The Shanling ECZero AKM is a game-changer in the world of portable audio, offering a unique blend of features that challenge conventional wisdom. It's time to rethink our assumptions about portable CD players and explore the exciting possibilities this device brings to the table.
Let's dive into the details and uncover why this device is so intriguing.
Solid-State Revolution:
Shanling has taken a bold step by removing tubes and the R2R DAC from its previous model, the ECZero T. The new ECZero AKM embraces an all-solid-state design, centered around the AKM AK4493S DAC and SGM8262 op-amps. This move towards solid-state simplicity is a departure from the nostalgic tube-driven sound, offering a different listening experience.
Powerful Performance:
When it comes to driving headphones, the ECZero AKM delivers. The 3.5mm headphone jack provides an impressive 525mW of power for 32-ohm headphones, ensuring a robust listening experience. The balanced 4.4mm output takes it up a notch, offering 836mW per channel into the same load in high gain mode, and with external power, it becomes even more potent. This device can handle most headphones, even the demanding planar magnetic models, and Shanling has further optimized the output impedance to cater to IEM users.
Connectivity and Controls:
The rear panel of the ECZero AKM offers a range of line-level connections, including a 3.5mm line out, a 4.4mm balanced line out, and a versatile 3.5mm combined coaxial/optical SPDIF socket for digital connections. The 1.68-inch color LCD display keeps things straightforward, showing track info, playback status, and volume levels. Physical buttons and a volume slider provide intuitive control over transport functions and digital attenuation across three gain modes.
Compact and Capable:
Measuring 158 x 150 x 28mm and weighing 575 grams, the ECZero AKM is a compact powerhouse. Its metal housing and tempered glass disc mechanism cover are both functional and stylish. The magnetic pressure stabilization system ensures smooth CD playback, reducing vibrations and read errors, a critical feature for portable use.
Battery Life and Versatility:
Shanling promises an impressive ten hours of portable playback with the 5500mAh battery. USB-C charging keeps the device ready for action, and the same port can accept external power for desktop use. This flexibility makes the ECZero AKM a versatile companion for various listening scenarios.
Wireless Streaming and Limitations:
Bluetooth 5.3 opens up wireless streaming possibilities, but the ECZero AKM is a transmitter rather than a receiver. It supports SBC, aptX, and aptX Adaptive codecs, but the absence of AAC and LDAC codecs limits options for certain headphone users. This transmission-only approach makes sense for a CD player but means it can't function as a Bluetooth DAC for your phone. However, it still offers a convenient wireless connection for those with compatible headphones.
Digital Archiving Made Easy:
The CD ripping feature is a standout, allowing users to create digital backups of their physical media. By connecting a USB drive and pressing record, the player handles the rest, ripping the CD in real-time playback speed. While the file format options are not specified, having this capability in a portable player is a significant advantage for archivists and collectors. However, manual file tagging is required after ripping, adding a touch of old-school charm to the digital process.
Expanding Horizons with Computer Audio:
The second USB-C port transforms the ECZero AKM into a capable desktop DAC for computer audio. The AK4493S DAC's support for PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD256 becomes relevant here, offering high-resolution audio streaming from your computer. This overspecification for CD playback becomes a valuable feature in USB DAC mode, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the source material.
Value and Sonic Trade-offs:
Priced at US$319, the ECZero AKM offers a significant discount compared to the tube-equipped ECZero T, which retails for US$589. This price difference represents a choice between solid-state simplicity and tube warmth, a trade-off that will resonate differently with each listener. The bigger question remains: In an era where portable CD players might seem outdated, is there a place for this curious revival among nostalgic audiophiles?
Final Thoughts:
The Shanling ECZero AKM challenges our perceptions of portable audio, offering a unique blend of features and a fresh listening experience. It's a device that invites exploration and discussion. So, what do you think? Is this a step forward or a nostalgic detour? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
