Astell&Kern - AK HB1

Portable Bluetooth DAC & Amp

Sale price₹ 19,999 Regular priceMRP: ₹ 23,999
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Why Astell&Kern is Special

🇰🇷

Designed in Korea

Established & Reputed

Trust us, our reputation speaks for itself 🏆!


I believe that when a brand has decades of proven excellence, you can invest with confidence knowing your purchase is backed by years of audio engineering expertise. These products come from manufacturers with extensive histories of innovation and unwavering commitment to sonic excellence. Think of them like luxury watch brands - their reputation has been earned through decades of consistent quality and innovation.


With their extensive history of innovation and countless satisfied customers worldwide, you can be confident your investment is backed by proven audio engineering expertise and industry leadership 📈.


When you see "🎖️ Established & Reputed" products, expect time-tested excellence from manufacturers who've consistently demonstrated mastery in audio engineering for generations.

Revered by Audiophiles

Audiophiles can be really picky 😤, and if the audiophile community says something sounds good, you can bet it's exceptional! I believe that earning audiophile reverence is like getting a standing ovation from music critics - it doesn't happen unless you've truly achieved something special. This audio gear has earned widespread acclaim from audiophiles worldwide, a community renowned for exacting standards and unwavering commitment to high-fidelity reproduction.


These discerning enthusiasts particularly value its extraordinary precision in sound reproduction and remarkable capability to create thoroughly immersive listening experiences. The audiophile community's endorsement carries significant weight because of their extensive experience with high-end equipment 🏆.


When you see "🙌🏻 Revered by Audiophiles" products, expect audiophile-grade excellence that satisfies even the most demanding listeners and consistently exceeds the highest standards.

🐣

Born in 2004

Why we love this DAC/Amp

Premium Economy

Sensible spending meets sophisticated quality in perfect harmony 💫.


I tend to describe premium economy products as finding that sweet spot where exceptional value meets refined performance. Think of it like business class comfort at economy prices - you're getting significantly more than what you paid for. These headphones deliver a refined listening experience that rivals more expensive alternatives, making them an intelligent choice for discerning listeners who appreciate both value and excellence.


This thoughtfully curated selection demonstrates our commitment to bringing you outstanding sound quality and robust construction without requiring a significant financial investment. Each product has been meticulously evaluated to ensure it delivers performance characteristics typically associated with higher price brackets.


When you see "💎 Premium Economy" products, expect refined audio experiences that bridge the gap between entry-level and high-end offerings, delivering impressive clarity and features at accessible price points.


Serious Audiophiles Only

For those who have ventured deep into high-fidelity audio 🎯, the pursuit of sonic excellence becomes an endless journey of discovery and refinement. I believe that serious audiophiles demand equipment that can satisfy the most exacting standards and deliver performance that pushes boundaries. These products represent the pinnacle of acoustic engineering, incorporating advanced technologies and meticulous craftsmanship that enable them to reproduce music with utmost fidelity.


Each product has undergone rigorous evaluation to ensure it delivers exceptional performance that discerning listeners demand, from precise frequency response to impeccable detail retrieval and sophisticated sound staging. These devices incorporate premium components and engineering excellence that justify their position at the apex of audio performance.


When you encounter "🦈 Serious Audiophiles Only" products, expect uncompromising performance that satisfies the most demanding requirements and elevates critical listening to new heights.

For Audiophiles On-the-Go

In my experience, finding great audio gear that performs well on the move is like discovering a powerful sports car that’s also fuel efficient. Products marked For Audiophiles On-the-Go are designed to deliver remarkable sound quality without weighing you down. Whether you’re commuting, working remotely, or just travelling light, these products offer the perfect balance of portability and performance 🚶‍♂️.


What makes them special? They’re often compact, lightweight, and built with battery-efficient components that don’t compromise on sonic detail. From portable DAC/Amps to foldable headphones and wireless IEMs, this category is for those who demand great sound anytime, anywhere — no bulky setups or power bricks required.


When you see '🛺 For Audiophiles On-the-Go' products, expect: pocket-friendly size, reliable battery life, and premium sound wherever life takes you — ideal for travel, work, or daily use.

Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth

I tend to describe Bluetooth audio as wireless freedom with fewer strings attached — literally. When you see Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth, it means you can pair your headphones or IEMs with phones, laptops, or even TVs — all without reaching for a cable 🎶. It’s convenient, clutter-free, and great for everyday listening.


