Astell&Kern - AK HC4

Portable Balanced DAC & Amp

Sale price₹ 16,999 Regular priceMRP: ₹ 21,999
Sold out
GET 18% GST INPUT

One of the reasons headphones and earphones in India are more expensive than overseas is because of the Goods & Services Tax in India.

Don't let the GST input go to waste especially if you can avail an offset.

All products sold on Headphone Zone carry a GST compliant invoice and all products sold include an 18% GST.

Simply enter your GST number at the time of checkout.

Browse EMI Plans

Low Cost EMI Options through Credit Cards


Other EMI Options through Credit Cards

Talk to a Headphone Guru

Club Audiophile

Join Club Audiophile to begin your pursuit of great sound. Earn points and save on every purchase.

READ MORE

While this product is out of stock, consider...

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.


Ideal for Beginners

Lost in the vast world of audio equipment?


Don't worry, we're here to guide you 🤝! I believe that everyone's audiophile journey should start with something approachable and welcoming. These carefully selected products serve as the perfect entry point into high-quality sound, specifically chosen to help you navigate through sometimes overwhelming technical options. Think of them as your friendly neighbourhood guide who knows exactly where to start without getting lost in complex specifications.


These products strike an ideal balance between quality and accessibility, featuring user-friendly designs and straightforward functionality. They're specifically selected as the perfect starting point for your audiophile journey, offering serious performance without intimidating complexity or premium pricing that might discourage exploration.


When you encounter "🌱 Ideal for Beginners" products, expect approachable excellence - these are your stepping stones into the world of premium audio, designed to grow with your developing appreciation for great sound.

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.

Works Great with Type-C

Don't have a 3.5mm headphone jack on your phone?


No need to worry 📞 - I believe these products represent the future of seamless audio connectivity. Think of Type-C as the universal language that all modern devices are learning to speak. It's like having a master key that works with your smartphone, laptop, tablet, and practically every new device you'll buy. These headphones connect directly to your Type-C port, delivering pristine digital audio without any dongles or adapters cluttering your setup.


The direct Type-C connection ensures both convenience and optimal audio performance, maintaining the integrity of your listening experience through a clean digital signal path. You'll enjoy plug-and-play functionality with universal compatibility, eliminating those frustrating moments of searching for the right adapter.


When you encounter "📱 Works Great with Type-C" products, expect seamless connectivity with modern devices and future-proof design that grows with your tech ecosystem.

Built like a Tank

Durability concerns? Rest assured 💪.


I tend to describe these products as audio equipment that's built to survive anything you can throw at them. These headphones incorporate high-grade metal components and reinforced design elements that ensure they can handle demanding conditions while maintaining structural integrity. Think of them as the military-grade vehicles of the audio world - over-engineered for reliability and built to last decades, not just years.


The metal construction provides exceptional strength and longevity while contributing to a premium feel that serious audio enthusiasts appreciate. Whether you're a professional who needs reliable daily-use equipment or someone who values long-term investment in audio gear 🏗️.


When you encounter "🪖 Built like a Tank" products, expect unmatched robustness and durability you can count on for years of intensive use.


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.

ELEVATE YOUR AUDIO WITH AK HC4: ASTELL&KERN'S PREMIUM DAC CABLE

Astell&Kern introduces the AK HC4, a premium Hi-Fi USB DAC cable designed to deliver a true Hi-Fi experience on smartphones and PCs. This compact solution packs the renowned Hi-Fi sound that Astell&Kern is celebrated for, providing audiophiles with an exceptional audio experience in a small and portable form factor.

Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4

UNLEASHING AKM'S AK4493S DAC FOR UNPRECEDENTED SOUND QUALITY

The AK HC4 sets itself apart by incorporating AKM's AK4493S DAC, marking a significant leap in achieving ultra-high-resolution sound. AKM's DAC, known for its excellence in Astell&Kern's digital audio players, is now seamlessly integrated into the USB DAC Cable lineup. Enhanced noise control, lower power design, and precise amp design technology contribute to the AK HC4's ability to deliver exceptionally high-quality Hi-Fi sound, supporting Native DSD256 and up to 32bit/384kHz for a premium audio experience.

Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4
Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4

EMBEDS AN EXCLUSIVE AMPLIFICATION CIRCUITRY FOR CLEAN POWER OUTPUT

To ensure stable output power and ultra-high-quality Hi-Fi sound, the AK HC4 introduces an exclusive AMP circuitry that surpasses standard built-in DAC AMP designs. Carefully selecting ultra-small tantalum capacitors and leveraging Astell&Kern's unique power management technology, the AK HC4 achieves a small footprint without compromising performance, providing a compact yet powerful solution for audiophiles.

Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4
Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4

3.5MM AND 4.4MM OUTPUT TO CONNECT YOUR FAVOURITE IEMS AND EARPHONES

Featuring Dual Output with both 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors, the AK HC4 eliminates the need for adapters or additional cables. The 4.4mm Balanced output delivers a high output of 3Vrms, maximizing performance for sensitive headphones and IEMs. Simultaneously, the 3.5mm Unbalanced output ensures compatibility with a majority of existing IEMs and headphones, offering a sufficient output of 2Vrms for a versatile listening experience.

Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4
Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4
Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4

ASTELL & KERN HC4 REDEFINES AUDIO EXCELLENCE WITH DAR TECHNOLOGY AND GAMING BLISS

Equipped with Digital Audio Remaster (DAR) technology, the AK HC4 upsamples the sample rate of the sound source, delivering more refined and analogue-like original sound. This technology enhances the richness of the original sound, capturing subtle nuances and providing a higher level of auditory enjoyment. Additionally, the AK HC4 supports both UAC 2.0 and UAC 1.0 connections, making it ideal for gaming on various platforms, including PlayStation and Switch, ensuring low latency and enhanced sound for an immersive gaming experience.

Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4
Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4

LED INDICATORS ON THE FRONT PANEL AND BUNDLED WITH A DUAL NOISE-SHIELDED CABLE

The AK HC4 features a dual noise-shielded cable with interchangeable Type-C and Lightning connections for compatibility with Android and iOS devices. The copper core wire, coated with tin for corrosion prevention, is wrapped in an aluminum film to block noise effectively. The LED indicators on the front display song details and USB connection status, providing real-time information about the AK HC4's operation.

Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4

EXPERTLY DESIGNED TO HIGHLIGHT FORM AND ELEVATE FUNCTIONALITY

Before using the AK HC4, users are advised to check the volume settings on connected devices to prevent potential hearing damage. The product supports most Android and iOS devices, Windows 10/11, and macOS products but may have compatibility restrictions depending on specific hardware, software, or system configurations. The AK HC4's design philosophy, embracing light and shadow, is evident in its unibody structure, minimal bonding lines, and ergonomic features, providing users with both aesthetics and functionality.

Headphone-Zone-Astell&Kern-AK-HC4
1 Year Warranty

Don't sweat it, this Astell&Kern - AK HC4 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
Major HiFi

Gold Award

Major HiFi
Dec, 2023

MAJORHiFi

"Everything about the Astell & Kern HC4 represents one of the best DAC dongles you can get.Using the HC4 with both headphones and IEMs enhances them with tons of power and detail."

Read More


ViewingHeadphone-Zone-Astell_Kern-AK-HC4
Astell&Kern - AK HC4 Portable Balanced DAC & Amp Sale price₹ 16,999 Regular price₹ 21,999
ViewingHeadphone-Zone-Astell_Kern-AK-HC4
Astell&Kern - AK HC4 Portable Balanced DAC & Amp Sale price₹ 16,999 Regular price₹ 21,999
DAC Chip

AKM AK4493S

Cirrus Logic CS43198

ESS Sabre ES9281AC

Headphone Output

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

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

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

Ideal For

🌱 Beginners

🪴 Budding Enthusiasts

🦈 Serious Audiophiles Only

Power Output

Upto 3Vrms

Upto 250mW

Upto 2.62Vrms @ 300 Ohms

Input

USB Type-C

USB

USB-C



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 Saturday: 10am-6:30pm.Average answer time: 2-3 hours

Customer Reviews

Based on 2 reviews
100%
(2)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
K
Kevin W (Mumbai)
Great design, great sound

Genuinely happy with this dongle DAC/Amp, for me it adds a sense of space and airiness to music when paired with the JH Audio Roxannes or the Softears Studio 4, and I definitely didn't run into significant battery drain, heat, or interference issues, even with it affixed to the back of my phone via Fiio's MagClip, not to mention it looking really great once you have everything set up nicely. Not many accessories in the box, but having both USB-C and Lightning cables in the box is a great bonus for those of us still holding on to older iPhones.

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review for the Astell&Kern - AK HC4. We're thrilled to hear that you're enjoying the design and sound quality of the dongle DAC/Amp. Happy listening!

P
PRAMOD AGARWAL (Jaipur)

Excellent

Hey there, thank you for your lovely ratings!