Astell Kern AK HC3 USB-C Dual DAC Amplifier Cable User Manual

: June 9, 2024
: Astell&Kern

Table of Contents

Package Contents
How to Use
- mm Headphone Port [Compatible with microphones and in-line controllers]
Note
Specifications
MQA (Master Quality Authenticated)
SDoC information
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

Astell Kern AK HC3 USB-C Dual DAC Amplifier Cable User Manual

Package Contents

AK HC3
iOS Adaptor
Manual
Warranty card

How to Use

Connect the AK HC3 to the playback device (Smartphone, tablet PC or computer) and ensure the white LED light is on.
Turn down the volume on the playback device to a minimum level.
Start music playback.

mm Headphone Port [Compatible with microphones and in-line controllers]

USB Type-C Plug

IMPORTANT: Before beginning music playback, check volume level on playback device and reduce to a minimum level when using AK HC3. AK HC3 has a built-in amplifier making the sound output more significant than other devices at the same sound output level. It is important to start at a low volume level to protect your hearing.
If you allow access when running Tidal and some Apps on Android devices, the volume will be fixed to the maximum output. Please check this before using it.
Depending on the playback device you are connecting to, the volume will default to the maximum output level when the AK HC3 is connected for the first time and each time thereafter. Always check the volume level on the playback device before use.
The AK HC3 cable should NOT be connected to an Astell& Kern DAP as the volume will be fixed at maximum output when connected and cannot be adjusted on the player or AK HC3. Use with the maximum volume may severely damage hearing. Astell & Kern is not liable for any damage due to user negligence. Be sure to check the volume first when using.

Note

Compatibility

The product is compatible with most Android-powered smartphones and tablet
PCs, and Windows 10/11 and macOS products. If you use an iOS adapter, you can connect to iOS-based devices. However, some devices may require additional manual setup.
The AK HC3 is not compatible with every device. Due to hardware, software and/or system requirements for some devices, compatibility issues may occur. Compatibility issues will not be accepted as a reason for exchange, refund or repair.
When connected to a smartphone or tablet PC, the product can play tracks without any additional driver or application installed. And you can download and use an additional APP for volume control. Search for [AK HC] and [AK USB DAC] in the Play Store and install them. These APPs are only supported for Android version.
When connecting the AK HC3 with a Windows PC for the first time, the computer should recognize the device and the driver should install automatically. If the computer does not recognize the device or the driver does not install correctly, the driver can be downloaded from our website. www.astellnkern.com > Support > Download
Connecting to a master device using various conversion adaptors (USB-A, Micro 5 pin, etc.) may cause an unstable connection and other compatibility issues.
The product requires a separate paid/free player to be installed to be able to play DSD and high-quality PCM audio files on a smartphone.
AK HC3 does not have a built-in microphone and uses the built-in microphone and controller of the earphones or headphones you are connecting to.
When connected to an iPhone, the call function is not supported, and some Android smartphones with a 3.5 mm port may be unable to make calls.
AK HC3 supports CTIA standard 4-pole earphones/headphones.

Operation/System

The AK HC3 cable does not have a built-in battery. Power is supplied from the connected device (Android smartphone, tablet PC or computer). Power consumption may vary depending on the source and file type being played or the battery capacity of the connected device.
System stabilization for the AK HC3 will be available via firmware updates. For details on how to download and update the AK HC3, please refer to our website, www.astellnkern.com -> Download.

Specifications

General Specifications

Product Name: AK HC3
Model Name: PEE53
Body Material: Aluminum
Body Color: Dark Grey
DAC: ESS ES9219MQ x2
Sample Rate
- PCM: Support up to 32bit/384kHz
- DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo /
  DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo
Input: USB Type-C Input (for Android™ Smartphone, Tablet PC, Windows 10/11, iOS, mac OS)
Output: 3.5mm Headphone (CTIA standard 4-pole supported)
Dimensions: USB Plug : 12.5mm[W] x 21mm[H] x 8.7mm[D] 3.5mm Headphone : 18.2mm[W] x 59mm[H] x 11.5[D]
Weight: about 20g

Audio Specifications

Frequency Response: ±0.013dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) ±0.020dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz)
S/N: 118dB@1kHz
THD+N: 0.0005% @1kHz
IMD SMPTE: 0.0002% 800Hz 10kHz(4:1)
Output Impedance: 2 Ohm
Output Level:2Vrms (Condition No Load)

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated)

The AK HC3 LED glows magenta to indicate that the unit is rendering an MQA stream or file. This delivers the final unfold of the MQA file. MQA is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download. Visit mqa.co.uk for more information

SDoC information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference, and
this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.