Shanling is expanding its streaming lineup with the SM1.3R, a new version of its SM1.3 network streamer/DAC that focuses on one key change: the DAC itself. Instead of using the chip-based design from the original model, the SM1.3R switches to an in-house R2R ladder DAC, something typically found in more niche, standalone gear. The goal here is pretty straightforward: keep the convenience of a modern streaming platform, but offer a different kind of sound for listeners who aren’t fully sold on traditional DAC designs.

At a glance, not much else has changed. The SM1.3R uses the same compact chassis, the same 5.8-inch touchscreen, and the same Android-based interface as the standard SM1.3. This isn’t a redesign—it’s more of a targeted update focused on how the unit handles digital-to-analog conversion.

That DAC swap is the main story. The original SM1.3 used an AKM chip-based setup, while the SM1.3R moves to a 24-bit R2R ladder design built in-house by Shanling. According to the company, it uses 212 precision-matched resistors with very tight tolerances, and it’s based on the same approach found in its higher-end SACD player lineup.

So what does that actually mean? In simple terms, R2R DACs are often associated with a different presentation compared to the delta-sigma DACs used in most streamers. Some listeners describe them as sounding a bit more “analog-like,” though that really comes down to preference and system matching. Either way, it’s a noticeable shift in direction—and one that’s starting to show up more often in all-in-one streamers like this.

On the streaming side, Shanling is sticking with what it already has. The SM1.3R runs on a customized Android 12 platform and supports a wide range of services right out of the box:

• Roon Ready
• Tidal Connect
• Qobuz Connect
• Spotify Connect
• Apple Music
• Amazon Music

It’s worth noting that this is a closed Android system, so you won’t be installing extra apps through the Play Store or sideloading your own. For most users, though, the built-in options cover the major streaming platforms.

Local playback is also part of the equation. The SM1.3R includes 64GB of internal storage and adds an M.2 SSD slot if you want to load your own music library directly onto the device. It also supports NAS playback via Samba and UPnP, so it can easily slot into an existing home network setup.

Connectivity is in line with what you’d expect at this level. Around back, you’ll find balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, along with a full set of digital inputs:

• I²S
• 2x coaxial
• 2x optical (TOSLINK)
• USB-C
• USB-A (for storage devices)

That setup gives the SM1.3R some flexibility as it can run as a complete streamer/DAC or just handle DAC duties for another source. There’s also a front-panel headphone output, rated at 900mW into 32 ohms or 130mW into 300 ohms, powered by a split 31-watt supply designed to keep digital and analog sections separate.

In terms of positioning, the SM1.3R lands in a competitive part of the market. With pricing set at $1,699, it goes up against options like the Eversolo DMP-A8 ($1,980 at Amazon) and the Cambridge Audio EXN100 ($1,799 at Crutchfield), both of which lean more toward traditional DAC architectures but offer similarly full-featured streaming platforms.

What Shanling is doing here is a bit different. Rather than stacking on new features, the SM1.3R is all about changing the core sound approach while keeping everything else familiar. For buyers who like the idea of an all-in-one streamer but are curious about R2R DACs, this is one more option to consider.

The SM1.3R is expected to begin shipping in the second half of April.

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