Shanling has announced the launch of a high-end streamer DAC. The SM90 is a next-generation device designed to offer advanced streaming technology in a compact and modern style.
The SM90 introduces a custom streaming platform that’s powered by a 64-bit ARM Cortex-A55 CPU. The processor is supported by 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, which can be extended with a USB drive or by slotting an M.2 SSD into the device’s internal drive bay.
Shanling says the SM90 runs a version of Android 12 and provides smooth and intuitive operation thanks to a newly designed and optimized user interface. The system provides direct access to Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, Amazon Music and other streaming services via a 4.96-inch touchscreen.
Streaming Service Support
With full support for TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2 and DLNA, users can stream music from smartphones, tablets and networked devices. NAS compatibility is included along with support for external USB drives and an internal M.2 SSD slot for playing music from local music libraries.
At the heart of the SM90 are two AKM AK4493S DACs and an OPA1612-based analogue output stage for balanced presentation that helps with the overall sound. Dedicated 45.1584MHz and 49.152MHz crystal oscillators optimize jitter performance for accurate decoding of high-resolution audio formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512.
The SM90 has a linear power supply with a 35W toroidal transformer and selected components for a clean and stable power source which Shanling says gives the streamer a more analog-style sound.
Wired And Wireless
Connectivity is central to the SM90’s design with support for wired and wireless networking using either a Gigabit LAN port or a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 module. There’s also Bluetooth 5.2 functionality on board, which enables the SM90 to work as a receiver supporting LDAC, AAC and SBC audio codecs.
The SM90 has a comprehensive range of inputs and outputs, including coaxial, optical, USB DAC and HDMI ARC inputs, alongside RCA and XLR analog outputs. This enables integration with amplifiers, DACs, CD players and modern living room systems.
Encased in an aluminum chassis with a glass front panel, the SM90 uses Shanling’s latest design language in terms of durability and visual appeal. Despite its smaller size, the SM90 has the full functionality of a high-performance streamer.
Pricing and Availability:
The Shanling SM90 will be available in May 2026 and is priced at $969 / £999 / €999.
Tech Specs:
- Dimensions: 280 x 230 x 83.1mm.
- Weight: 3.3kg.
- Display: 4.96-inch 1080P touchscreen.
- DAC: 2 x AKM AK4493SEQ.
- CPU: Rockchip.
- Memory: 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM. M.2 SSD Slot.
- External USB drive capacity: 2TB.
- Power supply: 100/220V 50/60Hz.
- Supported audio formats: DSD, DXD, APE, FLAC, WAV, AIFF/AIF, DTS, MP3, WMA, AAC, OGG, ALAC, MP2, M4A, AC3, OPUS, TAK, etc., include Cue.
- Supported Hi-Res files: Up to 768 kHz / 32 bit & DSD512.
- Bluetooth version: 5.2.
- Bluetooth codecs: LDAC / AAC / SBC.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6: 2.4GHz/5.8GHz.
- Analog outputs: RCA and XLR.
- Digital inputs: Coaxial, Optical and HDMI to 192kHz / 24-bit.
- USB DAC input: PCM 768 kHz / 32-bit and DSD512.
- Digital output: Coaxial and Optical to PCM 192kHz / 24-bit.
- USB audio output: PCM 768kHz / 32-bit and DSD512.
