REVIEW – Shanling M5s Music Portable Player
Website – Shanling
Specifications
Price: U$D 429.
The Shanling
M5s unit here was kindly arranged by Shanling company together
with MusicTeck; as
always, credits to both for this opportunity.
Links:
MusicTeck store and the Amazon store.
Unboxing…
Design
Anyone who already owned the cute Shanling M0 should get a
clear idea about how the M5s is, as this higher model player follows a very
similar pattern in build quality and overall design. The M5s is pretty much a
maximized version of the more budget entry-fi level DAP from Shanling, with
addition of the usual physical buttons and balanced output. As such the build
quality is very high and also the design is nicely done with a fine smooth
finish. The main body is well crafted from thick CNC machined aluminum
material, anodized and nicely polished and fine painted. In this case, the red
color gives a more eye-catching flashy metallic shine that looks anything but
boring. Personally, I liked the titanium and blue color versions of the M0 I
had, but nonetheless the metallic red theme is very nice. Tempered 2.5D curved
glass is used on both front and back panels, so the M5s has a more modern smart
device look on it than of the traditional portable players.
The M5s dimensions make it fairly friendly for daily portable
use. All the edges are smoothly rounded with an all seamless finish. The
length/height of the device is similar to compact smartphones with narrower
width, but still noticeable thicker. It also weights below the 200g mark, so
more practical than other similar priced mid-fi players. Sure, it is nothing as
minimal as the ultra-portable micro sized M0 or the FiiO M6, but then it’s a
price to pay for the higher sound quality that is still fairly portable. There
is no case included in package and it’s highly recommended to get one if you
plan to use the M5s as your daily portable DAP.
Screen
The touch screen is of 3.2” diagonal size, and like the M0,
is a LG full touch screen. Resolution is as limited as 320x480 can be, but
still the colors are vivid enough with good contrast. Brightness level is fine
unless exposed directly under sunlight at midday of summer season. While
definitely of better quality as the M0, do not expect to be as sharp and
defined as a modern smartphone can be. It is good enough to show the necessary
album artwork when available, but you won’t be browsing through an image gallery
with the M5s player.
Despite the whole glass front panel, the touch screen only
occupies about two thirds; it has its benefits as it possible to hold the
device from the lower front panel without worrying about selecting any of the
touch screen areas. It is worth mentioning there is no protective screen film
applied nor none is included in the box, so extra care should be taken when
using the M5s or just get a simple film and done.
The firmware arrived with the 2.0 but before the review it
has been updated to the more recent 3.0 version. The screen responsiveness is
fast; in fact, the whole system runs very fast, and even after powering on it
takes very few seconds to completely start. The screen can display six lines,
both on the several setting menus and music files lists. Folder scrolling can
be still a bit too sensitive; much better than the M0, thanks to the larger
screen but might need some time to get used to it compared to Android smart
devices.
Layout
The controls and connections layout is simple and organized.
On the left side of the player there are the three physical playback buttons,
rewind/previous, play/ pause and next. If pressed and held, the previous and
next buttons can be used for back and fast-forward on the current playing track,
even when the screen is off; still not the most accurate, at least on current
firmware, but do work if needed. The buttons line is recessed within the player
contour what avoids them from being unwillingly pressed, while each button is
very slightly raised and has a good grip that can be easily reached while
inside a pocket. Also, at the bottom of the left side there is the micro SD
card slot which is securely hidden by a small plastic cover, though can be a
bit tricky to open.
On the right side, there is only the multifunctional wheel
that works for volume adjustment when rotated clockwise and counter-clockwise,
and also as power and screen on and off button. It is identical to the wheel
introduced with the M0 player, and likewise, made of the same aluminum metal.
