Tag: USB-DAC

  • Astell & Kern Launches AK HC5 Ultra High-Resolution USB DAC

    Astell & Kern Launches AK HC5 Ultra High-Resolution USB DAC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Advanced Processing Technology: The AK HC5 features an AK4191EQ digital processor and AK4499EX DAC for ultra-low noise headphone output and minimal distortion.

    2. Upscaling Capabilities: It supports upscaling of PCM and DSD audio inputs, enhancing lower-quality audio to higher resolutions with six adjustable impulse response filters.

    3. Performance Metrics: Offers high signal-to-noise ratios (125 dB for balanced and 121 dB for unbalanced headphones) with very low total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N).

    4. Compatibility: Works with various devices including Android and Apple smartphones, Windows and Mac computers, and gaming consoles, supporting UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 via USB.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The AK HC5 USB DAC will be priced at $450 and is expected to be available on Amazon in the next month or two.

    Astell & Kern has introduced the AK HC5, an ultra-high resolution USB DAC that works with both balanced and unbalanced headphones.

    Advanced Processing Technology

    The AK HC5 features an AK4191EQ digital processor that handles digital audio inputs before sending them to the AK4499EX DAC. This DAC provides analog audio to a special amplifier that is designed to produce ultra-low noise headphone output ranging from 20 Hz to 70 kHz, boasting a total distortion of ±0.06 dB and an even better ±0.006 dB for frequencies between 20 Hz and 20 kHz.

    Upscaling Capabilities

    The HC5 DAC can take uncompressed PCM and DSD audio inputs, allowing for upscaling through DAR (Digital Audio Remaster) technology. PCM inputs at 48 kHz can be enhanced up to 384 kHz PCM for playback, and it can also upscale lower-quality PCM and DSD inputs to DSD256 for use with balanced 4.4 mm and unbalanced 3.5 mm headphones. Users have access to six impulse response filters to adjust the sound profile.

    Performance and Features

    For those using balanced headphones, the device offers a signal-to-noise ratio of 125 dB @ 1 kHz, with crosstalk measuring -141 dB and THD+N at 0.0004%. Unbalanced headphone users will see a signal-to-noise ratio of 121 dB @ 1 kHz, crosstalk at -139 dB, and THD+N at 0.0005%, as stated by the manufacturer. A 150-step rotary dial is included for volume adjustments, and information is shown on a 1.62-inch OLED display.

    Compatibility and Availability

    The Roon-compatible AK HC5 is compatible with UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 via USB connections to devices like Android and Apple smartphones, Windows and Mac computers, as well as gaming consoles like the Sony PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.

    Consumers can look forward to the $450 AK HC5 USB DAC, which is expected to be available in the Astell & Kern store on Amazon in the upcoming month or two.

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  • Jade Audio Launches Jiezi USB DAC with Hi-Res Audio Support

    Jade Audio Launches Jiezi USB DAC with Hi-Res Audio Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Model Variants: The Jiezi is available in two versions: Jiezi A (3.5 mm unbalanced) and Jiezi B (4.4 mm balanced) for different headphone needs.

    2. Hi-Res Audio Support: Both models support high-resolution audio formats, including 32-bit, 384 kHz PCM and DSD.

    3. Wide Compatibility: The Jiezi works with various systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux, as long as they have a USB-C port.

    4. Technical Features: The Jiezi A offers in-line controls, a ten-band PEQ, weighs only 6 g, and has an SNR of 104 dB and THD+N of 0.0034%.

    5. Pricing: The Jiezi A is priced at $29.95 and is available in black with gold or red accents.

    Jade Audio, which is part of Fiio, has introduced the Jiezi headphone digital audio converter and amplifier. This device features an aluminum-magnesium alloy frame that showcases beautiful Eastern designs.

