The M9 Plus is based on the same Android platform as the original M9, but it enjoys all the improvements that software team implemented over the past 20 months of development. Beautiful 6" 2k screen, with a speedy Snapdragon 665 octa-core CPU running open Android 10 system, packing 8GB RAM for smooth multitasking, generous 256GB internal memory for all your apps and MicroSD card with support up to 2TB.

Overall construction follows the high standards set by the M9, with an expertly crafted CNC aluminium body, this time shortened by 0.5cm, for a bit more compact dimensions. Audio outputs on M9 Plus were simplified and now offer standard combination of 3.5mm Single-ended and 4.4mm Balanced outputs.

Audio circuit of the M9 Plus was the biggest question, because where could you go after favourite AKM AK4499 was discontinued? There were countless prototypes with rival DACs, wild experiments with less common solutions, but in the end it was the returning AKM who brought the obvious choice, the new AK4499EX. This flagship DAC chip proved to be a great performer in the Shanling H7, but that was just a start, with the M9 Plus pushing its performance so much further in the quest for Hi-Fi sound.

Quad DAC design offers an increased current output and overall improved dynamics, better SNR and lower background noise, with all four DACs being active for the balanced output. All four DACs are manually tested and paired for ideal matching in the audio circuit. Crystal oscillators were upgraded to 90.3168MHz / 98.304MHz versions, the in-house developed I/V conversion circuit was adjusted for ADA45253 and the whole DAC section got its own independent XC9519 power supply chip. The amplifier section adopts proven OP+BUF architecture, now featuring MUSES 8920 J-FET and BUF634 combination for smoother and finer sound, with an improved power supply for increased stability and total power output at 1120mW @ 32Ohm.