Astell&Kern AK HC2 USB Type-C Dual DAC Cable

Connected to be Hi-Fi

High-resolution sound on streaming services allows you to fully appreciate the rich tones and emotional nuance of your music.
However, as headphone ports disappear on smartphones, it makes it increasingly difficult to use wired earphones that deliver high quality sound, and people experience the limitations of wireless transmission and slow response speeds. Music lovers who wish to enjoy true high-quality Hi-Fi sound rather than what is currently being delivered by smartphone wireless standards and computers’ built-in sound cards are becoming deeply concerned.

Developed to solve this problem, HC2 is Astell&Kern’s second model with a specialized USB DAC function. While retaining the strengths of HC1 (PEE51), the first model, its functions have been supplemented to allow more people to enjoy true Hi-Fi sound. Introducing AK HC2, where you can experience and enjoy Astell&Kern’s sincerity and philosophy for music. No matter what device you use, the moment you connect the HC2, the Hi-Fi experience will begin.

The Choice for Hi-Fi Sound — Ultra High-Resolution Sound From Dual DACs

The Astell&Kern HC2 USB-C Dual DAC Cable features two Cirrus Logic CS43198 MasterHIFI™ DACs, a MasterHIFI™-level DAC that graces only a select few products, including the A&norma series, that are proven and celebrated by music lovers.

The HC2 provides Native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz support that enables it to play back high-quality sound files so you can enjoy the luxury and premium sound quality of Astell&Kern.

The Result of AK’s Ultra-Fine Audio Design Technology

With its compact size and uncompromising performance, the HC2 makes it easy to enjoy real Hi-Fi sound anytime, anywhere. Astell&Kern is adored by countless music lovers thanks to our dedication and meticulous delivery of the original sound with our signature DAPs, or portable high resolution audio players. We included the Astell&Kern technology and know-how that has been accumulated from our DAPs over the years in this small device, measuring just 14x53mm.

We used micro resistors and capacitor parts to achieve the small dimensions without compromising performance. Tailored ultra-small tantalum capacitors, which are used in AK player products to create a stable system and audio performance by controlling the power fluctuations, are also included to create the optimal audio circuit. In addition, the output and audio performance are enhanced with Astell&Kern’s unique technology while minimizing current consumption in consideration of the connected device. This enables you to enjoy the original sound without any distortion even when using high-impedance headphones or sensitive earphones.

High Output Noise-Free Sound With 4.4mm Output

AK HC2 uses a 4.4mm balanced output—unlike the previous model that uses a 3.5mm unbalanced output—allowing a greater variety of headphones and earphones that are made for Hi-Fi sound to be used optimally with a small USB DAC.

With the use of the 4.4mm balanced output, a higher output can be achieved with clearer channel separation while minimizing noise. With HC2 you can enjoy high-quality sound via a balanced output that brings out the best performance in your headphones or earphones.