Available from Layton Audio, the Shanling Q2 is designed for listeners who want the sound quality and connectivity of a full-featured digital audio player without carrying a large device. Its lightweight body combines a responsive touchscreen with a circular haptic control, providing quick access to music, volume, playback settings, and library navigation.
At the heart of the Q2 are four Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips. This quad-DAC configuration supports high-resolution PCM files up to 32-bit/768 kHz as well as native DSD512 playback. Four selectable digital filters allow the presentation to be adjusted according to the listener’s preferences and the character of the connected headphones or earphones.
The Q2 includes both a conventional 3.5 mm output and a more powerful 4.4 mm balanced connection. The balanced output can deliver up to 425 mW at 32 ohms, giving the player enough output for a broad selection of in-ear monitors and efficient portable headphones. Both connections can also operate as line outputs when the Q2 is paired with an external amplifier or powered audio system.
Built-in Wi-Fi expands the listening options beyond locally stored files. The player supports TIDAL online playback, DLNA, and AirPlay, while Bluetooth 5.2 allows it to transmit audio to wireless headphones or receive audio from another compatible device. Support for LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC provides broad compatibility with Bluetooth audio products.
Music can be stored on a microSD card with a capacity of up to 2 TB. The Q2 can also operate as a USB DAC with computers and compatible mobile devices or function as a USB digital transport for use with an external DAC.
Its compact dimensions, low weight, long battery life, and included protective case make the Shanling Q2 a practical choice for everyday portable listening without sacrificing advanced audio functions.