1. Introduction
The SHANLING M3 Plus is a portable digital audio player designed for high-fidelity music playback and versatile functionality. Featuring an open Android 13 system and a powerful Snapdragon 665 CPU, it offers a smooth user experience for both local music files and streaming applications.
Key features include:
- Operating System: Open Android 13 with Snapdragon 665 CPU.
- Memory: 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM, expandable via MicroSD.
- Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): 4x CS43198 DACs for high-performance audio.
- Audio Support: Up to 768kHz/32bit, DSD512, MQA 16X full decoding.
- Outputs: 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone jacks.
- Output Power: 800mW@32Ω balanced, 200mW@32Ω single-ended.
- Display: 4.7-inch Sharp IPS 720*1280P HD display.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 (LDAC/LHDC/aptX HD/aptX/SBC), 2.4G/5G Dual-Band Wi-Fi (MIMO technology), DLNA, NAS, AirPlay2.
- Battery: 3500mAh, up to 14 hours playback, QC3.0 18W fast charge.
2. Setup
2.1. Unboxing and Initial Inspection
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Verify that all items listed in the "What's in the Box" section are present and undamaged.
2.2. Charging the Device
Before first use, fully charge the SHANLING M3 Plus. Connect the provided USB A to C cable to the device's USB-C port and a compatible USB power adapter (not included). The device supports QC3.0 18W fast charging. A full charge typically takes several hours.
2.3. Power On/Off
- Power On: Press and hold the Power button (usually located on the side) until the screen illuminates and the SHANLING logo appears.
- Power Off: Press and hold the Power button until a power-off menu appears on the screen. Select "Power Off" to shut down the device.
- Screen On/Off: Briefly press the Power button to turn the screen on or off without powering down the device.
3. Controls and Ports
Familiarize yourself with the physical controls and connection ports of your M3 Plus player.

Image: Front and back view of the SHANLING M3 Plus, showing the screen and rear panel with branding and certifications.
- Power Button: Used for powering the device on/off and controlling the screen.
- Volume Wheel: Adjusts the audio output volume.
- Playback Control Buttons: Typically include Play/Pause, Next Track, and Previous Track.
- 3.5mm Single-Ended Headphone Output: Standard headphone jack for unbalanced audio.
- 4.4mm Balanced Headphone Output: Provides a balanced audio signal for compatible headphones, offering higher power and improved sound quality.
- USB-C Port: Used for charging, data transfer, and USB DAC functionality.
- MicroSD Card Slot: For expanding storage capacity for your music library.

Image: Top view of the SHANLING M3 Plus highlighting the 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone output jacks.
4. Operating System and Features
4.1. Android 13 System
The M3 Plus runs on an open Android 13 operating system, powered by a Snapdragon 665 CPU and 4GB RAM. This allows for a responsive interface and compatibility with a wide range of Android applications, including popular music streaming services.

Image: Close-up of the Snapdragon 665 CPU chip, illustrating the core processing power of the M3 Plus with Android 13.
4.2. High-Fidelity Audio Playback
Equipped with four CS43198 DACs and dual OPA1216 OP-Amps, the M3 Plus supports high-resolution audio formats up to 768kHz/32bit and native DSD512. It also features MQA 16X full decoding for master quality audio.

Image: Visual representation of the four Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs, highlighting the device's advanced audio processing capabilities.
4.3. Wireless Connectivity
The M3 Plus offers comprehensive wireless options:
- Bluetooth 5.0: Supports high-quality codecs for transmission (LDAC/LHDC/aptX HD/aptX/SBC) and reception (LDAC/SBC).
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi (2.4G/5G): Utilizes a WCN3980 Wi-Fi module with MIMO technology for stable and fast internet connection, ideal for music streaming.
- Network Streaming: Supports DLNA, NAS, and AirPlay2 for seamless integration with your home network and other devices.

