Shanling Q2: iPod-Inspired DAP Gets Price and Specifications

The Shanling Q2 had part of its specifications revealed during the High End Vienna 2026 event, which began today (June 4) and will run through Sunday (June 7). The new iPod-inspired Digital Audio Player (DAP) had previously been showcased at other events in China, but very little information was available. The music player has now received an official price, additional specifications, and an estimated launch timeframe.

Update (July 29): The Shanling Q2’s specifications have been expanded, and its mainland China launch date has been added to the “Launch, Price, and Availability” section.

Update (August 1): Added an unboxing video of the Shanling Q2 showcasing the operating system’s user interface (UI).

Q2 Features an iPod-Inspired Design and a “Click Wheel”

Capitalizing on the renewed popularity of MP3 players, particularly the iPod, Shanling has decided to launch a DAP inspired by Apple’s iconic music player. The Q2 features a rounded form factor, a small 2.1-inch touchscreen, and the well-known “Click Wheel.” In addition, its chassis is made of aluminum alloy, while the rear panel is constructed from glass.

How the Shanling Q2’s “Click Wheel” Works

Navigation on the Shanling Q2 can be performed using the “Click Wheel,” a control mechanism that operates similarly to the one found on the iPod. Users can slide their finger around the wheel to adjust the volume, navigate menus, or browse through music libraries.

The user “MUSIN” on the social media platform X published a video demonstrating how the Shanling Q2’s “Click Wheel” operates.

Compact Body, Yet Nearly as Powerful as the M1 Plus

The Shanling Q2’s output power comes close to that of the M1 Plus, another DAP from the same manufacturer. Despite having a more compact body than the M1 Plus, the Q2 delivers up to 600mW into 32 ohms through its 4.4mm balanced output.

Battery Life

Due to its compact chassis, the Shanling Q2 cannot accommodate a large-capacity battery. As a result, battery life is relatively modest, providing up to 10 hours of music playback.

Connectivity and Streaming

The Q2 features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Based on its specifications, it is believed that the DAP will support Tidal streaming, similar to the M1 Plus.

Shanling Q2 Sound Performance

The RedNote user “Xiandan HiFi” described the Shanling Q2’s sound signature as follows:

“The overall sound signature is clear and pleasant. Instrument separation and resolution are very good. Overall, the sound quality is solid, with no notable issues. Midrange vocals are slightly thin. Bass quantity is moderate but somewhat lacking.”

Shanling Q2 Specifications

General Specifications

• Bluetooth: Bidirectional Bluetooth 5.2 (transmit and receive)
• Chassis material: Aluminum alloy with a glass back panel
• DAC chips: Quad Cirrus Logic CS43131
• Dimensions: 80 × 50 × 13.5 mm
• Display: 2.09-inch touchscreen
• Headphone outputs: 3.5 mm single-ended (SE) and 4.4 mm balanced
• Operating system: MTouch OS
• Processor: Ingenic X2000
• Storage: Supports microSD cards up to 2TB
• Streaming support: AirPlay, DLNA, and QPlay
• USB: Bidirectional USB (USB audio input and output)
• Weight: 83 g
• Wi-Fi: Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

Battery Specifications

• Maximum battery life (3.5 mm single-ended output): 13.5 hours
• Maximum battery life (4.4 mm balanced output): 12.5 hours
• Maximum battery life (Bluetooth with LDAC): 16.5 hours

Bluetooth Specifications

• Bluetooth audio reception supported
• Bluetooth audio transmission supported
• Supported Bluetooth audio codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC

Audio Specifications

• Native PCM decoding: Up to 768 kHz / 32-bit
• Native DSD decoding: Up to DSD512
• Gain settings: Low and High
• Output power: 425 mW @ 32 Ω

Shanling Q2 Unboxing

Check out the Shanling Q2 unboxing below, along with a brief look at the DAP’s (Digital Audio Player) operating system user interface (UI).

Release Date, Price, and Availability

The Shanling Q2 will be available in mainland China from August 4 to August 11 for 1,398 yuan (approximately US$206.50). There is currently no information regarding the Q2’s international release date or pricing. This article will be updated as soon as more information becomes available.