Foreword / YouTube Video Review
This item was loaned to me by WiiM. I was not paid nor given anything in return for this review. If, after reading this review, you find your are interested in purchasing this item then please consider using the below affiliate link. This link earns me a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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The review on this website is a brief overview and summary of the objective performance of this processor. It is not intended to be a deep dive. Moreso, this is information for those who prefer “just the facts” and prefer to have the data without the filler. The video below has more discussion with respect to the technical merits and subjective notes.
Information and Photos
Some specs from the manufacturer are below and full specs can be found here.
- high-performance ESS SABRE HyperStream DAC with up to 32-bit/192kHz decoding
- 60 watts x 2 into 8 ohms, 120 watts x 2 into 4 ohms
- works with Amazon Alexa, Siri (Apple), and Google Assistant voice control devices (sold separately)
- control with free WiiM Home app for Apple and Android devices
- play music from Qobuz, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Deezer, TuneIn, iHeartRadio and more
- control and group with other WiiM devices (sold separately) on your network
- supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Chromecast built-in, and Apple AirPlay 2
- two-way Bluetooth 5.0 for streaming from your compatible device to the amp or from the amp to Bluetooth speakers or headphones
- remote control included
- volume and playback control
- four presets — one touch starts your favorite playlists
- built-in mic accepts Alexa voice commands
- analog stereo line-level RCA input
- optical digital input
- HDMI ARC port for a compatible TV
- USB Type-A input for connecting an external drive loaded with music
- gold-plated binding posts for connecting a pair of passive speakers
- mono RCA output for connecting a powered subwoofer
- Ethernet port for a wired connection to your home network
- detachable power cord
- 7-1/2"W x 2-7/16"H x 7-1/2"D
As of this writeup, the MSRP is approximately $299 USD.
Test Setup Information:
The particular unit I tested is running App Version: 2.8.6.24020217, PCB_version: 5 and uboot_verinfo: 240104.162025.
Testing was conducted using the Quant Asylum QA402.
- Warmup: Unit was provided pink noise with an output of 1 watt into a 4-ohm load for 10 minutes.
- Test Bandwidth: 22.4kHz (48 kHz Sample Rate) (unless otherwise stated)
- Input to DUT: Phono (RCA).
- Output from DUT: Phono (RCA).
- Volume/Gain: Max.
- DSP Settings: None Unless Otherwise Specified.
- Tests were run at 4 and 8-ohm loads. Both channels loaded. However, due to server space costs, results published here are based upon the 4-ohm testing (unless otherwise noted).
- Beyond the static loads mentioned above, Reactive Loads were also used for testing and noted. Both a “simple” and “complex” load. These are designed to emulate a true speaker load without risking damaging a real speaker or deafening myself to test tones from a real speaker. The impedance sweep of these loads are provided below.
Reactive Loads Impedance
Frequency Response
Response shows some load dependency of the speaker outputs.
Subwoofer Channel Crossover Options (30Hz and 250Hz, min/max, respectively)
THD vs Power (1kHz)
The below graphic shows the THD as output level increases from left to right on the X-axis. I am showing only one channel here - which is the worst channel - for each load. This test is conducted wtih a 1kHz tone (as is standard).
THD vs Frequency
The below graphic shows the THD as frequency increases from left to right on the X-axis. I am showing only one channel here - which is the worst channel - for each load. The highest drive level in this test corresponds to the manufacturer’s rated power.
Power and Subwoofer Voltage Output
The below graphic provides the static load capability at 1% THD and a comparison with the manufacturer’s specification in addition to providing subwooffer RCA level output in voltage.
Power Degradation
The below section pertains to power capability at low volume vs high volume when two test signals are used: a) 1kHz tone and b) Multitone signal. I have provided 4 ohm only but 8 ohm shows similar results.
In an ideal world the power for the multitone signal is the same as the single 1kHz. Let’s verify.
1kHz, low power:
Multitone, low power:
1kHz, rated power:
Multitone, rated power:
As we can see from the above, at low power the test signal used doesn’t change the output. However, at high power there is approximately 33 watts of power loss with the multitone signal compared to the single 1kHz signal.
Output Impedance:
SINAD at 5w 4 Ohm:
Parting / Random Thoughts
See video linked above for subjective and objective analysis. A summarized transcript is provided below:
The WiiM Amp is a compact amplifier with great build quality and HDMI input. It allows for easy control through a phone app and has features like EQ and subwoofer output. However, its power output may not be sufficient for larger rooms or speakers with low sensitivity.
Highlights
- Good build quality and HDMI input with Arc capability
- Easy control through a phone app
- Features like EQ and subwoofer output
- Limited power output, may not be sufficient for larger rooms or low sensitivity speakers
- Suitable for smaller rooms or bedroom setups
- Price of $300 makes it a good value for the features it offers
- Stable performance, does not get hot during use
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