Has the pendulum finally swung back the other way? Has common sense finally taken over in the network streamer category? One can spend whatever they want on a network player or streamer, but I have to ask those spending thousands of dollars, just how much better is the performance?
Especially those that are buying units that require a DAC on the other end.
Having listened to dozens of units over the past 5 years, I do have a shortlist of streamers that cross over the $1,000 threshold that I would consider for myself — but it’s a really short list and 3 of them are made by Innuos.
And we’re not talking about network amplifiers here which are a completely different type of component.
I have lived happily with a Roon Nucleus for almost 2 years, but also understand that it is out of sight connected to an ASUS router and serving as a hub in our home. It has not been directly connected to any DAC or integrated amplifier during that time.
What makes sense for the average person or even an audiophile looking for a reliable streamer to connect to an existing system on its own or through a higher quality DAC?
Is it possible for a $219 network player to really deliver a high-end digital playback experience?
In the case of the WiiM Pro Plus — the better answer is that one can elevate its performance long-term with a better DAC or amplifier on the other end and you are unlikely to feel that it can be bettered without spending a lot more money.
You can check out my detailed review here for those looking for some in-depth answers.
The WiiM Pro Plus offers upgraded DAC and ADC technology. It features an AKM 4493SEQ premium DAC with support up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD512, with PCM/DSD automatic switching. Meanwhile, its TI Burr-Brown Audio PCM1861 ADC supports up to 192kHz/24-bit from the digital outputs.
Very much like the Bluesound NODE, the WiiM Pro Plus offers compatibility with AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Amazon Music, Deezer, TuneIn, iHeartRadio; the Pro Plus also sports a 10-band digital EQ and graphic EQ.
Bluetooth 5.1 is supported which includes AAC and SBC codec compatibility.
You can stream YouTube Music, TV audio, radio stations, podcasts along with local content directly from your favorite Chromecast-enabled app.
The Pro Plus is also compatible with Siri, Alexa, and Google. This allows easy control of music selection, volume adjustments, and playback. The WiiM Pro Plus comes with a voice-compatible remote control.
In addition, Roon Ready and Parametric EQ features are expected to be added to the Pro Plus via firmware update.
For $219 USD, the WiiM Pro Plus proved to be a real surprise. Linkplay put a lot of work into the app which worked better than some apps we’ve tried with more expensive streamers and that definitely has to matter.
The plastic case doesn’t feel very high-end but the connectivity options and flexibility more than make up for it.
The incisive presentation and pacing worked better with richer sounding systems that require some additional clarity and top end presence and that certainly makes the WiiM Pro Plus a great option for vintage systems or loudspeakers with a darker presentation.
Is this the one to buy in 2023 if your budget ends at around $300? Without a doubt.
Where to buy: $219 at Amazon
Continue reading more Editor’s Choice Awards from 2023.
