WiiM's NEW Flagship Music Streamer is here! WiiM Ultra Review - The BEST Streamer for the Money?! 🤔

[@plcamp1]

“You can get better sound quality with a better streamer” is a statement I challenge. This DAC measures into the transparent realm, so my bet is nobody could possibly notice the slightest difference with a more expensive DAC.

[@tima.478]

I currently have the WiiM Pro...I'm seriously thinking of replacing it with the Ultra. I take it, you have tested the Ultra? My gear: Pioneer SX-1080, Rega P3 50th anniversary TT, Elac Solano BS283 speakers paired with a Elac Varro RS500-SB sub.

[@Daniel-t3u9m]

You are pretty much wrong from a audio engineer / scientific perspective. DAC is just a chip, and the implementation is making like 5 % difference. The 10 000 dollar amps or 500 dollar amplifiers with ESS Sabre DAC for instance. I have been very pesimitistic about expensive amplifiers and thought it does not make big difference. For instance I tried (owned) HD800 and used it with 3 Asus Essence STX sound card, Asus Essence STU headphone amplifier and Asus Essence III. No difference at all, I think those think that just has placebo effect. I listened at KEF R5 Meta And KEF R7 Meta floorstand speakers a few months ago. I was listening at the Technics SU-G700M2 and some Naim amplifier. And the Naim amplifier did have much more air and was extending the the soundstage, and was exetending the resolution. The difference was substantional. Enough clear for many/most people to hear difference in a blind test, I think. I doubt I would hear that difference with any speaker, or most cheap speakers. So, my assumption is that the Technics SU-G700M2 is more of a "lifestyle product" rather than pure Hi-Fi performance product. Naim might be a little of both worlds, depending on what product. Just like I think this one has quite high value, I think it is simply not realistic that people do not hear "the slightest difference" if lets say, we go to hollywood and connected to one of their IMAX cinnemas. It would be kinda silly to assume that, then all the billionaires with the best Hi-Fi on eart or highly professional setups could just use proucts like WiiM Streamer. It breaks all the contest in it is price range, but it is simply not the best sounding DAC/streamer on in the world. I am pretty convinced RME ADI-2-DAC "sound" better for instance (even without placebo).

[@pokrog]

@@Daniel-t3u9m the ADI-2 is an atrociously bad DAC. Easily one of the worst performing DACs I've ever heard. It's a perfect example of why measurements aren't at a spot where they can tell us much because if they could or if we measured the right things, it would be blatantly obvious that it performed roughly at Ifi Zen DAC levels and that is not a compliment by any stretch of the imagination.

[@Daniel-t3u9m]

@@pokrog I am not sure what you are talking about. And I think it does not matter. ADI-2 has excellent reviews, both from various reviewers/magazones - but also from independent users. If you are into "measurements" and "science", like audiosciencereview is (do not worry I am somewhat on the same side) you cannot just take into account the meassured noicefloor on the device. You need to take human percieption and our ability to hear into account as well, if you want to reason like a "real" academic scientist. It does not matter if you can not hear the noise floor. However, the ability to "tweak" the sound on ADI-2 is what really makes difference. And is what you really pay for anyway. ADI-2 has some really advanced customization options (and then I do not take THAT display into account, or the XLR outputs). I think does not make sense to say it is rubbish and compare it to Ifi Zen DAC. I have not heard the Ifi Zen DAC, but it seems like an OK DAC for that low price point. The Zen DAC has also great reviews and won the 2020 'Best Value DAC'. Your expectations on the 1000 dollar price range is unrealistic. What do you think you actually get for 200 dollar or 1000 dollar? If you pay for a Zen DAC you can have a ZEN DAC, if you pay for a ADI-2 you can get ADI-2 (or probably something less good). If you pay for Ferratum or an Accuphase you get that. ADI-2 is a DAC for certain people that might value EQ, and I think it pretty good for that. Have you even tried it yourself? Either it is your own, highly subjective view or you are just a keyboard warrior the lacks the experience.

[@caseydog237]

I have a Wiim amp and I can’t really see how this could be any better. Yes, color screen. Yes, upgraded DAC chipset (that nobody could tell the difference between). Unless you’re using that at your desk, why would you want a touch screen? You interact with the app on your phone or the remote 99% of the time. I’d hold out for the Wiim Amp Ultra.

[@AudioAdvice]

You make some fair points. It may not be worth upgrading for everyone!

[@theSOUNDinterpreter]

I want a WiiM with HDMI arc without the amp. This is more an upgrade over the WiiM Pro than the WiiM Amp

[@pushslice]

Some people like me already have very good amplification, that’s not going anywhere. and yes, I absolutely love seeing that screen (assuming it’s of decent definition and color)

[@42degrees86]

Or you could look at using this with a higher quality class d power amp

[@juicythedj750]

@@caseydog237 just a whole different kind of product amigo. I already own a good preamp/poweramp Rotel combo and this is probably going to replace the preamp. The fact that they integrated a touch screen instead of physical buttons is neat and gives it a clean look. I'm glad we get this amount of control on the device itself. It would've been absurd having to grab your phone to change inputs for example - especially when you have a cd player or turntable sitting right next to it.

