Astell & Kern AK HB1 Portable Wired/Wireless Bluetooth DAC/Amp

Enjoy premium sound reproduction with the Astell & Kern AK HB1, a portable Bluetooth DAC/AMP that lets you effortlessly experience high-quality audio and hi-fi streaming services with the best performance and without the hassle of cables.

Enjoy premium sound reproduction with the Astell & Kern AK HB1, a portable Bluetooth DAC/AMP that lets you effortlessly experience high-quality audio and hi-fi streaming services with the best performance and without the hassle of cables.

Connect your mobile device to AK HB1 through Bluetooth and experience seamless, wireless hi-fi sound across various IEMs and headphones, all facilitated by its compact lightweight design and powerful built-in amplifier. The AK HB1 also delivers Astell & Kern's pristine sound quality via USB DAC functionality, and offers a seamless connection to gaming devices and immersive entertainment using microphones, transforming your mobile device into a hub of endless multimedia possibilities.

At a Glance

• 3.5-mm and 4.4-mm dual output
• Supports LDAC and aptX HD for high-quality Bluetooth sound
• Features ESS ES9281AC PRO DAC
• Separate DAC and AMP for premium Hi-Fi experience
• Plug-and-play USB DAC function
• Interchangeable cable (Type-C and Lightning cable included)
• Supports UAC 1.0 (gaming system)
• Clear and vivid voice incalls
• Car mode supported
• Multipoint connection (up to two devices)
• MQA renderer

Premium Bluetooth for Hi-Fi Sound

• Equipped with Qualcomm's CSR8675 Bluetooth chipset, which supports the transmission of high-resolution audio sources, ensuring a stable connection.
• From LDAC, supporting 24-bit / 96 kHz, to the aptX HD codec, offering stable 24-bit / 48 kHz support, AK HB1 accommodates an extensive selection of codecs, including the most commonly used AAC and SBC. This comprehensive codec support guarantees smooth wireless playback of high-resolution streaming audio from both smartphones and PCs.
• Features Bluetooth multipoint capability, allowing connection with up to two devices simultaneously. Effortlessly switch connections between various mobile devices, enabling scenarios like enjoying music from a tablet PC while concurrently receiving notifications and calls on your smartphone.

Hi-Resolution Sound Unleashed by USB DAC

• AK HB1 goes beyond simple Bluetooth playback, delivering outstanding full high-resolution sound via USB DAC connection to PCs, smartphones, tablets, and more.
• Supporting Native DSD256 and 32-bit / 384 kHz playback, AK HB1 ensures compatibility with a diverse range of high-quality audio sources, providing Astell & Kern's signature premium sound quality.
• Equipped with a renderer function that supports MQA 8X, AK HB1 enables MQA playback without the need for external DACs or playback devices. By simply connecting the AK HB1 via cable to compatible devices that support MQA unfolding, you can enjoy MQA audio playback through network-enabled apps and streaming services from anywhere.

Precision DAC and AMP Design for Hi-Fi Sound

• ESS's ES9281AC PRO DAC for exceptional noise control and unparalleled ultrahigh-quality Hi-Fi sound performance.
• Exclusive AMP circuitry that supersedes the standard built-in DAC AMP.
• AMP enables a commanding 4 Vrms output (with a balanced connection) and dual connectivity options 3.5mm unbalanced and 4.4mm balanced, catering to a wide range of IEMs and headphones.
• A& K used microresistors and microcapacitor parts to achieve a small footprint without compromising performance. Carefully selected ultrasmall 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 an optimal audio circuit design.
• The output and audio performance are enhanced with Astell & Kern's unique power-management technology to minimize current consumption in respect of the connected device.

Dual Noise Shielded Cable

• To ensure optimal usability across both Android and iOS devices without the need for additional adapters, AK HB1 features an interchangeable cable that readily supports USB-C and Lightning connections.
• The AK HB1 features a dual shielded cable to minimize noise and deliver a more vivid and original sound. The copper-core wire is coated with tin to prevent corrosion and strengthen tensile force for enhanced durability.
• The entire cable is wrapped in an aluminum film to block noise with an extra layer of shielding around the power cable to further minimize noise the biggest issue in audio. Then, the tin-coated copper wire is woven to minimize noise interference to sound.
• Finished with a fabric jacket on top of the TPE jacket, the cable features enhanced durability and usability with perfect aesthetic appeal.

Easy and Convenient, USB Plug & Play

• AK HB1 simplifies the transition between Bluetooth and USB cable connections by supporting USB plug-and-play functionality.
• Connect AK HB1 to your PC or smart device using a USB cable to enjoy high-resolution sound while simultaneously controlling various settings and features through the app on your Bluetooth-connected smartphone. With BT Priority Mode enabled, AK HB1 seamlessly switches to Bluetooth mode, whenever a Bluetooth signal is received while using the USB DAC function.

High Compatibility and Simultaneous Support for UAC 1.0 and 2.0 for Gaming

• While modern smartphones, tablets, and PCs support UAC 2.0 connections, many gaming devices still exclusively support UAC 1.0 connections.
• AK HB1 ensures compatibility by supporting both UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0 connections for cross-platform quality sound experiences.
• Connect AK HB1 to your gaming device such as PlayStation and Switch, and enjoy low latency and enhanced sound for an immersive gaming experience.

Seamless Experience Extended to Cars with Car Mode

Activate AK HB1's dedicated Car Mode to enjoy high-quality DAC/AMP sound effortlessly while at the wheel. Simply connect AK HB1 to your vehicle's aux port, and its power automatically turns on/off based on your vehicle's ignition, allowing you to enjoy audio from paired devices.

High-Sensitivity MEMS Mic for Clear Voice Calls

AK HB1 ensures crystal-clear voice quality and stability thanks to Knowles's high-quality MEMS microphone technology and Qualcomm's cVc Generation 8.0 call solution with Clear Voice Capture technology, which suppresses ambient noise while delivering clear vocals to the recipient. Furthermore, AK HB1 incorporates a 4-pole in-line mic, enabling voice calls via wired earphones.

Smart Charging System

• AK HB1 automatically recognizes devices when they are connected via a USB cable, whether playback or charging devices, streamlining the charging process without requiring additional setting adjustments.
• The charging mode can be turned on/off to allow simultaneous playback and device charging, preventing battery depletion during playback.

Easy Configuration with Proprietary App

• Install the exclusive app to use various functions and enjoy easy setup.
• The AK Control app is equipped with various newly developed user functions for the AK HB1.
• Users now can conveniently control Device Priority, Volume Level, User EQ setup, Car Mode, and DAC Filter settings, etc.

Design

• The AK HB1 embodies Astell & Kern's design philosophy with inspiration from the architectural masterpiece Church of Light by Tadao Ando, known for its interplay of light and shadow.
• Embodying the essence of robustness and simplicity, much like concrete, the device highlights a sleek form that cleverly integrates buttons and earphone connections within the gaps between its front and back housings.
• The use of silver co