Astell&Kern AK HB1 Portable Bluetooth DAC/Amplifier

Astell&Kern AK HB1 Portable Bluetooth DAC/Amplifier

 

The Astell&Kern AK HB1 is a must-have for any audiophile looking to elevate their audio experience. With its portable Bluetooth DAC/AMP, the AK HB1 offers the best performance without the hassle of cables. This device effortlessly delivers high-quality audio and Hi-Fi streaming services, giving you the freedom to experience music like never before.

Equipped with the ESS ES9281AC PRO DAC, separate DAC and AMP, and a powerful built-in amplifier, the AK HB1 provides a premium Hi-Fi experience. Additionally, its support for LDAC, aptX™HD, and MQA ensures a stable and seamless connection for wireless playback of high-resolution audio.

But the AK HB1 goes beyond just Bluetooth playback. With its USB DAC functionality, it can deliver outstanding, full high-resolution sound from a variety of devices. Supporting Native DSD256 and 32 bit/384 kHz playback, this device guarantees compatibility with a diverse range of high-quality audio sources. And with its MQA renderer, you can enjoy MQA audio playback without the need for external DACs or playback devices.

The design of the AK HB1 is also a testament to Astell&Kern's commitment to quality. Its precision DAC and AMP design, along with its interchangeable cable and dual noise shielding, ensure optimal audio performance. The device also features a smart charging system, LED indicators for real-time status, and a proprietary app for easy configuration.

The size and placement of the volume wheel, inspired by the architectural masterpiece "Church of Light" by Tadao Ando, make it easy to control the volume with precision and accuracy. And the sleek and modern design, with its silver coloring and comfortable grip, adds a touch of elegance to your professional setup.

In summary, the Astell&Kern AK HB1 is a must-have for any professional looking for a portable, high-performance, and versatile audio solution. With its outstanding sound quality, advanced features, and sleek design, this device is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their audio experience. Upgrade to the AK HB1 and experience the freedom of music at its best.

 

Key Features

• 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 & Play USB DAC Function
• Interchangeable Cable (Type-C and Lightning Cable Included)
• Supports UAC 1.0 (Gaming System)
• Clear and Vivid Voice in Calls
• Car Mode Supported
• Multi-point Connection (Up To Two Devices)
• MQA Renderer
  
  

Premium Bluetooth for Hi-Fi Sound

AK HB1 is 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.

Furthermore, AK HB1 features Bluetooth multi-point capability, allowing connection with up to two devices simultaneously. This feature allows you to 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.

Additionally, 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 AK HB1 via cable to compatible devices, which support MQA unfolding, you can enjoy MQA audio playback through network-enabled apps and streaming services from anywhere.

* To use AK HB1 as an H/W MQA renderer, a compatible S/W core decoder capable of unfolding MQA is required.

 

Precision DAC and AMP Design for Hi-Fi Sound

AK HB1 incorporates ESS’s ES9281AC PRO DAC for exceptional noise control and unparalleled ultra-high-quality Hi-Fi sound performance.

Adding to this, AK HB1 introduces an exclusive AMP circuitry that supersedes the standard built-in DAC AMP. Its AMP enables a commanding 4 Vrms output (in Balanced connection) and dual connectivity options — 3.5 mm unbalanced and 4.4 mm balanced, catering to a wide range of IEMs and headphones.

While maintaining a compact form factor of 33 x 68.4 x 16.5 mm, we used micro resistors and capacitor parts to achieve a small footprint without compromising performance. Carefully selected 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 an optimal audio circuit design. In addition, 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 Type-C and Lightning connections.

The AK HB1 features a dual shielded cable to minimize noise and deliver a more vivid, original sound. The copper core wire is coated with tin to prevent corrosion and strengthen tensile force for enhanced durability.

Additionally, 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 & 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 & 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. To cater to both scenarios, 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.

 

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.

 

Crystal-Clear Voice Calls Thanks to High-sensitivity MEMS MIC

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.
Experience enhanced call quality alongside AK HB1's exceptional Hi-Fi sound.