[@robertgruber982]

When you tested with the Macintosh setup, were you using the built in DAC or something else? You mention the Chord DAC but then you talk about it's internal DAC's performance so I'm confused. I'm pretty skeptical that one can actually hear the difference between streamers (know you still have to sell the higher end ones so you need to caveat it with "at this price point") but if you told me a better DAC would help, I could believe that.

[@D1N02]

yeah I noticed that too. It was like they just skipped over the part of using it as a streamer only. Nothing about soundstage and layering that is apparently still lacking a bit over the internal DAC. Also I would have liked a comparison between spdif coax/optical and the USB output. The only reason for me to get the Ultra would be if it could punch considerably above it's weight as a streamer only. I already have better DAC's than what is in there.

[@robertgruber982]

@@D1N02 I assume as these things hit the market, other reviewers will address this. It also seems like since the RIAA curves are being applied in the digital domain, you could tweak the phono signal to best all but the highest end phono stages, kind of like the Waxwing digital phono stage does. The limitations would be in the software and I guess the gain of the input for low output MC cartridges.

[@AudioAdvice]

Great point. Watching it back, we realize that part was a bit confusing. Thanks for pointing that out. We tested using the Chord Qutest DAC. As a streamer with the Chord Qutest DAC, it performed really well in that setup and we loved what we heard. We jumped to talking to the internal DAC too quickly. But yes, the Chord Qutest made it a lot better of a setup! Jumping up to a higher end streamer would definitely sound better though. Streamers will certainly affect the sound, as it all depends on how they process the source. Using an external DAC, we think it would be hard to hear a difference between any WiiM products. But if you connect that same DAC to a higher-end streamer from HiFi Rose, the clocks and other internals will process the source differently and directly affect the sound to make it sound "better."

[@YouSoundButtHurt]

Streamers do not all sound alike but your skepticism will save you money since you likely have a setup that can’t show a difference or you aren’t capable of hearing a difference. Great news for you!

[@AudioAdvice]

@D1N02 yes, sorry that part was confusing. Thank you for the feedback. As a streamer only, we thought it sounded great but wasn't quite up to par with the likes of Bluesound or Eversolo. It may be subjective to each person and depend on their setup. Feel free to chat or call our experts at audioadvice.com for more suggestions!

[@michaelwright1602]

Fantastic review gentlemen! Now, if WiiM will produce a standalone network streamer with high quality electronic bits, DSD/USB capabilities, outboard power supply along with their industry leading software, we will have a real winner! And if anyone can do that, it is WiiM! Let’s see it guys!

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks so much! That would be awesome! We'll be sure to pass it along to the WiiM team.

[@michaelwright1602]

@@AudioAdvice Please do! I just popped for a Volumio Rivo, a standalone network streamer, along with a $600 Farad 5v linear power supply. I'm serious, I wish WiiM would build a unit like the Rivo. I would much rather spend my money with WiiM, as I am not a fan of the Volumio software. But, everything I have read and the videos I have watched, with a few weeks, the Rivo can compete with more expensive streamers. WiiM could easily pull this off.

[@alexlopez-u3i]

@@michaelwright1602 yes! Totally agree

[@1111cowball]

the room correction applied output on coaxial digital output that catch me

[@Krikstar123]

Yeah! Thinking of getting the ultra and a Peachtree Gan 1 (powerdac) as all I do is high res streaming. Should make a real simple and well sounding easily upgradable setup 🙂

[@dalstar925]

@@Krikstar123I have the WiiM pro into a nova 150 and it sounds fantastic. I hear the gan stuff is even better.

[@EvenHarmonics]

Thank you for the thorough review w comparison to other products.

[@AudioAdvice]

Glad it was helpful!

[@c0mbat15]

You think it doesn't sound as good as the Bluesound Powernode N330?! My WiiM Pro Plus is just as good IMHO as my now sold N330. Many reviewers say it's better. So how the Ultra doesn't sound as good is surprising. I get the feeling that you have major bias based on price. In other words you refuse to believe that something that cheap can be as good as something more expensive.

[@Artcore103]

Yes audiophiles are completely broken and deluded in assuming more money equals more better, which is nonsense in the world of electronics.

[@DolomitAmChillen]

Money Money Money

[@mbrownie22]

Or maybe people have their own opinion about things? Hmmm?

[@Artcore103]

@@mbrownie22 yeah, they do. dumb and incorrect opinions easily explained by various biases, notoriously useless audio memory, and test condition failures.

