Couldn't Load Pickup availability
The Shanling Onix Zenith XST20 is a top-loading SACD and CD transport with no built-in DAC, outputting native DSD64 over I2S or DSD64 via DoP over coaxial, optical, AES and BNC to an external DAC. It is part of the Shanling Onix Zenith desktop hi-fi range.
Pairs with the matching Onix Zenith XDA20 desktop DAC over I2S.
Key specifications
- Type: SACD / CD transport, top-loading
- Disc support: CD, single-layer and multi-layer SACD, MQA-CD
- Disc drive: HD870
- Outputs: I2S, optical, coaxial, BNC, AES, USB
- I2S output: CD as PCM 44.1kHz, SACD as native DSD64 (10 selectable pinouts)
- Coaxial / optical / AES / BNC: SACD as DSD64 via DoP
- USB output: CD only — SACD not supported
- Screen: 3.4-inch touchscreen, remote control included
- Dimensions and weight: 320 x 240 x 72mm, 5.2kg
Shanling Onix Zenith XST20 SACD / CD Transport
The Zenith XST20 is the first component in a new Shanling desktop hi-fi lineup, designed as the dedicated SACD / CD transport in a matched system. A companion DAC and a Linux-based streamer transport are planned to follow.
SACD with True DSD Output
The XST20 plays SACD discs in full native DSD quality to any DSD-capable external DAC. Use I2S for native DSD64, or DoP over coaxial, optical, AES or BNC. Note: the USB output does not support SACD playback.
Highly Optimised Disc Playback
The top-loading design uses a classic disc clamp and high-quality drive components. It supports single-layer and multi-layer SACD, standard CD and MQA-CD, with fully gapless playback for smooth track transitions.
FPGA-Assisted I2S Output
The XST20 includes dedicated hardware allowing you to switch between 10 I2S pinout modes, resolving the compatibility issues caused by the lack of I2S standardisation and making it compatible with virtually all I2S DACs on the market.
Single-Purpose Focused Transport
There is no streaming, no wireless and no companion app — just SACD and CD playback. A 3.4-inch touchscreen gives direct access to core settings, and Shanling's premium remote control is included.
Classic ONIX Look
The body is machined from aluminium using CNC processes, styled to match the ONIX aesthetic with gold accent elements.
Explore the full range in Shanling DACs & Streamers.
Specification
| Screen | 3.4" Touch Screen |
|---|---|
| Disk Drive | HD870 |
| Power Supply | 100V or 220V, region locked |
| Disc support | CD, Multi-layer SACD, Single-layer SACD, MQA-CD |
| Output | Optical / Coaxial / BNC / AES |
| CD | PCM 44.1 kHz |
| SACD | DSD64 via DoP or D2P |
| I2S | CD: PCM 44.1 kHz |
| SACD | DSD64 (Native) |
| USB | CD: PCM44.1 (SACD not supported) |
| Dimensions | 320mm x 240mm x 72mm |
| Weight | 5.2kg |
What's Included
- Shanling Onix Zenith XST20 CD Transport
- Power cable
- Remote control
- User manual
Shanling
About the Shanling SHANLINGONIXXST20-BLACK
From our tech experts at CEN
The Shanling Onix Zenith XST20 is a top-loading SACD and CD transport with no built-in DAC, designed for dedicated disc playback in a high-end desktop hi-fi system. It supports CD, single-layer and multi-layer SACD, and MQA-CD using the HD870 drive. Outputs include I2S (native DSD64), plus coaxial, optical, AES and BNC (DSD64 via DoP).
Who it suits
The XST20 suits SACD collectors who want to keep transport and DAC conversion as separate, dedicated components. It pairs directly with the Shanling Onix Zenith XDA20 over I2S for a fully matched system.
Our tech experts advise
The I2S output has 10 selectable pinout modes, covering virtually all I2S DACs on the market. Note that the USB output carries CD audio only — SACD playback requires I2S, coaxial, optical, AES or BNC. A 3.4-inch touchscreen and remote control are included. The unit measures 320 x 240 x 72mm and weighs 5.2kg, so allow sturdy shelf space. Browse the full Shanling range if you are building a complete system.
Explore the full Shanling range at CEN, with fast UK dispatch and expert advice from our Nottingham team. Shop all Shanling
Recommended For You
Discover more top-rated gear, handpicked to go with what you're viewing
Shanling News & Guides
The latest Shanling product news, launches and guides from the CEN team in Nottingham.
Looking for Installation?
At CEN we take pride in being able to share the quality of our work as well as being able to show what incredible products we have installed week on week.
More from Shanling DACs & Streamers
More options from the same range, in stock and ready to go
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the XST20 have a built-in DAC?
A: No. It is a dedicated SACD/CD transport and needs an external DAC, connected over I2S, coaxial, optical, AES, BNC or USB.
Q: Can the XST20 output SACD over USB?
A: No. SACD is output as native DSD64 over I2S or as DSD64 DoP over coaxial, optical, AES and BNC. The USB output supports CD playback only.
Q: Does the XST20 stream music?
A: No. It has no streaming, wireless network or app; it is designed purely for SACD and CD playback.
Q: What's in the box with the XST20?
A: The Onix Zenith XST20 transport, a power cable, remote control and user manual.
