Shanling SM90 – Compact Network Player with HDMI ARC

Shanling has introduced the SM90 network player, a compact device designed not only for music playback over a network, but also to serve as the central hub of a home stereo system. One of the key features of the new model is its HDMI ARC input, which makes it possible to connect a TV directly to a two-channel audio setup, without the need for an AV receiver or soundbar. In the network player segment, this is no longer just an extra feature, but a clear sign of how expectations for this class of equipment are changing.

A streamer with HDMI ARC is no longer an exotic concept in itself, but in the case of the Shanling SM90 this capability is not included merely as a formality. Instead, it stands as one of the defining elements of the model’s overall concept. The manufacturer is clearly targeting users who want a single system for both music and TV sound, without cluttering their rack with unnecessary components or moving into the more complex AV category.

In hardware terms, the Shanling SM90 uses two AK4493S digital-to-analog converters from Asahi Kasei. The device runs on a closed Android 12 platform and is equipped with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of built-in storage. Control is handled via a 4.96-inch touchscreen with 1080p resolution. In its design, the SM90 does not try to present itself as an experimental novelty, but rather reflects a practical and already mature approach to the implementation of a modern network source.

Its networking and wireless feature set has been assembled with broad compatibility for current usage scenarios in mind. Support is provided for Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, AirPlay 2, DLNA, Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.2 with the LDAC codec. In addition, users have access to built-in apps for popular streaming platforms. At the same time, Roon Ready status had not yet been fully confirmed at the time of announcement, and for some users this may be an important consideration.

Shanling has paid particular attention to connectivity. In addition to HDMI ARC, the model is equipped with a USB audio input, optical and coaxial inputs and outputs, analog RCA outputs, balanced XLR outputs, and a slot for installing an internal SSD. With this feature set, the SM90 goes beyond the scope of a conventional streamer: in effect, it becomes a universal system hub capable of bringing together a TV, digital sources, streaming services, and a traditional stereo system in one place.

It is in this context that the Shanling SM90 appears especially relevant. The market is gradually moving away from the idea of the network player as a narrowly specialized device intended only for music. Increasingly, such components are expected to take on the role of a central control point through which music content, TV sound, and external digital sources all pass. The SM90 fits precisely into this new logic of home audio system use.

Sales of the Shanling SM90 are expected to begin in April 2026. The recommended retail price of the new model will be US$969.