[@Artcore103]

@@miroslavkelekovic2507 not if it's a streamer and you're using an external DAC. Zero impact on sound.

[@sethfm9773]

This seems like a good value for the features.

[@AudioAdvice]

Sure is!

[@InfectiousGroovePodcast]

I will be ordering one of these very soon. It's my introduction into the streamer world.

[@AudioAdvice]

Awesome! Great choice!

[@jimwilliamson7798]

Thanks Audio Advise for another very informative video

[@AudioAdvice]

Anytime! Thanks for watching!

[@manikdesilva1]

How does the headphone amp sound on this device? Seems to be a complete package if you have external amplification. The WIIM Pro internal dac was terrible. ProPlus seems to be a better choice but this device takes it to the next level.

[@markc5677]

I'm really excited about this product I pre-ordered my do you know if the using the HDMI connection will it show the artwork on the TV?

[@Brett1334]

Doubtful as it’s not an HDMI out as far as I’m aware it’s only a HDMI audio in

[@AudioAdvice]

It did not do that in our testing

[@nivs123]

I'd guess you could with Apple TV to TV then to Wiim

[@phunny12000]

Why is it not called a hdmi input It has no arc capability, that's handled by the TV side of things Missed opportunity IMO

[@bradlee2594]

@@phunny12000 - It is called an HDMI Input, and it does have ARC capability.

[@Arizonacomet]

I did not catch the price

[@AudioAdvice]

$329 right now: www.audioadvice.com/wiim-ultra-digital-music-hub

[@hmurchison8123]

329 dollars

[@neutron564]

​@AudioAdvice Damn only 30 more than the Wiim Amp

[@drake5772]

This is a great entry level piece for people. Great overview and being honest that this is a good product but not the same as more expensive high performance audio streamer/dacs. I watched your top streamer/dac video and that does a really good job showing the options at various price points.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks!

[@AndrewBell]

Great review. Will this play music files directly off of a USB stick plugged into the USB port on the back? Does the app have local storage file navigation to access these files? Thanks

[@stevewoodhouse621]

Yes and yes.

[@stevieg2755]

I had the same question,does it play from a USB stick?

[@stevewoodhouse621]

Yes.

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes to both!

[@KevinHine]

Will it play off of an android phone plugged in via USB? Acting as headphones. My smsl ao300 does and I love that feature. Thanks!

[@deadline7610]

Nicely Done. You mentioned the Ultra "wasn't quite up to par with the likes of Bluesound " but you didn't mention which bluesound you were testing ? Thnaks

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks, Node X. Appreciate you watching

[@bpalpha]

So, where's the WiiM ultra amp? I have my WiiM pro hooked up to my Denon receiver and that's working great for me. WiiM could become a significant challenger to other hi-fi brands.

[@AudioAdvice]

It will be coming soon. We will have a review on it as soon as we get our hands on one.

[@Boomyaris01]

It'll be a while..they're updating the amp to the amp pro next

[@sneakyds]

@@AudioAdviceare you confusing this with the WiiM Amp Pro that was announced at Munich? There’s been no formal confirmation that there will be an Amp with a screen although that would be a logical procession

[@JAMRADIONYC]

How would you compare the DAC in the Wiim Ultra to the SMSL SU-1? I currently use the Wiim Mini with the SU-1 and I love the way it sounds. Would the Ultra be a major upgrade in sound? I don't care about the touchscreen and all that.

[@AudioAdvice]

Call or chat with our team at audioadvice.com and they can help decide what's best for you!

[@lucaswasbezet]

How do you think the DAC in the Wiim Ultra compares to the DAC in the Audiolab 6000a?

[@DaNi-nq3tj]

this is a pretty darn good question, I would really like to know the quality of both the DAC and the ADC.

[@Maver1ck911]

They're both ESS silicon. The output stage, clocking and USB interface are the more important aspects. Streaming digital digital is the point.

[@robertpoole5652]

Do I need a amp to play this through my speakers? This might be be starting point for a streamer

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes. Feel free to reach out to our team for some suggestions. Thanks for watching

[@rasmuswh]

So the "COAX OUT" could be to add an external DAC (in stead of using the build in) and then connect it to one of the analog inputs?

[@Roach2841]

I'm still new to this whole Hi-Fi community, I'm using KZbin Music as my preferred streaming choice. Does the WiiM Ultra support this streaming option?

