Astell&Kern HB1 MQA Wireless Bluetooth Portable Headphone Amplifier & USB DAC with Mic

Experience the Freedom of Music

AK HB1 is a portable Bluetooth DAC/AMP that lets you effortlessly experience high-quality audio and Hi-Fi streaming services with the best performance, all without the hassle of cables.

Pair 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.

In addition to this, 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.

• 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.

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 minimise 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 aluminium film to block noise with an extra layer of shielding around the power cable to further minimise noise, the biggest issue in audio, then the tin-coated copper wire is woven to minimise 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

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

Seamless Experience Extended to Cars with Car Mode

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