAC from ESS for real HiFi quality
-
Double shielded cable
-
Supports headset microphones
-
Supports iOS devices
-
Proprietary app for Android (for detailed volume control)
-
Compact but powerful
-
LED display shows song details
-
Refined all-aluminum material
Ultra high resolution sound from two DACs selected for Hi-Fi
The AK HC3 uses two ES9219MQ, ESS's SABER HiFi® DACs, prized by audio enthusiasts for their ability to reproduce ultra-high quality Hi-Fi sounds, excellent noise control and low power consumption.
In addition, it supports Native DSD256 and 32-bit/384 kHz, enabling any high-resolution sound to realize the unique sound experiences from Astell&Kern.
The result of AK's ultra-fine audio design technology
With its compact size and uncompromising performance, the HC3 makes it easy to enjoy true hi-fi sound anytime, anywhere.
Astell&Kern is adored by countless music lovers because with our signature DAPs or portable, high-resolution audio players reproduce the original sound with devotion and meticulousness. We have incorporated the Astell&Kern technology and know-how that we have accumulated over the years in our DAPs into this small device.
We have used micro-resistors and capacitors to reduce the small dimensions achieved without sacrificing performance. It also uses custom-made ultra-small tantalum capacitors, which are used in AK players, to achieve stable system and audio performance by controlling power fluctuation.
Moreover, the output and audio performance is enhanced by the unique technology of Astell&Kern improved while minimizing power consumption considering the connected device.
Noise-free rear output structure
The AK HC3 features a rear audio output that minimizes noise.
In most USB DAC products, the DAC resides in the USB terminal, which connects directly to the device to process audio and
With the AK HC3, however, the digital signals from the device are passed through the double-shielded cable to the audio circuitry before being converted to an analogue signal by the DAC.Subsequent processing of the digital signal results in excellent, noise-free sound compared to other USB DAC products
Double Noise Shielding Cable
The AK HC3 features a double-shielded cable to minimize noise and deliver a more vibrant, original sound.
The cable's copper core is tin-plated to prevent corrosion and increase tensile strength for longer life
In addition, the entire cable is wrapped in aluminum foil to block noise, the biggest problem in audio. Then the tin-coated copper wire is woven to minimize noise interference in the sound.
Simple and convenient - Plug & Play
Connect the AK HC3 directly to a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone or tablet with a USB-C port that supports plug and play without the need for a separate conversion adapter and enjoy high-quality sound.
The AK HC3 uses power from the connected playback device, so there is no need to charge it or connect it to a separate external sound card, amplifier or DAC. Simply plug in the AK HC3 to enjoy high-fidelity sound from a computer or mobile device.
The AK HC3 is also compatible with iOS using the included USB-C to Lightning adapter. devices compatible.
Fun experiences with AK HC3 and support for microphone and controller
The AK HC3 has been enhanced to be compatible with any 3 or 4 pole 3.5mm headphone and headset, as well as in-line controller and microphone capabilities of 4 pole headphone and headset. With AK HC3 you can enjoy a wider range of entertainment experiences with your mobile device.
The direct USB connection offers lower latency compared to other wireless solutions, enabling a sound performance that is perfect for gaming. The voice chat features enhance your gaming experience so you can play with others, and the microphone input makes it even more useful for professional web conferencing.
In addition, the rich sound feature adds to the usefulness of the AK HC3 by providing Makes your video experiences even more realistic and immersive.
*When pairing your AK HC3 with iPhones, recording is supported for microphone input, but not for calls.
Volume control via a dedicated Android APP
As usual with USB DACs, there may be compatibility issues, e.g. B. when various connected devices are automatically set to maximum volume or playing at too low a volume.
To fix such issues and allow better control over the volume and features of the HC3, we have a Companion app developed for devices running Android OS.
LED for real-time display
The AK HC3 is equipped with an LED display that shows details about the song.
*Standby: White / PCM: Red / DSD: Blue
Roon Tested
Roon's fundamental goal is to provide a consistently excellent user experience. This goal doesn't stop with the software... the experience extends all the way down to the audio playback hardware, regardless of manufacturer.
As a Roon Tested Partner, Astell&Kern has Roon devices available for testing with a variety of operating systems and computers made available and shared information about their design and capabilities.
We have a direct relationship with Roon and in many cases the Roon support team have our devices on hand so you can confidently choose to use Astell&Kern hardware with Roon
.