[@jrjacobsil]

In the late 1980s some of the Phillips CD players had 16 bit DACs that were essentially perfect in that any distortion and noise was inaudible. At this time there is no excuse for anybody to design and produce a streamer that is less than perfect sounding. I am watching this video on a Lenovo laptop computer using the headphone jack to drive my audio system. I have not yet found a streamer or DAC that sounds better than my Lenovo. They all sound perfect. Eventually I will buy a streamer simply to relieve my laptop of its current audio system duties.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing, cheers 👍

[@Krikstar123]

This and a Peachtree Gan 1 (powerdac) should be golden for anyone mostly just streaming and watching TV. Variable coax out to the Gan 1, trigger out to turn it on/off, Tv via ARC, room correction, sub out, a good streaming platform and a remote control to handle volume etc without faffing around with the phone all the time 🙂👍

[@AudioAdvice]

Good suggestion!

[@25zvillcb25]

If you stream to the Wiim Ultra with the Wiim going into an integrated amplifier with a DAC, would only the DAC in the integrated amp be used and the Ultra's would be bypassed? Or would that depend on how they're connected, RCA vs optical/toslink?

[@AudioAdvice]

Exactly, depends on the connection. RCA would be the Wiim, digital out uses the DAC in the unit its going into. Thanks for watching

[@johnpajestka5022]

Nice product. Need to find out if I can output the streaming digitally to my DAC back into the analog in, then out to my amps. It does that I'm in.

[@samsneediii1793]

Do you need a preamp, or can you connect this directly to a power amp?

[@Arthax83]

Connect it to a power amp.

[@AudioAdvice]

You can connect directly to a power amp.

[@billhennigan3773]

I Just bought this from Your store..Hope to get it soon, already bought better cables to hook up to my Sony receiver..

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for supporting our channel and small business! We really appreciate it.

[@nrafaco]

This sounds as a great product. If I use the streamer with a external DAC like the 12:53 Denafrips Ares they all would work the same ?

[@AudioAdvice]

Call or chat with our team of experts at audioadvice.com and they can help you be sure you have the right setup. Thanks!

[@dextermorgan1]

I want it just for the color screen. I have a Wiim Pro that works great.

[@AudioAdvice]

This will be an amazing upgrade!

[@tima.478]

Yeah, I might be in it more for the looks as well, my WiiM Pro is also pretty good.

[@24kHERTZ]

Can it play wav and flac off a usb stick. For me, that’s important. Also the ability to plug in a usb hub at the back and still read all of the separate drives like the Cambridge cxn and azure series can. But this price point is making me seriously think about making a strategic switch in the future. Although I’m put off with having to switch iPhone apps as I have cxns in the bedroom, lounge, study etc. I’m kind of bought into the (very expensive) eco system but with the cost of living crisis, a future switch is not outside the realm of possibility. For me, a streamer MUST have a screen.

[@AudioAdvice]

We did not test that aspect. It says the USB can be used to access a stored library. But your CXN sounds a lot better to us.

[@chrisgargiulo304]

Great review!

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks!!

[@robertmcdougall3166]

This promises so much and WIIM are set to become the dominant supplier going forward. My issue is that I have digitised my music collection, either by copying from CD or purchasing MP3. These are held on a QNAP NAS. I would love to know how this would integrate with that, also seen issues in the UK with PlusNet routers. I also have many CDs and this sounds as if I might end up with a large number of devices to simply play my collection.

[@AudioAdvice]

Call or chat with our team of experts at audioadvice.com and they can look into the best option for you and your setup!

[@pokrog]

I really wish companies would stop acting like stereo subs don't exist. These single sub output devices boil my blood.

[@AudioAdvice]

Agreed, two independent sub outs are always a great option to have!

[@AbdoAbdala]

Thank you for your review. Great job. I would like to know how it compares to a Cambridge CXN V2 or 100? How would you rate it. Now I have a Rega P3 and connected directly to the MA6800 (Mcintosh) which is already 30 years old. Would this Wiim Phono input sound better? Thanks.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks! Call or chat our team of experts at audioadvice.com and they can help you decide what would be best for your system!

[@paladinonicolas]

Muy buena reseña! Creo que me sigo quedando con mi eversolo como streamer saliendo a mi Dac wadia!

[@AudioAdvice]

Fair enough! Thanks for watching!

[@cpa889900]

Great thorough honest review

[@AudioAdvice]

Glad it was helpful!

[@greggorychopper]

Liking the touch screen capability

[@AudioAdvice]

A great addition! Thanks for watching!

[@ArmFanatic]

New to audio scene, could someone explain the advantage to using something like this over my iPad Pro that I hook to my receiver with a usb-c to line cable?? My baby 2.1 setup is a Sony str-dh190 receiver Klipsch rp600mii speakers Rsl speedwoofer 10s mkii

[@StCreed]

The DAC quality is probably less but if you don't hear the difference then not much. Except you don't need an ipad pro *and* a receiver.

[@ArmFanatic]

@@StCreed thanks for that, the reason I use the iPad is because whenever I streamed music From my phone it would say “quality reduced while connected over Bluetooth” or something to that end.

