This is the model for listeners who want their portable CD player to remain primarily a CD player. Where to buy: $269.99 at Amazon | Apos AudioShanling EC Zero AKM ($319)The Shanling EC Zero AKM uses the same basic enclosure, disc mechanism, display, controls, inputs, and outputs as the more expensive EC Zero T but removes the R2R converter and JAN6418 vacuum tubes. Yes, “rational” is a relative term when discussing a $319 portable CD player in 2026. Where to buy: $349.99 at Amazon | Apos AudioShanling EC Zero T ($559)The original EC Zero T marked the point where portable CD players stopped pretending to be simple devices. The Shanling EC Zero T, EC Zero T Max, and Cayin CP6 occupy a very different part of the market.