What’s happening behind the scenes is your gear is using Bluetooth codecs like SBC, AAC, LDAC, or aptX to compress and transmit your music wirelessly. Better codecs mean higher quality and lower latency. Of course, there’s a trade-off — Bluetooth won’t match the quality of wired gear, but today’s advancements have made the gap much smaller than before.


When you see '✂️ Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth' products, expect: tangle-free convenience and solid sound quality — great for commuting, workouts, or casual listening.


Multi-point Connection

I’ve found multi-point connection to be a game-changer, especially for folks juggling devices throughout the day. It’s like having a PA system that knows when to switch between two stages. With multi-point, your headphones or earbuds can stay connected to two devices — like your laptop and your phone — and switch automatically based on what you need.


Here’s what’s actually happening: the device uses smart Bluetooth profiles to maintain active links with two sources. So when you're watching a movie on your tablet and a call comes in on your phone, it can seamlessly switch without you lifting a finger. Just keep in mind — not all codecs support this, and some devices limit codec quality when multi-point is active.


When you see '🤹🏼‍♂️ Multi-point Connection' products, expect: seamless switching between devices, ideal for multitaskers who are always hopping between calls and playlists.

Battery Life

In my experience, battery life is one of those things that separates a good day from a frustrating one. It's like having a fuel gauge you can rely on — longer battery life means less charging and more uninterrupted music. Whether you're on a flight or just commuting across town, this is one spec you don’t want to overlook 🔋.


Technically, battery life refers to the hours your device can play music on a single charge. Today’s headphones and DACs can range from 4 to 40+ hours, depending on things like Bluetooth codec, volume, and active features like ANC. More battery life also means better travel and portability, though it might come at the cost of size or weight.


When you see '⏳ Battery Life' products, expect: longer listening sessions, fewer charging breaks, and stress-free portability for music that goes the distance.

Battery Capacity

I usually think of battery capacity like the size of your water tank — it determines how long the tap can run before drying up. In audio gear, higher capacity means more playtime, more power for your amp section, and better performance during high-demand usage 🧠. It’s especially important if your gear also powers powerful drivers or amps.


Measured in mAh (milliamp-hours), battery capacity helps you gauge how long your headphones, DAC, or amplifier will last between charges. Devices with higher capacity (like 3500mAh+) are ideal for extended use or when you’re away from a power source. Just know, larger capacity often means longer charging time and a slightly bulkier design.


When you see '🔋 Battery Capacity' products, expect: more power and longer playtimes — ideal for travel, long workdays, or heavy use without worrying about recharging.

Why it Sounds Amazing

DAC Chip

I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.


Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips — like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic — offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.


When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high-quality headphones — perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.

Power Output

I like to think of power output in audio gear like engine horsepower, it determines how much muscle your setup really has 💪. Whether you’re trying to drive a pair of power-hungry planar headphones or just want headroom for dynamic peaks, power output is the spec you want to check first.


Technically, it refers to the amount of electrical power (measured in mW or Watts) an amp or DAC/Amp combo can deliver to your headphones. More power means better control, improved dynamics, and the ability to handle demanding gear without distortion. But more isn’t always better, too much power with sensitive IEMs can introduce hiss or harshness.


When you see '🚀 Power Output' products, expect: strong driving capability, better dynamics, and optimal performance with headphones that need serious juice to shine.


Balanced Output

I often say balanced output is like using both hands to carry something heavy — it distributes power evenly and keeps things stable. In audio gear, balanced output helps reduce unwanted noise and interference, especially over longer cables. Think of it as a cleaner, more efficient way to transmit your music, ideal for anyone using high-end DACs, amps, or studio-grade headphones 🎧. You’ll typically find it on gear with XLR or 4.4mm connectors, and it's a must-have if you’re chasing that ultra-clean signal path.


Here’s what’s actually happening: a balanced output uses two separate signals, one inverted, so when interference is picked up along the cable, it gets cancelled out when the signals are recombined. The result? Cleaner audio, better dynamic range, and more power output — especially when paired with balanced headphones. The trade-off? You’ll need gear that supports balanced connections on both ends to really enjoy the benefits.


