Shanling EC Zero T

Portable Tube & R2R CD Player
Ultra-portable shock-resistant design
Advanced 24-bit R-2R DAC
Heat from vacuum tubes
Dual-mode headphone output
Versatile connectivity options
High-resolution display and streamlined user interface

Portable CD playback
The EC Zero T offers true portability with a top-loading design that fits into a shell that is smaller and lighter than the ECmini. The precision-engineered anti-shake frame and active magnetic clamp hold discs firmly in place—without skips, scratches, or shaking—so you can enjoy flawless playback whether you're walking, commuting, or camping.

Kunlun 24-Bit R-2R DAC
At the heart of the EC Zero T is Shanling's proprietary ‘Kunlun’ ladder resistor DAC, which replaces conventional Delta-Sigma chips with a network of precision resistors. This fully analogue conversion provides full 24-bit decoding, minimises quantisation distortion and preserves the original dynamic range, resulting in a smooth, lifelike tone that is faithful to the original recording.

Dual JAN6418 tube amplifiers
The headphone stage is powered by two space-grade JAN6418 microtriodes - the same tubes found in our flagship M8T. Their characteristic even-order harmonic distortion enriches the midrange and treble with a natural ‘tube warmth’ that provides depth and musical bloom without compromising clarity or precision.

Robust headphone output
An amplifier chip from Texas Instruments, the TPA6120, provides ultra-low output impedance and high current drive, making it easy to drive both low- and high-impedance headphones. With up to 800 mW @ 32 Ω on a 4.4 mm balanced jack and 195 mW @ 32 Ω on a 3.5 mm single-ended jack, you get powerful, noise-free performance and lightning-fast transient response.

Advanced disc transport
The EC Zero T's disc reading system combines active magnetic clamping - without mechanical hubs - with a custom-designed CD transport and servo mechanism that continuously optimises laser tracking. A palladium-plated alloy motor, rigorously tested under high loads, ensures constant torque and stability, while factory calibration over several hours guarantees industrial-grade precision and reliability.

Versatile connectivity
Stream your CDs wirelessly via high-resolution Bluetooth transmission, or switch to USB DAC mode for direct digital playback via your computer. Both 3.5 mm single-ended and 4.4 mm balanced outputs are available, giving you full compatibility with in-ear monitors, portable headphones or full-size studio cans.
Streamlined operation & Desktop Mode
With a simplified interface that focuses solely on pure CD playback and USB DAC functionality, the EC Zero T provides a distraction-free listening experience. Activate Desktop Mode to power the player directly via USB-C — no battery required — and transform it into a dedicated, high-performance DAC for your desktop setup.

Powerful portability
Equipped with a 5,500 mAh Li-ion battery, the EC Zero T is built for long-lasting use in any environment. USB-C charging quickly brings you back to full capacity, so you can keep your CD library ready, whether you're on the go or at home.

Retro-modern design
Inspired by the iconic portable CD players of the 1980s, the EC Zero T combines vintage control knobs and brushed metal accents with a streamlined, compact chassis. Its timeless aesthetics and durable construction make it as stylish as it is practical for both desktop hi-fi and outdoor adventures.

Specifications
Dimensions 158×150×28mm
Weight approx. 669g
Screen 1.68-inch LCD display
USB DAC Support 768kHz/32bit, DSD512
Bluetooth Version V5.3
Bluetooth Transmit Support aptX Adaptive, aptX, SBC 3.5mm headphone output
Transistor stage
Low gain 57mW@32Ω
High gain 158mW@32Ω
High gain (DC power) 330mW@32Ω
Tube stage
Low gain 47mW@32Ω
High gain 158mW@32Ω
High gain (DC power) 268mW@32Ω
THD+N 0.02%
Dynamic range 116dB
Channel separation 79dB
SNR 115dB
Noise 111dB
Output impedance 4.7Ω4.4mm headphone output
Transistor stage
Low gain 195mW@32Ω
High gain 551mW@32Ω
High gain (DC power) 1220mW@32Ω
Tube stage
Low gain 195mW@32Ω
High gain 551mW@32Ω
High gain (DC) 1087mW@32Ω
THD+N 0.02%
Dynamic range 117dB
Channel separation 103dB
SNR 117dB
Noise 108dB
Output impedance 6.6Ω
In the box 1 x Shanling EC Zero T, user manual