We independently test and review every pick. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more

Get Trendy Finds
Shanling M9 Plus

Shanling

Shanling M9 Plus

Last updated August 1, 2026

We may earn an affiliate commission from links on this page — this never affects our picks. Read our full affiliate disclosure.

A flagship Android digital audio player with a quad-DAC design (4x AK4499EX) and a 6-inch 2K display.

Official product page

Overview

The M9 Plus is Shanling's flagship portable Android player, pairing a 6-inch 1080x2160 display and Snapdragon 665 octa-core CPU (Android 10, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage) with a quad-DAC design using 2x AK4191 and 4x AK4499EX chips in an 8-channel balanced circuit, amplified through a MUSES 8920 J-FET and BUF634 combination. It supports Bluetooth 5.0 (LDAC/LHDC 5.0/aptX HD), Wi-Fi 2.4G/5G, and runs on an 8350mAh battery with QC 3.0 fast charging.

Pros

  • Quad-DAC design using four AKM AK4499EX chips plus MUSES 8920/BUF634 amplification
  • 6-inch 2K display running Android 10 with 8GB RAM/256GB storage
  • 1125mW balanced output power at 32Ω — enough to drive demanding headphones directly
  • 8350mAh battery with up to 18 hours (SE) / 11 hours (balanced) playback

Cons

  • $2,959 is a major investment — the most expensive product in this batch
  • 379g weight and 147x82x22mm size are large for a portable player
  • 10-20 working day pre-order processing, non-cancellable per Linsoul

Specifications

DAC System
2x AK4191 & 4x AK4499EX
CPU / OS
Snapdragon 665 octa-core, Android 10
RAM / Storage
8GB RAM, 256GB internal (microSD up to 2TB)
Display
6-inch, 1080x2160
Output Power (SE)
4.08V @ 32Ω (520mW)
Output Power (Balanced)
6.0V @ 32Ω (1125mW)
Frequency Response
20Hz–40kHz
THD+N (Balanced)
0.0007%
SNR (Balanced)
126dB
Battery Life
18 hours (SE), 11 hours (balanced)
Dimensions / Weight
147 x 82 x 22mm, 379g

FAQs

Can the M9 Plus power demanding headphones directly?

Its balanced output is rated at 1125mW @ 32Ω (6.0V), which Shanling positions as enough for most demanding portable headphone loads without a separate amp.

How long is the battery life?

Up to 18 hours single-ended or 11 hours in balanced mode, per Shanling's rating.

Does it run apps like a phone?

Yes — it runs Android 10 with Wi-Fi 2.4G/5G and Bluetooth 5.0, so streaming apps can be installed directly.

You might also like