We on this two-page article are having a look on the $369 USD Shanling EH2 compact desktop DAC/AMP.
Disclaimer: Shanling despatched us the EH2 in trade for our sincere opinion. Shanling is just not associated to Headfonia.
Shanling
Shanling has been within the high-fidelity audio enterprise since 1988, making them veterans with over thirty years of expertise.
Their portfolio spans every little thing from basic dwelling hi-fi techniques to fashionable transportable gadgets like DAPs, DAC/AMPs, headphones, and earphones.
We’ve got reviewed many Shanling merchandise on Headfonia; you possibly can discover extra by way of this hyperlink. As we speak, we’re inspecting the second member of their new desktop lineup, the EH sequence.
Shanling EH2
The EH sequence represents Shanling’s new line of desktop DAC/AMPs. The EH2 is positioned because the mid-range possibility on this line-up, particularly when in comparison with its R2R-designed sibling, the EH1, which prices half as a lot as this EH2.
It follows the identical idea of a primary Hello-Fi DAC, with no screens or difficult techniques.
Fitted right into a equally formed aluminium physique, simply twice the depth, it’s nonetheless ideally fashioned for desk areas. There are tone controls for bass and treble changes as properly.
On the core of the EH2 is a sophisticated 24-bit R2R DAC module, reflecting Shanling’s heritage with the famend PCM1704 DACs present in fashions such because the CD-T300 and HDCD-H24.
This design selection underscores a dedication to high-fidelity audio copy, leveraging the R2R structure for its precision in sign conversion and dynamic vary efficiency.
The headphone amplifier relies on BD139/BD140 transistors and optimised for high-end, full-size Headphones.
Providing as much as 4.3w @ 32Ω on its 4.4mm balanced output, whereas its single-ended 6.35mm output brings 1.3w @ 32Ω for the extra modest fashions.
A further circuit is added for the RCA and 4.4mm Line-out/Pre-out, primarily based on the OPA1612, providing a pure R2R output.
The USB enter is upgraded to a Hello-Fi degree with an XMOS XU316 module, subsequent to which Shanling slotted each the coaxial and optical SPDIF inputs.
As a bonus, the Qualcomm QCC5125 affords Bluetooth 5.2 compatibility for seamless wi-fi connectivity, making certain a top-quality reference to LDAC and aptX Adaptive codecs.
Packaging & Equipment
The EH2 arrives in a plain cardboard field with its define featured on the entrance. There isn’t a outer sleeve or something comparable; it’s simply easy, important packaging.
The unit is securely held contained in the field by 4 thick foam partitions, defending it from injury throughout transport.
Contained in the field, Shanling offers a 1.5m USB-A to USB-C cable, a devoted wall adapter, a BT antenna, and a gold-plated 6.35mm to three.5mm adapter.
A person guide and a Shanling product booklet are additionally included. The USB cable is just not braided and appears slightly primary. The unboxing expertise is nothing particular.
Design & Construct
The EH2 shares a detailed design lineage with the EH1, distinguished primarily by its elevated depth whereas sustaining the identical footprint, making it appropriate with commonplace desktop setups.
Certainly one of its standout options is the rounded chassis, which contrasts with the traditional angular designs in desktop tools.
This design selection displays Shanling’s dedication to mixing fashionable aesthetics with retro influences, making a harmonious visible enchantment.
The entrance panel, constructed from shiny tempered glass, enhances the system’s depth, whereas silver accents on the buttons and knobs present a putting visible distinction.
Constructed from aluminium with an anodised end, the EH2’s chassis not solely feels cool to the contact but additionally exudes sturdiness.
All ports exhibit a strong building, and I’ve not encountered any points with meeting high quality or end imperfections.
The headphone outputs, located conveniently on the entrance, provide each a 4.4 mm balanced and a 6.35 mm unbalanced output.
The ability and acquire buttons have a sq. profile that delivers a satisfying tactile suggestions. Moreover, the non-slip toes guarantee stability, stopping any undesirable motion.
The central quantity management knob operates easily, that includes an exceptionally glossy floor.
The bass and treble tone controls are considerably tough to function, as they function narrower potentiometer our bodies that require a firmer grip on account of increased mechanical resistance, making swift changes extra cumbersome.
Sound
The EH2 may be labeled as a neutral-to-warm DAC, that includes tone controls that facilitate fast changes to its sonic signature.
In its default setting, the sound profile presents a balanced response characterised by a subtly accentuated mid-bass and a conservatively tuned treble—attributes that align with typical Shanling home sound.
The audio supply is notable for its balanced, relaxed, and clean presentation, whereas nonetheless attaining exact stereo imaging.
The EH2 notably shines when it comes to dynamism and determination, constantly offering clear and distinct audio throughout the complete frequency spectrum.
A key power of the EH2 is its constancy to the unique sound, staying true to the hallmark traits of the Shanling home sound with out imposing extreme alterations.
This constancy underscores its competence as a supply. Nevertheless, one downside is its staging efficiency, which lacks depth and may come throughout as considerably hole and linear, falling in need of the dimensionality one would possibly anticipate.
The EH2 boasts a well-balanced tonality, that includes clean treble and wealthy mid-bass that fits genres comparable to EDM, R&B, and hip-hop.
The article continues on the second web page. Click on right here or use the jumps under.
Web page 2: Sound, Tuning Controls, I/O, NOS vs OS, Comparisons, Conclusion
