Table of Contents

• Overview
• Key Features
• Performance
  • CD Playback
  • Digital Transport Functionality
  • Build Quality and Usability
• Pros and Cons
• User Opinions & Community Sentiment
• Comparisons
• Final Verdict

Shanling’s ET3 is a dedicated CD transport that doubles as a modern digital hub for audiophiles. This compact, top-loading unit is designed to deliver high-quality CD playback and versatile digital transport functionality for use with high-end DACs. In this review, we’ll cover the ET3’s key features, performance in audio playback, build quality and usability, a list of pros and cons from expert and user feedback, and how it stacks up against popular competitors like the Audiolab 6000CDT and Cambridge Audio CXC. We’ve gathered insights from expert reviewers and community forums (Head-Fi, Reddit, Audiogon, Steve Hoffman, etc.) to present a balanced analysis with technical detail for audiophiles and practical takeaways for all consumers.

Overview

Shanling’s ET3 is a half-width, top-loading CD transport built for audiophiles who want both high-end disc playback and modern streaming capabilities. It features a sleek CNC-machined aluminum chassis available in silver or black, with an easy-access top lid and front display.

Released in 2023 at an MSRP around $799 USD, the Shanling ET3 is positioned as a “high-end digital transport” for those who still cherish CD playback but also want cutting-edge connectivity. Unlike traditional CD players, the ET3 has no analog outputs – it’s purely a digital source intended to feed an external DAC. Shanling has packed this unit with features beyond basic CD playing: it supports Wi-Fi streaming, AirPlay, Bluetooth input, USB playback, and even outputs audio via a USB interface – a rare capability for a CD transport. Its design philosophy builds on Shanling’s long history of high-quality CD players, aiming to provide “top-quality digital transport for high-end DACs” in a compact form.

In short, the ET3 serves not only as a CD reader but as an all-in-one digital transport hub. It appeals to those who demand audiophile-grade sound from CDs while also integrating their digital libraries and streaming sources. With a footprint of just 25.5 × 18.8 cm and solid build, it fits neatly into modern systems without sacrificing performance. Next, we’ll dive into its key features that set it apart from conventional CD transports.

Key Features

Shanling has loaded the ET3 with features that are seldom seen together in a single CD transport. Below are the key highlights:

• High-Quality CD Mechanism: A Philips SAA7824 CD drive and Sanyo HD850 laser pickup are used for precise disc reading. This mechanism includes built-in DSP for “error correction and noise reduction”, ensuring accurate playback even on less-than-perfect discs. The transport is compatible with Red Book CDs as well as CD-R/RW media.
• Pure Digital Outputs (No DAC Onboard): All outputs are digital, marking the ET3 as a true transport. It offers coaxial, optical (TOSLINK), AES/EBU, and even an HDMI I²S output for direct I2S connection to compatible DACs. These standard outputs handle up to 24-bit/192 kHz PCM or DSD64 (DoP) from disc or files.
• USB Audio Output: Uniquely, the ET3 features a USB Type-B audio output that can send digital audio (including CD data) to an external USB DAC. Shanling confirmed this is possible – making the ET3 one of the first CD transports to output via USB. (Note: when using the USB output, the internal upsampler is bypassed.)
• Hi-Res Upsampling Capabilities: The ET3 includes a CT7302CL upsampling chip which allows an “All-to-DSD” or “All-to-PCM” conversion mode. In practice, this means the user can choose to upconvert standard 16-bit/44.1 kHz CD audio to high-resolution PCM or DSD (up to PCM 768 kHz/32-bit or DSD512 on I²S/USB outputs). This is an optional feature for those who want to experiment with sending higher-rate signals to their DAC.
• Network and Wireless Streaming: With built-in 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi, the ET3 supports DLNA/UPnP streaming and Apple AirPlay for integration with local network audio and iOS devices. It effectively has a mini streamer inside (an Ingenic X2000 platform running Shanling’s custom code) to handle these features. Additionally, Bluetooth 5.0 is on board, allowing you to stream audio into the ET3 from a phone/tablet (supporting LDAC, AAC, SBC codecs). This means you can use the ET3 to play not only CDs but also content from Spotify, Tidal (via AirPlay), or your phone’s library, outputting all through its high-quality digital interfaces.
• USB Drive Playback (Digital File Player): The ET3 can function as a digital media player by reading files from a USB stick or hard drive. Simply plug a USB drive into the rear USB-A port, and the unit supports a wide range of audio formats: DSD (DSF/DFF/ISO), FLAC, WAV, ALAC, APE, AAC, MP3, etc. This allows playback of high-resolution files (up to 768 kHz/32-bit PCM or DSD512) through the digital outputs, essentially using the ET3 as a standalone music server. Shanling even enables a mode to use the device as a mini NAS – once a USB drive is connected and the ET3 is on the network, other devices can access those files over DLNA.
• Top-Loading Design with Magnetic Clamp: The ET3 is a top-loading CD transport, meaning you lift off the round top lid to insert a disc. The lid itself has an inner magnetic ring that acts as the disc clamp, snapping onto the CD’s center and securing it during playback. This design omits any motorized tray or slot, theoretically reducing mechanical complexity and noise. The lid is transparent smoky acrylic (giving a view of the CD inside) and is completely removable. Shanling put the playback controls (play/pause, track skip, etc.) on the top panel as well, around the disc opening, for easy access when loading discs. Many enthusiasts appreciate top-loaders for their simplicity and longevity, and Shanling’s implementation is clever – the lift-off lid doubles as the CD puck and ensures a good clamp pressure.
• Compact, Solid Build: The unit is relatively small (approx. 7.4″ × 10″ footprint, weighing ~2.5 kg), often described as “half-width” size. Despite this, it’s very solidly built – the chassis is CNC-machined metal and well-damped to avoid vibrations. Users note that tapping the case yields a dull thud, not a ring, indicating good internal damping. The overall build quality gives a premium feel, and the ET3 is available in both black and silver finishes.
• Front Panel Display and Controls: On the front is a color IPS display (320×290) that shows track info, settings, and menus. A large rotary knob (encoder) and a few buttons allow navigation through menus and files. The UI offers things like track selection, input source selection, and upsampling mode toggling. In fact, the ET3’s on-device user interface is praised for being intuitive – “the iconography is easy to see” and the play/pause button is prominent. For remote access, Shanling includes a remote control and also offers a companion app (Eddict Player) for smartphones, which can control file playback from a USB drive or streaming sources.
• MQA CD Support: As a bonus for those who have MQA-encoded CDs, the ET3 supports MQA-CD decoding. It can output decoded MQA as high-res PCM to any DAC (or the MQA core to an MQA-enabled DAC). While MQA-CDs are niche, this inclusion underscores the unit’s “do-it-all” approach. (MQA, however, has lost popularity recently, so this may not be widely used.)

