posted on Tuesday, 5th May 2026 by Steve May
Introducing the Shanling SM90, a next-generation streamer DAC with an impressive specification. Running on an Android 12, the SM90 employs a custom streaming platform powered by a 64-bit ARM Cortex-A55 CPU, supported by 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage. USB and internal M.2 storage options are also catered for..
Design wise, the SM90 cuts a contemporayt profile, with a sleek aluminium chassis and glass front panel. The system offers direct access to Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, Amazon Music and DLNA servers, via a 4.96-inch touchscreen.
Central to the SM90 is its dual AKM AK4493S DAC set-up, with an OPA1612-based analogue output stage. Dedicated 45.1584MHz and 49.152MHz crystal oscillators optimise jitter performance, for high-resolution formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512. A linear power supply, featuring a 35W toroidal transformer further enhances the SM90’s performance.
Helping with system integration are a comprehensive range of inputs and outputs, including digital coaxial and optical, USB DAC and HDMI ARC, alongside RCA and XLR analogue outputs.
Network connectivity includes Gigabit LAN with dual-band Wi-Fi 6, while Bluetooth 5.2 supports LDAC, AAC and SBC codecs for convenient wireless playback.
The Shanling SM90 is available now, priced £999 ($969, €999).

Inside CI Editor Steve May is a freelance technology specialist who also writes for T3, TechRadar, Home Cinema Choice, Trusted Reviews and The Luxe Review.

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