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DACs — Astell&Kern HC5
Description, images, technical data and specifications
Astell&Kern HC5
Image source — © Astell&Kern
The HC5 is a tiny digital-to-analogue converter from Astell&Kern, a Korean manufacturer known for accomplished portable audio engineering, built around the flagship AK4499EX conversion chip. The HC5 brings Astell&Kern's most accomplished current conversion technology to an astonishingly compact format.
Key specs that matter
The AK4499EX conversion chip handles digital-to-analogue conversion, one of the most advanced chips currently available. DSD compatibility reaches DSD512, with PCM support up to 32-bit/468kHz. Signal-to-noise ratio reaches 121dB unbalanced or 125dB balanced, with total harmonic distortion plus noise at an exceptionally low 0.0005% unbalanced or 0.0004% balanced - reference-tier figures. At an astonishingly small 64.3 x 32 x 16mm and just 46 grams, the HC5 is among the smallest DACs with this measured capability currently available.
Sound and use context
Expect exceptionally clean, detailed conversion reflecting the strong over-121dB signal-to-noise and sub-0.0005% distortion figures - these measurements rival considerably larger desktop DACs, packed into an astonishingly pocketable chassis.
Pairing
As a compact portable DAC, the HC5 connects directly between a smartphone or laptop's USB port and a pair of headphones, upgrading the source device's built-in audio capability with minimal added bulk.
Alternatives
Astell&Kern's broader portable player and DAC catalogue offers alternatives for buyers wanting a different form factor or feature set within the same accomplished Korean engineering philosophy.
Key specs that matter
The AK4499EX conversion chip handles digital-to-analogue conversion, one of the most advanced chips currently available. DSD compatibility reaches DSD512, with PCM support up to 32-bit/468kHz. Signal-to-noise ratio reaches 121dB unbalanced or 125dB balanced, with total harmonic distortion plus noise at an exceptionally low 0.0005% unbalanced or 0.0004% balanced - reference-tier figures. At an astonishingly small 64.3 x 32 x 16mm and just 46 grams, the HC5 is among the smallest DACs with this measured capability currently available.
Sound and use context
Expect exceptionally clean, detailed conversion reflecting the strong over-121dB signal-to-noise and sub-0.0005% distortion figures - these measurements rival considerably larger desktop DACs, packed into an astonishingly pocketable chassis.
Pairing
As a compact portable DAC, the HC5 connects directly between a smartphone or laptop's USB port and a pair of headphones, upgrading the source device's built-in audio capability with minimal added bulk.
Alternatives
Astell&Kern's broader portable player and DAC catalogue offers alternatives for buyers wanting a different form factor or feature set within the same accomplished Korean engineering philosophy.
Specifications
Model name
HC5
Conversion type
N/A
Engine
AK4499EX
DSD compatability
Yes
Parameters
up to 32 bit / 468 kHz and DSD512
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
20
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
20 000
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Output Level (balanced) (V)
N/A
Output Level (single-ended) (V)
N/A
Input Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Input Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Analog outputs
N/A
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
121 (unbalanced), 125 (balanced)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (% at 22 kHz)
0,0005 (unbalanced), 0,0004 (balanced)
Dimensions (mm)
64,3 х 32 х 16
Weight (kg)
0,046
Official link