Overall, the ET3’s feature set is remarkably comprehensive – one Head-Fi member noted “this is the most full-featured CD transport I have ever seen, given all of its different outputs”, highlighting the excitement it generated in the community. Next, we evaluate how these features translate into real-world performance and sound quality.

Performance

CD Playback Quality

In core duty as a CD transport, the Shanling ET3 performs at a very high level. Many users report exceptional results in terms of sound quality and operation when feeding an external DAC. A member of the Audio Science Review forum who compared it to the popular Audiolab 6000CDT stated the ET3 was “a fair step up in sound… the 6000CDT sounded flatter and less defined, while the ET3 is probably the best CD transport I have ever heard”, fitting in “unbelievably well” with his high-end setup. This sentiment – that the ET3 can extract a bit more clarity and definition from CDs – is echoed by others. On the Steve Hoffman forums, one owner described the little Shanling as having “amazing sound quality”, noting that after some break-in it “opened up a lot… It’s a keeper for me. No complaints so far.”

Subjective impressions often mention a very transparent, detailed, and “analog-like” presentation of CD audio. On Super Best Audio Friends (SBAF), an experienced reviewer described the ET3’s sound via the AES output as “stately, tight, [and] articulate,” comparing it favorably to a revered vintage Theta transport. In direct A/B tests, the ET3 easily outclassed a midrange Emotiva ERC-4 CD player, with the reviewer stating “it’s not even worth talking about [the ERC-4]” when using the ET3. These comments suggest that the ET3’s low-noise mechanics and digital output stage are indeed delivering audible improvements in timing/jitter or error handling that yield a more refined sound to downstream DACs.

Technically, the ET3’s CD reading mechanism and buffer seem to do an excellent job minimizing read errors. The Philips/Sanyo drive, coupled with Shanling’s DSP error correction, results in silent and smooth playback. Users consistently remark on how quiet the unit is in operation – “I thought it was broken until I saw the CD spinning… I heard jack-shit,” one reviewer quipped, referencing the lack of the usual disc whir from 80s/90s CD players. Disc loading and track access times are reasonably quick. There is a slight delay when skipping tracks rapidly (as is common with many transports), but the ET3 impressively caches commands: if you hit the skip button multiple times, it will queue those skips and execute them in order, a “neat” little UI touch that makes it feel responsive.

Another performance aspect is the upsampling feature. Users can choose to output the native 16-bit/44.1 kHz from CD, or engage “All to DSD” or upsample to higher PCM. Some listeners report subtle differences: e.g., upsampling to DSD might give a slightly smoother presentation depending on the DAC’s design, whereas others prefer the native output for transparency. It’s very much DAC- and taste-dependent – the ET3 gives the option but doesn’t force any processing. (As Darko’s article noted, the only limitation is that upsampling cannot be used when outputting via USB, since the USB interface sends out the raw data stream from the CD.)

