Shanling M1 Plus

General Information

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Compact sized DAP with MTouch OS, WiFi connectivity and Tidal.

Shanling M1 Plus

Latest reviews

Ichos

Reviewer at hxosplus
Back to the roots
Pros: + Neutral and balanced sound signature
+ Competitive technicalities
+ Spacious soundstage with good imaging
+ Minimum digital glare
+ Powerful amplifier for the size
+ Silent background
+ Responsive user interface
+ Double tap to wake the screen
+ DLNA and Airplay support
+ Embedded Tidal application
+ WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
+ Compact and lightweight
+ Ease of use
+ Excellent build quality
+ Very affordable
Cons: - Doesn't support other streaming services except Tidal
- Can't download and install apps
- Average battery duration
- Rather thick body
- Small and low resolution screen
- Fonts are difficult to read and can't be enlarged
- The Tidal application doesn't support gapless playback
- The protective case is not included as a standard
Shanling is well-established brand in the audio industry, having specialized in portable and desktop audio equipment for over three decades. Their range of products, including earphones, portable audio players such as the M0 Pro, USB DAC dongles like the UA1 Plus, and stationary devices, has garnered praise from both professional reviewers and audio enthusiasts.

A recent addition to their diverse lineup is the Shanling M1 Plus, a compact digital audio player that offers essential features and wireless connectivity. This model serves as an upgrade to the M1S and occupies a space between the entry-level M0 Pro and the more advanced M3 Ultra. Notably, all three players utilize Shanling’s proprietary MTouch interface rather than the widely used Android operating system. The M1 Plus is a more affordable sibling of the M5 Ultra that also uses the MTouch OS.

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Technical highlights

The Shanling M1 Plus audio circuit utilizes the ESS ES9069Q DAC chip, paired with dual SGM8262 amplifiers to achieve a fully balanced output stage capable of delivering up to 660mW at 32Ω.

In terms of advanced features, the M1 Plus incorporates Shanling's proprietary FPGA signal processing technology, which is enhanced by dual independent clocks sourced from the Japanese company KDS. Additionally, the circuit board is equipped with high-quality electronic components, including ELNA Silmic II capacitors.

Non Audio stuff

The Shanling M1 Plus features a chassis constructed from aluminum alloy, complemented by tempered glass panels on both the front and back. With dimensions of 86 x 61 x 17 mm and a weight of just 116 grams, it is both compact and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for portable use. While some users may perceive it as slightly thick, it comfortably fits in the palm of the hand.

The design showcases a minimalistic yet contemporary aesthetic, characterized by an ergonomic asymmetrical shape that enhances handling and grip. It includes three buttons for playback control and a backlit volume wheel that also functions as the power on/off switch.

The build quality is exceptional; the M1 Plus is meticulously crafted and finished, giving it the appearance of a premium digital audio player that far exceeds its price point.

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Connectivity

The M1 Plus, despite its compact size, provides an extensive range of connectivity options. It features bi-directional Bluetooth V5.2, a two-way USB connection, a 3.5mm coaxial SPDIF output, and Wi-Fi capabilities for DLNA/Airplay, along with local playback via a micro SD card.

Additionally, the M1 Plus includes two headphone outputs (one 3.5mm single-ended and one 4.4mm balanced), a USB type-C input, and a micro SD card slot.

This device can function as a Digital Audio Player (DAP), a USB Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC), or a USB/SPDIF digital transport to an external DAC. In USB DAC mode, it supports PCM decoding up to 384kHz/32bit and DSD256, while local playback capabilities extend to 768kHz/32bit DSD512. A notable feature of the USB mode is the option to enable or disable battery charging based on the specific usage scenario.

Bluetooth and Wireless connectivity

The Bluetooth is bidirectional and compatible with LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs, providing reliable performance and range within a room. It automatically switches to receiver mode when earphones are connected and reverts to transmitter mode upon disconnection.

You can utilize DLNA and Airplay to access music libraries connected to your home network or stream music from different streaming services. The most effective method is to launch the BubbleUPnP application and choose the M1 Plus as the music renderer. I tested it with Qobuz, and it functioned smoothly, although there was a slight delay when skipping tracks.

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User experience

The device operates on the Ingenic X2000 platform and features Shanling's latest MTouch OS, designed for efficient and straightforward audio playback. Users can access and play local files stored on the SD card or stream music via the integrated Tidal application. However, the M1 Plus does not support additional streaming services, and no other applications can be installed.

The MTouch interface includes standard library search functionalities and offers extensive customization options similar to other Android players. Available features encompass home screen and playback configurations, eight digital filters, display and idle settings, in-vehicle mode, a parametric equalizer and others. Additionally, it provides a drop-down menu with shortcuts to frequently used functions, such as amplifier gain and direct access to playback or system settings.

The MTouch OS powers up almost immediately, providing a seamless and responsive user experience, although this is slightly affected by the small 3.2-inch screen with a resolution of 320x480.

Browsing functionality is satisfactory, cover art is rendered accurately, and the screen features a double-tap to wake function. However, there are notable drawbacks, including limited maximum brightness, font sizes that are too small for comfortable reading, and a virtual keyboard that resembles an outdated keypad design.

Additionally, the player allows for online firmware updates, provided an SD card is inserted, and it is also compatible with Shanling's Eddict player application.

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Tidal application

The M1 Plus natively supports only one streaming service: Tidal. This service provides access to its entire library and your saved favorites, although it does not offer offline content. The login process is straightforward; simply use a smartphone with the Tidal app installed to scan the QR code displayed on the M1 Plus.

