Shanling launch SM90 hi-fi streamer with an epic feature list

Boasting next-gen performance and more features than any rival, the SM90 looks to set a new standard

April 27, 2026

The Shanling SM90 is a next-generation streamer DAC designed to bring together advanced streaming technology, refined sound engineering and a compact, modern form factor.

Building on years of development, the SM90 introduces 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 supported.

Running on a Android 12 system, the SM90 ensures stable, smooth and intuitive operation, paired with a newly designed, highly optimised user interface. The system offers direct access to Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, Amazon Music and more - all accessible via the 4.96-inch touchscreen.

With full support for TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2 and DLNA, users can stream music instantly from smartphones, tablets and networked devices. NAS compatibility, support for external USB drives and even an internal M.2 SSD slot ensure effortless playback of the largest local music libraries.

At the heart of the SM90 lies its dual AKM AK4493S DAC set-up, delivering Shanling’s rich and natural sound signature. An OPA1612-based analogue output stage, providing a balanced presentation helps the overall sound. Dedicated 45.1584MHz and 49.152MHz crystal oscillators further optimise jitter performance, ensuring precise audio decoding 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. This carefully selected component delivers clean and stable power, contributing to a more analogue-style sound, something that is key to all Shanling products.

Connectivity is a central focus of the SM90’s design. The SM90 supports both wired and wireless networking through a Gigabit LAN port and dual-band Wi-Fi 6 module, ensuring high-speed, uninterrupted streaming. Bluetooth 5.2 functionality allows the SM90 to act as a receiver, supporting LDAC, AAC and SBC codecs for convenient wireless playback.

The SM90 offers a comprehensive range of inputs and outputs, including coaxial, optical, USB DAC and HDMI ARC inputs, alongside RCA and XLR analogue outputs. This flexibility enables seamless integration with amplifiers, DACs, CD players and modern living room systems, making it an ideal centrepiece for any audio setup.

Encased in a sleek aluminium chassis with a glass front panel, the SM90 follows Shanling’s latest design language, delivering both durability and visual appeal in a compact footprint. Despite its smaller size, it retains the full functionality of a high-performance streamer.

With its combination of advanced streaming capabilities, high-resolution audio support and thoughtfully engineered hardware, the Shanling SM90 sets a new level for streamers under £999 .

The Shanling SM90 is out in May, priced £999, $969, €999

Review samples are now available from Starscream Communications

UK customers can buy from selected retailers and AMP3

Read all Shanling press releases on the link

Starscream Communications

GALLERY

SPECIFICATIONS

Dimensions (including feet):

280 mm × 230 mm × 83.1 mm

Weight: 3.3 kg

Display: 4.96-inch 1080P Touchscreen

DAC: 2x AKM AK4493SEQ

CPU: Rockchip CPU

Memory: 4GB RAM + 64 ROM + SSD Slot

External USB Drive Capacity: 2TB plus

Internal M.2 SSD

Power Supply: 100/220V

Supported Audio Formats: DSD, DXD, APE, FLAC, WAV, AIFF/AIF, DTS, MP3, WMA, AAC, OGG, ALAC, MP2, M4A, AC3, OPUS, TAK, etc., include Cue.

Supported Hi-Res Files: Up to 768 kHz / 32 bit & DSD512

Bluetooth version: 5.2

Bluetooth codecs: LDAC / AAC / SBC

Dual-band Wi-Fi 6: 2.4GHz/5.8GHz

RCA Output:

Line-Out Level: 2.24V

Preamp Out Level: 2.65V

Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz (-0.5dB)

THD+N: 0.00025%

Dynamic Range: 120dB

Channel Separation: 120dB

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 120dB

Noise: 113dB (2.1uV)

XLR Output:

Line-Out Level: 4.48V

Preamp Out Level: 5.32V

Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz (-0.5dB)

THD+N: 0.00025%

Dynamic Range: 123dB

Channel Separation: 123dB

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 123dB

Noise: 110dB (2.9uV)

Digital Connection:

Coaxial Input: PCM 192 kHz / 24bit

Optical Input: PCM 192 kHz / 24bit

HDMI-ARC Input: PCM 192 kHz / 24bit

USB DAC Input: PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit & DSD512

Coaxial Output: PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit

Optical Output: PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit

USB Audio Output: PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit & DSD512