Shanling UA1 and UA2 are Shanling’s first portable DAC/AMP models. These are also two portable DAC/AMP models that many people have the same question: Is the Shanling UA2 a worthwhile upgrade, should it be upgraded to UA2, or just buying UA1 is enough, especially when Both have a price difference of up to $40. In this article, I will summarize each model’s specifications and sound quality to have the best overview of these two products and answer the above questions.
SPECIFICATIONS
Chips
That is a big upgrade when instead of using the audio processing chip from ES9218P on UA1 to a chip with stronger processing performance, the ES9038Q2 helps the Shanling UA2 have stronger decoding capabilities to 32bit/786kHz. PCM, and DSD512 Native.
Chip Amp
Not only is the DAC chip improved, but the Shanling UA2 is also upgraded to the Ricore RT6863 amplifier. Having to shoulder an additional 2.5mm Bal output, using the amplifier circuit on UA1 is not optimal, so equipping the Ricore RT6863 amplifier helps the Shanling UA2 have a stronger output power with 195mW@32Ω while only 80mW@32Ω on the Shanling UA1.
| SHANLING UA1 | SHANLING UA2 | |
| Dac Chip | ESS ES9218P | ES9038Q2M cao cấp. |
| Amp Chip | Ricore RT6863 | |
| Decryption | PCM 32bit-384kHz
DSD256 |
PCM 32-Bit / 768khz DSD 512 Native. |
| Dynamic range | 119dB@32Ω (A-Weighting) | 120dB@32Ω (2.5mm Balanced)
122dB@32Ω(3.5mm SE) |
| Output Impedance | <0.5Ω | 1.6 Ohm (2.5mm Balanced)
0.8 Ohm (3.5mm SE) |
| Output power | 80mW@32Ω | 195mW@32ohm (2.5mm Balanced)
125mW@32ohm(3.5mm SE) |
| Response frequency | 20–50kHz | 20–50kHz |
| THD + N | 0.001%@32Ω (A-Weighting ) | 0.0008%@32Ω (A-weighting@0.5V) |
| Size | 39x15x9mm | 54 x 18 x 9mm |
| Weight | 8.3g | 12.6g (Without cable) |
Compatibility
With the detachable Type-C 2-pin cable on the UA2, the Shanling UA2 is compatible with more devices; However, it doesn’t come with an additional Lightning cable; buying additional lightning to USB Type-C cable is very convenient. Furthermore, Shanling UA2 is equipped with a MODE feature that is compatible with Nintendo Switch.
Meanwhile, its predecessor Shanling UA1 has a seamless, non-removable design and is limited to USB Type-C and Type-A devices.
SOUND QUALITY
In general, both have the clear, natural sound of the Shanling family. If the Shanling UA1 did well, the Shanling UA2 would do better.
Bass
Both of these portable DAC/AMP models have good control, hit firmly and neatly. On the UA2 will get better resolution and texture.
Mid
Both reproduce a clean, clear midrange; vocals are far from the ears and orchestra.
Treble
Airiness is what both have, but on the UA2 will get better detail, tinkling treble sound
Soundstage
That is where the UA2 excels, as both dacs/amps have good instrument separation and a spacious soundstage. However, if on UA1 there is a sufficient music space, in UA2, there is a larger music space, good feeling in both depth and height.
CONCLUDE
By the time you’ve read this far, you’ve probably made the best choice for yourself. When the Shanling UA2 gives a better performance than the Shanling UA1, if you wonder about these two products, I can confirm that the Shanling UA2 will be the best choice with a more powerful DAC chip, larger output. In the price range of $40, UA1 is still the best portable DAC / AMP model in this price range.