WiiM Pro Plus – Best Streamer with AKM DAC
Linkplay, a company known for its expertise in digital audio solutions for over ten years, has introduced its third generation of its popular streamer-DAC lineup back in August 8, 2023. The WiiM Pro Plus model is a step forward in digital streaming. In addition to streaming and playing digital files from local sources, Wiim Pro has built-in DAC, ADC, and DSP delivering high-resolution audio with enhanced features and improved internal components, setting a new standard for affordable audiophile-grade streamers. That is, you can connect digital and analog sources with an output to an amplifier, plus various digital processing capabilities, such as an equalizer.
Key Features of the WiiM Pro Plus
Let’s take a closer look at WiiM Pro Plus features. It is designed to deliver high-resolution audio with seamless integration across multiple platforms:
- Roon Ready Certification
- Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast Audio support
- Direct integration with Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, and Deezer
- All features are fully accessible through the user-friendly WiiM Home App
Compared to my other streamers, which I have 5 of them from different manufacturers, the WiiM Pro Plus application is the best, which makes it one of the best streamer-DACs in the $219 price range.
Upgraded Hardware of WiiM Pro Plus
The WiiM Pro Plus stands out because of its new high-quality DAC (the AKM 4493SEQ). This chip makes music sound cleaner, more detailed, and more natural than many other DACs.
Technical Improvements Include:
- Advanced Clock Generator: Improves timing for a clearer, more stable sound.
- Low-Noise Power Circuit: Uses USB-C power to reduce unwanted noise, keeping the audio signal clean.
- THD+Noise Rating of -110 dB: Delivers high-quality sound with almost no distortion through the RCA outputs.
These improvements make the sound better, so your favorite music feels more real and surrounds you like you’re there..
Comprehensive Connectivity Options
The WiiM Pro Plus is equipped with a broad range of inputs and outputs to ensure maximum compatibility with your existing audio setup: With physical inputs/outputs, something like this. But in terms of streaming, the WiiM Pro Plus is at its maximum in terms of services and connections.
- RCA Analog Output: Works with amps, receivers, or preamps for great sound.
- RCA Analog Input: Uses a high-quality chip to turn analog audio into crisp digital sound (up to 32-bit/192kHz).
- Optical (Toslink) Input & Output: Sends high-res digital audio to sound systems or DACs.
- Coaxial Output: A strong digital connection for older audio gear.
- Ethernet Port: Ensures a steady, fast internet connection for smooth streaming.
With so many connection options, the WiiM Pro Plus works easily with both new and old sound systems.
Conclusion:
The WiiM Pro Plus is a fantastic budget-friendly streamer that delivers top-quality sound without any extra equipment. It works smoothly with a glitch-free app, supports Roon, and packs a powerful equalizer. While it lacks some outputs like USB, HDMI, or balanced connections, its digital outputs (S/PDIF) and improved analog outputs sound clear and detailed, even rivaling pricier audio gear.
The built-in DAC is excellent, offering crisp, dynamic sound with a well-defined soundstage. The six adjustable filters let you fine-tune the audio to match your system. Though the analog input isn’t perfect, it’s good enough for basic needs.
If you want great sound without a complicated setup, the WiiM Pro Plus is a steal. Just be warned, it might make you crave even better music!
WiiM Pro Plus Price:
WiiM Pro Plus with Voice Remote is Available at its Official website and online Stores Like Amazon and Ebay at a price of $219.00
WiiM Pro Plus Specifications
Supported formats | MP3, AAC, ALAC, APE, FLAC, WAV, WMA, OGG |
Inputs | RCA, TosLink, USB Type C (power) |
Network and wireless connections | UPnP/DLNA, LinkPlay Multiroom, Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth (AAC/SBC), WiFi (2,4/5 ГГц) |
Resistance at RCA inputs | 47 kOhm |
Outputs | RCA, coaxial and optical TosLink (PCM up to 24 bit/192 kHz, MQA) |
Output level | up to 2V (adjustable or fixed) |
Playable range | 20 Hz — 20 kHz |
Dynamic range | 113 dB |
Signal to noise ratio | 120 dB |
Distortions | less than 0.00032% |
Nutrition | 5V/1.5A |
Dimensions (H x W x D) | 140 x 140 x 42 mm |
Weight | 400 g |