Shanling H2: Elevating Your Audio Journey with Both 3.5mm and 4.4mm Balanced Outputs
By HiFi Editorial23 October 2025
Key Highlights
Compact and portable DAC/AMP with integrated MicroSD player and versatile dual headphone outputs.
USB DAC mode with XMOS XU208 chip and Bluetooth 5.0 DAC mode supporting LDAC and AAC codecs.
High-quality sound powered by Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC and SG-Micro amplifiers.
Shanling, a respected name in the high-fidelity audio landscape, has recently introduced their latest creation, the H2. This portable DAC/AMP with an integrated MicroSD card player marks a notable advancement in their H series.
The H2's design philosophy emphasizes compactness without sacrificing the powerful features that Shanling is known for. It retains the core system platform that users admired in the H5 and H7 models, ensuring a seamless and familiar user experience.
One of the key highlights of the H2 is its USB DAC mode, powered by the XMOS XU208 chip. This feature offers full high-resolution audio support, ensuring that the nuances and depth of the music are faithfully reproduced. Additionally, the H2 steps into the realm of wireless connectivity with its Bluetooth 5.0 DAC mode, supporting advanced codecs like LDAC and AAC, which are crucial for maintaining sound quality in wireless settings.
A notable aspect of the H2 is its versatile dual headphone output. It features both 3.5mm Single-Ended and 4.4mm Balanced outputs, catering to different headphone requirements and preferences. The balanced output is particularly impressive, capable of delivering up to 680 mW @ 32 Ohm, which speaks to its ability to drive a wide range of headphones.
Under the hood, the H2 is equipped with the Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC, complemented by SG-Micro headphone amplifiers. This combination ensures a rich, detailed sound output, which is a fundamental requirement for any audiophile-grade device.
Furthermore, the H2 is designed for portability and ease of use. It sports a 1-inch screen, providing essential information at a glance. Despite its robust feature set, the H2 maintains a compact form factor, measuring 71.5 x 100 x 21.5 mm and weighing 185 g, making it a convenient companion for on-the-go audio experiences.
Battery life is a crucial aspect of any portable device, and the H2 doesn't disappoint with up to 12 hours of usage on a single charge. This makes it an ideal choice for extended listening sessions, whether you're commuting, traveling, or simply enjoying music at home.
Priced at 169 USD, the H2 presents itself as a compelling option for those who seek high-quality audio in a portable and affordable package. For more detailed information, enthusiasts and potential users can visit Shanling's official website. This release is a testament to Shanling's commitment to delivering audio excellence in innovative and user-friendly formats, continuing to make a mark in the world of high-fidelity audio equipment.