In terms of digital signal integrity, while we don’t have laboratory measurements of jitter for the ET3, anecdotal evidence suggests it is well controlled. The presence of advanced outputs like I²S and the internal re-clocking/upsampling imply Shanling engineered it for minimal timing errors. One user on What’s Best Forum even mentioned upgrading to the ET3 improved synergy in his system (though noting it sounded slightly thin with one of his DACs, showing that results can vary with system matching). On the whole, the overall audio performance of the ET3 as a transport is considered superb for its price class – many feel it competes with, or even beats, more expensive dedicated transports in retrieving musical detail and maintaining sonic coherence.

Digital Transport Functionality (Beyond CD)

What sets the ET3 apart is that its performance is not limited to spinning CDs. It effectively behaves as a multi-function digital source, and users report that these additional modes work reliably:

• USB File Playback: When playing high-res files from a USB flash drive or HDD, the ET3 acts like a mini music server. It can handle formats up to DSD512 and 768 kHz PCM, which covers virtually any studio master or hi-res download. The companion app (or the unit’s own interface) allows browsing folders and tracks. Users have noted that sound quality from file playback equals that of the CD transport – effectively, it’s like having a high-res digital player built-in. This is great for those who have a collection of FLAC/DSD files alongside their CDs.
• Network Streaming: Via Wi-Fi, the ET3 can pull music from a DLNA/UPnP server or accept AirPlay streams. In practice, streaming 16-bit or 24-bit audio over Wi-Fi works well, though it depends on network stability. The ET3 does not have an Ethernet port (wired LAN is not supported, which could be a minor drawback for those who prefer a cable connection for stability). However, AirPlay integration means you can cast Apple Music or other apps to it easily, and DLNA means it can be a renderer for software like JRiver, Audirvana, or Roon (via AirPlay, not as a RAAT endpoint). Some users use the ET3 as a one-stop solution: playing a CD one moment, then using it to stream their Hi-Res library the next, all feeding the same external DAC.
• Bluetooth Input: While an audiophile might not often rely on Bluetooth, the ET3’s Bluetooth receiver is handy for casual listening or when friends want to quickly play something from their phone. It supports LDAC for higher quality. In terms of performance, this is more convenience-oriented; sound quality is constrained by Bluetooth’s limitations, but for what it is, it works fine and adds to the ET3’s versatility.

One thing to note: with all these features, the usability of the interface and controls becomes important. The ET3’s front-panel controls and screen have been praised for making navigation easy (the rotary knob and clear menu system minimize any confusion). Switching between sources (CD vs. USB vs. network) is done through the Menu button. That said, the remote control has drawn criticism – more on that in the Usability section below. If you use the app for file playback, that can alleviate some remote shortcomings when navigating a large library.

Build Quality and Usability

The build quality of the ET3 is generally lauded as excellent. The unit feels solid and dense for its size, thanks to the metal chassis and internal damping. There are no moving trays; the only removable part is the top lid. The lid mechanism itself is a point of discussion: it’s a glassy acrylic cover that locks onto the spindle via a magnet. It gives a very tight clamp for the disc, which is good for reading stability. However, the lid demands a careful touch – one audiophile noted that “the weak link is the lid”, as it can be awkward to grab in the limited space around the spindle, especially for larger hands. In his case, the lid slipped and fell, cracking the acrylic. (Replacement lids are available and not too expensive, thankfully.) To avoid accidents, some users have come up with tweaks – for example, using a small suction-cup tool to lift the lid safely. As long as you handle it with a bit of care, the lid works well and actually contributes to the unit’s low noise (no rattling parts).

Beyond that, the fit and finish are high-grade – buttons and knob feel solid, and the display is legible. The compact form means it can be placed on a desk or shelf easily; several users have it in secondary systems or near a computer due to the small footprint, and they appreciate the “quarter-width” size not dominating the space.

When it comes to usability: operating the ET3 directly is intuitive. The top panel has the transport controls (Play/Pause, Stop, Prev/Next track) arranged logically, and as mentioned, the large play button and clear icons make it straightforward. The front knob aids in menu navigation for things like selecting inputs or turning on upsampling. The interface isn’t touch-screen fancy, but it’s functional and user-friendly – “implementing a good UI isn’t that hard!” quipped one reviewer, complimenting Shanling on getting the basics right.

However, user feedback on the remote control is overwhelmingly negative. The included IR remote is a simple credit-card style remote with very basic controls. It lacks numeric keypad buttons for direct track selection, which frustrates those who want to jump to a specific track number quickly (you must skip forward/back sequentially). Also, there is no program feature – you cannot program a sequence of tracks to play, aside from using the shuffle or repeat modes. Additionally, the remote’s responsiveness is poor – it needs to be pointed exactly at the unit’s IR receiver, and even then the range is limited. One owner flatly called the remote “the worst part of the ET-3”, eventually resigning to just insert a CD and listen through without remote interaction. This is an area where the more utilitarian competition (like Cambridge or Audiolab) often have full-size remotes with direct track access.

