Shanling EH3 Review

Today we’re sharing the review of the Shanling EH3, the brand’s new desktop DAC/Amp which costs $800 USD.

Disclaimer: The Shanling EH3 was sent to us directly from Shanling—big thanks to them for helping me get this device. The review reflects my honest opinion as always.

About Shanling

Shanling has been designing and manufacturing high-quality Hi-Fi products since 1988. Their range includes high-end CD players and stylish tube amps, all crafted with precision and offering top-of-the-line performance.

Shanling also develops a complete range of players and IEMs. We reviewed almost all of their portable products, including the Shanling M9 Plus, which is a recommended unit. You can check that review just below:

Shanling EH3

Built on the success of the EM5 Streamer, the EH3 fulfils the demand for a simpler and more elegant device, according to Shanling. The new EH3 utilizes flagship ESS ES9039SPRO 8-channel DAC with a fully balanced amplifier around four OPA1612. With in-house developed FPGA, KDS crystal oscillators and XMOS XU316 USB Chip, it’s a well-rounded and complete unit. The EH3 also has a dual power supply system, partitioned between Analog and Digital sections to minimize interference.

Shanling EH3 is the brand’s second most powerful amplifier just behind the EM7. It delivers;

• up to 1.9W @ 32 Ohm // 205mW @ 300 Ohm in Single-Ended
• 5.3W @ 32 Ohm // 700mW @ 300 Ohm in Balanced

Usability

The Ingenic X2000, the same system and control interface as the ET3 CD Transport, powers the EH3. It has a central multifunctional wheel that serves for both volume control, on/off function, and menu navigation. The top panel has playback and input buttons. Users can navigate the circular screen on the front of the device or use the Eddict Player app as a remote control from smartphones and tablets. EH3 also comes with a remote controller.

Connectivity

EH3 comes with wireless playback, including Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4G/5G Wi-Fi. It can work as a Bluetooth receiver and supports LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs. It also connects to local Wi-Fi networks and can serve as an Airplay 1 or DLNA endpoint. EH3 has a variety of inputs and outputs, including USB, Optical, Coaxial, and I2S HDMI for DAC use, as well as RCA Analog inputs for amplifier functionality.

The device features 4 headphone outputs, including single-ended outputs through 3.5mm and 6.35mm jacks, as well as balanced output through 4.4mm jack and 4-pin XLR.

EH3 was primarily designed as a companion to Shanling’s own ET3 CD transport, over the high-quality I2S connection, with the new L8 cable, and with all-to-DSD processing, for the ultimate CD playback.

Design and Build Quality

The design is familiar from other Shanling products so far, with a slick and simple approach. Crafted with high-quality materials such as aluminium and other sturdy components, the EH3 gives a premium feel. Its robust chassis not only enhances durability but also aids in heat dissipation, important for maintaining optimal performance over extended periods. There are also heat dissipation vents on both sides of the device.

The design features a well-organized interface, comprising clearly labeled ports and buttons. The layout enhances user experience, making it convenient to access various functions without much complication.

You might feel that the top markings, such as the MQA badge, Hi-Res Audio markings, or the block diagram, are a bit unnecessary. It would have been better if they had followed a similar approach to the flagship M30 unit, which displays small areas of the circuit board, but this one is all enclosed.

The topic of design is always subjective, but I doubt anyone would find a flaw in EH3’s build quality. The device is exceptionally well-built, featuring a glass front and a complete aluminium wrap-around chassis. It feels like a rock-solid device from top to bottom, and the volume control is particularly impressive with good rigidity and satisfying clicks. All of the ports, inputs, and outputs are also nicely built, leaving me with zero complaints.

Page 2: User Experience, Sound Quality

Page 3: Technical Performance, Comparisons, Conclusion