I can't say I'm used to this kind of device, so take my feedback with a pinch of salt. But I've enjoyed it. Sound quality's definitely boosted noticeably, and controlling settings through the mobile app is quite convenient. Not sure if it's worth a hundred bucks, but if my time trying out different headphones and microphones has taught me anything... it's that audiophiles have a different notion of monetary value than I do, so you can make your own judgment on that.Anyway, that is my very amateur opinion here: "thumbs up, seems to do as advertised." Other reviews here might provide a more useful analysis.

Great build and sound quality. Not quite on par with my Grace m9xx and SMSL M8 Mini, but it's also not as expensive, and can be directly connected to my smartphone with the USB-C connector. I've been using it as my go-to portable travel DAC, and it's held up. If you're looking for something affordable and portable, this is something I highly recommend.

I'm a long time (and very satisfied) customer of Fiio products. I've highly enjoyed the audio on nearly every one of their DACs, amps, DAPs, and earbuds. Their build quality has been outstanding—never had an issue with any of them—and they're easily on the more affordable end of the audio gear spectrum.But I've had my eye on Shanling for a few years, and have wanted to try them out. This H0 DAC/amp is my first foray into this brand. Because I've used the Fiio K3 for a couple years now and because they're clearly competing in the same space, I thought a comparison between the two might be helpful.For this comparison, I used the Sennheiser HD 620S and HD 58X (on single-ended 3.5mm) and the brand new Hiby x FAUDIO Project Ace IEMs (via 4.4mm balanced). While the H0 and K3 were able to drive all of these, the H0 felt like it took less effort. For example, using the Hiby IEMs via balanced output on the H0, I only needed volume at 25/100 and low gain.The Fiio K3 is a compact and affordable option for those seeking better audio quality than they can probably get from their existing source. In terms of size and weight, the two are very similar. A few of the K3’s key features include:Affordable price: Offers good value for money (at the time of this review, they are equally priced).Physical switches: Some may prefer this over the LED display and navigable menu on the H0.Bass boost: Fiio's bass boost switch, though a bit much for my tastes, is a great option (and not included on the H0).Single-ended and balanced: The K3 differs from the H0 in that its balanced output is 2.5mm.The Shanling H0 is a versatile USB DAC/AMP that offers a premium audio experience. To my ears, the sound is slightly more dynamic than the K3’s, and leans just a bit to the analytic side. Its standout features include:High-performance DAC: The Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC ensures exceptional sound quality with a wide dynamic range and low noise.Versatile connectivity: Supports various digital audio formats, including PCM768kHz/32bit and DSD256, and offers both 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs.Smartphone integration: Can be controlled via the Eddict Player app for added customization.OLED display: Provides easy navigation and control of settings.Recessed volume wheel: Similar to the execution seen on some of Shanling's other high-end devices.While both the Shanling H0 and Fiio K3 offer significant improvements over built-in audio, the H0 won me over due to its:Higher-quality DAC: The Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC in the H0 is considered by some (myself included) superior to the ES9038Q2M DAC in the K3, resulting in a more refined and detailed sound.Balanced output: While both units offer single-ended and balanced outputs, only the H0 has the more up-to-date 4.4mm balanced output. I prefer the stability and strength of the 4.4mm over the K3's 2.5mm.Smartphone integration: The H0's ability to be controlled via an app—which doesn't really interest me—offers greater flexibility and customization options that some users will appreciate.OLED display: The H0's display makes it easier to navigate settings and monitor audio information. The K3 doesn't offer anything like this.Volume wheel: While the volume wheel on the K3 is competent and easy to use, for me the H0's recessed wheel with its click adjustments is even better. This is admittedly more of a personal preference, as they both get the job done equally well.Overall, the Shanling H0 is in my opinion an upgrade to the Fiio K3, offering a small step up in audio quality, a balanced 4.4mm output, and a more premium experience. If you're seeking a high-performance DAC/AMP with a focus on sound quality and features, the H0 should be an easy choice.

The Shanling has it all in a tiny package. I know they called this desktop, but it's smaller than a book of matches. You can plug in a 3.5 or a 4.4 Balanced connection and output from your laptop's USB-C port to get great, loud sound on the road. There is a small but clear OLED display that shows your output status, and you get sound up to 768 32-bit.It's a little more than I would ever need for my on-the-go gear, but I enjoy listening to my Focal Bathus through this rather than Bluetooth. The sound is much better with this tiny device. Even my Ifi Go Bar feels large and heavy compared to this, and I can only notice a little difference in the sound quality even when I tested it with Summit Fi headphones. It's a great little DAC with a big sound and looks sleek, too. Recommended!

I connected the DAC/Amplifier to my cell phone via USB C and was unimpressed with the audio output, so much so that I thought it must be defective as I could not discern any notable differences from plugging headphone/earphones diretly. On further research, it looks like there is a Eddict player app that needs to be downloaded for cell phones and that additional drivers for Windows are also necessary (if using on computer) - so be advised. There are also two 3.5mm inputs - one on the front and another on the back. For settings, the user manual says to 'switch the HO to UAC1.0 off mode but that only served to disrupt the DAC and headphones while plugged into the front inputs; consequently I have mine set to on. You are also able to connect to the rear inputs but you lose the ability to dial the volume on the DAC which will need to be done on the phone instead (UAC1.0 can also be turned off). Another discrepency that I've discovered is that the DAC arrived wtih firmware 1.0.3 and the user manual has directions to a website for updates (current availability is V1.4). However, as of this writing, the link is not working and I am unable to download the newest firmware. Also, this does not operate on its own power (no internal battery) but instead via the USB connection so be aware of the additional power requirements. With that being said and all things being equal, I will most likely use my other DAC for on-the-go needs since it has its own battery and does not require an app (on every device) to work.

This amplifier has excellent sound quality through the Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC. It delivers a dynamic range that makes every note sound crisp. The warm, rich audio is enhanced by the dual op-amps and creates an immersive listening session. The USB connectivity is seamless and it supports high-resolution formats. It connects to the Eddict Player app and allows for easy customization of settings. The scroll wheel also makes navigation easy.