Compact high-end USB DAC and headphone amplifier with AK4191EQ + AK4499EX, 3.5/4.4 mm outputs, OLED display, DAR and PCM 768 kHz/DSD512. Read more.
The Astell&Kern HC5 brings the company’s premium digital audio engineering to a compact USB DAC and headphone amplifier. Its AKM AK4191EQ digital processor and flagship-grade AK4499EX DAC provide precise conversion with excellent detail and low noise. Powerful headphone outputs, a clear OLED display and highly accurate volume control make the HC5 an excellent choice for high-resolution listening both on the move and at a desk.
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The AK4191EQ processes the digital signal separately from the AK4499EX DAC. Separating the digital and analogue stages helps reduce unwanted interference and noise. The dedicated amplifier circuit with High Driving Mode provides controlled, dynamic reproduction with premium in-ear monitors and a wide range of headphones.
Digital Audio Remaster can increase the sample rate of the incoming audio signal. Depending on the source material, the HC5 supports conversion up to PCM 384 kHz or DSD256. Six selectable digital filters also allow the impulse response and overall presentation to be adjusted to personal preference.
| Model | AK HC5 |
| DAC | AKM AK4191EQ + AK4499EX |
| PCM support | 8 kHz to 768 kHz, 8/16/24/32-bit |
| DSD support | Native DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and DSD512 |
| DAR upsampling | Up to PCM 384 kHz or DSD256 |
| Input | USB-C, UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0 |
| Headphone outputs | 3.5 mm unbalanced and 4.4 mm balanced, 5-pole |
| Output level | 2.5 Vrms unbalanced / 5 Vrms balanced, no load |
| Output impedance | 0.5 ohm unbalanced / 1.1 ohm balanced |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 121 dB unbalanced / 125 dB balanced |
| THD+N | 0.0005% unbalanced / 0.0004% balanced at 1 kHz |
| Display | 1.62-inch OLED |
| Volume control | 150 steps |
| Material | Aluminium |
| Colour | Satin Silver |
| Dimensions | 32 x 64.3 x 16 mm |
| Weight | Approximately 46 g |
The HC5 is compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, Windows 10/11 and macOS. UAC 1.0 also enables use with compatible gaming consoles. A suitable music application may be required for native DSD and high-resolution PCM playback on smartphones. Always check the volume level before connecting headphones or earphones.
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