DAC and amplifier Shanling UA1S Green

Appearance

Externally, UA1S noticeably resembles the models presented earlier. Again we have a metal body of interesting geometry, the dimensions of which are smaller than the average lighter. I was especially pleased with the neat fonts, almost invisible, thanks to which the DAC is perceived more neatly and concisely. By the way, the mentioned intricate shape of the case is also a functional move, as a result of which the device is almost always located on the surface of the table if we are talking about its stationary use.

In addition, the buyer has two color options to choose from - conservative black and special charm green. As for external controls and connectors, here (unlike the older UA3) there is a practical minimum: there are only 2 ports in total: type C for connecting to a sound source and a 3.5 headphone/line audio jack. As you can see, the manufacturer abandoned the 4.4 mm pseudo-balanced Pentaconn, which had a positive effect on the final cost of the product.

Cable

Shanling UA1S comes with a new generation of copper (OFC) cord, made in a spiral form factor without the use of textile coating. The use of a soft silicone shell made the cable more manageable and visually interesting. It should be noted that the cable is still equipped with metal connector sleeves (type-C on both sides), as well as bend limiters that protect it from the possibility of kinks.

Characteristics

Despite the return to the market of chips from Asahi Kasei, for Ua1s the manufacturer selected a comprehensive, time-tested solution from ESS Technology - the ES9219C DAC. This platform is responsible for both conversion and amplification, which also contributes to more moderate power consumption. By the way, the circuit produces a total of 80 mW/32 Ohms of power, which is enough for most popular headphone models, including full-size ones.

If we talk directly about the sound characteristics, then we have a proprietary audio broadcasting model from Shanling, aimed at ensuring a symbiosis of melodic and technical components of sound. Therefore, the potential audience will have enough analytics and frequency control, as well as a variety of tonal colors. It should also be noted that on the Play Market you can find and download for free the proprietary Eddict Music program, which provides access to additional sound settings and general system operation.