* The in-line MIC functionality is only available while USB DAC is enabled. During Bluetooth (BT) connections, the built-in microphone of HB1 handles calls.
* For 4-pole earphones, AK HB1 supports only CTIA-compliant earphones (OMTP-compliant products are not supported)

 

 

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 showcases a sleek form that cleverly integrates buttons and earphone connections within the gaps between its front and back housings. The use of silver colouring between the front and rear surfaces creates an illusion of light gracefully flowing between the two facades.

Intuitively designed with a comfortable grip, the size and placement of the wheel ensure effortless volume control. The wheel features a combination of aluminum and rubber materials for improved grip and accuracy, ensuring easy and accurate control.

 

Specification

• Model: AK HB1
• Body Color: Shadow Black
• Body Material: Polycarbonate (Body) / Aluminum (Volume Wheel)
• Bluetooth
  • Chipset : Qualcomm CSR8675
  • Version : 5.0
  • Codec : LDAC, aptX™HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC
  • Profile : A2DP, AVRCP, HFP
• DAC: ESS ES9281AC PRO
• Sample rate
  • PCM : 8kHz ~ 384kHz (8/16/24/32bits per Sample)
  • DSD Native: DSD64(1bit 2.8MHz), Stereo / DSD128(1bit 5.6MHz), Stereo / DSD256(1bit 11.2MHz), Stereo
• Output Level: Unbalanced 2Vrms / Balanced 4Vrms (Condition No Load)
• Input: USB Type-C (Supports UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0)
• Output: 3.5mm (Supports CTIA standard 4-pole earphones/headphones), 4.4mm (Only 5-pole supported)
• Dimensions
  • 33 x 68.4 x 16.5mm (Excluding volume wheel)
  • 39.8 x 68.4 x 16.5mm (Including volume wheel)
• Weight: About 1.41oz (40g)
• Feature Enhancements: Firmware upgrade supported
• Frequency Response: ±0.135dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Unbalanced │ ±0.136dB (Condition : 20Hz~20kHz) Balanced
• S/N: 117dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 118dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
• Crosstalk: -112dB @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ -112dB @ 1kHz, Balanced
• THD+N: 0.0005% @ 1kHz, Unbalanced │ 0.0005% @ 1kHz, Balanced
• IMD SMPTE: 0.0003% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Unbalanced │ 0.0003% 800Hz 10kHz (4:1) Balanced
• Output Impedance: Unbalanced Out 3.5mm (2.5ohm) │ Balanced Out 4.4mm (2ohm)
• Battery Capacity: 600mAh 3.8V Li-Polymer
• Charge Time: about 1.5hours
• Playback Time: about 6hours (Standard : AAC)

 

About Astell&Kern

Astell&Kern is the ultimate digital music source that brings you Mastering Quality Sound or MQS. Astell means ‘Stars’ in Latin and Kern means ‘Center’ in German. We believe Astell&Kern is the center of music.

Today, original music performances can be captured in digital almost exactly as they were performed due to new, advanced recording technology currently available. However, these high quality recordings are mainly listened to through inferior sound formats, such as MP3 or through streaming services. With the debut of the MP3 format, music lovers sacrificed sound quality for the convenience of being able to carry their music collection wherever they went. Because the MP3 format heavily compresses files for the sake of convenience, the vocals and instruments you hear are only an inferior version of the original. The soundstage and the ambience of the original performance often disappears when listening to compressed MP3 music. After pondering these issues, Astell&Kern was our solution to poor sound quality for the sake of portability, and our way in reviving the original sound quality of music, MQS, for music artists, recording engineers, and professionals.

Astell&Kern's pursuit is to provide natural and original sound without distortion. It showcases the presence of the original recording with miniscule details you may not have noticed from other music systems, while playing back high-resolution music bit by bit, exactly as it was recorded. The ability to play back the exact recording of any live performance is what Astell&Kern is known for.

The power of true sound from Astell&Kern can now be experienced and has been part of many famous audio exhibitions around the world. Astell&Kern is now admired by music lovers from many countries, including the USA, China, Japan, UK, France, and many more around the world.