When you see '⚖️ Balanced Output' products, expect: ultra-low noise, more headroom, and better synergy with high-impedance headphones or sensitive IEMs — ideal for serious listening setups.

The Astell&Kern AK HB1 checks all the right boxes - dynamic, resolving, powerful, and ultra-portable, all with the convenience of Bluetooth. It delivers sound quality remarkably close to A&K's higher-priced digital audio players, making it impressive.
RAGHAV SOMANI

About RAGHAV SOMANI

Raghav Somani is the Founder & CEO of Headphone Zone. An avid audiophile and musician since 2008, his choice of headphones include STAX Electrostats, Audeze LCD 3, and for music on the go, the JH Audio Roxanne + Astell&Kern SP1000 is never too far away. On his playlist, you'll find A.R. Rahman, Michael Jackson, and the Eagles.

ASTELL&KERN INTRODUCE THEIR ALL-NEW BLUETOOTH DAC AND AMP - THE AK HB1

Astell&Kern's AK HB1 stands out as a portable Bluetooth DAC&Amp, providing a cable-free, high-quality audio experience and seamless Hi-Fi streaming services. By effortlessly connecting your mobile device to the Astell&Kern AK HB1 through Bluetooth, users can enjoy wireless Hi-Fi sound with a powerful built-in amplifier, accommodating various IEMs and headphones. Its compact and lightweight design adds to the convenience. Beyond Bluetooth, the AK HB1 also serves as a USB DAC, ensuring Astell&Kern's renowned sound quality. It further extends its versatility by enabling connections to gaming devices and immersive entertainment systems through microphones, transforming your mobile device into a multifunctional hub for a myriad of multimedia possibilities.

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EMBEDS THE LATEST ESS DAC CHIPSET WITH A POWERFUL AMPLIFICATION STAGE

The Astell&Kern AK HB1 integrates ESS’s ES9281AC PRO DAC, ensuring superior noise control and delivering exceptional ultra-high-quality Hi-Fi sound performance. Going beyond the standard built-in DAC AMP, the AK HB1 features an exclusive AMP circuitry that achieves a robust 4Vrms output in a Balanced connection, supporting both 3.5mm unbalanced and 4.4mm balanced connectivity for versatile compatibility with a broad range of IEMs and headphones. Despite its compact dimensions (33 x 68.4 x 16.5 mm), Astell&Kern prioritise performance by incorporating micro resistors and capacitor parts, along with ultra-small tantalum capacitors to maintain stability and optimal audio circuit design. The device's output and audio performance are further enhanced by Astell&Kern's distinctive power management technology, minimising current consumption for connected devices.

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Headphone-Zone-Astell-Kern-HB1

ENJOY WIRELESS BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY WITH SUPPORT FOR MULTIPLE CODECS

The Astell&Kern AK HB1 comes equipped with Qualcomm's CSR8675 Bluetooth chipset, ensuring a reliable connection for the transmission of high-resolution audio sources. Supporting a range of codecs, including LDAC with 24-bit/96 kHz and aptX™ HD with stable 24-bit/48kHz, AK HB1 accommodates various audio preferences. With compatibility with commonly used codecs like AAC and SBC, this device ensures seamless wireless playback of high-resolution streaming audio from both smartphones and PCs. Additionally, the AK HB1 incorporates Bluetooth multi-point capability, enabling simultaneous connection with up to two devices. This functionality facilitates easy switching between different mobile devices, allowing users to enjoy music from a tablet PC while simultaneously receiving notifications and calls on their smartphone.
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UNLEASH HI-RES AUDIO PLAYBACK WITH USB CONNECTIVITY AND MQA RENDERING

The Astell&Kern AK HB1 surpasses typical Bluetooth playback by offering exceptional, full high-resolution audio through its USB DAC connection to various devices, including PCs, smartphones, and tablets. With support for Native DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz playback, AK HB1 ensures compatibility with a wide range of high-quality audio sources, delivering Astell&Kern's renowned premium sound quality. Additionally, featuring a renderer function that supports MQA 8X, AK HB1 enables MQA playback without the need for external DACs or playback devices. By connecting AK HB1 via cable to compatible devices supporting MQA unfolding, users can enjoy MQA audio playback through network-enabled apps and streaming services from any location.
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EASY PLUG-AND-PLAY CONNECTIVITY WITH SUPPORT FOR UAC 1.0 & 2.0 PROTOCOLS

