From the makers of some of the best HiRes portables in the business, the Astell&Kern HC3 is a USB DAC for true Hi-Fi sound, on the move.
Plug-in and go When it comes to reproducing true hi-fi sound, in miniature, Astell & Kern are masters of the game. Who better, then, to produce a USB DAC with superior performance. Featuring dual DACs (Digital to Analogue Convertors), HiRes compatibility (including DSD) and high levels of shielding, this plug-in DAC is all set to raise the bar.
Dual DACs for superior sound quality Renowned for their industry-leading quality, ESS ES9219MQ DACs deliver stunning detail and resolution with ultra-low levels of distortion. Better still, the HC3 uses twin DACs with one for the left channel and one for the right. This improves channel separation, giving an even more accurate and lifelike sound.
Support for 32 bit/384kHz and native DSD256 files Improving the potential sound still further, the AK HC3 offers native support for 32bit/384kHz and DSD256 files. Native support means no conversion or compression involved - you simply get to hear every ounce of detail. Combined with the hugely capable DAC, this means sensational dynamic range, low noise and incredible detail from your top quality digital music files.
MQA 8X playback Compatible (up to 8X) with Meridian's MQA technology, the AK HC3 offers the choice of using this ingenious file space-saving technology with your MQA compatible source device. Although studio master quality, the beauty of MQA is that files are small enough to easily stream and they don't take up so much space – giving the best of both worlds.
Compatible with Windows, Android and Apple iOS The HC3 is compatible with Windows, Android and Apple iOS devices (via USB-C), making it suitable for a vast range of products. Use with an Android device and you can take advantage of the dedicated Android volume control app, which gives precise volume control.
Ultra-low noise A number of technologies reduce noise and distortion to an absolute minimum. Dual shielded cable delivers more of the sound, without signal loss from the USB socket to the DAC. Furthermore, with the DAC positioned right at the end of the signal chain (instead of inside the USB socket), you get noise-free signal delivery, straight to your headphone’s cable.
Get a big upgrade in how your headphones sound, with the Astell&Kern HC3.
