Astell&Kern HC3 - USB DAC/headphone amplifier designed for playing high-resolution audio from a computer or mobile device. As more and more mobile phone manufacturers remove headphone jacks from their devices, the Astell&Kern USB DAC cable allows users to get the best sound from their mobile devices using their existing headphones.
Features:
- Two ESS ES9219MQ DACs
- Support for DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz PCM
- Support for MQA 8x format
- Support for CTIA-compatible devices
- Mfi Apple certification
- Astell&Kern mobile app
- Roon certification
The Astell&Kern USB DAC Cable is equipped with dual ESS ES9219MQ DACs, which support high-resolution audio playback up to DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz PCM. The two ESS 9219MQ DACs work in conjunction with an independent analog amplifier, designed to provide authentic audio reproduction, so you can experience a lively, warm, and clean sound as intended, without distortion. This became possible thanks to Astell&Kern's years of experience in AMP development.
The Astell&Kern HC3 supports a microphone and controller and is compatible with any 3 or 4-pole headphones and headsets with a 3.5mm plug, as well as with built-in controller and microphone 4-pole headphones and headsets. With the AK HC3, you can enjoy a wider range of entertainment using your mobile device. Direct USB connection provides lower latency compared to other wireless solutions, ensuring perfect sound for gaming. Voice chat features enhance the gaming experience, allowing you to play with others, and the microphone input makes the device even more useful for professional web conferences. The rich sound capabilities complement the usefulness of the AK HC3, making your video broadcasts more realistic and engaging. The Astell&Kern USB DAC Cable is equipped with a USB-C connector, which can be found on the latest Android smartphones and Windows and Mac computers. Since the USB DAC Cable is powered by the playback device it is connected to, there is no need for a separate charger.
The USB DAC Cable supports any headphones or earphones with a 3.5mm connector. The official MFi certified USB-C to Lightning adapter ensures compatibility with Lightning-based iOS devices. For Android devices, a special app is available for detailed HC3 volume control. HC3 is certified Roon Tested.
High-precision SMD components were used in the device to achieve small size without compromising performance. Specially designed ultra-small tantalum capacitors, used in AK player products to create a stable system and sound quality by controlling power fluctuations, are also included to create an optimal sound scheme. Additionally, thanks to Astell&Kern's unique technology, output quality and sound are improved with minimal power consumption, taking into account the connected device. In HC3, digital signals from the device are transmitted through a double-shielded cable to the buffer block before being converted into analog signals by the DAC. As a result, the subsequent processing of the digital signal produces superior sound without noise compared to other USB DAC products.
The double shielding protects against interference
HC3 is equipped with a double-shielded cable to minimize noise and provide a brighter, more original sound. The conductors with a copper core are coated with tin to prevent corrosion and strengthen the tensile force for increased durability. Additionally, the entire cable is wrapped in aluminum film to block noise, which is the biggest problem in audio. The copper wire with tin coating is then braided to minimize noise interference for better sound quality.
Package includes:
- Portable USB DAC
- USB-C to Lightning adapter
- Documentation