Shanling EC Zero T Max Portable CD Player with Improved Amplification

The Shanling EC Zero T MAX combines the hands-on experience of playing physical CDs with the technology of a modern high-resolution audio system. Its custom CD mechanism supports gapless playback, while an active magnetic clamp helps keep discs stable and reduce unwanted vibration during playback.

Its solid aluminium body, tempered-glass CD cover and titanium-grey finish give the player a distinctive retro-inspired appearance while remaining compact enough to move between rooms or take on your travels.

At the heart of the EC Zero T MAX is Shanling’s in-house 24-bit R2R DAC, constructed from 192 high-precision 0.1% resistors. Updated circuitry and power optimisation provide a wider, deeper soundstage and improved transparency through the midrange and treble.

Selectable Oversampling and Non-Oversampling modes let you adjust the presentation to suit your music. OS mode provides a cleaner and more precise sound, while NOS mode offers a smoother and more natural character. 

A pair of JAN6418 tubes gives the EC Zero T MAX its warm, smooth and relaxed tube presentation. For a faster and more dynamic sound, you can switch to the transistor output stage.

This makes it easy to tailor the player to different headphones, recordings and listening preferences without adding a separate amplifier.

The upgraded AD8397-based amplifier delivers substantially more power while reducing output impedance. The 4.4mm balanced output provides up to 1300mW at 32 ohms, while the 3.5mm connection delivers up to 361mW at 32 ohms, even when running from the internal battery.

This gives the EC Zero T MAX enough power for demanding full-size headphones while remaining suitable for sensitive in-ear monitors.

Alongside CD playback, the EC Zero T MAX can be used as a USB DAC with support for PCM audio up to 768kHz/32-bit and DSD512. It can also rip CDs directly to connected USB storage.

Bluetooth 5.3 transmission lets you listen through compatible wireless headphones and speakers, with support for aptX Adaptive, aptX and SBC codecs.

For integration with a larger audio system, the player includes:

• 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs

• 3.5mm and 4.4mm line outputs

• Coaxial and optical digital output

• Dedicated USB DAC input

• External USB-C power mode

The built-in 5500mAh battery provides up to approximately eight hours through the 3.5mm headphone output, 7.5 hours through the 4.4mm output or 20 hours when transmitting over Bluetooth.

At home, the EC Zero T MAX can run from an external USB-C power supply, making it equally suited to portable listening and permanent desktop use.