The Fostex HP-A3MK2 is a USB DAC that converts digital audio to analog audio. The unit is capable of handling up to a 32-bit, 192 kHz digital audio source from your computer’s USB port. Additionally, the HP-A3MK2 includes S/PDIF optical I/O that supports 32 to 96 kHz / 32-bit.

The HP-A3MK2 features a dual RCA line output and a 1/4″ headphone output that’s powered by integrated headphone amplifier. The unit is USB bus powered regardless of input routing choice and does not have a separate AC input. The input and output routing is selectable by front panel selector buttons.

High-Quality Sound Reproduction

High-quality sound reproduction can be easily achieved by simply connecting a USB cable to a PC.

USB audio and optical digital audio signals from a PC can be converted to analog signals and output from the line output terminal and headphone output terminal.

When used as a USB DAC, it operates with the USB Audio 2.0 driver of the PC (Windows or macOS) and supports up to 32-bit/192 kHz. It can be used immediately after connecting the USB cable and performing simple settings.

ESS Technology DAC

ES9016K2M from ESS Technology is used as the DAC chip

The HP-A3 uses a high-quality DAC chip, and the supported sampling frequency has been greatly enhanced from 24-bit/96 kHz of the HP-A3 to 32-bit/192 kHz. This allows users to enjoy higher quality sound without sacrificing ease of use.

S/P DIF input is limited to a maximum of 96 kHz

Improved Analog Circuitry

The analog circuitry has been newly designed to match the higher supported sampling frequency, and has improved THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) and other performance features that are comparable to those of high-end products.

Gain Switch

The headphone output amplifier gain can now be switched between Hi and Lo positions, with the Hi position providing a 10 dB increase in volume over the Lo position.

The Hi position is effective for low-level input signals and can be used with a variety of playback sources.

Product Specifications:

Inputs:

USB Terminal: USB Type-C (USB 2.0 High Speed)

Sampling/Quantization: Up to 192 kHz / 32-bit

Digital Input: Rectangular optical, S/PDIF (3296 kHz)

Outputs:

Headphones (PHONES Jack):

Connector: Standard 6.3 mm stereo phone jack

Maximum Output: 100 mW (32 load), 20 mW (300 load)

Load Impedance: 16

THD: 0.03 % (32 load @ 1 kHz, 100 mW output)

Frequency Response: 20 Hz 20 kHz (0.3 dB)

Analog Line Output (L/R):

Connector: RCA pin jacks

Output Level: 2 Vrms (0 dBFS, VR: MAX)

Load Impedance: 10 k

THD: 0.005 % (1 kHz)

Frequency Response: 20 Hz 20 kHz (0.3 dB

Digital Output:

Connector: Rectangular optical

Format: S/PDIF (follows input signal Fs)

General:

Power Supply: DC 5 V (via USB)

Power Consumption: 2.5 W

Dimensions: 113 mm (W) 34 mm (H, excl. rubber feet) 155 mm (D, incl. projections)

Accessories: USB Type-A to Type-C cable (1 m), rubber feet (x4), user manual

Weight: 1 lbs.

Shipping Dimensions: 6.1 x 4.4 x 1.3 inches

Shipping Weight: 2 lbs.