On the settings options, the controls can set to be locked while is screen off,
and on the current 3.0 FW the wheel can be set to turn the screen on only after
two continuous clicks. Regarding the volume control, while it lacked accuracy
on the firmware version the M5s arrived with, it now works much better with the
3.0 ver. Each rotation click will just change the volume by one step (unlike
the M0 wheel that easily jumped two steps at once). Moreover, the volume
changes are small from each step so the M5s can be perfectly adjusted even for
most sensitive IEM sets.
The bottom carries the two analog audio outputs, standard
3.5mm in the middle and balanced 2.5mm to the right. They can also be set as
Lineout ports from the audio settings menu, but be aware that the volume might
be set to maximum; there will always a confirmation message before switching to
LO mode. To the left side there is the USB Type-C port for the usual charging
and data management of the micro SD card as the device has no internal memory,
and can be also used for digital audio functions, both as a source and as
external DAC. For DAC use it may be needed to install extra drivers that are
found at the Shanling website. Worth mentioning that the M5s can work as
wireless Amp/DAC as well; a neat feature.
UI & Navigation
The M5s runs on the own Shanling MTouch 2.0 system, which was
already introduced with the M0 with its small and functional touch screen.
Anyone that had tried the M0 and found it good enough then should enjoy the M5s
even more, and even those who couldn’t get along with that small 1.8” touch screen
and its limitations should not discard the M5s, as the larger screen is much
more accurate and comfortable to use. It is a simpler environment than any
Android or iOS based system, more similar to the Mango OS used by iBasso
players. It takes just a few seconds to boost and can be set to start at the
main screen or at the last played track, including the last position.
Everything runs rather smoothly and the response it is very
fast with no delays or glitches that could be found so far. The whole interface
is very logical and almost every single option is self-explanatory to even care
about checking the manual, but there is still one included short if ever
needed.
The home screen arrives with a default array of icons that
can be customized and rearranged by the user preference. There are up to 6
icons on each screen, most of them are for music files searching (albums,
artist, etc.), and of course there is the ‘folder’ icon to access either the
micro SD or OTA memory. The extra ‘Hi-Res’ icon will open a list of all the
current tracks that are of higher sample quality. The 3.0 firmware now includes
Tidal app for WiFi streaming and there might be more added later on. There are two
main icons, ‘playback’ and ‘settings’, logically for audio and general setup
options.
Navigation is very easy and fast. A short swipe up from the
bottom of the screen (at any screen) will immediately return to main home screen,
and can go back to the music playing screen on a single touch at the lower bar
there. When navigating through folders or different screens, then a swipe to
the right will take back to the last previous screen. On selected menus and
screens a swipe to the left will reveal other screens options, or during the
playing screen it will show the currently played list.
Moreover, similarly to any smart device, a short swipe down
from the top of the screen will open a short menu, with a shortcut to the
settings menu, screen brightness adjustment and four icons to toggle on and off
the WiFi, Bluetooth, button lock (during screen off if selected), and gain
selection.
At the music playing screen, there is small touch icon to
toggle between the different playing sequences, and another icon to quickly add
or remove the current played track to ‘favorites’ playlist. Also, a single
touch at the image or album artwork will open extra options, like adding the
current file to a selected playlist, file delete, and also a shortcut to the
‘playback’ settings menu. One or two swipes to the right will show the lyrics
screen and the file info details as well.
Wireless features – Bluetooth & WiFi
The
Shanling M5s supports both Bluetooth and WiFi wireless connections. While
Bluetooth is not new for Shanling devices, the M5s is their first model that
adds WiFi. It also supports DLNA and Airplay, but haven’t got a chance to try
these two features yet. The Bluetooth version is 4.2, which is already a
standard nowadays for any portable device, and supports the different modern
codecs of AptX, LDAC, AAC and SBC (though still missing AptX HD). Also, the
Bluetooth supports two-way transmission, meaning it not only works as a
transmitter source to headphones, speakers or even wireless amplifiers, but
also as receiver that may be used as wireless Amp/DAC. The pairing is quick and
holds very good sound quality as a portable device. However, the better quality
antenna can be rather sensitive to the surrounding area where it is being used.
