Today we review the Shanling M5 Ultra, a new portable DAP from the Shanling. It goes for $589 USD.
Disclaimer: We received the Shanling M5 Ultra from Shanling for this review. Shanling is not related to Headfonia in any way.
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 have reviewed almost all of their portable products, including the Shanling M9 Plus, which we highly recommend. You can check that review below:
Shanling M5 Ultra
The new Shanling M5 Ultra is a classic, pure, and stylish DAP from Shanling, showcasing a fresh design language. This model introduces a new body design, moving away from smooth round lines to more aggressive angular shapes and edges. It features a machined aluminium frame, glass panels, a bright 4.7-inch HD touchscreen, three hardware buttons for playback control, and an illuminated classic volume wheel.
Inside, the M5 Ultra is equipped with the flagship AKM AK4499EX DAC and AK4191 modulator. Shanling claims the circuit design is based on their flagship M9 Plus. This is paired with a balanced TPA6120A2 amplifier, delivering 1.1W @ 32 Ohm. The player’s UI is built on the Ingenic X2000 platform for core music navigation and operation, supporting Hi-Res Tidal streaming over WiFi.
The M5 Ultra also boasts a 6000 mAh battery, 32bit/768 kHz and DSD512 support, Bluetooth 5.2, and an XMOS XU316 chip for USB DAC connection.
Packaging
The packaging of the M5 Ultra is consistent with recent Shanling products. The box showcases the device on top with accessories underneath. It comes with a pre-installed protective film on the screen, which is a nice touch and includes spare protectors for self-application.
Shanling offers a leather case for the M5 Ultra, but it comes at an additional cost and is not included in the standard package. While I received the leather case for review and found it to be excellent, it is an additional $35 if you want it.
Design & Build
The new M5 Ultra marks a departure from recent Shanling designs, embracing angular sides and sharp edges. The chassis, made entirely of aluminum, gives it a high-end feel from the moment you hold it. The compact size and aluminium body feel firm and sturdy, like a brick.
The design reminds me of the old AK240, especially when it’s in the brown leather case. The size and form factor are similar. The AK240 is still one of my favourite DAP designs ever, so the M5 Ultra evoking a similar feeling is very nice.
The outputs are positioned on top, with playback buttons and a volume wheel on the right side—a classic DAP layout. The volume wheel adds a touch of Shanling’s authenticity. However, despite the overall excellent build quality, the volume knob still wobbles when used, which doesn’t inspire confidence regarding long-term use.
The M5 Ultra’s appearance is quite appealing, and the case’s design complements the unit perfectly.
Page 2: Software, Experience, Settings, Battery, Connectivity
Page 3: Sound
Page 4: Technical Performance, Comparison, Conclusion