Shanling perhaps assumed many users would use the app or not mind the minimal remote, but it’s a clear usability con for traditional CD listening. The companion smartphone app can control playback from a USB drive or network source, but it does not send IR commands for CD control – so it won’t help if you want to skip to track 10 on a CD, for instance. In short, the on-unit controls = great, but the remote control = disappointing.

Finally, we must address reliability. As a new product, long-term reliability is something to watch. Some users have logged many hours with no issues, but there are a few concerning reports. On Audiogon, a user noted that Shanling (in general, over decades) has had reliability challenges and cited his own experience with a different model’s laser failing. Specifically for the ET3, one Reddit user recounted that while it sounded great initially, his unit’s laser mechanism began to stick intermittently, prompting him to replace it with an Audiolab transport after a while (anecdotes like this are isolated but worth noting). Shanling has been releasing firmware updates to squash any software bugs (for example, network playback quirks), which is a good sign of support. The drive and laser are Philips/Sanyo components which typically are reliable in the industry. Time will tell, but prospective buyers should be aware that, as with any complex modern digital device, there’s a bit more to go wrong in the ET3 (Wi-Fi module, streamer board, etc.) than in a simple CD-only unit.

To sum up performance: The Shanling ET3 excels in audio performance, providing a clean, dynamic output from CDs that many describe as a noticeable improvement over standard CD transports. It is ultra-quiet and solid in operation, with a rich feature set that generally works as advertised. Build quality is high, marred only by a finicky lid mechanism. Usability is great on-device, but hampered by the subpar remote control. Now, let’s consolidate these findings into clear pros and cons.

Pros and Cons

Based on expert reviews and extensive user feedback, here are the major pros and cons of the Shanling ET3:

Pros:

• Excellent Sound Quality: Praised for extracting detailed, dynamic sound from CDs. Multiple listeners found it clearly superior to other transports in its class (one calling it “the best CD transport I have ever heard”) with a tight, articulate sonic character. It provides a very low-noise, jitter-free digital feed to your DAC, allowing CDs to shine.
• Extremely Versatile Digital Outputs: No other CD transport at this price offers the ET3’s range of outputs. In addition to standard coaxial and optical, it provides AES/EBU, HDMI I²S, and USB Audio outputs. This means it can interface with virtually any DAC or digital setup, including pro gear and I²S-capable DACs. The USB output in particular is rare and allows using modern USB-only DACs directly with a CD transport.
• Hi-Res and Streaming Capabilities: The ET3 doubles as a hi-res digital player and streamer. It can upsample CD audio to high-res PCM or DSD (user selectable), play music from USB drives (supporting DSD256/512 and 24-bit/192+ files), and stream via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This all-in-one functionality can replace multiple components (CD transport + network streamer) with one box. As one Head-Fi user pointed out, it’s perhaps “the most full featured CD transport” available.
• Top-Notch Build and Aesthetics: The unit is compact but hefty, with a solid metal chassis that’s well damped. The top-loading design removes flimsy trays from the equation, and the magnetic clamping lid provides secure disc seating. The overall aesthetic – with a glossy lid window and OLED display – is modern and appealing, matching well with desktop or rack systems. Available in two finishes (black or silver) to suit different tastes.
• Silent, Smooth Operation: The ET3’s CD mechanism is very quiet (virtually inaudible when playing) and handles discs swiftly. It has robust error correction (Philips SAA7824 drive with advanced DSP) to play even damaged or imperfect discs reliably. Users coming from other players note the lack of mechanical noise or tracking hiccups – it just plays without drama.
• Intuitive On-Unit Controls and Interface: Shanling nailed the basics of usability on the device itself. The large play/pause button and surrounding controls on the top are easy to find, and the icon-labeled buttons plus rotary dial make menu navigation straightforward. The front screen provides clear info. Unlike some complex streamers, you don’t have to use an app if you’re just spinning CDs – everyday operation is simple and old-school in a good way.
• Strong Value (if you use its features): Considering it’s not just a CD transport but also a streamer/interface, many find the ET3 a great value. It competes sonically with more expensive transports and adds functions they don’t have. For someone looking to integrate disc playback with file streaming in one device, the cost is justified by the convenience and performance. Reviews have called it “quality at [a] good value”, exemplifying how far Chi-Fi has come in offering high-end features affordably.

