A flagship-level USB DAC, A New IEM collaboration with VOLK Audio, and ACTIVO’s latest in-ear monitors highlight the year’s finale
Astell&Kern, a global leader in high-resolution audio players and accessories, announces the debut of three new products created to elevate listening across every category: STELLA, a flagship in-ear monitor developed in collaboration with VOLK Audio and GRAMMY-winning mastering engineer Michael Graves; AK HC5, a next-generation USB DAC cable that brings Astell&Kern’s flagship DAC architecture to a compact form; and ACTIVO Scoop, an all-new multi-driver IEM shaped by the brand’s pursuit of deeper, smoother, more natural sound.
Together, these products represent the latest evolution of Astell&Kern and ACTIVO’s mission to deliver truth in sound through precision engineering, acoustic innovation, and refined industrial design.
Astell&Kern fans can experience all three products in person from 13–14 December 2025 at Potafes Akihabara in Japan and the 2025 Guangzhou Headphone Show in China.
All three products will be available for purchase at authorized Astell&Kern retailers worldwide in late December 2025/early January 2026.
Astell&Kern AK HC5: Compact Form, Complete Perfection
The new AK HC5 sets a new benchmark for USB DAC performance, delivering flagship-grade sound in an ultra-portable form. Featuring the AK4499EX DAC, a component previously found only in Astell&Kern’s top-tier DAPs, paired with the AK4191EQ digital processor, the HC5 perfectly separates digital and analog stages, minimizing noise and revealing extraordinary detail.
Borrowing Astell&Kern’s High Driving Mode from the SP4000, the HC5 uses a horizontally arranged OPAMP architecture to deliver high-output driving power, greater density, and dynamic depth. A dual noise-shielded cable structure ensures clean, stable signal transmission, while a 1.62-inch OLED display and 150-step volume wheel provide precision control and elevated usability.
With support for DAR (Digital Audio Remaster), six DAC filters, and UAC 1.0/2.0 for wide device compatibility, including gaming consoles, the AK HC5 brings uncompromising Astell&Kern performance to any smartphone, laptop, gaming, or portable device.
The AK HC5 will retail for $450 (US pricing TBD).
Astell&Kern × VOLK Audio STELLA: The Single Pursuit of Truth in Sound
STELLA is the culmination of three disciplines guided by a single pursuit of truth in sound:
- Astell&Kern, representing the precision of modern engineering
- VOLK Audio, defining the architecture of design and acoustic form
- Michael Graves, the five-time GRAMMY Award–winning mastering engineer who understands the line between control and emotion
Built on a 12-driver quadbrid system with a 6-way crossover network and five precision sound tubes, STELLA unites four transducer technologies — dynamic, balanced armature, planar magnetic, and electrostatic, into one coherent acoustic architecture. Each component was developed for its distinct role and tuned through precise control of phase, pressure, and motion to achieve tonal accuracy, spatial coherence, and full-spectrum balance.
Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, combined with a stainless-steel faceplate frame and 9H sapphire crystal, the chassis reflects the same discipline that shapes its sound: nothing decorative, nothing redundant. Every contour, cavity, and vent exists to preserve acoustic integrity.
STELLA represents an unprecedented collaboration where engineering, design, and artistry converge into an instrument meticulously crafted for mastering-level precision yet deeply engaging for personal listening.
The Astell&Kern × VOLK Audio STELLA will be available for $3,900.
ACTIVO Scoop: Deeper. Smoother. More Natural.
ACTIVO, the audio brand by Astell&Kern, focuses on promoting an active lifestyle, with music as the companion on your journey. With ACTIVO, music isn't just a background; it's the force that propels your life forward.
Shaped by the belief that great sound should feel effortless and fluid, ACTIVO Scoop introduces a new approach to multi-driver in-ear design. Inspired by the gentle, polished form of a pebble, Scoop pairs its smooth exterior with an equally refined acoustic core.
A 3DD + 2BA configuration, featuring a single 8mm dynamic driver, dual 6mm dynamic drivers, and dual balanced armatures, delivers a natural, resonant sound signature from rich, full-bodied lows to crisp, articulate highs. A proprietary internal acoustic port and a dedicated terminal-stage circuit ensure seamless driver integration and clean, stable performance.
Its premium hybrid cable (silver-plated copper + OFC) enhances signal transmission and durability, while universal connectors (3.5mm, 4.4mm, USB-C) allow effortless compatibility with audio players, smartphones, and laptops.
Designed for comfort, tuned for fluidity, and crafted for all-day listening, Scoop brings ACTIVO’s philosophy of deeper, smoother, more natural sound to a broader audience.
The ACTIVO Scoop will be available for $80 (US pricing TBD).
STELLA, AK HC5 and ACTIVO Scoop will be available for purchase at authorized Astell&Kern dealers worldwide.
