1. Introduction
The SHANLING Onix Alpha XI1 is a portable USB Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and Headphone Amplifier designed to enhance your audio experience. It features dual CS43198 DAC chips and dual SGM8262-2 amplifier chips, supporting high-resolution audio formats up to PCM 768kHz/32bit and DSD256. The device offers both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs, along with physical controls and an OLED screen for easy operation.
Image 1.1: Front view of the SHANLING Onix Alpha XI1 device.
2. Package Contents
- SHANLING Onix Alpha XI1 Portable USB DAC AMP
- USB-C to USB-A Adapter
- High-purity oxygen-free copper cable (USB-C to USB-C)
3. Setup Guide
- Connect to Source Device: Use the provided USB-C cable to connect the XI1 to your smartphone, laptop, desktop computer, or gaming console (e.g., Nintendo Switch). If your source device uses a USB-A port, use the included USB-C to USB-A adapter.
- Driver Installation (Windows Systems): For optimal audio performance on Windows systems, it is recommended to download and install the UA series driver from the official SHANLING website.
- Connect Headphones: Plug your headphones into either the 3.5mm single-ended jack or the 4.4mm balanced jack on the XI1.
- Power On: The device will typically power on automatically when connected to a powered USB port.
Image 3.1: The Onix Alpha XI1 connected to a laptop, demonstrating typical usage.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Physical Controls
The XI1 features three physical buttons for direct control:
- Multi-function Button: Typically used for playback control (play/pause) and accessing settings menus.
- Volume Up Button (+): Increases the audio output volume.
- Volume Down Button (-): Decreases the audio output volume.
Image 4.1: Overview of the physical controls and display features.
4.2 OLED Screen and LED Indicator
- The 0.87-inch OLED screen displays real-time information such as sampling rate, active filter, and gain level. It also allows for direct function settings.
- The ring LED light indicates the current audio format and sampling rate.
Image 4.2: The Onix Alpha XI1 displaying its LED indicator, which changes color based on the audio format.
4.3 Eddict Player App Control
For advanced settings and personalization, the XI1 can be controlled via the Eddict Player APP (available for Android devices). The app allows you to:
- Fine-tune volume.
- Select from 5 digital filter settings.
- Adjust high and low gain settings.
- Configure power-saving modes.
Image 4.3: The Eddict Player App interface for advanced control and customization.
4.4 Gain Settings
The XI1 offers two gain settings (High/Low) to accommodate various headphones and earphones. Adjust the gain via the physical buttons or the Eddict Player App to match the sensitivity of your audio equipment.
4.5 Power-Saving Technology
The XI1 incorporates intelligent power-saving technology to optimize power consumption. It features:
- Standby Mode: Activated when no audio is playing, significantly reducing power draw.
- Play Mode: Normal operation during audio playback.
Note: To ensure compatibility, the power-saving function may be turned off by default at the factory. It can be enabled through the Eddict Player APP.
5. Key Features
- Dual CS43198 DAC Chips: Equipped with two Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs, known for high specifications, including a dynamic range of up to 130dB and a theoretical THD+N of 115dB.
- Dual SGM8262-2 Amplifier Chips: Utilizes two SGM8262-2 amplifiers for fully balanced amplification, providing a dynamic and robust sound with output power up to 180mW@32Ω (single-ended) and 500mW@32Ω (balanced).
- High-Resolution Audio Support: Supports PCM decoding up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD up to DSD256.
- Dual Headphone Outputs: Features both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone jacks.
- Replaceable Cable Design: Comes with a high-purity oxygen-free copper cable and supports cable replacement for compatibility with various devices (Apple/Android/PC) and potential sound quality optimization through cable upgrades.
- Nintendo Switch Compatibility: Can be used as an external decoding headphone amplifier for Nintendo Switch, enhancing the gaming audio experience.
Image 5.1: Visual summary of the SHANLING Onix Alpha XI1's core features and technologies.
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your SHANLING Onix Alpha XI1, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Keep the device clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Protect the device from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and high humidity.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
- When not in use, store the device in a protective case to prevent scratches and damage.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device repeatedly shuts off or does not power on. |
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| No sound or low volume. |
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| Device not recognized by computer. |
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8. Specifications
| Parameter | Overall | 3.5mm Single-Ended | 4.4mm Balanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 37.8g | - | - |
| Dimensions | 63.8 x 32 x 14mm | - | - |
| Hi-Res Support | 32bit / 768 kHz & DSD256 | - | - |
| Gain Setting | Low & High | - | - |
| DAC | Two Cirrus Logic CS43198 | - | - |
| Digital Filter | 5 Different Options | - | - |
| Output Power | - | 2.4V@32Ω (180mW@32Ω) | 4.0V@32Ω (500mW@32Ω) |
| THD+N | - | 0.0004% @ 32Ω (A-Weight @ 2V) | 0.0005%@32Ω (A-Weight @ 2V) |
| Dynamic Range | - | 125dB@32Ω (A-Weight) | 129dB@32Ω (A-Weight) |
| Channel Separation | - | 71dB@32Ω | 99dB@32Ω |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | - | 126dB@32Ω (A-Weight) | 129dB@32Ω (A-Weight) |
| Output Impedance | - | 0.4Ω | 0.8Ω |
Image 8.1: Comprehensive technical specifications for the Onix Alpha XI1.
9. Warranty and Support
SHANLING products are manufactured with strict quality control standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official SHANLING website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
Official SHANLING Website: www.shanling.com