Cons:

• Poor Remote Control Design: The ET3’s infrared remote is a common complaint. It lacks numeric track buttons and programming ability, making it cumbersome to jump to tracks directly. It only offers basic transport controls (play/pause, skip, volume, etc.), and even those require precise aiming to register. This is a step back in user-friendliness, especially for CD listeners used to full-function remotes. In practice, many give up on the remote and just use the unit or app, which isn’t ideal.
• No Track Program or Advanced CD Functions: As an extension of the remote issue, the ET3 doesn’t support programming custom track sequences or other advanced playback features that some CD players have. You can play a disc straight through, repeat, or shuffle, but not program an order. This might not matter to all, but is a limitation for those who enjoyed that functionality on older players.
• Lid Mechanism Can Be Fragile/Tricky: The top lid, while innovative, requires careful handling. Its magnetic clamp design means it’s a single piece you remove and replace with each disc change. A few users found the lid’s fit a bit awkward, as there’s limited finger space to grab it, and dropping it can crack the plastic. Replacements are cheap, but it’s an inconvenience. It’s not motorized or hinged, so you have to set it aside when changing CDs – a small nitpick but a different workflow than a typical tray.
• Question Marks on Long-Term Reliability: The ET3 is a sophisticated device with many parts (optical drive, streamer board, wireless radios, etc.). While many have used it without trouble, there have been isolated reports of failures – e.g. a faulty laser mechanism in one case, and a failed IR receiver in another Shanling model. One seasoned audiophile warned that Shanling has had a “poor reliability” track record historically, though it’s unclear if that applies broadly today. The Audiolab and Cambridge transports, by contrast, use simpler designs that some might perceive as less failure-prone (though they have their own issues at times). In short, there’s a bit of caution here: the ET3 hasn’t proven itself over many years yet.
• Firmware Maturity and Complexity: By packing so many features, the ET3’s firmware had a lot to manage at launch. Shanling has released updates to fix bugs (such as occasional network playback glitches or quirks with certain USB drives). Early adopters might have encountered those minor issues. Navigating network features can also be a learning curve if you’re new to DLNA or AirPlay setups. It’s not “plug and play” for streaming in the way a Sonos or Bluesound might be. Also, the device lacks Ethernet, so it’s Wi-Fi reliant for streaming – which could be a con if your Wi-Fi is unstable.
• Higher Price vs. Basic Transports: If you purely need a CD transport with coax/optical out, the ET3 is more expensive than simpler options. You might end up paying for features (Wi-Fi, upsampling, USB out) that you don’t use. In that sense, for someone who only spins CDs into a DAC and never intends to use the extras, the ET3 might not be the best value. Competing units like the Audiolab 6000CDT can be had for significantly less and accomplish the core task (CD playback) very well. So the value of the ET3 is tied to utilizing its full breadth of capabilities.

It’s clear the pros strongly outweigh the cons if you’re the target user who will use the ET3’s rich feature set. The cons are mostly about ergonomics (remote, lid) and cautionary notes on reliability, whereas the pros hit at the fundamental purpose: top-tier audio performance and flexibility.

User Opinions and Community Feedback

To provide a well-rounded view, we surveyed opinions from various audio communities. Here’s what real users and enthusiasts are saying about the Shanling ET3:

• Head-Fi Forum: The announcement of the ET3 on Head-Fi generated a lot of interest, with users impressed by its specs. Seasoned members highlighted the unique USB output and streaming features. “It sure is getting a lot of interest,” one commenter noted, calling it the most feature-packed transport they’d seen. Some Head-Fi users who purchased the unit later reported positive experiences, especially regarding sound quality to their headphone DAC/amps. A few joked about the resurgence of CDs (e.g., “What is CD?” – a tongue-in-cheek comment on modern streaming vs physical media), but overall the tone was excited.
• Reddit (r/audiophile and r/CD_collectors): On Reddit, visuals of the ET3 in people’s systems drew admiration for its form factor and design – the compact chassis and top-loading mechanism have a certain geeky appeal. One user posted “Enjoying new Shanling ET3 CD transport” and noted he “loves the form factor and design” and had “fun with upscaling CDs”, also appreciating that he could stream from his NAS with it (showing that users do take advantage of the extra features). However, Reddit also surfaced some early issues: A contributor in r/Cd_collectors mentioned “all was great until [the ET3’s] laser mechanism started to stick randomly.” He eventually switched to an Audiolab unit, suggesting that particular ET3 was a lemon in terms of reliability. Reddit discussions also frequently debated whether a transport like this can improve sound over a basic CD player’s digital output – and while objectivists were skeptical, many owners insisted the difference was audible with a resolving DAC.
• Audiogon Forum: Audiogon’s community (geared toward high-end two-channel) had a dedicated thread where owners and prospective buyers discussed the ET3. One user (“tweak1”) who upgraded from an Audiolab 6000CDT said “the ET3 is in a whole ’nother league” and clearly worth it despite the 6000CDT being great value. He did caution about the lid, as he accidentally broke his and had to get a replacement. The original poster in that thread was worried about the remote and lack of track programs (coming from an older CD player) – those concerns were confirmed by others, with a response that “the remote control is the worst part of the ET-3” and that no track number buttons or programming are available. This feedback likely swayed some traditionalists away from the unit. Additionally, a long-time audiophile (“vinylvalet”) chimed in to advise considering other options, citing Shanling’s past reliability issues and noting his own SACD player from Shanling had failures. It’s one of the more negative takes, suggesting that if ultimate reliability is critical, one might be cautious. Nonetheless, several Audiogon members either ordered an ET3 or were seriously interested because of its feature set, indicating that it filled a niche in the market for a high-end transport under $1000.
• Steve Hoffman Forums: The Steve Hoffman Music Forums, populated by many CD collectors and audiophiles, saw users sharing impressions in an ET3 thread. Early adopters there were very positive about the sound. One member “Weber” reported “amazing sound quality” and that after 50 hours of use the unit really opened up, making it his favorite transport and a permanent part of his setup. Later, he updated that after 200 hours, the sound improved even more, stating the ET3 “took off” – implying a belief in burn-in for the device. Members appreciated the ET3’s ability to breathe new life into their CD libraries, and at least in the first few pages of the thread, no major issues were reported. They did discuss using the ET3’s USB output into various DACs, and the consensus was that it’s a cutting-edge feature, though some wondered if it really differs from other outputs (subjectively, some thought the USB output sounded a tad different, possibly due to bypassing the upsampling, but nothing problematic).
• Super Best Audio Friends (SBAF): On SBAF, where very critical ears reside, the ET3 earned high praise (even a tongue-in-cheek “Golden Schlong” award consideration for being an outstanding product in its category). The reviewer “purr1n” was impressed by the build and sound, comparing it favorably to much pricier transports. SBAF members tend to value sound quality above all, and the fact that the ET3 was being compared to legendary units like Theta and CEC (and holding its own) says a lot. The only caveats discussed were minor – like personal preferences between using the AES/EBU output vs. the USB output into certain DACs (one might sound a bit “brighter” or “darker” than the other). Overall, the vibe was that Shanling hit a home run at $729.

