Astell&Kern AK HC2 HiFi USB Dual DAC Amplifier Cable 4.4mm Balanced Output

About this deal

The Astell&Kern AK HC2 is the brand's second dedicated USB DAC cable , aimed at audiophiles who want genuine hi-fi sound from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. It features two Cirrus Logic CS43198 MasterHIFI DACs , with Native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz support for high-quality audio playback. The 4.4mm balanced output delivers higher output with clearer channel separation while minimising noise compared to an unbalanced connection. The HC2 draws power from the connected playback device, so no separate charging or external sound card is needed. It connects directly to Windows PCs, Macs, and USB-C smartphones or tablets via plug and play , and comes with a USB-C to Lightning adapter for iOS compatibility. Its rear audio output design minimises noise by routing digital signals through a dual-shielded cable to the audio circuit before conversion, rather than processing audio at the USB terminal itself.