    Model Options and Features

    The Jiezi comes in two versions: the 3.5 mm unbalanced Jiezi A, suitable for most headphones, and the 4.4 mm balanced Jiezi B, which is meant for higher-end models. It’s important to note that while the Jiezi B model has an unbalanced internal structure, the balanced output of 4.4 mm is only for headphone jack compatibility. Both versions support Hi-Res Audio, enabling audiophiles to experience high-resolution music in 32-bit, 384 kHz PCM and DSD formats.

    Compatibility and Connectivity

    This device works with a range of systems including Android, Apple iOS, Huawei HarmonyOS, Microsoft Windows, Apple macOS, and Linux, as long as they have a USB-C port. The USB cable is designed with palladium-plated OFC wiring, wrapped in silicone, and features a braided exterior. The Jiezi supports USB Audio Class (UAC) 1.0 and 2.0, making it compatible with gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch and Sony PlayStation 5.

    Technical Specs and Pricing

    The Jiezi A includes in-line controls for calls and music playback, among other functions. Users can also tweak additional settings like a ten-band PEQ through a web interface on computers or via the Fiio control app on Android devices.

    Weighing just 6 g (0.2 oz.), the Jiezi has a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 104 dB and a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of 0.0034%. It delivers an output power of 49 mW per channel at 16 ohms. The Jiezi A measures 90 mm (3.5 in.) in length, while the Jiezi B is slightly longer at 100 mm (3.9 in.).

    The Jiezi A is currently listed on Aliexpress with a suggested retail price of $29.95, available in black with either gold or red accents. For those interested, Fiio’s other USB DACs can be found on Amazon.

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  • iBasso Launches Nunchaku USB DAC with Tube and Class AB Amplifiers

    iBasso Launches Nunchaku USB DAC with Tube and Class AB Amplifiers

    iBasso has unveiled the Nunchaku, a portable USB-DAC that features dual selectable amplifiers and two Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips. The device boasts an aluminum frame with dual tempered glass panels, one of which safeguards the 0.96-inch OLED screen. Users can adjust settings through a multi-function control dial. The starting price for the iBasso Nunchaku is $299, and it’s currently available in gray or red colors.

    High-Resolution Performance

    The digital amplifier is capable of delivering exceptional high-resolution PCM reproduction, supporting 32-bit at 768 kHz and DSD512 music streams. It has a remarkable signal-to-noise ratio of 130 dB and THD+N of -119 dB through its 4.4 mm balanced headphone output. Additionally, an adjustable low- and high-pass filter provides options for customizing the sound profile.

    Authentic Analog Listening

    On the other hand, the analog amplifier is designed for those who prefer a warm, authentic analog music experience. It utilizes dual Raytheon JAN6418 tubes, achieving a signal-to-noise ratio of 107 dB. These tubes are shock-mounted using Poron polyurethane to minimize noise from vibrations and handling. Each tube is powered by a 22.5-volt anode supply, allowing it to produce up to 525 mW at 32 ohms, making it suitable for most high-power headphones.

    Convenient Dimensions and Compatibility

    The dimensions of the iBasso Nunchaku are 65 x 34.6 x 15 mm (2.56 x 1.36 x 0.59 in.), and it weighs just 50 g (1.76 oz.). This unit can function as an external USB-DAC for Android smartphones, tablets, as well as Linux, Mac, and Windows computers. An optional Android app offers remote control functionality for the Nunchaku. The package includes USB-C to USB-C, USB-A, and Lightning connectors.

    For those who prioritize an uninterrupted music experience without noise, alternatives like USB-DACs with digital-only amplifiers may be worth considering, such as the Astell & Kern available on Amazon.

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    iBasso Launches Nunchaku USB DAC with Tube and Class AB AmplifiersiBasso Launches Nunchaku USB DAC with Tube and Class AB AmplifiersiBasso Launches Nunchaku USB DAC with Tube and Class AB AmplifiersiBasso Launches Nunchaku USB DAC with Tube and Class AB AmplifiersiBasso Launches Nunchaku USB DAC with Tube and Class AB Amplifiers

     

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