In summary, community sentiment for the Shanling ET3 is largely positive on the performance front – people love how it sounds and what it can do. The criticisms are quite consistent too: the remote control and, to a lesser extent, concerns about mechanical reliability. For many, the pros – sound, features, build – far outweigh those cons. But it’s valuable to know that if you buy an ET3, you’re joining an early adopter community that’s very enthusiastic but also candid about its quirks.

Comparisons with Audiolab 6000CDT and Cambridge Audio CXC

To put the ET3 in context, let’s compare it to two of the most popular dedicated CD transports in the midrange market: the Audiolab 6000CDT and the Cambridge Audio CXC (v2). Both of these are well-regarded, priced lower than the ET3, and focus solely on CD playback (no streaming or fancy outputs). We’ll compare them in terms of sound quality, connectivity, reliability, user interface, and value:

• Sound Quality: All three are bit-perfect CD transports, so one might expect identical performance, but users have reported differences. The Audiolab 6000CDT is often praised for a lively, engaging sound when paired with a good DAC – one SBAF reviewer described it as “bold, snappy, and rhythmically driving,” though he also found it a bit fatiguing over long sessions. The Cambridge CXC has been a reference for many; it’s known for a neutral and clean digital output with low jitter (Cambridge’s proprietary S3 servo focuses on accurate CD reading). Without direct DAC measurements it’s hard to quantify differences, but subjectively the Shanling ET3 tends to come out on top. As cited earlier, some who owned the 6000CDT and then tried the ET3 found the latter revealed more detail and dimensionality (the 6000CDT sounding “flat” by comparison). One Cambridge CXC owner on SBAF noted his CXC performed very well but after seeing what the ET3 could do (and hearing others’ impressions), he was considering an upgrade. It’s worth noting that the ET3’s sound can be subtly tuned via its upsampling options – for example, upsampling to DSD might give a different flavor that neither Audiolab nor Cambridge can offer, since they output Red Book format only. In terms of sheer ability to retrieve error-free data, all three are excellent; differences in sound likely boil down to jitter and output stage design. The bottom line is that the ET3 is at least as good as, if not better than, the Audiolab and Cambridge in sound quality, according to many who have compared. For example, an Audiogon member stated plainly that after hearing the ET3, the 6000CDT was no longer going to get any play time in his system.
• Connectivity and Features: Here, the ET3 is the clear winner by a mile. The Audiolab 6000CDT and Cambridge CXC are pure CD transports with only coaxial and optical SPDIF outputs (no USB, no I2S, no AES/EBU on those units). They also only play standard audio CDs (no support for file playback or any network features). In contrast, the ET3 offers every digital output type (coax, optical, AES, I²S, USB) and functions as a digital file player and streamer. Neither the 6000CDT nor CXC can play music from a USB stick or stream from a NAS – they lack the hardware for it. If you need such capabilities, the ET3 stands alone in this class (previously, one might need to buy a separate network streamer). Cambridge and Audiolab also do not support upsampling or DSD output – they are limited to 16/44.1 output (which most DACs will upsample internally, but the user can’t control it). So for connectivity/flexibility, the ET3 is vastly superior. This is a decisive factor for users who want an integrated digital solution. One might say the comparison is a bit unfair since the ET3 is really a transport + digital media player, whereas the others are transports only. But it highlights Shanling’s value proposition: combining functions.
• Reliability: The Audiolab 6000CDT has a generally good reputation for reliability, but not without a few caveats. It uses a slot-loading DVD-ROM drive mechanism (from automotive use) and a memory buffer to reduce read errors. Many owners report it handles scratched CDs better than most players (the buffer allows it to re-read and mitigate ticks). However, there have been instances of the slot mechanism failing or, as one user experienced, a CD getting stuck inside (the drive “ate a CD and would not give it back” without coaxing). Such incidents aren’t widespread, but they exist. The Cambridge CXC (especially the revised v2) is considered solid – it uses a dedicated CD drive and Cambridge’s decades of CD player experience. Early versions had a belt that could wear out, but v2 removed the headphone jack and some circuits, potentially simplifying it. Overall, Cambridge seems to have a low issue rate; it’s been on the market longer, so any common faults are known and addressed. The Shanling ET3, being newer and more complex, is a slight unknown for long-term reliability. As mentioned, a few users did run into issues (sticking