Image: Icons illustrating the support for DLNA, NAS, and AirPlay2, enabling diverse wireless music streaming options.
4.4. Battery Life
The 3500mAh battery provides extended playback times:
- Up to 14 hours (3.5mm single-ended, 2 DAC output)
- Up to 11 hours (3.5mm single-ended, 4 DAC output)
- Up to 11 hours (4.4mm balanced output)
- Up to 61 hours (Bluetooth transmission)
Fast charging is supported via QC3.0 18W.

Image: Graphic displaying the estimated battery life for various audio output configurations of the M3 Plus.
5. Media Integration
5.1. Official Product Video: SHANLING M3 Plus Overview
Video: An official overview of the SHANLING M3 Plus Android 13 Player, showcasing its design and key features.
5.2. Official Product Video: SHANLING DAP Language Switching
Video: A guide demonstrating how to switch languages on SHANLING Digital Audio Players running on the Snapdragon 665 platform, applicable to the M3 Plus.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
- Screen Care: The device comes with screen protectors. Replace them if they become scratched or damaged to maintain screen clarity.
- Battery Longevity: To prolong battery life, avoid fully discharging the device frequently. Store the device in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.
- Storage: Keep the device away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and high humidity.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your SHANLING M3 Plus, refer to the following common solutions:
- Device Not Powering On: Ensure the battery is sufficiently charged. Connect the device to a power source and attempt to power on after a few minutes.
- No Sound Output: Check headphone connections (3.5mm or 4.4mm). Verify volume levels are not muted or too low. Ensure the correct output mode is selected in settings.
- Poor Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Connectivity: Ensure the device is within range of the Wi-Fi router or Bluetooth device. Restart the M3 Plus and the connected device. Check for any physical obstructions.
- App Performance Issues: Close background applications to free up RAM. Clear app caches or reinstall problematic applications. Ensure the device firmware is up to date.
- Gapless Playback: The default music player may not support true gapless playback. Consider installing a third-party music application from the Google Play Store that offers this feature.
- System-Wide Equalizer: The built-in equalizer might be tied to the SHANLING Music app. For system-wide EQ, explore third-party apps that provide this functionality or check for future firmware updates.
For further assistance, please refer to the "Support and Warranty" section.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | SHANLING M3 Plus |
| Operating System | Open Android 13 |
| CPU | Snapdragon 665 |
| Memory | 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM |
| Expandable Storage | Micro SD (up to 2TB) |
| DAC | 4x Cirrus Logic CS43198 |
| Hi-Res Support | 768kHz/32bit, DSD512, MQA 16X |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Codecs (TX) | LDAC/LHDC/aptX HD/aptX/SBC |
| Bluetooth Codecs (RX) | LDAC/SBC |
| Wi-Fi | 2.4G/5G Dual-Band (MIMO) |
| Screen Size | 4.7 Inches (Sharp IPS 720*1280P) |
| 3.5mm Output Power | Low Gain: 12.5mW@32Ω, Medium Gain: 50mW@32Ω, High Gain: 200mW@32Ω |
| 4.4mm Output Power | Low Gain: 50mW@32Ω, Medium Gain: 200mW@32Ω, High Gain: 800mW@32Ω |
| Battery Capacity | 3500mAh |
| Battery Life | Up to 14h (3.5mm 2 DAC), 11h (3.5mm 4 DAC), 11h (4.4mm), 61h (BT) |
| Fast Charge | QC3.0 18W |
| Dimensions | 115 x 70.5 x 18mm |
| Weight | 205g |
9. What's in the Box
The SHANLING M3 Plus package includes:
- 1x M3 Plus Android Player
- 1x USB A to C Cable
- 2x Screen Protectors
- Documentation (User Manual, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card)
10. Support and Warranty
For technical support, firmware updates, or warranty inquiries, please contact SHANLING directly.
- Manufacturer: SHANLING
- Official Website: en.shanling.com
- Email Support: info@shanling.com, Amazon@shanling.com
Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. Warranty terms and conditions are detailed in the included documentation.