The application operates seamlessly, delivering smooth playback and efficient search capabilities. However, a drawback is the lack of gapless playback, which is supported in local playback mode on the M1 Plus. This issue is a glitch that should be addressed in an upcoming firmware update.

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Battery duration

The MTouch OS, combined with the energy-efficient Ingenic X2000 processor, offers a notable benefit: the M1 Plus, equipped with a modest 2100mAh battery, provides approximately 8-9 hours of playback time when streaming music from Tidal at a balanced output. While this may not be exceptional, it is a commendable duration considering the compact size of the device, further enhanced by its capability for rapid 15W charging. You can get even better battery duration if you play local files.

Accessories

The package contains a USB Type-C to Type-A cable, a screen protector, and accompanying documentation. For an additional nominal fee, a protective case can be purchased. This high-quality case fits the device perfectly; however, it slightly restricts the use of the volume wheel.

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Power and noise

The M1 Plus, despite its compact design, delivers impressive power output of 660mW at 32Ω from the balanced output and 195mW at 32Ω from the single-ended output. This level of power surpasses that of most USB DAC dongles, enabling it to effectively drive a wide range of earphones and many full-sized headphones. It handled headphones such as the Aune SR7000 effortlessly, while maintaining complete silence and noise-free performance with sensitive earphones like the Juzear Dragonfly 81T.

Audio stuff

The audio quality of the Shanling M1 Plus is exceptional, rivaling that of higher-end digital audio players such as the Shanling M3 Ultra and the FiiO M11S. It significantly surpasses most USB DAC dongles in terms of power output and minimizes background noise. The sound profile strikes a balance between clarity and fidelity, delivering a musical and engaging listening experience.

The M1 Plus maintains a neutral sound with impressive technical capabilities, all while preserving a natural timbre that avoids excessive artificiality or digital harshness.

The bass response is deep and weighty, characterized by a punchy and impactful delivery that remains tight, well-paced, and controlled, while also providing a satisfying level of definition and layering for its category.

The mid-range presents a rich, harmonious, and vibrant sound profile, characterized by realistic timbre and natural tonal colors. Both voices and instruments exhibit a lifelike quality, while the performance remains impressively linear and transparent.

The treble is bright and dynamic, showcasing a significant degree of luminosity typical of an ESS DAC chip. However, the engineers have successfully managed to maintain a balance, preventing excessive brightness and sharpness.

The retrieval of micro details is satisfying, and the M1 Plus stands out as exceptionally resolving and refined within its category. While the timbre retains a natural quality, it is not entirely free from digital artifacts, and the textures demonstrate good continuity, albeit with a slight reduction in weight compared to the lower frequencies.

The soundstage produced by the balanced output exhibits naturally expanded dimensions, impressive depth layering, ample inner space, and accurate imaging.

While it may not achieve the holographic and immersive qualities found in higher-end digital audio players, it remains sufficiently grand and convincing for large-scale compositions. When paired with a quality set of earphones, you will be pleasantly surprised by its expressive and outgoing character.

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Comparison with the FiiO JM21

The JM21, priced at $199, is FiiO's (or Jade Audio, if you prefer) newly launched digital audio player (DAP) in the entry-level segment, a category the brand had previously overlooked.

This device provides a comprehensive Android 13 experience and features an audio circuit that incorporates dual CS43198 DAC chips and dual SGM8262 amplifiers, ensuring a fully balanced output. The JM21 offers slightly greater power than the M1 Plus, delivering 700mW compared to 660mW, and boasts a slightly longer battery life. (Battery duration was tested in steaming conditions)

With a larger 4.7-inch display, the JM21 is ultra-thin but not as compact or lightweight as the M1 Plus, weighing 156g versus 116g. The M1 Plus is also constructed with a higher-quality finish, as the FiiO model utilizes a plastic back cover to reduce weight.

Connectivity options are largely similar; the JM21 features true line outputs that bypass the amplifier stage, while both players deliver excellent sound quality with only minor differences in audio characteristics.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on size and weight. Those seeking a more compact and lightweight player, who are willing to forgo certain features, may prefer the M1 Plus. In contrast, others might opt for the more feature-rich yet larger and heavier FiiO JM21.

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Conclusion

The Shanling M1 Plus is a compact and lightweight digital audio player that boasts impressive build quality and excellent sound performance for its price point. It covers all the essential features, although it lacks support for certain streaming services such as Spotify.

It is encouraging to see that several audio manufacturers continue to invest in the entry-level DAP market, catering to enthusiasts who prefer playing audio files over streaming and value the independence offered by a dedicated DAP instead of relying on a mobile phone with a USB DAC dongle.

Using a traditional DAP has numerous advantages and the Shanling M1 Plus stands out as an outstanding option for those seeking portability without compromising on sound quality and functionality.

While there are even more compact alternatives, like the Shanling M0 Pro, or feature-rich options such as the FiiO JM21, the M1 Plus strikes an ideal balance between size and performance, making it an excellent choice.

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The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. I don't use affiliate links. The price of the Shanling M1 Plus is $209 or $215 with the protective case and you can buy it from here.

Disclaimer: For various Google indexing reasons, parts of this review have been processed with an automatic paragraph rewriting tool. However it reads exactly the same as the original content that is available in my website.
Last edited:
H
HARD SOUND
Could you describe in more detail the difference in sound between Fiio JM21 and M1+?
Ichos
Ichos
The JM21 is slightly more clean and maybe a touch more bright. A little more open soundstage too. The M1 Plus is just slightly warmer, thicker note weight and fuller bass. Very minimal differences to the point that someone novice would think that they sound identical.

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