laser, etc.), and one commenter on Audiogon generalized that Shanling gear can be hit-or-miss based on older products. However, others have had no trouble with the ET3 – in fact, Shanling chose a Philips drive and Sanyo laser, both well-regarded components known for precision and durability. And unlike a slot loader, the ET3’s top loader has fewer mechanical parts to jam (no loading motor). The additional streaming circuitry hasn’t shown hardware failures, and firmware updates are addressing software glitches. Verdict on reliability: Cambridge might have a slight edge due to simplicity and track record; Audiolab and Shanling each have had a few blips reported. It may come down to luck and usage. Notably, Shanling provides a standard warranty and has been responsive in supplying parts (e.g., replacement lid or laser) when needed, which is reassuring.
• User Interface and Usability: These units have different philosophies. The Audiolab 6000CDT and Cambridge CXC follow the classic CD transport mold – a front panel display, basic buttons (play/skip/etc.), and an IR remote with full controls. Both have traditional segmented displays (Cambridge’s is a dot-matrix that shows track numbers, Audiolab has an LCD display). They both include remotes with numeric keypads, so you can directly select tracks which is convenient. There’s no on-screen menu system to navigate – just insert disc and play. This straightforward approach means there’s almost zero learning curve for anyone who’s used a CD player. On the other hand, they offer none of the advanced UI that the ET3 has (no file browsing or settings, since they don’t need them). The Shanling ET3 provides a more modern interface with its color screen and menus, which is great for its added functions but can be overkill for simple CD playback. If you’re playing a disc, the ET3 shows track info on screen similarly, but using the remote as noted is less convenient due to no direct track access. The ET3’s on-device controls are top-mounted, which is ergonomically different – if you place it on a rack, you might have to reach the top; whereas Audiolab and Cambridge have front buttons easily accessible when stacked. Depending on your setup, one or the other may be easier. ET3’s knob for menu navigation is nice when using its streamer/file functions – something Cambridge/Audiolab simply don’t have any need for. One specific UI advantage of the ET3: because it caches and buffers data, its skipping between tracks can be very quick and can accept multiple skip commands in succession without hiccup. The Cambridge and Audiolab are also reasonably quick (both are known to be faster than many older CD players in cueing tracks), but they operate in real-time from the disc, so they might take a brief moment to seek each track especially if non-sequential. In summary, for pure CD use, Cambridge and Audiolab offer a more “user-friendly remote experience” (full keypad, etc.), whereas the ET3 offers a richer on-unit interface and multi-functionality at the cost of a poorer remote. If you’re tech-savvy and like having a screen and options, ET3 feels more advanced; if you want simplicity, the others are literally one-trick ponies but very easy to operate.
• Value and Price: The Audiolab 6000CDT is typically around $499 (and often on sale for less). The Cambridge CXC v2 is about $599. The Shanling ET3, at $729, is more expensive than both – roughly 45% more than the Audiolab. If one only looks at using it as a CD transport via coax/TOSlink, one might question if it’s worth spending extra. Indeed, many budget-conscious buyers go for the Audiolab or Cambridge and are extremely happy. One Naim forum commenter even called the 6000CDT “a once in a generation product where sound quality for very little money is concerned” – underscoring how much value that unit provides for Red Book playback. That said, the ET3 justifies its higher price by doing far more. If you were in the market for both a CD transport and a network streamer, the ET3 actually can save you money by consolidating roles. Also, if your DAC benefits from I2S or USB input (some DACs have better performance on those interfaces), the ET3 gives you that flexibility; with Audiolab/Cambridge you’re limited to SPDIF inputs on the DAC. We saw an Audiogon user mention he got a 6000CDT for $325 (used) and felt it was great, but after experiencing the Shanling, he felt it was in an entirely different league sonically – to him the upgrade was worth it, even at more than double the cost. Value is ultimately subjective: For a CD-only listener on a budget, the Audiolab is almost unbeatable for the price. The Cambridge is a tad pricier but from a reputable brand with a slightly more robust build and is also considered a great buy for a CD-focused system. The Shanling is a higher initial investment, but if you can use its streaming, high-res playback, and advanced outputs, it offers an all-in-one convenience that the others can’t match. It truly stands alone in the sub-$1000 bracket for that versatility.