Astell&Kern AK HB1 streamlines the transition between Bluetooth and USB cable connections through its USB Plug & Play functionality. Users can connect AK HB1 to their PC or smart device using a USB cable for high-resolution sound while controlling settings through the app on their Bluetooth-connected smartphone. With BT Priority Mode activated, AK HB1 effortlessly switches to Bluetooth mode upon receiving a Bluetooth signal during USB DAC use. While modern devices support UAC 2.0 connections, some gaming devices rely on UAC 1.0. AK HB1 caters to both by supporting UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0 connections, ensuring cross-platform compatibility. This allows users to connect AK HB1 to gaming devices like PlayStation and Switch, providing low latency and enhanced sound for an immersive gaming experience.

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DEDICATED CAR MODE AND CRYSTAL CLEAR VOICE CALLS WITH HIGH SENSITIVITY MEMS MIC

Activate Astell&Kern AK HB1's dedicated Car Mode for a seamless high-quality DAC/AMP sound experience on the road. Connect AK HB1 to your vehicle's AUX port, and its power intuitively turns on/off based on your vehicle's ignition, allowing you to enjoy audio from paired devices effortlessly. With Knowles's high-quality MEMS microphone technology and Qualcomm's cVc Generation 8.0 call solution, AK HB1 ensures crystal-clear voice quality and stability, suppressing ambient noise for clear vocals. Additionally, the AK HB1 features a 4-pole in-line MIC for voice calls via wired earphones during USB DAC use. This enhances call quality alongside AK HB1's exceptional Hi-Fi sound. Note that the in-line MIC functionality is exclusive to USB DAC mode, while the built-in microphone handles calls during Bluetooth connections. AK HB1 supports only CTIA-compliant earphones for 4-pole configurations (OMTP-compliant products are not supported).

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SMART CHARGING SYSTEM WITH LED INDICATOR AND PROPRIETARY APP FOR CONFIGURATION

Astell&Kern AK HB1 effortlessly identifies connected USB devices for playback or charging, streamlining the charging process without additional adjustments. The charging mode is adaptable, enabling simultaneous playback and charging to prevent battery depletion. Charging speed varies based on the connection; charging via USB takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, while connected to a playback device, the charging speed adjusts, and the mode can be toggled on/off. In Charging Mode On, the HB1's battery is charged using the playback device's power, and Charging Mode Off operates solely on the AK HB1's battery. Two LED lights provide status information. The AK Control app enhances functionality, offering features like Device Priority, Volume Level, User EQ setup, Car Mode DAC Filter setting, and more for easy setup.

NOTE: If you are not able to connect AK HB1 and AK Control app on your iPhone, please refer to FAQs below.

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Headphone-Zone-Astell-Kern-HB1

BUNDLED WITH A HIGH-QUALITY DUAL SHIELDED CABLE FOR CLEAN AND VIVID SOUND

To achieve flawless compatibility across Android and iOS devices without extra adapters, the Astell&Kern AK HB1 incorporates an interchangeable cable that supports Type-C and Lightning connections. The dual-shielded audio cable is crafted to minimise noise, ensuring a more dynamic and authentic sound experience. The copper core wire, coated with tin for corrosion prevention and increased tensile strength, ensures robust durability. An aluminium film envelops the entire cable to block noise, with an additional layer of shielding around the power cable, effectively reducing audio interference. Addressing the crucial issue of noise in audio, the intricately woven tin-coated copper wire further diminishes interference. The audio cable is adorned with a fabric jacket over the TPE jacket, providing enhanced durability and usability with a visually appealing aesthetic.

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1 Year Warranty

Don't sweat it, this Astell&Kern - AK HB1 comes with a 1 Year warranty from Astell&Kern that covers manufacturing defects. All products featured on Headphone Zone are backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.

Read more about Astell&Kern's warranty in India.

Luxury Meets Innovation: Difference in Sound Quality

Founded in October 2013 in South Korea, Astell&Kern is a premium audio brand renowned for its commitment to delivering uncompromised hi-res audio experiences. Derived from Greek, where "Astell" means "Stars" and "Kern" means "Core," the brand symbolizes the pursuit of capturing the essence of music—the "original sound." Astell&Kern addresses the decline in audio quality due to inferior formats like MP3, aiming to revive sound integrity for musicians and enthusiasts alike.

