WiiM Pro Plus Music Streamer with High-performance DAC and Voice Remote Review

Introduction

In the realm of home audio, the pursuit of pristine sound has led to the proliferation of high-fidelity music streamers. The WiiM Pro Plus emerges as a compelling contender, aiming to deliver audiophile-grade performance without breaking the bank. In an industry where user expectations pivot around seamless integration, ease of use, and superior audio quality, let's see how the WiiM Pro Plus stacks up.

Design and Build Quality

The WiiM Pro Plus presents a sleek, compact form factor with its 140mm square footprint and modest height. The design is unobtrusive, favoring a minimalist aesthetic that should blend well with most home theater setups. Weighing in at 400g, it has a reassuring heft, indicative of quality internal components. The voice remote is ergonomically designed, offering intuitive navigation for users. The inclusion of voice control through Alexa is a nod towards modernity, allowing users to command their audio experience without lifting a finger.

Features

Streaming Service Integration

In today's streaming landscape, compatibility is key. The WiiM Pro Plus supports a wide array of services including Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Google Chromecast. The pending Roon Ready certification is particularly noteworthy, as it promises enthusiasts a rich, multi-device ecosystem for playing music.

Connectivity Options

Boasting Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, and Ethernet options, the WiiM Pro Plus ensures flexible and reliable connectivity. Whether you're streaming wirelessly or prefer a hardwired connection for stability, this device has you covered. The inclusion of diverse audio outputs such as Analog RCA, Digital Optical (SPDIF), and Digital Coaxial caters to various setups and preferences.

High-performance DAC

Central to the WiiM Pro Plus's performance is the AKM 4493SEQ DAC, boasting a 121dB signal-to-noise ratio and a mere -113dB total harmonic distortion. These figures are impressive, promising clarity and precision in audio reproduction that audiophiles will appreciate.

Voice Control and Remote

The voice remote is a standout feature, providing users with the convenience of Alexa without additional devices. The responsiveness of the voice control function can transform the user experience, making it accessible and futuristic.

Additional Functionalities

The 10-band graphic EQ is a welcome addition for those who like to tailor their listening experience. The bit-perfect digital outputs ensure that the audio signal is untouched, preserving the original recording's integrity—music to an audiophile's ears.

Performance

Audio Quality

With support for up to 24-bit, 192kHz streaming, the WiiM Pro Plus is well-equipped to handle high-resolution audio. The quality of the DAC plays a significant role in the listening experience, providing a rich, detailed soundstage that reveals the nuances in recordings.

Streaming and Multi-room Capabilities

The device's multi-room audio capabilities enable users to expand their listening experience throughout their home. The Wi-Fi performance is reliable, ensuring uninterrupted streaming and synchronization across different rooms.

User Interface and App Experience

While the WiiM Pro Plus delivers in terms of audio quality and connectivity, the app interface could benefit from a more intuitive design. Users have reported some issues with input switching and latency, as well as limited gapless playback support. These are areas where future firmware updates could improve the experience.

User Experience

Setup Process

Setting up the WiiM Pro Plus is generally straightforward, though some users may encounter hiccups during the initial installation. Patience and a careful reading of the instructions can mitigate these issues.

Everyday Use

Once up and running, the WiiM Pro Plus is a joy to use. Its comprehensive feature set and robust performance make it a strong candidate for anyone's daily streaming needs.

Support and Firmware Updates

The community around the WiiM Pro Plus is active, with user forum support for troubleshooting. The company's commitment to regular firmware updates is commendable, promising continuous improvements and new features.

Value Proposition

At $219, the WiiM Pro Plus offers a performance-to-price ratio that is hard to overlook. When pitted against competitors in the same price range, it holds its own, particularly with its high-performance DAC and wide range of streaming services.

Final Thoughts

The WiiM Pro Plus Music Streamer is a versatile device that checks many boxes for a variety of users. Its high-performance DAC, extensive connectivity options, and voice-controlled remote make it a strong contender in the streaming market. While there is room for improvement in the app interface and some users may experience minor issues, these do not significantly detract from the overall value proposition. Whether you're an audiophile seeking pristine audio, a casual listener who values convenience, or a tech enthusiast eager for the latest streaming capabilities, the WiiM Pro Plus is well worth considering.