In summary of comparisons: The Audiolab 6000CDT and Cambridge CXC are excellent dedicated CD transports that have earned their reputation for solid performance and value. The Shanling ET3, however, goes beyond what those offer – it aims to be both an audiophile CD transport and a modern digital media transport. In doing so, it matches or exceeds the others in sound quality (by most accounts), dramatically exceeds them in features/connectivity, but lags slightly in old-fashioned usability (remote control ergonomics) and possibly raises more questions on long-term reliability simply because it’s newer and more complex. If your goal is to get the absolute best CD playback plus future-proof flexibility and you don’t mind paying a few hundred more, the ET3 appears to be worth it. But if you have no need for streaming or fancy outputs and want to save money, the Audiolab or Cambridge remain highly compelling alternatives that are simpler and proven – it’s a classic “features vs. simplicity” trade-off.

Final Verdict

The Shanling ET3 is a bold entry in the niche world of CD transports. It successfully bridges the gap between traditional CD playback and modern digital audio needs. In doing so, it provides a solution for audiophiles who still love their CD collections but also want to integrate network streaming and high-res files into a single, elegant transport unit. In terms of performance, the ET3 delivers – it extracts impeccable audio from CDs, rivaling much more expensive transports, and users consistently report improvements in sound when using the ET3 with a quality DAC. Its digital outputs are well-implemented, offering clean and jitter-controlled signals (as evidenced by the rich, detailed sound people are hearing). Essentially, it treats the CD as a high-res source by minimizing read errors and offering upsampling, and it treats high-res files with the same respect as a dedicated streamer would.

The build quality of the ET3 gives confidence – it feels every bit a high-end component – and the compact form is a welcome change from the huge disc players of old. The top-loading mechanism harkens back to classic CD transports and is part of the ET3’s charm, though it does require careful use. Shanling’s design choices (damped chassis, magnetic clamp, on-chassis controls) show an attention to the details that affect performance and user experience. On the other hand, some design oversights like the simplistic remote control stand out in an otherwise premium product. It’s a reminder that no product is perfect: the ET3’s strength is in engineering and feature set, while its weaknesses lie in user-friendliness for certain tasks and perhaps the potential complexity it brings.

Who is the ET3 for? If you are an audiophile with a large CD library and also a collection of digital files or use streaming services, the ET3 will allow you to enjoy all of it through one device. Partner it with a good DAC and you have a complete digital front-end. It’s especially attractive for those who have DACs that can take advantage of I²S or prefer using USB – the ET3 can optimize the connection to your DAC in ways few other transports can. It’s also a great choice if you value a neat, minimalistic setup without multiple boxes for different sources. Users in forums who bought the ET3 often replaced two or three devices with it, simplifying their rack.

Who might not need the ET3? If you’re a purist who just needs a CD transport and nothing else, and you’re happy with coaxial/optical outputs, you might find cheaper units satisfactory. Also, if you frequently hop around tracks or program playlists from CDs, the ET3’s limited remote could annoy you. And for those extremely cautious about reliability, you might prefer something that’s been on the market for longer (though there’s no indication the ET3 is inherently problematic, just that it’s newer).

After weighing everything, the Shanling ET3 clearly stands out as one of the most innovative CD transports in recent years. It has garnered acclaim for advancing the state of the art – combining top-tier CD playback with 21st-century digital transport features. Many early adopters are thrilled with it, and it competes well against similarly priced (and even higher priced) alternatives. The pros – superb sound, versatility, build – overwhelmingly make it a compelling choice, while the cons (remote, learning curve, treat-the-lid-gently) are relatively minor in the grand scheme. In a time when physical media is supposedly fading, Shanling has proven with the ET3 that there is still room to make CDs exciting again for audiophiles by integrating them seamlessly into a modern system.

Final verdict: The Shanling ET3 is a resounding success as a product, offering a level of functionality and performance that belies its mid-level price. It earns high marks for audio quality and innovation. Provided you can live with a subpar remote and handle it with care, the ET3 is an outstanding CD transport and digital audio hub that can elevate your listening experience – truly “Dedicated High-End Digital Transport” as its tagline suggests, and then some.