# Shanling Q2: Portable Hi-Fi Player with 4 DACs

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

- **Source:** [Yanko Design](https://brifing.si/source/41d28791-ef47-4e0b-a40a-2a5efca0c11b)
- **Published:** 2026-08-27
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/08/27/the-click-wheel-is-back-and-this-pocket-player-has-4-dacs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-click-wheel-is-back-and-this-pocket-player-has-4-dacs>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/233a2e4c-ef86-4e44-ab7a-80c78de8dced

## Big 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.

## Revolutionary 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.

## Versatile 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.

## Impressive 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.

## Operating 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.

## Price-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.

## Market 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.

## Why 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.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/08/27/the-click-wheel-is-back-and-this-pocket-player-has-4-dacs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-click-wheel-is-back-and-this-pocket-player-has-4-dacs — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._