Shanling EC Zero T

Shanling EC Zero T

With the Shanling EC Zero T, Shanling ushers in a new era for the portable CD player. While the physical media market is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, the EC Zero T positions itself at the top of this segment - designed for the true audiophile who seeks uncompromising sound quality anywhere.

The EC Zero T combines classic CD playback with modern high-end audio technology. The heart of this unit consists of an R2R-DAC combined with a tube output, a rare and sophisticated configuration that provides an exceptionally warm, smooth and analog sound. This unique combination delivers a listening experience that is both musically and emotionally immersive - an ode to pure sound reproduction in portable form.

Like its AKM counterpart, the EC Zero T features a professional CD mechanism with a modified servo system and an active magnetic disc stabilizer. This ensures extremely stable reading, minimal vibration and smooth, noise-free reproduction of every CD. The custom motor with palladium-coated brushes ensures durable performance and precise rotation, the basis for its refined and stable sound image.

The elegant design reflects Shanling's passion for audio aesthetics. The CNC-machined aluminum housing, tempered glass top plate and retro-inspired user interface combine classic charm with modern finesse. Every detail - from the illuminated controls to the manual volume control - exudes craftsmanship and precision.

Under the hood, the EC Zero T delivers powerful and refined sound, with an output power of 836mW @ 32Ω (balanced). Thanks to its carefully tuned tube stage, it offers natural warmth, rich in harmonics, with a smooth reproduction that captures the essence of analog listening - but in a modern, portable format.

The 5500mAh battery ensures long-lasting listening time, with up to 10 hours of playback time via headphone outputs and up to 18.5 hours via Bluetooth. In addition, the player supports USB-DAC functionality (PCM768 / DSD512) and Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Adaptive, aptX and SBC, for seamless wireless transmission of high-resolution audio. With connections for 3.5mm, 4.4mm, coaxial, optical and line-out, the EC Zero T integrates effortlessly into any listening setup.

As icing on the cake, it features a CD stripping function that allows CDs to be converted directly to WAV files (FAT32 storage only). This allows music lovers to digitally archive their physical collection without compromising on quality. The volume slider and lockable side controls make operation intuitive and practical, while staying true to Shanling's philosophy: pure audio, with style and soul.

Hifi.co.uk Rating 4.5 out of 5

"The EC Zero T may come across as a gimmick at first. But it's a higher-level portable CD player than nostalgia products you can pick up for less than 200 euros. It's a solidly built thing that focuses on playing music CDs, giving you a surprising number of options." Read more...