{"product_id":"astell-kern-hc3-female-3-5mm-to-male-usb-c-lightning-dual-dac-amplifier-cable","title":"Astell \u0026 Kern AK HC3 Female 3.5mm to Male USB-C\/Lightning Dual DAC Amplifier Cable","description":"\u003ch2\u003eHi-Fi Sound Anywhere, AK HC3\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern offers a Hi-Fi USB DAC cable product range for a true Hi-Fi experience on the go.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDesigned to minimize noise with the ultra-high sound quality of integrated Hi-Fi grade DACs, it addresses the music lovers' desire for a true Hi-Fi experience when mobile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot content with settling for the status quo, Astell\u0026amp;Kern has endeavored to enable our users to enjoy more features in Hi-Fi quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 is the result of these efforts, and is designed to provide all the benefits of its predecessor, AK HC1 (PEE51), while enabling high-quality sound across various settings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 features MQA 8X rendering to allow you to play high-quality sound anytime, and the microphone input enables even more entertainment and voice features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dual-shielded cable and the proprietary Android app will help users experience Hi-Fi effortlessly and with no compromises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eES9219MQ Dual DAC from ESS for true Hi-Fi quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMQA 8X\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual-shielded cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSupports headset microphones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSupports iOS devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProprietary app for Android (For Detailed Volume Control)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompact but powerful\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLED display shows song details\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull metal housing design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e32bit 384kHz bit to bit play\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative DSD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn\/Off LED Indicator\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull Metal Body\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eROON TESTED\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSound in ultra-high resolution from Dual DACs, selected for Hi-Fi\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 adopts dual ES9219MQ, the SABRE HiFi® DACs from ESS that is highly regarded by audio fans for its ability to playback Hi-Fi sounds such as MQA in ultra-high quality, excellent noise control, and low power consumption.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, it supports Native DSD256 and 32 bit\/384 kHz, supporting any high-resolution sound to realize Astell\u0026amp;Kern’s unique sound experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Result of AK’s Ultra-Fine Audio Design Technology\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its compact size and uncompromising performance, the AK HC3 makes it easy to enjoy real Hi-Fi sound anytime, anywhere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAstell\u0026amp;Kern is adored by countless music lovers thanks to our dedication and meticulous delivery of the original sound with our signature DAPs, or portable high resolution audio players. We included the Astell\u0026amp;Kern technology and know-how that has been accumulated from our DAPs over the years in this small device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe used micro resistors and capacitor parts to achieve the small dimensions without compromising performance. Tailored ultra-small tantalum capacitors, which are used in AK player products to create a stable system and audio performance by controlling the power fluctuations, are also included to create the optimal audio circuit. In addition, the output and audio performance are enhanced with Astell\u0026amp;Kern's unique technology while minimizing current consumption in consideration of the connected device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNoise-Free Rear Output Structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 incorporates a rear audio output design to minimize noise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost USB DAC products have the DAC positioned in the USB terminal that is connected directly to the device to process and output audio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, with the AK HC3, digital signals from the device go through the dual shielded cable to the audio circuit before being converted to an analog signal by the DAC. By processing the digital signal after, the result is superior, noise-free sound compared to other USB DAC products.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDual Noise Shielded Cable\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe AK HC3 features a dual shielded cable to minimize noise and deliver more vivid, original sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe copper core wire is coated with tin to prevent corrosion and strengthen tensile force for enhanced durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, the entire cable is wrapped in an aluminum film to block noise, the biggest issue in audio, then the tin-coated copper wire is woven to minimize noise interference to sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMQA 8X Playback in Ultra-high Resolution\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 is built with a renderer that supports MQA 8X playback in ultra-high quality to deliver sound that's much closer to the original sound. MQA is a high-quality sound source format that requires an external DAC or appropriate playback devices. AK HC3 is the right choice if you want to enjoy MQA anytime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePair your mobile device with AK HC3 to play any MQA sources up to MQA 8X. With AK HC3 and any device that supports MQA unfolding, anyone can unleash the ultra-high quality of MQA through the proprietary app with network play and streaming features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e* In order to use AK HC3 as a hardware MQA renderer, a software core decoder that supports MQA unfolding is required.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEasy and Convenient — Plug \u0026amp; Play\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConnect directly to a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone or tablet with a USB-C port that supports plug \u0026amp; play, without needing a separate conversion adapter, and enjoy high-quality sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe AK HC3 utilizes power from the connected playback device so it does not need to be charged or be connected to a separate external sound card, AMP or DAC. Just connect AK HC3 to experience high-fidelity sound from a computer or mobile device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe AK HC3 is also compatible with iOS devices using the included USB-C to Lightning adapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEntertaining experiences with AK HC3 and microphone and controller support\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 has been improved to be compatible with any 3- or 4-pole 3.5-mm plug earphones and headsets, as well as in-line controller and microphone features of 4-pole earphones and headsets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith AK HC3, you can enjoy a greater range of entertainment experiences with your mobile device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe direct USB connection provides lower latency compared to other wireless solutions, enabling a sound performance that’s perfect for gaming. The voice chat features enhance your gaming experiences, so you can play with others, and the microphone input makes it even more useful for professional web conferencing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlus, the rich sound capability adds to the utility of AK HC3 by making your video experiences more realistic and immersive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e* When pairing your AK HC3 with iPhones, recording is supported for microphone input, but not supported for calls.