[@Artcore103]

​@@ArmFanaticyes it has a better DAC. Not only is the DAC better, but the analog output of that DAC (effectively the preamp) is better too. The audio quality would be better. An iPad is not a proper source, it's a quick and dirty source you can use when you're somewhere besides your home. You don't need a Wiim though, you just need a DAC and something that can connect to it, namely a computer. I don't know if the iPad can use an external DAC.

[@stevewoodhouse621]

If we know the Pro Plus is already transparent to the source, how can this be 'better'. And presuming it's as good as the Pro Plus, how can it be less good than anything else?

[@AudioAdvice]

It's all about how it will process the source. If you're using the internal DACs, the Ultra will sound better. If you're using an external DAC, there will probably be little difference that you can hear between WiiM products. But if you jump up to a higher end streamer from say HiFi Rose and use the same external DAC, it will sound better than the Ultra due to having better clocks and internals that process the information differently and lead to a better sound.

[@Artcore103]

​@@AudioAdvicewrong, if you're using an external DAC the streamer can not make a difference. USB and jitter has come a long way and unless something is really broken, it is 100% a non-issue.

[@RamisDad]

I just need to know if the streamer portion (to an external dac) is better than the pro plus

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes. However, depending on your system, we think it will be hard to tell a difference between an WiiM products when using the same DAC. It will depend on how revealing your system is if you can really hear a difference.

[@emilioyanguez8106]

Short answer: NO. Long answer: NO. Answers apply to most of the streamers regardless of the price. How can digital data be transferred with better or worse quality? Both of them support bit-perfect data transfer. The Ultra has a more capable WiFi chip if you're not connecting them by an ethernet cable.

[@RamisDad]

​@@emilioyanguez8106 No. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mHrdZXemrLR9n5Isi=8ItINhIAFkbKA96U

[@myu4039]

So that USB puts out audio? What quality I wonder?

[@AudioAdvice]

We did not test it but it says up to 24/192. Thanks for watching

[@c0mbat15]

I'm disappointed that they have enabled the automatic room correction with a minidsp mic. I assume that using a friend's iPhone is going to result in a far inferior outcome given that the mic on the minidsp will be far better.

[@Artcore103]

Why would that be disappointing? It's necessary to have a good measurement mic.

[@mi98joni]

I’m struggling here. I was in a hifi shop in Stockholm. I asked for an amp that I want to connect my passive speaker to and stream music to. They recommend this. But as I understand I need an amp between this and my speakers? Please help. What do you suggest as an amp that’s compact for around 500$?

[@AudioAdvice]

This is does not have an amp built in. Try another shop.

[@mi98joni]

@@AudioAdviceok Thanks.

[@fragrancekiwi7550]

Normal WiiM Amp would do the job

[@taylorrasmus1905]

I've been looking forward to this!

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for watching!

[@pablovi77]

Do you have Apple Music built in?

[@AudioAdvice]

No Apple Music built in

[@Michael-xz1nk]

An amazing product for $329! I’m sure they will add Airplay 2 when approved sometime in the future. I also hope they add an HDMI out so the artwork shows up on TV’s for bigger images.

[@AudioAdvice]

It sure is! Those will both be great additions! Thanks for watching

[@Capitan_Cavernicola_1]

Any price appropriated recommendations for power amplifiers to use with the Wiim ultra? Class A, AB and D?

[@AudioAdvice]

That's a wide range of amp types! Please reach out to our team at www.audioadvice.com to discuss best options. Thanks for watching

[@gaycha6589]

Did I miss if Qobuz is supported by this box?

[@AudioAdvice]

The Wiim app gives you Qobuz, yes

[@clegsmate6094]

I’m confused (not an unusual state of affairs for me) does the Ultra transmit Bluetooth. If so what with what codecs.

[@sneakyds]

Yeah, it can transmit Bluetooth to another device but only SBC/AAC

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes, @sneakyds is correct

[@Boomyaris01]

Great - reviews have started = so mine should be here by the end of the week yeah?

[@AudioAdvice]

Did you order from us? We expect shipment very soon but don't have an exact date yet.

[@wp7310]

OK - what if I will connect CD to it and I will use also eg Tidal. Volume will be controlled for both sourced when I use eg spdif or even USB as digital output ?

[@AudioAdvice]

The digital outs are fixed level.

[@leepuddefoot-attackanglego7734]

Did you pair any speakers?

[@AudioAdvice]

We used a few different passive speakers when testing. The McIntosh XR50 and XR100 were used in the larger system. We also used some speakers from B&W and Heco.

[@LeggoMyLamb]

If someone wants to make this the audio output for a desktop PC...is that done via USB, network connection, or RCA-in (via something like a Schiit EITR)?

[@AudioAdvice]

You would be better off with a separate DAC designed to work with your PC. This is a music streamer. Please reach out to our team at www.audioadvice.com for help choosing the best one for your needs and budget. Thanks for watching

[@joncruz]

Air play 2 yes or not? I read is still pending certification.

