Astell & Kern HC3

A computer, tablet or mobile phone is not exactly an audiophile element; its conversion of sound from digital to analog to be heard through its own micro-speakers or through its headphone output leaves much to be desired in terms of musical quality and Even with the best models on the market, we lose many nuances and sonic details.

The best option for anyone looking to get the maximum musical potential out of their portable device on the go is to use an external DAC that has been built precisely for that purpose, extracting the sound from your phone digitally when it has not yet been converted to analog to ensure obtain absolutely all the musical information without missing even the smallest detail.

The HC3 portable DAC from the prestigious Astell & Kern firm will provide you with musical quality that you could not even imagine thanks to high technology and its double processing with Cirrus Logic CS43198 MasterHIFI chip that can tolerate DSD files and resolutions up to 32 bits/384 kHz with a truly audiophile rigor.

The HC3 uses a balanced 4.4mm mini-jack output, allowing optimal use of a wider variety of headphones and earphones made for Hi-Fi sound. By using this connection, a higher output level can be achieved with clearer channel separation, while minimizing the noise that can occur with an unbalanced output.

Additionally, audio output and performance are improved with Astell&Kern's exclusive technology, while power consumption is minimized considering the connected device. This allows you to enjoy the original sound without any distortion, even when using high-impedance headphones or sensitive headphones.

The HC3 has a rear audio output design to minimize noise. Most USB DAC products have the DAC located on the USB terminal that connects directly to the device to process and output audio.

However, with the HC3, the digital signals from the device pass over the double shielded cable to the audio circuit before being converted to an analog signal by the DAC. By processing the digital signal afterwards, the result is superior, noise-free sound compared to other USB DAC products.

The HC3 features a double-shielded cable to minimize noise and deliver a livelier, more original sound. The copper core wire is tin-coated to prevent corrosion and reinforce tensile strength to improve durability.

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

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

The HC3 uses power from the connected playback device, so there is no need to charge it or connect it to a separate sound card, amplifier or DAC. Simply plug in the HC2 to experience high-fidelity sound from a computer or mobile device.

The HC3 is also compatible with Apple iOS devices via the included USB-C to Lightning adapter and allows you to control its output volume from the device itself or through a free dedicated Android app.

Characteristics:

• Portable DAC compatible with iOS and Android devices.
  
• Equipped with ES9219MQ Dual DAC for true Hi-Fi sound.
  
• Resolution up to 32 bits/384 kHz.
  
• Supports native PCM DSD 256 high quality music files.
  
• Compatible with Roon tested audiophile software.
  
• Audio output 2Vrms and impedance 2 ohms.
  
• 4.4mm balanced output connection (compatible with unbalanced).
  
• Refined aluminum chassis with LED indicator.
  
• Double shielded cable.
  
• Includes USB-C to Apple Lighting adapter.

Note:
TRS and 4.4mm TRRS headphones and earphones can be used, but please note that the in-line microphone and driver functions of TRRS headphones and earphones are not supported.

This product is compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, Windows 10/11 and macOS products. (When connected to a Windows PC, the driver is automatically recognized and installed.)

To play high-quality DSD and PCM sound files, a free or paid standalone player program that supports high-resolution audio playback must be installed. (If you use the default playback app on a mobile device, the file will be reduced in size and quality.)