We in this two-page article are taking a look at the $369 USD Shanling EH2 compact desktop DAC/AMP.
Disclaimer: Shanling sent us the EH2 in exchange for our honest opinion. Shanling is not related to Headfonia.
Shanling
Shanling has been in the high-fidelity audio business since 1988, making them veterans with over thirty years of experience.
Their portfolio spans everything from classic home hi-fi systems to modern portable devices like DAPs, DAC/AMPs, headphones, and earphones.
We have reviewed many Shanling products on Headfonia; you can explore more through this link. Today, we are examining the second member of their new desktop lineup, the EH series.
Shanling EH2
The EH series represents Shanling’s new line of desktop DAC/AMPs. The EH2 is positioned as the mid-range option in this line-up, especially when compared to its R2R-designed sibling, the EH1, which costs half as much as this EH2.
It follows the same concept of a basic Hi-Fi DAC, with no screens or complicated systems.
Fitted into a similarly shaped aluminium body, just twice the depth, it is still ideally formed for desk spaces. There are tone controls for bass and treble adjustments as well.
At the core of the EH2 is an advanced 24-bit R2R DAC module, reflecting Shanling’s heritage with the renowned PCM1704 DACs found in models such as the CD-T300 and HDCD-H24.
This design choice underscores a commitment to high-fidelity audio reproduction, leveraging the R2R architecture for its precision in signal conversion and dynamic range performance.
The headphone amplifier is based on BD139/BD140 transistors and optimised for high-end, full-size Headphones.
Offering up to 4.3w @ 32Ω on its 4.4mm balanced output, while its single-ended 6.35mm output brings 1.3w @ 32Ω for the more modest models.
An additional circuit is added for the RCA and 4.4mm Line-out/Pre-out, based on the OPA1612, offering a pure R2R output.
The USB input is upgraded to a Hi-Fi level with an XMOS XU316 module, next to which Shanling slotted both the coaxial and optical SPDIF inputs.
As a bonus, the Qualcomm QCC5125 offers Bluetooth 5.2 compatibility for seamless wireless connectivity, ensuring a top-quality connection with LDAC and aptX Adaptive codecs.
Packaging & Accessories
The EH2 arrives in a plain cardboard box with its outline featured on the front. There is no outer sleeve or anything similar; it’s just simple, essential packaging.
The unit is securely held inside the box by four thick foam walls, protecting it from damage during transport.
Inside the box, Shanling provides a 1.5m USB-A to USB-C cable, a dedicated wall adapter, a BT antenna, and a gold-plated 6.35mm to 3.5mm adapter.
A user manual and a Shanling product booklet are also included. The USB cable is not braided and looks rather basic. The unboxing experience is nothing special.
Design & Build
The EH2 shares a close design lineage with the EH1, distinguished primarily by its increased depth while maintaining the same footprint, making it compatible with standard desktop setups.
One of its standout features is the rounded chassis, which contrasts with the conventional angular designs in desktop equipment.
This design choice reflects Shanling’s commitment to blending modern aesthetics with retro influences, creating a harmonious visual appeal.
The front panel, constructed from glossy tempered glass, enhances the device’s depth, while silver accents on the buttons and knobs provide a striking visual contrast.
Constructed from aluminium with an anodised finish, the EH2’s chassis not only feels cool to the touch but also exudes durability.
All ports exhibit a robust construction, and I have not encountered any issues with assembly quality or finish imperfections.
The headphone outputs, situated conveniently at the front, offer both a 4.4 mm balanced and a 6.35 mm unbalanced output.
The power and gain buttons have a square profile that delivers a satisfying tactile feedback. Additionally, the non-slip feet ensure stability, preventing any unwanted movement.
The central volume control knob operates smoothly, featuring an exceptionally sleek surface.
The bass and treble tone controls are somewhat difficult to operate, as they feature narrower potentiometer bodies that require a firmer grip due to higher mechanical resistance, making swift adjustments more cumbersome.
Sound
The EH2 can be classified as a neutral-to-warm DAC, featuring tone controls that facilitate quick adjustments to its sonic signature.
In its default setting, the sound profile presents a balanced response characterized by a subtly accentuated mid-bass and a conservatively tuned treble—attributes that align with typical Shanling house sound.
The audio delivery is notable for its balanced, relaxed, and smooth presentation, while still achieving precise stereo imaging.
The EH2 particularly shines in terms of dynamism and resolution, consistently providing clear and distinct audio across the entire frequency spectrum.
A key strength of the EH2 is its fidelity to the original sound, staying true to the hallmark characteristics of the Shanling house sound without imposing excessive alterations.
This fidelity underscores its competence as a source. However, one drawback is its staging performance, which lacks depth and can come across as somewhat hollow and linear, falling short of the dimensionality one might expect.
The EH2 boasts a well-balanced tonality, featuring smooth treble and rich mid-bass that suits genres such as EDM, R&B, and hip-hop.
The article continues on the second page. Click here or use the jumps below.
Page 2: Sound, Tuning Controls, I/O, NOS vs OS, Comparisons, Conclusion