As long as there is little interference or physical objects and walls, the BT
range is as good as the 4.2v can get.
The WiFi connection can be used for system firmware update, wireless files transferring, and with the 3.0 version and above the M5s can be used for audio streaming on Tidal app.
Battery
As
rated on the specifications, the battery time may vary depending on single and
balanced outputs and the files quality. With a 3400mAh battery, the times are
very good for a portable player at this price, with such power and sound quality.
As long as the screen is not turned on constantly, the rated times are quite
accurate, about 15 hours from the single output on a mix of Mp3, Flac and DSD
files, and up to 10 at best from the balanced output. Of course it will depend
on the headphones and the device volume level and gain.
Charging
time, on the other hand, can be slow and the M5s is not rated to support
quick-charging. Usually it should take at least 3 hours or more to fully
recharge.
Sound Quality
The Shanling M5s should probably classify as one of
the most neutral sounding portable player, at least on the mid-tier segment. It
is a clear example of pure quality over quantity with a linear response and
very clear tuning. There is practically no emphasis on any specific frequency region;
nothing seems to sound warmer or brighter. Transparency is what could best
describe the M5s, having a clean and natural timbre. It offers a very subtle
sign of musicality that avoids sounding boring or too flat, and most
importantly, the presentation packs great dynamics, high accuracy and
resolution. It lacks that extra tilt on the highs region as some more
‘reference’ tuned DAPs may have, so it won’t bring more treble energy, but
nonetheless, the detail is never missing. There is a more delicate fullness on
notes from lower to upper instruments, that while may sound leaner do gain more
precision and separation.
With the very neutral tuning the bass does not show more sheer
power and attack, but instead highly impresses with excellent control and accuracy.
There is better speed with a very natural attack and decay that will merely be
depending on the headphones used. Great layering and depth, just not strong
impact and rumble, but by being lighter it is also more effortless and extended
reaching easily the lower notes. Those who may prefer a weightier and thicker
bass won’t be amazed with the M5s, but otherwise if looking for more agility
and higher quality, then it should be a perfect match.
The midrange is presented very clean, linear and uncolored.
It adds no extra warmth on the lower mids and no brighter tilt towards the
upper mids either, and also the presentation won’t sound either more forward or
recessed. Simply put, it is too transparent with high clarity, neat separation
and timbre. if anything there is a very bit subtle sense of musicality that
avoids the sound to be too cold or clinical, which makes the M5s very detailed
yet enjoyable, without resorting to any little equalization.
The M5s particularly stands out in the treble performance. As
for quantities and positioning on the overall presentation it is completely
neutral, and maybe too neutral. While laid back it is not, it can be presented
a bit shy in energy and sparkle; however, there is excellent control and
finesse quality for the price. There is also smoothness as the M5s won’t
highlight any peak on brighter sets, but then won’t add more treble presence on
dark or warmer headphones; still, if there is a trait of sibilance then it
won’t be hidden, but at least should be more controlled. In that regard, the
M5s may sound a bit dry, though it makes up with a high definition and
accuracy, purer quality and resolution.
The presentation is spacious and very detailed. The imaging
is very correct and the M5s is technically strong on layering and depths.
Soundstage is not particularly too large but nothing feels congested or
intimate either, keeping the best neutrality possible and right width for a
mid-tier portable player, and there is still a precise right and left
separation and strong sense of air.
Switching from the single ended output to the 2.5mm balanced
will have the expected good results, everything sounding just more ‘balanced’.
There is noticeable better extension on both lows and highs and a more even and
weightier presentation without breaking the neutrality, but does sound more
natural and coherent; it can sound even a little bit more fun and lively. The
gain in dynamics and layering can be also appreciated, and even the soundstage
is larger in width, depth and height, with a more open sound. In short, if
available then is highly recommended to use the balanced output, unless there
is need for the longer battery time of the single ended output.
