Shanling has introduced the SM50, its smallest and most affordable Hi-Fi music streamer yet, built around a new, streamlined Linux-based system instead of the Android platform used in earlier Shanling streamers.
A smaller, faster streaming platform
The Shanling SM50 swaps Android for a Linux-based streaming system, which Shanling says runs leaner and faster than the Android builds found in the rest of its “50 line.” It keeps the same compact footprint as those siblings, at 20.5 x 18.8 x 5.3 cm, and pairs it with a 4.5-inch 1080p touchscreen for on-device control.
Streaming services and whole-home connectivity
On the streaming side, the SM50 supports Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect and Roon Ready, alongside DLNA, AirPlay 2, Squeezelite and NAS playback, plus local playback straight from USB drives. Shanling’s own Eddict Controller app handles setup and day-to-day control, and the SM50 connects over wired LAN or dual-band Wi-Fi, with Bluetooth 5.2 input supporting LDAC and aptX HD for wireless sources.
ESS DAC and flexible outputs
Inside, the SM50 uses an ESS ES9039Q2M DAC clocked by dual crystal oscillators running at 90 and 98MHz. Outputs cover RCA and XLR, switchable between line-out and pre-out mode, plus dedicated 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended headphone outputs delivering up to 700mW into 32 ohms. For digital output, the SM50 offers USB and coaxial S/PDIF, and it can also work as a dedicated USB DAC for a connected computer.
Pricing and availability
The Shanling SM50 is shipping now to distributors, priced at $499 / €559 (US pricing may differ). It is finished in an aluminum body with glass panels, matching the rest of the 50 line.
Key specifications
- DAC: ESS ES9039Q2M, dual crystal oscillators (90MHz/98MHz)
- Streaming: Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, DLNA, AirPlay 2, Squeezelite, NAS, USB drive playback
- Connectivity: Wired LAN, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2 (LDAC, aptX HD)
- Outputs: RCA, XLR (line-out/pre-out), 4.4mm balanced + 3.5mm headphone (up to 700mW @ 32Ω)
- Digital out: USB, coaxial S/PDIF; dedicated USB DAC input mode
- Display: 4.5-inch 1080p touchscreen
- Dimensions: 20.5 x 18.8 x 5.3 cm
- Price: $499 / €559
More details are available on the Shanling DAC/AMP product pages.
