Brifing

Shanling Q2: Portable Hi-Fi Player with 4 DACs

Professional sound experience in your pocket: The Click Wheel returns!

Yanko Design2 min

1Big Performance in Compact Size

The Shanling Q2 packs four Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips into a wallet-sized body (80x50x13.5mm). Weighing just 83g, it supports up to 768kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD512 playback. Its nostalgic Click Wheel interface combined with a 2.09-inch touchscreen optimizes user experience. The design, complemented by physical buttons, offers ideal ergonomics for professional users.

2Revolutionary Audio Power

With four synchronized DAC chips, it delivers 425mW power at 32Ω load through balanced 4.4mm output - enough to drive headphones most portable devices can't handle. The 3.5mm single-ended output provides 120mW power. With low and high gain options, it supports everything from in-ear monitors to full-size headphones.

3Versatile Connectivity Options

Bidirectional Bluetooth 5.2 works both as a transmitter to wireless headphones and as a DAC/amplifier for smartphones. Dual-band Wi-Fi supports AirPlay and DLNA, while Tidal integration provides direct access to cloud music libraries. microSD support up to 2TB enables offline listening.

4Impressive Battery Life

It offers 13.5 hours playback via 3.5mm output, 12.5 hours in balanced mode. As a Bluetooth receiver using LDAC codec, it lasts up to 16.5 hours - perfect for long flights or all-day use. The aluminum alloy frame with glass back panel feels premium, available in Smoky Grey, Moonlight Silver and Twilight Orange.

5Operating System & Performance

MTouch OS powered by Ingenic X2000 processor features a fast, clean interface. In USB DAC mode, it handles up to 384kHz/32-bit PCM from computers. Users enjoy both modern and nostalgic control experience through touchscreen and Click Wheel combination.

6Price-Performance Balance

Priced at $269, it positions itself in the 'serious but not extreme' portable hi-fi segment. The package includes case, USB cable and manual, available in three color options. It promises significant improvement over smartphones' built-in audio for professional headphone users.

7Market Position

The Shanling Q2 carves a solid niche in the mid-high portable audio player market. Despite its compact size, it stands out with technical specifications. Particularly attractive for high-impedance headphone users seeking portable solutions.

8Why It Matters

Shanling Q2 redefines the size-performance balance in portable hi-fi devices. Its ability to pack professional audio features into compact form factor makes it industry-leading. Offers music enthusiasts a smartphone alternative while bringing high-quality sound anywhere.

Original article: Yanko Design — Shanling Q2: 4 DAC'lı Taşınabilir Hi-Fi Oyuncu