Recordable Blu-ray Discs might be on their way out as Sony ceases production in 2025 (Panasonic and Verbatim have you covered for now), but CDs and CD-R/CD-RWs are still going strong and it’s definitely a mistake to start writing the obituary for the format. Used CDs are flying off the shelves and a new generation of listeners are discovering that the physical format can deliver excellent sound quality. Shanling is not a well-known audio brand in the U.S., but we have reported on several of their products that have been well-received, including the SM1.3 Streamer, HW600 Headphones, and BA1 Hi-res Bluetooth Adapter. Their new CR60 CD transport and ripper offers high-end playback and recording flexibility below $300.
The CR60 is a compact CD transport that is designed to provide CD fans with an easy, reliable solution for enjoying compact discs with any DAC or AVR that accepts TOSLINK optical, coaxial, or USB-A inputs.
Tip: The CR60 does not have its own built-in DAC
As a CD ripper, the CR60’s USB output connects to USB drives, digital audio players (DAPs), and select Android devices and computers. (The default format is WAV., but FLAC ripping is available via the app.) A simple automatic process generates a new folder for each CD, with complete metadata.
Tip: The CD-ripping function is not compatible with Samsung Android phones or tablets.
From Roger Fortier, VP and Sales, Forte Distribution, U.S. distributor of Shanling Electronics: “Streaming may be the most popular way to listen to music, but there is still a thriving market in CD sales, not to mention the sizable existing base of audiophiles and casual listeners who own hundreds or thousands of discs they collected over the years…The CR60 is custom-tailored for music lovers who enjoy their CD collections and continue to buy new by their favorite artists.”
Shanling’s CR60 CD transport and ripper has a user-friendly interface combined with a 1.14” screen that provides status information such as playback and ripping details. A switch on the back CR60 allows users to switch the CR50 from playback to record mode.
Internally, the CR60 houses a Phillips CD drive and Sanyo HD850 laser assembly.
An aluminum alloy chassis is provided for sturdiness but also provides a good visual match for nearly any interior design. Its compact size (11.61” x 11.22″ x 5.31”) allows the CR60 to be placed in a rack, desktop, or other convenient location.
In addition, the CR60 comes with a remote control and a USB-A to USB-C power cable.
Shanling’s CR60 CD transport and ripper employs a user-friendly interface that allows even novice users to easily navigate the model’s extensive feature set. A compact 1.14” screen displays the core playback and ripping details with Shanling’s intuitive menu and icons. A switch on the rear panel allows the user to shift between recording (ripping) and playback mode.
Key Features
- CD Transport: The CR60 is designed to deliver clean, accurate, and reliable Disc playback.
- CD Ripping: This feature allows users to copy the contents of their CDs to other digital formats to USB flash drives or PCs for efficient storage and playback. The CR60 can rip CDs to WAV, FLAC, or MP3 files. Compatible with the Shanling Eddict App for file tagging and album art.
- USB Connectivity: This allows easy connection to external storage devices for ripping or playback.
- Aluminum Alloy Chassis: The CR60’s Aluminum Chassis is both durable and looks great for most room decors.
- User-Friendly Interface: The CR60 provides easy-to-use controls and a visual status display.
- Compact: Component and wire clutter are always annoying, but CR60 can easily be added to any system setup without being disruptive in terms of placement and connectivity.
Specifications
| Shanling Model | CR60 |
| Price | $299 USD |
| Device Type | CD Transport and CD to USB Ripper |
| CD Drive System | Philips Drive with Sanyo Laser |
| Disc Playback Formats | CD, CD-R, CD-RW |
| Digital Audio Outputs | Optical (SPDIF), Coaxial, USB-A |
| Power Supply Options | USB Adapter or DC 12V, 9V, 15V |
| Dimensions (WLH) | 20 x 18 x 5 cm (7.9 x 7.09 x 1.97 inches) |
| Weight | 1.7 kg (3 lbs 12 oz) |
| Included Accessories | Remote Control USB-A to USB-C Power Cable USB Power Adapter Product Documentation |
More from Mr. Fortier: “In November 2024, Billboard reported more than 21 million CDs were sold in North America, and a large percentage were bought by the Gen-Z demographic. With its flexibility, affordable price, and unshakable reliability, the CR60 is the perfect transport and ripper for music fans in 2025
The Bottom Line
Despite the dominance of music streaming, CDs are still alive and kicking going into 2025. As a result, new CD playback devices are still being made and sold (check out our Related Reading section below) to fill the needs of those who still buy CDs and have CD collections. Also, CDs are still being released including deluxe packages targeted to collectors.
With that in mind, although detailed specifications have not been provided, from the basic info provided so far, it looks like Shanling’s CR60 is a very practical CD Playback/Ripping device for the US market, and the price is very reasonable.
However, keep in mind that the CR60 is a CD transport. This means it does not have a built-in DAC, headphone, or analog audio output to connect to a system that may only have analog audio inputs.
This means you need to connect it to an external DAC (including USB dongle DACs), or a preamp/receiver with digital audio inputs that has its own built-in DAC so you can listen to your CDs.
Tip: The CR60 is not SACD compatible.
Price & Availability
The Shanling CR60 is offered in either a Black or Silver finish for $299 at Amazon.
For more information: en.shanling.com
Related Reading
- Denon’s DCD-3000NE CD Player is Going to Make SACD Fans Really Happy
- Best CD Players: Editors’ Choice
- Fell Audio: UK’s Newest Hi-Fi Brand Debuts Budget Amp and CD Player
- FiiO DM13 Portable CD Player Has More Features Than Ever
