Astell&Kern AK-HB1

Astell&Kern AK-HB1 Portable DAC and Headphone Amplifier

The Astell&Kern AK-HB1 is a portable Bluetooth DAC/AMP designed to effortlessly deliver high-resolution audio quality to mobile devices, tablets, or computers. Simply connect it using the included Type-C or Lightning cable, or pair your mobile device via Bluetooth to enjoy a seamless, wireless Hi-Fi listening experience with your headphones. Its compact, lightweight design, combined with a powerful built-in amplifier, makes the AK-HB1 an ideal solution for audiophiles on the go.

Sound Quality

The AK-HB1 features Qualcomm’s CSR8675 Bluetooth chipset, which supports high-resolution audio source transmission. It also incorporates ESS’s ES9281AC PRO DAC for exceptional noise control and unparalleled, high-quality Hi-Fi sound performance. The device supports native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz playback, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of high-quality audio sources. The AK-HB1 delivers Astell&Kern’s exceptional sound quality via USB DAC functionality, going beyond mere Bluetooth playback.

USB DAC: Beyond Bluetooth

The AK-HB1 goes beyond Bluetooth by offering USB DAC connectivity, supporting native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz playback. Moreover, with 8X MQA support, enjoy MQA audio without the need for external DACs. Transform your mobile device into a versatile audio hub, delivering the high-end performance characteristic of Astell&Kern.

Extended Compatibility and Immersive Gaming Experience

The AK-HB1 supports UAC 1.0 and 2.0 connections, ensuring high compatibility with modern smartphones, tablets, and PCs, as well as gaming devices such as PlayStation and Switch. Enjoy low latency and enhanced sound for an immersive gaming experience.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Sound Performance

Incorporating ESS’s ES9281AC PRO DAC, the AK-HB1 delivers exceptional noise control. Its exclusive AMP circuit, replacing the standard DAC AMP, delivers an impressive 4 Vrms output in balanced connection. The 3.5mm unbalanced and 4.4mm balanced connectivity options cater to a wide range of IEMs and headphones. Ultra-small tantalum capacitors ensure an optimal audio circuit design.

Dual-Shielded Cable

The AK-HB1 comes with an interchangeable cable, supporting both Type-C and Lightning connections for optimal use with Android and iOS devices. The dual-shielded cable minimizes noise, delivering a more vivid and original sound. Its meticulous construction, with a tin-plated copper core wire, aluminum wrapping, and fabric sheath, ensures increased durability and a perfect aesthetic.

Plug & Play: Ease of Use

With USB Plug & Play functionality, the AK-HB1 simplifies the transition between Bluetooth and USB connections. Connect it to your PC or smart device via USB and enjoy high-resolution sound while controlling settings via the app on your Bluetooth-connected smartphone.

Crystal-Clear Voice Calls with High-Sensitivity MEMS Microphone

The AK-HB1 ensures exceptional voice call quality thanks to its high-sensitivity MEMS microphone and Qualcomm’s cVc Generation 8.0 technology. Ambient noise suppression and clear voice quality make this amplifier an ideal companion for calls, offering an enhanced calling experience and exceptional Hi-Fi sound.

LED Indicators for Real-Time Monitoring

The LED indicators on the AK-HB1 provide you with crucial real-time information, such as the type of file currently playing and the battery level. Support for MQA technology adds an extra dimension to your audio experience, reproducing the sound of the original master recording.

Technical Specifications

Digital-to-Analog Conversion

• Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) ESS ES9281 AC PRO
• Resolution: 32-bit / 384 kHz
• DSD: 11.2 MHz native

Audio Performance

• Frequency Response
  • Unbalanced mode: ± 0.135 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
  • Balanced mode: ± 0.136 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio
  • Unbalanced mode: 117 dB at 1 kHz
  • Balanced mode: 118 dB at 1 kHz
• Crosstalk
  • Unbalanced mode: -112 dB at 1 kHz
  • Balanced mode: -112 dB at 1 kHz
• Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N)
  • Unbalanced mode: 0.0005% at 1 kHz
  • Balanced mode: 0.0005% at 1 kHz
• SMPTE Intermodulation Distortion (IMD-SMPTE)
  • Unbalanced mode: 0.0003% 800 Hz / 10 kHz (4:1)
  • Balanced mode: 0.0003% 800 Hz / 10 kHz (4:1)

Audio Outputs

• Output Impedance
  • Unbalanced 3.5 mm: 2.5 Ω
  • Balanced 4.4 mm: 2 Ω
• Output Level
  • Unbalanced mode: 2 Vrms
  • Balanced mode: 4 Vrms

Bluetooth Connectivity

• Chip: Qualcomm CSR8675
• Version: 5.0
• Codecs: LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
• Profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, HFP

Power Supply

• Lithium-polymer battery 600 mAh 3.8 V
• Charging time: approximately 1 h 30 min
• Battery life: approximately 6 hours (with AAC codec)

Connectivity

• Input: USB Type-C (compatible with UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0)
• Outputs: 3.5 mm mini-jack and 4.4 mm mini-jack

Physical Characteristics

• Color: Shadow Black
• Dimensions
  • Without knob: 33 × 68.4 × 16.5 mm
  • With knob: 39.8 × 68.4 × 16.5 mm
• Weight: 40 g

Included Accessories

• USB-C to USB-C cable
• USB-C to Lightning cable