Their diverse product range, from audio players to earphones, reflects their dedication to precision and accuracy in sound reproduction. With acclaimed offerings like the Astell&Kern AK XB10 and Astell&Kern Billie Jean, they continue to enrich music and listening experiences globally, delivering soul-touching sound.

Explore Collection
Digital Trends

"In terms of Bluetooth, you get support for Multipoint, so the the HB1 can be connected to two source devices simultaneously, and there’s built-in hi-res audio codec compatibility with LDAC and aptX HD."

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What Hifi

"The AK HB1 comes with a "high-quality" microphone for clear voice calls. The DAC/amp combo comes loaded with the company's Clear Voice Capture technology which works to block out ambient noise while enhancing voice clarity."

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Major Hifi

"As far as portable wireless DAC/Amps go, the HB1 offers something that the rest don’t. It’s the only device of its kind that truly feels like the experience of listening to a high-end DAP."

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Moon Audio

"The functionality of the AK HB1 is not limited to portable use. You can add this to your current home audio desktop setup and integrate it as your desktop DAC to transform how you game on your PC."

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Bloom Audio

"The general function of HB1 as a portable DAC is excellent, and the sound quality is among the best in its class, with a clean, detailed, reference tuning that will perform well with your whole collection."

Read More



ViewingHeadphone-Zone-Astell-Kern-AK-HB1
Astell&Kern - AK HB1 Portable Bluetooth DAC & Amp Sale price₹ 19,999 Regular price₹ 23,999
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iFi Audio - GO blu Portable Bluetooth DAC and Headphone Amplifier Sale price₹ 17,999 Regular price₹ 19,999
ViewingHeadphone-Zone-Astell-Kern-AK-HB1
Astell&Kern - AK HB1 Portable Bluetooth DAC & Amp Sale price₹ 19,999 Regular price₹ 23,999
Headphone-Zone-iFi-Audio-GO-blu
iFi Audio - GO blu Portable Bluetooth DAC and Headphone Amplifier Sale price₹ 17,999 Regular price₹ 19,999
DAC Chip

ESS Sabre ES9281AC PRO

Cirrus Logic CS43131

Dual AKM AK4493SEQ

Headphone Output

4.4mm Port (Balanced)
3.5mm Port (Single-Ended)

4.4mm Port (Balanced)
3.5mm Port (Single-Ended)

4.4mm Port (Balanced)
3.5mm Port (Single-Ended)

Output Power

Upto 4Vrms

Upto 245mW @ 32 Ohms

Upto 840mW @ 32 Ohms

Bluetooth

Bluetooth Version: V5.0
Bluetooth codecs: LDAC, aptX™HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC Profile : A2DP, AVRCP, HFP

Bluetooth Version: V5.1
Bluetooth codecs: AAC/SBC/aptX/aptX HD,/aptX Adaptive/aptX LL/LDAC/LHDC/HWA

Bluetooth Version: V5.0 Receiver
Bluetooth codecs: LDAC / AAC / SBC

Battery Life

Upto 6 Hours

Upto 8 Hours

Upto 12.5 Hours



Have a question? Get in touch!

Check out the most common questions our customers ask. Still have questions? Talk to our Headphone Gurus.

Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 11am-6pm.Average answer time: 2-3 hours

Customer Reviews

Based on 2 reviews
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S
Sambasiva Rao (Hyderabad)

Super

Hey there, thank you for the awesome ratings!

A
Aakshey Talwar (New Delhi)
A hidden marvel

This thing is extremely powerful and can go like really loud, especially using the balanced out, that’s all I have used honestly

It drives my Ananda Stealth, Focal Clear OG and HD 660S2 to more than loud enough levels and drives them to a level where I am okay even if this is the amp I’ll ever have

It’s natural, full bodied, grande, effortless and musical, and of course very neutral

It’s too light and small to a fault almost, build is slightly flimsy, but that’s why it’s so light

Online reviews claim it’s one of the finest ultra portable solutions under $500 for Bluetooth, no matter whether you’re looking for single ended or balanced

It sounds quite open and encompassing, and there’s absolutely zero fatigue or grain

Hey there, thank you for the great review and ratings! Your positive review made our day! Thank you for recognising our efforts to provide a great shopping experience! We value your feedback and can't wait to have you back!