Shanling Unveils M8T: New Flagship High-Resolution Audio Player with Dual AK4499EX DACs and Twin Tubes

Shanling has unveiled its latest flagship in the high-resolution audio player market, the M8T. Building on the legacy of the well-received M8 from 2020, the M8T introduces a sophisticated setup featuring dual AKM AK4499EX DACs and twin JAN6418 tubes. This combination offers audiophiles a versatile listening experience, allowing users to switch between tube-enhanced warmth and pure transistor mode to suit their preferences.

The M8T is equipped with a robust Android 13 operating system, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of third-party applications and providing seamless streaming capabilities. The device boasts a stunning 6-inch LCD display with a full HD resolution of 2,160 x 1,080, delivering crisp and clear visuals. Supporting high-resolution audio formats up to 768kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD 1024, the player ensures that every detail of the audio is faithfully reproduced.

Connectivity options are extensive, featuring dual-band Wi-Fi for stable streaming and two-way Bluetooth functionality that allows the M8T to serve as both a DAC and an amplifier. Users can enjoy multiple listening modes—transistor, triode, and ultra-linear—and choose between standard and balanced headphone outputs. The impressive 8,350mAh battery provides up to 15.5 hours of playback with single-ended headphones and 13 hours when using balanced outputs, making it a reliable companion for extended listening sessions.

With the upcoming discontinuation of the Shanling M9 Plus in summer 2024, the M8T steps in to solidify Shanling’s position in the portable high-resolution audio player market. Retailing at $1,499 in the US and £1,499 in the UK, the M8T offers a blend of traditional tube amplification and modern digital technology, catering to discerning audiophiles seeking both performance and versatility in their portable audio solutions.