Shanling M0 Pro Review: iPod Nano Reinvented for Audiophiles

A hi-res music player that fits in your pocket. Shanling M0 Pro revives the iPod Nano spirit with LDAC, dual DACs, and balanced audio output. The Shanling M0 Pro takes everything loved about the original M0 and gives it a bold, 2020s-style refresh. It is a high-performance digital audio player that fits in your palm, pocket, or even on your wrist. Despite its size, it boasts a dual DAC setup, balanced output, and modern connectivity, positioning it as a true audiophile device for on-the-go listening.

Design and Build Quality

Shanling has long been recognized for packing premium features into small form factors, and the M0 Pro is no exception. Built from CNC-machined aluminum and available in bold colors like red, black, blue, and green, it feels durable yet elegant.

• Dimensions: 43.5 x 45 x 13.8 mm
• Weight: 36.8g
• Display: 1.54" LCD touchscreen, 240×240 resolution
• Control: Single multifunction wheel + touchscreen

The tiny screen is surprisingly responsive, and the UI (Shanling's own MTouch OS) is easy to navigate, especially for volume and playback control.

Note: The icons can be small for larger fingers, and swipe gestures occasionally misfire when using the case.

Hardware and Performance

What makes the M0 Pro more than just a fancy Bluetooth player is what lies beneath its aluminum shell:

• DAC Chipset: Dual ESS ES9219C DACs

• Output Power:

  • 3.5mm SE: 90 mW @ 32Ω
  • 4.4mm Balanced (via adapter): 236 mW @ 32Ω

• Output Ports: 3.5mm single-ended / USB-C for balanced via included adapter

• SNR: >118 dB

• THD+N: <0.0005%

The 3.5mm jack is a hybrid port - with a special adapter (sold separately), it becomes a true balanced 4.4mm output, powered by dual DACs and dual amps.

Connectivity and Features

Despite its size, the M0 Pro is a fully capable digital audio player and Bluetooth DAC/amp.

• Bluetooth 5.0 (with LDAC, aptX, SBC, AAC support)
• Hi-Res Audio Certified
• Two-Way Bluetooth (Can act as transmitter and receiver)
• USB DAC Support (Windows, Mac, iPhone)
• Expandable Storage: MicroSD up to 2TB
• Wristwatch Mode (optional strap accessory turns it into a wearable player)

Tip: When using it as a DAC with iPhones, ensure your USB-C to Lightning cable supports audio (not just charging).

Sound Quality

The M0 Pro delivers an impressive sound profile for such a small player. The dual DACs work in synergy to provide clean, articulate audio with respectable staging.

• Bass: Tight and fast, with just enough punch. May feel lighter in SE mode with full-size headphones. Balanced mode significantly improves slam and authority.
• Mids: Clear and forward, great for vocal-centric tracks and acoustic recordings. Slightly analytical but natural.
• Treble: Smooth yet detailed. Never piercing, but retains clarity even in complex tracks.
• Soundstage & Imaging: Spacious for the size. Balanced mode adds dimension and instrument layering.

Observation: Single-ended output sounds neutral and clean. Balanced adds warmth, depth, and better dynamics. Great synergy with IEMs like Letshuoer S12 Pro.

Battery Life

• Battery Capacity: 650mAh
• Battery Life: Up to 14.5 hours playback (SE mode)
• Bluetooth Mode: Up to 30 hours
• Balanced Output Mode: ~7–10 hours typical
• Charging Time: ~1 hour (USB-C)

Tip: For long flights, a small power bank can easily recharge it and fit in your pocket.

Use Cases and Practicality

• Great For:

  • Commuters wanting high-quality sound in a discreet form
  • Gym-goers who hate bulky DAPs
  • Streamlined secondary setup for travel
  • Wearing it as a watch with the optional strap

• Not Ideal For:

  • Tidal/Qobuz/Spotify streamers
  • Users with power-hungry full-size headphones
  • Complex library management (small screen)

Final Verdict

The Shanling M0 Pro is a rare product: it delivers true audiophile-grade features in a wearable, ultra-portable shell. With dual DACs, balanced output, and Bluetooth versatility, it blurs the line between a DAP, DAC, and smartwatch. While it won’t replace your flagship setup, it carves out its own niche as one of the most functional, fun, and surprisingly capable budget DAPs on the market.

Pros

• Compact, stylish and wearable
• Dual DACs with balanced output
• Excellent sound quality for its size
• Long battery life in SE mode
• LDAC support and USB DAC mode
• Rich EQ and playback settings

Cons

• No streaming apps or Wi-Fi
• Small UI elements may cause mispresses
• Balanced adapter is a paid extra
• Touch gestures can be unreliable in case
• Balanced mode drains battery faster

Technical Specifications

Feature	Detail
DAC Chipset	Dual ESS ES9219C
Output Power	3.5mm: 90mW @32Ω, 4.4mm: 236mW
Bluetooth	5.0, LDAC, aptX, AAC, SBC
Display	1.54" Touchscreen, 240×240
Battery Life	Up to 14.5 hours (SE mode)
Storage	microSD (up to 2TB)
Dimensions	43.5 x 45 x 13.8 mm
Weight	36.8g
Charging Port	USB-C
OS	Shanling MTouch OS

Is It Still Worth Buying in 2025?

Absolutely. The Shanling M0 Pro remains one of the best value micro-DAPs on the market in 2025. It’s unmatched in size-to-performance ratio, making it ideal for minimalist setups. With no real competitors offering such audio firepower in a chassis this small, the M0 Pro is likely to remain relevant for years.