The affordable network streamer category is one segment in high-end audio that has us truly excited. Manufacturers have come to the realization that music listeners already have a network streamer in their pocket but that some of them might want something better when it comes to playback at home. Products like the WiiM Pro Plus are a huge step in the right direction.
Smartphones don’t have the internal space for better quality DACs and analog output stages and there is a definite advantage to having access to all of your favorite streaming platforms in one place and none of that involves draining the battery on your phone.
WiiM, a part of Linkplay Technology Inc. has announced the WiiM Pro Plus, an upgraded version of their already popular WiiM Pro network streamer. Building on the foundation of the WiiM Pro, the Pro Plus adds significant audio enhancements.
The “Plus” in the WiiM Pro Plus
So what’s different about the WiiM Pro Plus? Let’s take a look at some of changes that are rather significant.
Better ADC (Analog to Digital Converter): The inclusion of TI Burr-Brown Audio PCM1861 ADC supports up to 192kHz/32-bit digital output. This provides the best possible audio quality from analog source devices such as turntables, and MP3 players. The result is clear, detailed sound, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 110 dB.
Ultra-low Noise Clock, Power, and Circuit Design: The Pro Plus incorporates an ultra-low noise clock, power supply, and careful PCB layout to achieve less than -110dB THD+N performance for analog audio output, reducing any unwanted noise or distortion.
Premium AKM DAC and TI OP AMP: The AKM 4493SEQ premium DAC provides low distortion and wide dynamic range with AKM’s Velvet Sound Technology. The chip supports up to 768kHz PCM, and DSD512, with PCM/DSD automatic switching ideal for the latest high-resolution audio source. Achieve 120 dB (A-wt) SNR, THD+N of -110dB from 44.1k to 192k.
Bring Smarts To Your Audio Equipment: The WiiM Pro Plus caters to those seeking to revive beloved, decades-old, high-quality audio systems or those looking to modernize and connect their current audio equipment. By seamlessly connecting your audio gear to Wi-Fi, Ethernet, RCA, TOSLINK, or Coax output, the WiiM Pro Plus simplifies the process, ensuring a smooth transition.
Voice Control: The Pro Plus is 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.
Streaming Platform and Services Support: The WiiM Pro Plus supports AirPlay 2, Alexa Casting, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Deezer, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, and more. It also features Chromecast Audio, which lets you cast YouTube Music, TV audio, radio stations, podcasts, and local content directly from your favorite Chromecast-enabled App.
Tip: Roon Ready and Parametric EQ (which are already included on the WiiM Pro) will be added to the Pro Plus via firmware update.
The WiiM Home App: WiiM Pro Plus will pop up automatically in the WiiM Home app. With the simple in-app guide and compact size, the device can be set up in less than two minutes.
From Dr. Lifeng Zhao, CEO of Linkplay Technology: “My vision for the WiiM Pro Plus was clear: to create a product that reflects our users’ desires and elevates their music streaming experience…With their invaluable feedback, we’ve achieved just that, delivering superior audio quality, a simplified setup, and an affordable solution that exceeds expectations. The WiiM Pro Plus stands as a statement of our dedication to providing music enthusiasts with a seamless and enriching audio experience.”
Comparison
With the addition of the WiiM Plus Pro, Linkplay now offers three affordable music streamers for your listening pleasure. Here is how their features and specifications compare.
Model WiiM Mini WiiM Pro WiiM Pro Plus MSRP $99 $149 $219 Ethernet – Yes Yes Chromecast Audio – Yes Yes Group with Nest Speakers and Display – Yes Yes Group with Echo Speakers and Display Yes Yes Yes Alexa Multiroom with UHD – Yes Yes Group with Homepods Yes Yes Yes Works with Alexa Yes Yes Yes Works with Google – Yes Yes Works with Siri Yes Yes Yes Group with WiiM or Linkplay Devices Yes Yes Yes Airplay 2 Yes Yes Yes DLNA Yes Yes Yes Spotify Connect Yes Yes Yes TIDAL Connect Yes Yes Yes Gapless Playback Yes Yes Yes PEQ Yes Yes Yes (after firmware update) 10 Band Graphic EQ Yes Yes Yes Linkplay Music Streaming Platform Yes Yes Yes Roon Ready – Yes Yes (after firmware update) ADC – – TI Burr-Brown PCM1861 DAC TI Burr-Brown PCM5121 TI Burr-Brown PCM5121 AKM4493SEQ SNR 106 dB 102 dB 120 dB CPU Dual Core A7 Dual Core A53 Quadcore A53 DRAM 128 MB 512 MB 512 MB Flash 128 MB 512 MB 512 MB Audio Input (wired) Aux Line-in, Optical Line-in, Optical Audio Output (wired) Aux, Optical Line-out, Optical, Coax Line-out, Optical, Coax
Pricing and Availability
The WiiM Pro Plus, sold as a bundle with the voice remote, is available now for $219 on Amazon.
Related Reading
