Astell & Kern AK HC2 - User Manual

The Astell&Kern AK HC2 is a HI-FI USB Dual DAC Amplifier Cable, designed to enhance audio output from various devices. This manual, version 08, provides comprehensive information regarding its specifications, usage, compatibility, and warranty.

Function Description:

The AK HC2 serves as an external digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and amplifier, connecting to source devices via a USB Type-C plug and providing a 4.4mm balanced headphone output. Its primary function is to bypass the internal audio processing of connected devices, utilizing its dual Cirrus Logic 43198 DACs to deliver higher fidelity audio. This setup is particularly beneficial for smartphones, tablet PCs, and computers, offering a significant upgrade in sound quality and output power compared to their built-in audio solutions. The device is designed for sound output only and does not support microphone input or in-line controller functions from connected earphones/headphones. It operates without an internal battery, drawing power directly from the connected source device.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Product Name: AK HC2 (USB-C Dual DAC Amplifier Cable)
• Model Name: PEE52
• Body Material: Aluminum
• Body Color: Dark Silver
• DAC: Cirrus Logic 43198 x 2
• Sample Rate Support:
  • PCM: 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 (for Android™ Smartphone, Tablet PC, Windows 10/11, iOS, macOS)
• Output: 4.4mm Headphone (Balanced)
• Dimensions:
  • USB Plug: 12mm [W] x 21mm [H] x 6.5mm [D]
  • 4.4mm Headphone: 22.8mm [W] x 60mm [H] x 12.1mm [D]
• Weight: Approximately 29g
• Audio Specifications:
  • Frequency Response: ±0.011dB [Condition: 20Hz ~ 20kHz]
  • S/N (Signal-to-Noise Ratio): 122dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
  • THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise): 0.0004% @ 1kHz, Balanced
  • IMD SMPTE (Intermodulation Distortion SMPTE): 0.0003% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Balanced
  • Output Impedance: 1.5 Ω
  • Output Level: 4Vrms (Condition No Load)
• FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules, ensuring it does not cause harmful interference and accepts any received interference.
• Report No.: KR22-YEF0008
• Type of Equipment: USB-C Dual DAC Amplifier Cable

Usage Features:

1. Connection and Setup: To use the AK HC2, connect its USB Type-C plug to your playback device (smartphone, tablet PC, or computer). A white LED light on the device indicates a successful connection.
2. Volume Control (Crucial Safety Note): Before starting music playback, it is imperative to adjust the volume level on the playback device to a minimum. The AK HC2 has a built-in amplifier that can produce significantly higher sound output than other devices at the same volume setting. When connected for the first time, or with certain playback devices, the initial volume may default to maximum output. Failure to reduce the volume beforehand can cause severe hearing damage.
3. Compatibility:
   • The AK HC2 is compatible with most Android-powered smartphones and tablet PCs, Windows 10/11, and macOS products.
   • For iOS-based devices, an iOS adapter is required, and some devices may need additional manual setup.
   • While generally compatible, some devices may experience compatibility issues due to hardware, software, or system requirements. Such issues are not grounds for exchange, refund, or repair.
   • When connected to Android smartphones or tablet PCs, the device can play tracks without additional drivers or applications. Optional Android APPs for volume control (search for "AK HC" and "AK USB DAC" in the Play Store) are available.
   • For Windows PCs, the device should be automatically recognized, and drivers installed. If not, drivers can be downloaded from the Astell&Kern website (www.astellnkern.com > Support > Download).
   • Using various conversion adapters (USB-A, Micro 5 pin, etc.) to connect to a master device may lead to unstable connections and other compatibility issues.
   • To play DSD and high-quality PCM audio files on a smartphone, a separate paid/free player application may need to be installed.
4. Astell&Kern Player Incompatibility: The AK HC2 cable should NOT be connected to an Astell&Kern Digital Audio Player (DAP). When connected to an Astell&Kern DAP, the volume will be fixed at maximum output and cannot be adjusted on either the player or the AK HC2. This can cause severe hearing damage, and Astell&Kern is not liable for damage due to user negligence in this scenario.
5. Power Source: The AK HC2 does not have a built-in battery; it draws power from the connected device. Power consumption may vary based on the audio source and file type being played, as well as the battery capacity of the connected device.
6. Firmware Updates: System stabilization and improvements for the AK HC2 will be provided through firmware updates. Details on how to download and update the firmware can be found on the Astell&Kern website (www.astellnkern.com -> Download).

Maintenance Features:

• Warranty: Dreamus Company products, including the AK HC2, come with a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from the original date of purchase from an authorized agent.
  • EU Countries: Player console (2 years), Accessories (90 days), Refund or Exchange (30 days).
  • Non-EU Countries: Player console (1 year), Accessories (90 days), Refund or Exchange (30 days).
  • North America: Player console (1 year), Accessories (90 days), Refund or Exchange (14 days).
• Warranty Exclusions: The warranty does not cover defects resulting from:
  • Repairs or alterations not approved or completed by Dreamus Company.
  • Violation of operating or handling instructions.
  • Unusual physical or electrical stress, misuse, abuse, power shortage, or negligence.
  • Damage caused by fire or other natural calamities.
  • Expired warranty period.
• Warranty Claim Process: For warranty service, customers in EU and non-EU European countries must present the warranty card. For other regions, contact the store/dealer where the product was purchased. For customer or technical support, contact Astell&Kern via their website (https://www.astellnkern.com) or email (astellnkern@astellnkern.com).
• Repair Records (Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan): The manual includes a section for recording repair dates, faults, repair personnel, and product details, along with the warranty period for players (1 year) and accessories (90 days). The warranty period starts from the production date indicated by the 7th-10th digits of the product serial number. Users must present a valid warranty card and purchase receipt/invoice with a clear purchase date. The card must bear the stamp of an authorized Dreamus Company dealer or Astell&Kern.