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eVolume Control Through A Dedicated Android APP\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs is common with many USB DACs, compatibility issues can arise such as different connected devices being set automatically to maximum volume output or playback at too low volume.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo resolve such issues and offer greater control over the volume and function of the AK HC3, we have developed a companion app for Android OS devices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLED for real-time indication\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 has an LED indicator that displays song details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e* Standby: White \/ PCM: Red \/ DSD: Blue \/ MQA: Magenta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePrecautions When Using the Product\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, Windows 10\/11 and macOS products. In some cases, it may not be compatible or may be restricted depending on the hardware, software and\/or system of the device that you connect to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen connecting to a Windows PC, the driver will automatically be recognized and installed. For high-quality sound files, you are required to install a separate USB DAC driver which can be downloaded from the Support — Download section on Astell\u0026amp;Kern's website.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn order to use AK HC3 as a hardware MQA renderer, a software core decoder that supports MQA files is needed first.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4-pole earphones and headphones support CTIA devices, but OMTP is not supported.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 may not support call features when paired with iPhones or some Android phone models with a 3.5-mm connector.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo play DSD and high-quality PCM sound files on a smartphone, you must install a separate free\/paid player program that supports high-resolution audio playback. (When using the default player app on a mobile device, the file will be downsampled. Please make sure to play it with a different player app.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note that the volume will be fixed to the maximum level if you allow access with Tidal and some other apps on Android devices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMake sure to check the volume on your connected player device before using headphones or earphones. Some devices may automatically set the output level to maximum volume when the cable is connected. Listening to headphones or earphones at maximum volume may damage your hearing. Please verify the volume level before each use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not connect the USB-C Dual DAC Cable to an Astell\u0026amp;Kern player. When connecting the cable to a player and using it as an external DAC, the output volume will be fixed at the maximum volume setting. It is not possible to adjust the volume through the Astell\u0026amp;Kern player. Listening at maximum or a high-volume setting may cause serious damage to your hearing. Astell\u0026amp;Kern, its affiliates and agencies, cannot be held liable for any damage or injuries from negligent or inappropriate use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirmware updates may be released periodically for stability improvements. For more information on firmware updates and to check if a firmware update is available, please visit the Support — Download section on Astell\u0026amp;Kern's website.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDESIGN\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAK HC3 is super light with a full aluminum housing, and weighs only 20g.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compact and lightweight body embodies Astell\u0026amp;Kern’s design philosophy, emphasizing our fundamental ethos toward the music. The design inherits the “light and shadow” concept, which is the identity of Astell\u0026amp;Kern: all of the four sharp sides centered around the traversing centerline are positioned proportionally and converge on a single point, making them uniquely reflective and iridescent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe high-quality finish hides everything except for design factors such as the contours and the logo, preventing any visual distractions for a more immersive music experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGeneral\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eModel\u003c\/strong\u003e AK HC3\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody Material\u003c\/strong\u003e Aluminum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody Color\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark Gray\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDAC\u003c\/strong\u003e ES9219MQ x2 (Dual-DAC)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSample rate\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePCM: Support up to 32bit\/384kHz \u003cbr\u003eDSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo \/ DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo \/ DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInput\u003c\/strong\u003e USB Type-C Input(for Windows 10,11, Android, iOS smartphone \u0026amp; Tablet PC, macOS)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutput\u003c\/strong\u003e 3.5mm (CTIA standard 4-pole supported)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLED\u003c\/strong\u003e Standby : White \/ PCM : Red \/ DSD : Blue \/ MQA: Magenta\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e about 20g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions(WHD)\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eUSB Plug : 12.5mm[W] x 21mm[H] x 8.7mm[D] \u003cbr\u003e3.5mm Headphone : 18.2mm[W] x 59mm[H] x 11.5[D]\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAudio Performance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrequency Response\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e±0.013dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) \u003cbr\u003e±0.020dB (Condition : 20Hz~70kHz)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSignal to Noise Ratio\u003c\/strong\u003e 118dB @ 1kHz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrosstalk\u003c\/strong\u003e -130dB @ 1kHz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTHD+N\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.0005% @ 1kHz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIMD SMPTE\u003c\/strong\u003e 0.0002%, 800Hz 10kHz (4:1)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutput Impedance\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 ohm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOutput Power or Voltage \u003c\/strong\u003e 2Vrms (Condition No Load)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEtc.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAudio was NOT muted during the measurement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe image\/specification may be changed without notice to improve product performance and quality.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Astell \u0026 Kern","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44242591940841,"sku":"AK HC3 (PEE53)","price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/products\/USBDAChc3_003.jpg?v=1762463540","url":"https:\/\/audio46.mom\/products\/astell-kern-hc3-female-3-5mm-to-male-usb-c-lightning-dual-dac-amplifier-cable","provider":"Audio46 Headphone Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}