[@AudioAdvice]

Not yet, but they do say it is pending. Thanks for watching

[@joncruz]

@@AudioAdvice Thanks

[@georgesrobert]

Not so sure. Digital Trends says « The current Wiim Ultra will never get Apple AirPlay ».

[@MrWilander88]

Any clue when it would recieve an update to natively support apple music?

[@AudioAdvice]

No, but that would be great. Thanks for watching

[@TonyFernandezjkdjedi]

How does it compare to the Audioengine B-Fi ?

[@AudioAdvice]

Far better from the Wiim. Its got a much better DAC and supporting circuitry. Thanks for watching

[@harrisonlainhart9876]

Great option to get into streaming!!!

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes, it is!

[@trevorthornton4811]

Sorry if this is a dumb question, but how would one connect this to a pair of wired speakers? Does this have to run through an existing receiver?

[@AudioAdvice]

No questions are dumb :) This is just a streamer and needs an amp to go with it but this piece will drive speakers www.audioadvice.com/products/wiim-amp-multiroom-streaming-amplifier-silver

[@Hottiger1818]

The ultra will require to be connected to an amplifier, receiver will work also as they are an amplifier and tuner combined.

[@aldub1263]

Did you do any blind A B testing with the Wiim against any of those other streamers? I doubt it....

[@AudioAdvice]

We've listened to many streamers over the years and typically compare them side by side.

[@stevelucey7719]

Really nice looking interface!

[@AudioAdvice]

Glad you like it!

[@buksi3761]

Thanks for your review! Just one question is it possible to connect my 1 tb HDD to Wiim Ultra USB port and does it work fast?

[@AudioAdvice]

You are welcome. Yes the USB port supports a USB drive for music files. We did not test it but assume it would be fast. Thanks for watching

[@benedyktczydziesty4399]

​@@AudioAdviceIm not sure, because there is nowhere official info about possibility to use pendrive or HDD. Even on Wiim site😮.

[@douglsmith]

Does the phono input allow turning off the RIAA equalization curve? Better yet, can custom EQ be applied instead of the RIAA?

[@AudioAdvice]

It does not. Do you have some very old records with a different EQ? If so, you would be best served with a better phono preamp. Please reach out to our team to discuss options. Thanks for watching.

[@douglsmith]

@@AudioAdvice Yes, old 78 RPM shellac records from pre-RIAA EQ days. I was hoping the WiiM Ultra might have that capability because that would be pretty amazing at its price point and with all of the other great features.

[@AudioAdvice]

Ahh yes that explains it. That is going to be tough to find.

[@tonchido]

So you cant do room corrections with android,only with iphone?

[@AudioAdvice]

As far as we know yes

[@grzegorztk6533]

I make this with my Galaxy s23 today , its android.

[@StephanieSweetly]

So I am confused about the phono input. Does this act as a pre amp then?? (My powered Kanto YU6 speakers have an line setting and a phone setting)

[@AudioAdvice]

Call or chat with our experts at audioadvice.com and they can look into this for you. Thanks!

[@turbo2288]

"It won't replace $500+ streamer like Blusound.....". What's the point !

[@AudioAdvice]

It's more affordable. A great way to get into streaming with great sound for a better price.

[@tomasfromyr]

You guys should probably try some blind testing... Of course, the "higher price is better" is good for sales. Any measurements?

[@Philiphay]

Question: will the Cover Art Show when using AirPlay 2?

[@AudioAdvice]

AirPlay is still being certified so it does not work yet for us to test.

[@PostExpert]

There’s no mention of certification on Wiim website. Roon is in certification but not Airplay 2 AFAIK

[@HappyHighwayman]

How does that ground hole for a TT work?

[@AudioAdvice]

Yep, its a little funky, would require a mini plug, cut off and strip one end and tie it to your ground using an alligator clip or twisting. Thanks for watching

[@HappyHighwayman]

@@AudioAdvice Apparently it comes with an adapter for that hole according to the manual.

[@AudioAdvice]

@@HappyHighwayman Great, thanks for sharing

[@omoveja8185]

A question: is the USB output also limited to 24-bit/192 kHz? So I can't output DSD512 upsampled from HQPlayer, for example ?

[@Alextraz]

I think so ...thats why I went with the pro...

[@goodforwatch]

does the display show the volume? can i see it from across an average living room?

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes it does. The screen is only around 3 inches so depending on how far you are, it may be difficult to see.

[@goodforwatch]

@@AudioAdvice thanks

[@roml2112]

How would you compare the phone stage here to a 1500 dollar receiver (marantz 6014)?

[@erthfglvggfffffc]

Is it possible to connect an external drive with a capacity of 2 TB?

