Most audiophiles can agree that Astell & Kern’s DAPs are a few of the greatest sounding in the marketplace. However they’re costly too, which leaves budget-conscious audiophiles eager for a sound they will’t attain. Nicely, fortunately now you can purchase Astell & Kern’s inexpensive HC4 DAC/amp combo, which guarantees to ship a sound high quality that approximates its tremendous expensive gamers. What sort of efficiency are you able to anticipate, and how much enhancements does it make to your sound signature?
What’s within the Field?
Look and Construct
There’s no query that the HC4 may be very Astell & Kerny in its look, with its sharp traces, and retro-futuristic vibe. This compact DAC/amp combo contains a pocket-sized body crafted from strong aluminum, and it seems much more strong than most dongles I’ve examined on the maket.
On the facet of the little gadget, you’ll discover the amount leveler and a change for activating DAR (Digital Audio Remaster). DAR, a characteristic that up-samples your sound supply, provides a enjoyable contact to an in any other case utilitarian design. One other small contact is the tiny LED indicator, which signifies the hi-res format you’re enjoying.
On the backside of the DAC, there are outputs in 3.5mm and 4.4mm for versatile compatibility. The HC4 additionally comes with interchangeable cables, together with USB-C and Lightning for iOS gadgets.
Design
The HC4 is a notable addition to the model’s USB DAC Cable lineup, because it options AKM’s DAC, which is utilized in A&Okay’s extremely high-performing gamers. The HC4 boats enhanced noise management, a extra environment friendly energy design, and ultra-precise amp know-how. However we’ll see if it makes an audible distinction.
The HC4 helps DSD256 and pattern charges as much as 32bit/384kHz. However sadly, you received’t be capable to make optimum use of your MQA recordsdata, as there isn’t any assist for this format.
Lastly, as talked about above, the HC4 helps DAR. As well as, it will probably deal with gaming techniques with UAC1.0 and is Roon examined for seamless integration.
Sound Impressions
To see simply how a lot the HC4 might enhance the sound high quality of a headphone/IEM, I hooked it as much as my low cost however famously over-performing Koss KHP40, which already has impressively huge soundstage for the worth.
I used to be thrilled to search out that the HC4’s most defining attribute is the insane soundstage it delivers. Sure, it makes the area wider, and never simply in a modest means. The distinction is abundantly perceptible. In truth, I used to be fairly blown away by how rather more expansive the area turned. The sense of depth was additionally enhanced, with devices sitting additional behind the top. In the meantime, alongside the vertical axis, placement appeared to turn out to be extra nuanced. And the general impact is a brilliant playful and vibrant interplay between components and dimensions.
You’ll additionally hear barely higher assault or boldness within the mids, injecting tons of vitality into the supply. You may hear additional snare influence with added firmness, and rhythm guitars with enhanced definition and substance. Lastly, even on an affordable headphone, it’s possible you’ll discover considerably improved separation and layering. The bass frequencies additionally really feel a bit enhanced, making a synergistic mixture with the assured midrange frequencies. Nonetheless, the essence of your sound signature received’t be altered. The Koss KPH40 is fairly heat and clean, for instance, and people attributes have been retained.
Abstract
In a nutshell, it’s best to discover the distinction fairly putting – the audio expertise turns into grander, cleaner, richer, and extra highly effective. It takes solely moments to acknowledge a considerable improve within the efficiency of your IEMs or headphones, a leap value a number of hundred bucks, the truth is. But, the core of your headphone’s sound signature stays intact. Add to {that a} glossy, edgy design and durable construct, along with the DAR characteristic, and the HC4 turns into unbelievable worth for cash. And general, there is no query that the HC4 delivers a sound that carefully approaches the standard of A&Okay’s greatest DAPs.
You should buy the Astell & Kern HC4 at Audio 46.
