Astell & Kern AK HC5 – Compact High-end USB DAC for Mobile Use

Astell & Kern has long been recognized for developing mobile audio solutions that push far beyond mainstream standards. With the new AK HC5 USB DAC, the company introduces a compact device designed to elevate audio performance on smartphones, notebooks and even gaming consoles. Building on technologies derived from its flagship Digital Audio Players, the AK HC5 targets users who expect a refined listening experience in every situation.

Key Facts

• Premium USB DAC for smartphones, laptops and gaming consoles
• Dual-chip architecture using AK4499EX and AK4191EQ
• High-output amplifier with enhanced stability for mobile sources
• Dual Noise-Shielded cable for clean signal transmission
• Precise 150-step volume control and 1,62 inch OLED display
• DAR upsampling supporting Linear PCM up to 32 Bit und 384 kHz and DSD256
• Supports UAC 2.0 for Hi-res playback and UAC 1.0 for gaming devices
• Includes protective case crafted by Synt3
• Price: € 499,-

Compact Form Factor with a Purposeful Internal Layout

The AK HC5 has been engineered to fit naturally into mobile use scenarios, combining minimal size with a structure that separates digital and analog sections for optimal signal integrity. Astell & Kern adapts several concepts typically reserved for its larger Digital Audio Players, ensuring that even demanding headphones receive precise control and dynamic headroom. This design philosophy is aimed at users who require premium audio quality without compromising on portability.

Dual-Chip Conversion Architecture for Accurate Sound

At the core of the AK HC5 is a two-chip solution consisting of the AK4499EX DAC and the AK4191EQ processing engine. The AK4191EQ handles digital signal management, relieving the dedicated AK4499EX of ancillary processing tasks. This separation of responsibilities minimizes interference, enabling clean, detailed and faithful conversion. The setup closely follows Astell & Kern’s reference architecture used in its flagship SP4000.

Amplifier Section Designed for Stability and Output Control

The amplifier has been optimized for mobile operation, where power supply fluctuations are common. By focusing on a high PSRR and CMRR design, the AK HC5 is intended to maintain stable performance even when connected to varying sources like laptops or smartphones. The High Driving Mode provides additional output reserves, while the horizontal OPAMP structure aims to deliver a wide and coherent soundstage.

Connectivity Designed for Real-world Flexibility

Astell & Kern equips the AK HC5 with a USB-C input and two headphone outputs: a 3,5 mm Stereo Mini-Klinke Anschluss for single-ended connections and a 4,4 mm Pentaconn Anschluss for balanced operation. This allows users to connect a broad range of modern headphones without adapters. From mobile Hi-res listening to competitive gaming, the device adapts to varied listening contexts with ease.

Dual Noise-Shielded Cable for Reduced Interference

Mobile environments often expose audio cables to electromagnetic noise, especially when used with smartphones. The AK HC5 mitigates this challenge using a Dual Noise-Shielded cable that combines tinned copper conductors, an aluminium layer and an additional braided shield. This construction is designed to keep signals clean and ensure reliable communication between source and DAC.

User Interface and Everyday Handling

The operational concept mirrors the tactile precision found in Astell & Kern’s Digital Audio Players. A 150-step volume wheel using the same encoder hardware as the flagship models allows fine-grained adjustments. The 1,62 inch OLED screen displays source information, sample rates and settings clearly.

Compatibility extends to gaming environments thanks to UAC 1.0, allowing the AK HC5 to operate seamlessly with PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, while UAC 2.0 ensures Hi-res playback with modern computers and smartphones. Users can choose from six DAC filter types to tailor the sound to their preference.

Digital Audio Remaster and Wide Format Support

Through the DAR (Digital Audio Remaster) function, incoming signals can be upsampled, enhancing playback flexibility and enabling experiments with different sonic textures. Supported formats include Linear PCM up to 32 Bit und 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256. This versatility makes the AK HC5 a powerful tool for exploring the potential of high-end headphones.

Price and Availability

For the European market, Astell & Kern lists the AK HC5 USB DAC at € 499,-. Availability is scheduled for January 2026 via authorized Astell & Kern retailers.

Conclusion – A Mobile DAC for Users with High Expectations

The Astell & Kern AK HC5 stands out as a compact yet ambitious USB DAC for mobile use. Its advanced converter and amplifier architecture, broad compatibility and robust construction make it a compelling solution for users seeking premium audio performance beyond what integrated device components can deliver. Whether paired with a smartphone, notebook or gaming console, the AK HC5 aims to provide a consistent, high-quality listening experience.

Technical Specifications