Connected to be Hi-Fi
Hi-Fi Dual DAC Cable - AK HC2

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.

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  CS43198 Dual DAC

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  32bit 384kHz bit to bit play

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  Native DSD

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  On/Off LED Indicator

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  Full Metal Body

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  Dual Noise Shielded Cable

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  Powerful Output Level

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  ROON TESTED

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.

Easy and Convenient — Plug & Play

Connect directly to a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone or tablet with a USB-C port that supports plug & play, without needing a separate conversion adapter,
and enjoy high-quality sound.

The HC2 utilizes power from the connected playback device so it does not need to be charged or be connected to a separate external sound card, AMP or DAC.
Just connect HC2 to experience high-fidelity sound from a computer or mobile device.

The HC2 is also compatible with iOS devices using the included USB-C to Lightning adapter.

* TRS and TRRS 4.4mm earphones and headphones can all be used,
but note that the in-line controller and microphone features of TRRS earphones and headphones are not supported.
* The iOS Lightning Adapter is only compatible with AK HC2.

Noise-Free Rear Output Structure

AK HC2 has a rear audio output design to minimize noise.
Most USB DAC products have the DAC positioned in the USB terminal that is connected directly to the device to process and output audio.

However, with the HC2, digital signals from the device go through the dual shielded cable to the audio circuit before being converted to an analog signal by the DAC.
By processing the digital signal after, the result is superior, noise-free sound compared to other USB DAC products.

Dual Noise Shielded Cable

The AK HC2 features a dual shielded cable to minimize noise and deliver more vivid, original sound.
The copper core wire is coated with tin to prevent corrosion and strengthen tensile force for enhanced durability.

In addition, the entire cable is wrapped in an aluminum film to block noise, the biggest issue in audio,
then the tin-coated copper wire is woven to minimize noise interference to sound.

Precautions When Using the Product

This product is compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, Windows 10/11 and macOS products.
In some cases, it may not be compatible or may be restricted depending on the hardware, software and/or system of the device that you connect.

When connecting to a Windows PC, the driver will automatically be recognized and installed. For high-quality sound files, you are required to install a separate USB DAC driver which can be downloaded from the Support — Download section on the website.

To play DSD and high-quality PCM sound files on a smartphone, you must install a separate free/paid player program that supports high-resolution audio playback. (When using the default player app on a mobile device, the file will be downsampled. Please make sure to play it with a different player app)

Make sure check the volume on your connected player device before using headphones or earphones. Some devices may automatically set the output level to maximum volume when the cable is connected. Listening to headphones or earphones at maximum volume may damage your hearing. Please verify the volume level before each use.

Do not connect the USB-C Dual DAC Cable to an Astell&Kern player. When connecting the cable to a player and using it as an external DAC, the output volume will be fixed at the maximum volume setting. It is not possible to adjust the volume through the Astell&Kern player. Listening at maximum or a high-volume setting may cause serious damage to your hearing. Astell&Kern, its affiliates and agencies, cannot be held liable for any damage or injuries from negligent or inappropriate use.

Firmware updates may be released periodically for stability improvements. For more information on firmware updates and to check if a firmware update is available, please visit the Support — Download section on the website.