[@AudioAdvice]

You should be fine, here is a guide from Wimm on how to set it up faq.wiimhome.com/en/support/solutions/articles/72000633173-building-and-managing-your-advanced-usb-media-library-on-wiim-amp-wiim-amp-pro-wiim-ultra

[@ЮрийЛунин-у7о]

Please tell me, can I connect this device via usb to my DAC?

[@AudioAdvice]

It does not have USB out.

[@steve-ey4ol]

It’s official that this device will not be getting AirPlay feel sorry for all that ordered

[@JensenTech]

How did Ultra optain lower jitter vs pro plus?

[@GeirRssaak]

If you hear jitter, you should visit your eardoctor

[@derekrussell7651]

Will the wiim ultra be a suitable match with a pair of Q Acoustics M20 actiive wireless speakers? Also, there was no mention of the fake spectrum analyser featured on the wiim. Deliberate?

[@AudioAdvice]

Any streamer with variable audio out will work fine with powered speakers. The better the streamer, the better sound you will get. Thanks for watching

[@PostExpert]

You forgot the elephant in the room: no support for Airplay 2!!!! Why? All the other Wiim streamers do. This is deal breaker!

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes, they told us initially it was in certification process. We reached out yesterday for an official statement and have not heard back yet.

[@guillermoangel]

Hi. Can this device play internet radio natively?

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes, it has Tune In and vTuner. Thanks for watching.

[@cybourne5910]

As good as the Eversolo A6?

[@AudioAdvice]

Most of our team would lean towards the A6. But it is much more expensive and may come down to what you care about most.

[@valentinvalentin8916]

Hi! In terms of sound quality bluesound node x, it s better?

[@AudioAdvice]

If you are using the internal DAC, we think the Bluesound will most likely sound better to most people. It will also depend on your setup. If you want more help deciding, feel free to call or chat with our experts at audioadvice.com!

[@FNGyoutube]

I was told that this Wiim Ultra streamer does not support Airplay 2 to stream music from Apple music app, is it true?

[@AudioAdvice]

That is true. We wish it did.

[@whatwewantAItodo]

must i go for the dmpa8 or what?

[@AudioAdvice]

Please feel free to reach out to our team at www.audioadvice.com to discuss your best options. Thank you for watching.

[@geoffreydebrito7934]

I was interested in the WiiM Ultra, both for its superior streaming software and especially for its Room Correction. Unfortunately, that function reportedly only works with Apple's iOS and for me that's a deal breaker.

[@AudioAdvice]

Yes, for now it is only iOS.

[@ws13bf]

It support LMS, now Lyrion Music Server 👍

[@AudioAdvice]

Wow. That brings back memories of Squeezebox! Thanks for sharing

[@peopleoftexas5290]

Wiim ultra + cheap ponsi amp VS Wiim amp. which one is better choice? i'm very new to the audiophile and using rp600 ii klipsch speakers

[@AudioAdvice]

Pairing it with the WiiM Amp would be a great match!

[@peopleoftexas5290]

@@AudioAdvice thank you for the reply! s

[@checkoff8281]

Im just using it for Spotify and tv (hdmi), tos out to my active speakers, so I stay digital only. That means I shouldn’t care about the quality of the dac, right? Because it’s not getting converted anyway?

[@AudioAdvice]

That is right, toslink out bypasses the Wiim internal DAC.

[@lukespencer6314]

Looks like a pretty solid product

[@AudioAdvice]

Absolutely!

[@amarokanovicmtb]

Does it sound better than Arcam ST5?

[@AudioAdvice]

We have not compared them yet, but the Arcam should sound better as it has a far better DAC, raw parts cost of the DACs in bulk are $50 for the Arcam and $12 for the one in the Wiim

[@amarokanovicmtb]

@@AudioAdvice Thank you for your reply. I've bought Arcam's A5 and CD5 after watching your Radia series review and I'm very satisfied so far but I'm reluctant to buy the ST5 after reading some bad reviews and comments about it's app. Is it so terrible? Whould it be wiser to buy the Wiim and connect it digitaly to the a5?

[@AudioAdvice]

@@amarokanovicmtb Yes, knowing now you already have the A5, it could work well as the A5 has the same DAC as the ST5. We hope you will support our channel and purchase from Audio Advice. www.audioadvice.com/wiim-ultra-digital-music-hub

[@ws13bf]

Yes it sounds much better!

[@amarokanovicmtb]

@@ws13bf would you please elaborate how?

[@MrPiopr]

Hello, i have the WIIM pro and i use the DAC of my Marantz 6007. Do you think i Will have a different quality if i buy the WIIM ultra and us the integrated DAC ? Thanks

[@AudioAdvice]

Great question, only your ears can tell you. You might try using analog out of the Pro and see what you think, to find out how easy it is for you to distinguish differences in the sound of DAC's. Please feel free to reach out to our team to discuss the best next steps for your system at www.audioadvice.com

[@retiredbutnottired932]

For all you experts out there. I know there's a lot of you just by reading the comments lol. Would you connect powered speakers via analog (RCA) or digital (optical or USB) and what are the pros and cons of both? My powered Klipsch speakers have all those inputs. Thanks..

