Astell&Kern; AK HC3 Dual DAC Dongle Declared
Astell&Kern's AK HC3 lightweight, portable USB DAC/ amp features dual ESS DACs and microphone connectivity.
The AK HC3 is Astell&Kern's latest USB-C Dual DAC cable, boasting hi-fi grade audio on-the-go and is the successor to the popular PEE51 (HC1) and HC2 dongles.
Where the HC1 and HC2 relied on a pair of Cirrus Logic CS43198 MasterHIFi DACs, the new compact and lightweight (20g) AK HC3 sports dual ES9219MQ chips from ESS, highly regarded by audio fans across the globe for its ability to produce ultra-high quality audio with excellent control and low power consumption as well as support for up to PCM 32bit/384kHz, and Native DSD256. The LED lights correspond to the source material, with Red signifying PCM and Blue for DSD. When the light is White, the dongle is on standby.
Interestingly, the AK HC3 incorporates a rear output design to minimise noise as much as possible. Astell&Kern state that the resulting sound is far superior and virtually noise-free by processing the digital signal after it has travelled through the dual noise-shielded cable. The company quotes a Signal to Noise Ratio of 118dB @ 1kHz and THD+N of 0.0005% @ 1kHz.
Additionally, the aluminium body of the AK HC3 adds high-quality microphone support to the company's signature hi-resolution sound to enable more entertainment and voice features – perfect for PC and laptop gaming, video conferencing as well as film or TV watching.
The AK HC3 is said to have an output of 2Vrms and is compatible with 3- or 4-pole 3.5-mm plug earphones and headsets. Additionally, it will support the in-line controller and microphone features of 4-pole earphones and headsets.
The AK HC3 uses power from the connected playback device, so it does not need to be charged or be connected to a separate external sound card or amp.
Furthermore, the AK HC3 is compatible with iOS devices using the included USB-C to Lightning adapter.
The Astell&Kern AK HC3 is available now for £199.
Visit Astell&Kern for more information
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. Jay heads up StereoNET as Editor for the United Kingdom and Europe regions. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
Posted in: Headphones | Technology
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