In terms of driving power, the M5s have plenty to drive any
sensitive IEMs with standard impedance up to 32ohm and above 100dB of
sensitivity without reaching the 30 volume steps on the low gain. On balanced
output it goes even louder so a lower volume is enough. I kept a fixed startup
volume of 20 which on low gain it is enough to drive the IT01s and IT04 IEMs on
balanced mode, and then simply raise it accordingly to the other sets used. For
more demanding stuff like the Dita Audio Twins or final E5000 and E4000, then
the volume reached about 40~50. For the VE Zen 2.0, in 2.5mm balanced plug,
with a much higher 300ohm impedance there was need to switch to High gain and
reach around 50 volume steps; surprisingly a good result. For portable closed
headphones like the Meze 99 Classics the low gain was enough at around 50 steps
too. Generally, the jump from low to high gain is louder at least on 10 steps,
and even more on balanced output.
Comparisons
iBasso DX120
There is the iBasso DX120 that shares some similar features as the Shanling M5s, like full touch screen, 2.5mm balanced output andUSB DAC support. While the DX120 retails at a $300 tag, the final price may vary depending on the region and shipping costs so it gets closer to the $400 price of the M5s. Also take in count that the M5s offers the extra wireless features of Bluetooth and WiFi.
Each of them uses their own company OS, MTouch vs Mango OS, and interestingly have a similar fast and accurate response. The DX120 has a bit larger screen with cleaner resolution, though for only showing album covers during playback the difference is less significant. The layout is different, DX120 having physical buttons for the volume control against the wheel of the M5s. Navigation is simple on both devices and the whole interface is straightforward. In terms of portability both weight below the 200g., though their outer shape is very different so may depend on the user preferences.
As for what sound quality goes, both players are strong contenders. However, they do differ in their overall presentation. The DX120 is fuller and weightier on the low-end, with a slower decay and thicker midrange, putting more musicality to the mix and a sweeter touch for vocals. The treble is also more energetic, and in occasions can sound splashy in comparison.
The M5s, on the other hand, is clearly more neutral and linear. It has pretty much no coloration compared to the DX120; and actually shows no emphasis in any certain frequency compared to many other DAPs. There is better speed and accuracy over the DX120 too; the sound is leaner but then also clean and airier, with better extension and effortlessness. Micro details are easier to catch and treble control is better, though will sound darker when paired with warmer, bass oriented headphones. Soundstage is a tad wider and overall sound more spacious.
Shanling M0
The own Shanling entry level player, the small and cute M0, is clearly a no contender for the current top model, however a short comparison is worth mentioning. The M0 is a bit more tricky to operate due its smaller screen, though the whole system is very very similar with the MTouch firmware. On the last versions the M0 adds the same USB and Wireless features as the M5s.
For the sound, well, the M0 is simply just more 'fun', with a stronger mid-bass lift and forward midrange, especially in vocals. Soundstage is average and treble can be more artificial. It still easy to like as an ultra-portable player. There is no question whether the M5s is worth the extra price, as they are made for different purposes.
Conclusion
All-in-all, the Shanling M5s makes a strong option as
a portable audio player with a full touch screen and balanced output. The build
quality is solid and the relatively compact design is more friendly than other
mid-fi players, and the MTouch system is simple and easy to use without
resorting to a fancy Android platform. Bluetooth quality is also good, though if
more sensitive to the surroundings, and while WiFi is supported here, it is
more limited to streaming apps, file transfer and system updates.
The whole system response is very fast, and just may need
some time to get used to, but more comfortable than the small M0. The battery
time is solid as well, especially considering the driving power and multiple
functions this player supports. In terms of sound quality, then the M5s stands
out with a very neutral and clean presentation, high level of transparency and
micro detail. The 2.5mm balanced is well implemented too and usually presents a
better sound quality over the single end output.