Astell&Kern AK HC5

Flagship Sound, Pocket Size – Meet the Astell&Kern AK HC5

The Astell&Kern AK HC5 is a reference-grade portable USB DAC and headphone amplifier designed to bring flagship A&K sound performance to smartphones, laptops, tablets and gaming devices. Built around AKM’s premium AK4499EX DAC architecture and featuring a dedicated digital processor, integrated display, and high-output amplification, the HC5 sets a new benchmark for compact high-resolution audio.

Engineered with technology derived from Astell&Kern’s flagship digital audio players, the AK HC5 delivers exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and musical refinement in a truly portable format.

Key Features at a Glance

Premium AKM DAC Architecture
AK4499EX DAC paired with AK4191EQ digital processor for improved digital/analogue separation and lower noise

Digital Audio Remaster (DAR)
Upsamples audio to enhance clarity, depth and perceived resolution

High Driving Mode
Delivers powerful, stable output suitable for demanding headphones

3.5mm Unbalanced & 4.4mm Balanced Outputs
Flexible connectivity for IEMs and full-size headphones

Integrated OLED Display
1.62-inch screen displays sample rate, volume level and playback information

Precision Volume Wheel
150-step analogue volume control for accurate gain adjustment

USB-C Connectivity
Supports UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0 for broad compatibility

Ultra-Compact Aluminium Chassis
Premium build with signature Astell&Kern industrial design

Advanced DAC & Digital Processing

The AK HC5 uses AKM’s high-end AK4499EX DAC, separated from the digital processing stage via the AK4191EQ modulator. This two-chip architecture minimises digital noise interference and improves signal purity, delivering a cleaner, more detailed analogue output.

With Digital Audio Remaster (DAR) technology, lower-resolution files can be upsampled for enhanced clarity and refinement, giving streaming services and compressed files greater depth and presence.

Six selectable DAC filters allow subtle tuning of transient response and tonal character to match your listening preferences.

Powerful Portable Amplification

Unlike typical dongle DACs, the AK HC5 incorporates a high-performance amplifier stage inspired by Astell&Kern’s High Driving Mode circuitry. This provides stable current delivery and improved control over dynamic passages.

Balanced output ensures greater channel separation and increased power for compatible headphones, while maintaining a low noise floor for sensitive in-ear monitors.

Clear Visual Interface

A 1.62-inch OLED display provides real-time playback information including:

Sample rate
Volume level
Digital filter selection
Input status

This eliminates guesswork and allows precise monitoring of your audio signal.

Broad Device Compatibility

The AK HC5 connects via USB-C and supports both UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0 modes, ensuring compatibility with:

Android smartphones and tablets
iPhones and iPads (via compatible adapter)
Windows PCs
macOS computers
Gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Nintendo Switch

It functions as a true plug-and-play high-resolution DAC and headphone amplifier.

Supported Audio Formats

PCM up to 384kHz
DSD up to DSD256
High-resolution streaming from compatible apps

Designed to faithfully reproduce lossless and high-resolution audio formats with clarity and accuracy.

Technical Specifications

DAC
AKM AK4499EX

Digital Processor
AK4191EQ

Display
1.62-inch OLED

Outputs
3.5mm Unbalanced
4.4mm Balanced

USB Interface
USB-C
UAC 2.0 / UAC 1.0 compatible

Volume Control
150-step precision wheel

Supported Formats
PCM up to 384kHz
DSD up to DSD256

Chassis
Precision-machined aluminium

Why Choose the Astell&Kern AK HC5?

Flagship AKM DAC architecture in a portable form
Balanced output and high driving capability
Dedicated OLED display for real-time monitoring
Premium aluminium construction
Derived from Astell&Kern’s reference DAP engineering
Ideal for upgrading smartphone, laptop and portable gaming audio

What’s in the Box?

Astell&Kern AK HC5 USB DAC & Headphone Amplifier
USB-C Cable
Quick Start Guide
Warranty Documentation

The Astell&Kern AK HC5 brings true high-end DAC architecture and powerful headphone amplification into a compact, travel-ready design. Whether you are streaming on your phone, working from your laptop, or gaming on the go, the HC5 delivers reference-level clarity, detail, and musical authority wherever you listen.