[@AudioAdvice]

It would depend on the DAC inside the speakers and how it compared to the one in the Wiim. With the Klipsch, you should run analog from the Wiim. Hope this helps

[@retiredbutnottired932]

Thank you. So the dac in the ultra must be better than the dac in the Klipsch powered speakers. Which volume would you recommend setting to a fixed level?

[@krestdorl1697]

Can you turn off the diplay while using?

[@AudioAdvice]

We had a prototype but they say a software update will give that option. Thanks for watching

[@krestdorl1697]

@@AudioAdvice Ok. Thank you

[@liormorsky8482]

hi can it airplay stream to B&O speakers with airplay 2?

[@AudioAdvice]

No, it can not

[@carminedesanto6746]

I think this will have a great impact on those with smaller systems or self powered speakers 🔊..as for me …it’s a pass. Currently using the Wiim Pro feeding optically a Denafrips Ares 12-1 DAC … Tho I may yet buy one for the downstairs system…. A great video and very informative.

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks! Yes, you'll likely not hear much of a difference between WiiM products when using an external DAC.

[@carminedesanto6746]

@@AudioAdvice Then isn’t an incentive to build a better streamer ( not wasting time on an internal DAC ..like Rose 🌹 streamer only ..yes it’s $5k …but you have to wonder what could Wiim do at $700-1200 ⚙️⚙️⚙️

[@Hawkeye242]

Lack of usb out for DAC and balanced outputs are big misses. Why include phono? No one will be buying this for phono, take that out and add balanced output and USB output so an external DAC can set the timing/clock better than this unit, and you would have a winner that would obsolete the more expensive streamers. Edit: Some have pointed out that WiiM will in fact have usb out to an external DAC, similar to the firmware update for the WiiM amp. If so, that is amazing, and I will be buying the WiiM ultra myself. Appreciate the feedback.

[@f0sterPlays]

I bought it for phono. And balanced outputs, really ? It's a WiiM 🤣

[@AudioAdvice]

Fair enough, great points

[@chrishamilton5960]

I will be using the phono input to connect my Project Debut Carbon. As for MC feature since it’s done in the digital domain I bet an update can expand the gain settings for sure.

[@milanarambasic4563]

It does have usb out

[@Hawkeye242]

@@milanarambasic4563 It does not allow output to an external DAC using USB. It has USB input. Big difference.

[@ilja4420]

If this device plays on same level as Eversolo 6 (not ME) on digital out at least - it would be win position for WIM, cause price double times lower!

[@AudioAdvice]

Thanks for sharing!

[@csszabi8779]

The I2S interface is missing. It's big mistake in 2024 (flagship streamer).

[@AudioAdvice]

Probably a cost decision, this unit is still very inexpensive compared to many others. Thanks for sharing

[@rayfriedman6107]

Sounds as though you're interest here is not so much a review of the Ultra, but more as a shoehorn-video intended to up-sell hapless viewers into more expensive (higher margin) gear. All of which suggests, that whether it's this product, or the next do it all super-box down the line, finally pound a wooden stake through the heart of overinflated, high-end hi-fi gear, you won't be looking forward to it, or recommending it either.

[@timotting6151]

Waiting for a 5.1 version 😢

[@AudioAdvice]

That might be a very long wait. We don't know of any 5.1 streamers. Thanks for watching.

[@CK-fe3vg]

Still no Dolby Atmos??

[@AudioAdvice]

Nope

[@alexlopez-u3i]

As a streamer only, does ultra sound better than pro or proplus? Using same external dac in both comparison

[@AudioAdvice]

We think it will be hard to tell the difference if you're using the same external DAC.

[@AudioAdvice]

However, if you jump up to higher end streamer and use the same DAC, you will most likely hear a difference. But probably not between WiiM products.

[@alexlopez-u3i]

@@AudioAdvice so in other words if you compare a wiim ultra as a streamer only to say an eversolo dmpa6 only as a streamer both using the same external dac the eversolo would sound better since it is a more expensive unit? Or do i have to go higher in price to hear a difference?

[@AudioAdvice]

If you have a revealing setup, you will probably hear a slight difference. However, the price of the Ultra is hard to beat and you may not even hear much of a change. It's really when you start to jump into much higher units is when the streamer only will make it sound much better. Feel free to call or chat with our experts at audioadvice.com and they can advise you based on your system whether an upgrade is worth it.

[@Artcore103]

If you're using an external DAC the streamer literally does not and CAN NOT affect the sound quality one iota.