Shanling UA1 II USB DAC Amplifier | Dual CS43131 Hi-Res Audio
Shanling UA1 II Portable USB DAC & Headphone Amplifier — Second Generation
Elevate your listening experience with the Shanling UA1 II, a compact yet powerful portable USB DAC and headphone amplifier engineered for audiophiles who demand studio-grade sound on the go. Equipped with a dual CS43131 DAC chip configuration, this second-generation device delivers breathtaking Hi-Res audio with whisper-quiet noise floors, exceptional channel separation, and support for the highest sampling rates available.
Why Choose the Shanling UA1 II?
- Dual CS43131 DAC Chips: Twin high-performance chips in a balanced configuration unlock the full potential of your music library.
- Hi-Res Certified: Supports up to 32-bit / 768kHz PCM and DSD512 — the pinnacle of digital audio fidelity.
- 0.96-inch LCD Display: A clear, at-a-glance screen shows sample rate, format, and volume level in real time.
- Dual Output Options: 3.5mm single-ended output (94mW @ 32Ω) and a 4.4mm balanced output (240mW @ 32Ω) for maximum compatibility with your headphones and IEMs.
- Ultra-Low Distortion: THD+N of just 0.0004% (balanced) ensures the purest, most transparent audio reproduction.
- Ultra-Wide Frequency Response: 20Hz – 40kHz (+0.5dB) for full-spectrum audio clarity from deep bass to sparkling highs.
- Pocket-Friendly Design: Weighing just 17.5g and measuring 52 × 22 × 13mm, it disappears into your pocket or bag without weighing you down.
- USB Type-A & USB Type-C Inputs: Plug directly into laptops, desktops, Android smartphones, and compatible devices — no drivers needed for most platforms.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | 3.5mm Single-Ended | 4.4mm Balanced |
|---|---|---|
| Output Power | 94mW @ 32Ω | 240mW @ 32Ω |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 40kHz (+0.5dB) | 20Hz – 40kHz (+0.5dB) |
| THD+N | 0.0005% | 0.0004% |
| Dynamic Range | 126dB | 128dB |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 125dB | 128dB |
| Noise Floor | 121dB | 119dB |
| Channel Separation | 73dB | 128dB |
| Output Impedance | <0.5Ω | <0.5Ω |
| Hi-Res Support | 32-bit / 768kHz PCM & DSD512 | |
| Dimensions | 52 × 22 × 13mm | |
| Weight | 17.5g | |
| Inputs | USB Type-A, USB Type-C | |
| Display | 0.96-inch LCD | |
Who Is This For?
The Shanling UA1 II is the perfect upgrade for music lovers, audiophiles, commuters, and remote workers who are tired of compressed, lifeless audio from built-in device DACs. Whether you're pairing it with high-impedance headphones, sensitive IEMs, or studio monitors via the balanced 4.4mm output, the UA1 II handles every scenario with composed, noise-free authority.
Made in Mainland China.
For more information on digital audio standards and Hi-Res audio technology, visit the NIST Consumer Electronics Standards resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes the Shanling UA1 II different from other portable USB DAC amplifiers?
A: The UA1 II uses a dual CS43131 chip configuration in a balanced design, delivering up to 240mW of output power through the 4.4mm balanced output, a 128dB dynamic range, and a THD+N as low as 0.0004%. Its 0.96-inch LCD display also provides real-time format and volume feedback — features rarely found in portable DAC amps at this size and price point.
Q: What devices is the Shanling UA1 II compatible with?
A: The UA1 II supports USB Type-A and USB Type-C inputs, making it compatible with Windows and Mac laptops, Android smartphones (USB-C OTG), and most modern computing devices. iOS/Lightning devices require an Apple Camera Connection Kit or Lightning-to-USB-C adapter.
Q: Does the Shanling UA1 II support DSD audio playback?
A: Yes — the UA1 II supports DSD512 (22.5792 MHz) playback as well as PCM audio up to 32-bit / 768kHz, covering virtually every Hi-Res audio file format available, including FLAC, WAV, DFF, and DSF.
Q: Can I use the 4.4mm balanced output with standard headphones?
A: The 4.4mm balanced output is designed for headphones or IEMs with a 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced cable. If your headphones use a 3.5mm single-ended connection, simply use the 3.5mm output, which still delivers excellent 94mW @ 32Ω performance. Balanced cables for popular headphones are widely available as aftermarket accessories.
Q: How large and heavy is the UA1 II — will it fit in my pocket?
A: Absolutely. The UA1 II measures just 52 × 22 × 13mm and weighs a mere 17.5g — lighter than most sets of keys. It is designed to sit between your source device and headphones without adding any noticeable bulk.