CD / SACD players and transports — Shanling EC Zero AKM

Shanling's EC Zero AKM is a portable CD player using an AKM AK4493S DAC together with dual SGM8262-2 op-amps in the amplification stage. It is the more affordable version of the EC Zero T, which sits above it in the range. Shanling gave this model a simpler DAC and amplifier stage to reach a $319 MSRP, while keeping the same build, the same stable CD mechanism and the full set of connections of the costlier player.

Key specs that matter

The AK4493S belongs to AKM's Velvet Sound chip family. In USB DAC mode, PCM is supported up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512. There are two headphone outputs, a 3.5mm single-ended jack and a 4.4mm balanced jack, each with two gain settings. From the balanced output, low gain gives 211mW into 32 ohms, high gain on battery reaches 525mW, and high gain with external power rises to 836mW into 32 ohms. Output impedance is below one ohm, chosen with in-ear monitor users in mind.

Engineering and use context

Both jacks can also work as fixed-level line outputs, so the player can drive active speakers or a separate amplifier on a desk. A combined 3.5mm coaxial and optical SPDIF output turns it into a transport for an outboard DAC. Bluetooth 5.3 handles aptX Adaptive, aptX and SBC for wireless headphones. Discs can be ripped over USB without a computer. An active magnetic disc clamp works together with an anti-skip mechanism to keep playback stable while the player is carried. The 5,500mAh battery lasts up to 10 hours with wired headphones and up to 18 hours with wireless ones, and charging is over USB-C from a 5V/2A supply. The aluminium-alloy body measures 158 x 150 x 28mm and weighs 575g, with a tempered-glass lid that shows the spinning disc and a 1.68-inch colour LCD. An optional PU leather carrying case costs $39.

Pairing

The low output impedance suits sensitive IEMs, and the extra power available from the balanced jack covers more demanding portable headphones. At a desk, the line outputs and digital output let it act as the source or transport for a separate DAC or amplifier.

Alternatives

The Shanling EC Zero T is the step up, replacing the AKM converter and op-amps with a custom R2R DAC and a tube output stage while sharing the same CD mechanism and chassis.