Following the success of the Shanling EM5 Streaming Music Center desktop headphone amp, the Asian manufacturer is back with an even more ambitious model: the Shanling EM7 Streaming Music Center. A true all-in-one solution, the Shanling EM7 is a network player, USB DAC, hi-fi preamp and headphone amp in one. All this is intuitively controlled from a retractable screen, ensuring smooth navigation through the Android ecosystem.
Shanling EM7: tilting screen
With the rise of remote working, connected desktop headphone amplifiers are a real trend. These compact models are increasingly used to complement traditional hi-fi systems. A sector in which the Asian manufacturer enjoys a solid reputation with the all-in-one Shanling EM5, hailed by the press (read the Shanling EM5 review). The new Shanling EM7 retains its versatility while offering even better performance.
The Shanling EM7’s screen is now retractable, with the option of tilting it 60 degrees to ensure optimal viewing at all times. A feature reminiscent of the Astell&Kern Acro CA1000 and A&K Acro CA1000T headphone amplifiers. Thanks to this screen, the Shanling EM7 offers smooth, intuitive navigation through the various applications and settings. During playback, it can display album art, the file resolution and a host of additional information.
Shanling EM7: Hi-Res network player
A fusion of a USB DAC, headphone amp, network player and hi-fi preamplifier, the Shanling EM7 condenses all the needs of a modern installation. Its ESS Sabre DAC supports Hi-Res tracks up to 32-bit/768kHz, as well as DSD512 and MQA files, whether stored on a USB device, played from a computer or shared via DLNA thanks to the integrated network player. It also provides access to web radios, as well as numerous online music services such as Tidal, Spotify, Apple Music, Qobuz, Deezer and Amazon Music. Finally, the system can be streamed via AirPlay or Bluetooth (aptX HD and LDAC) from any smartphone, tablet or computer.
Shanling EM7: Herculean power
The amplification stage of the Shanling EM7 network player is fully symmetrical. It benefits from a dedicated power supply and ultra-low-noise components to maximize dynamics while preserving a transparent sound. It is capable of developing a Herculean power of 7000mW into 32 ohms in the balanced configuration, and 2,300mW into 32 ohms in unbalanced. Coupled with four headphone outputs (3.5mm, 6.35mm and 4.4mm jack as well as XLR), this power ensures you get the most out of any pair of headphones. A four-step gain control then adjusts the output power to the associated headphones.
Shanling EM7: full connectivity
In addition to streaming, the Shanling EM7 headphone amplifier can be used with countless sources thanks to its extensive connectivity. Playback of digital files is possible from a Windows or Mac computer via the USB-B port, while the USB-A input lets you use the contents of a hard drive or USB stick. The digital section is rounded off by an optical and coaxial input for connecting a CD player or TV, for example. As for the outputs, the Shanling EM7 offers coaxial and optical connectors to bypass the internal DAC. Finally, pre-out XLR and RCA outputs allow you to connect it to a hi-fi or power amplifier.
The Shanling EM7 is an invitation to rediscover your music with unprecedented clarity, power and flexibility. It is now available for pre-order on Son-Vidéo.com at a price of €2,090.
