Astell & Kern AK HC5 Portable DAC and Headphone Amplifier

For the first time in a USB DAC cable, the AK4499EX DAC—previously only used in flagship DAPs—delivers top-tier sound performance. The 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.

The High Driving mode technology perfected in the SP4000 now powers the AK HC5, achieving exceptional sound performance in a remarkably compact form. A horizontal op-amp 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.

Due to the nature of USB DAC cables that receive power from external devices, minimizing sound degradation caused by incoming noise is essential. The 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 is connected to it.

To 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.

The 150-step volume wheel, using the same encoder system found in Astell & Kern players, allows for precise and fine-tuned volume adjustment. A 1.62" OLED display provides a quick overview of current settings and playback information, transforming every touch and adjustment into a seamless and intuitive experience.

DAR (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, life-like sound that's closer to the original recording.

• With PCM selected, 44.1 kHz PCM audio will be converted to 352.8 kHz for playback
• In PCM mode, audio in the 48 kHz range will be converted to 384 kHz for playback
• With DSD mode selected, PCM files lower than 96 kHz will be converted to DSD128 for playback
• In DSD mode, PCM files over 96 kHz will be converted to DSD256 for playback
• When DSD mode is selected, DSD files below DSD256 will be convrted to DSD256 for playback

With six DAC filter options, you can choose your 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:

• Super Slow Roll-Off: avoids echo and uses an ultra-sharp filter edge for a natural tone
• Short Delay Slow Roll-Off: minimizes echo and reproduces the original sound, ideal for acoustic tones
• Slow Roll-Off: similar to Short Delay Slow Roll-off but utilizes a middle filter notch for more traditional tones
• Low Dispersion: ideal for harmonic sounds, this filter reproduces the original sound with a short echo and middle filter edge
• Short Delay Sharp Roll-Off: post echo enhances the bass for an acoustic-style sound
• Sharp Roll-Off: pre and post echoes make for a powerful sound with a slow edge

Supporting both UAC 2.0 and 1.0, the AK HC5 ensures perfect compatibility with a wide range of devices. With 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.

More 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.

Roon plays to thousands of USB, Airplay, and Chromecast devices, but Roon Tested devices are profiled by the Roon team to ensure simple setup and effortless daily use. If you own a Roon Tested device or are thinking about buying one, you can have the confidence that you will enjoy the best possible experience of it.