Crazy Audiophile System Under $500 Destroys Gear 3X the Price in 2024!

It's never been easier and cheaper to get a killer Affordable Audiophile System under $500 in 2024. This amp destroys amps 3-4x its price feature wise and even sounds pretty good.
WIIM Amp howl.me/ck6bchaeyns (affiliate)
Sony SSCS5 amzn.to/3vmLVpj (affiliate)
Wiim Amp Full Vid • NO ONE can Compete wit...

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Always a good time listening to your advice and seeing your recommendations of affordable audio equipment. The new format is growing on me as your enjoyment and less formal approach brings all closer to an informal and relaxed discussion of a very emotive subject. Thank you as always for your time and efforts to share this with us all. Very helpful indeed.

[@cheapaudioman]

thanks, brother!

[@sayubu]

Love it when the videos (even though I know most of what will be said) are aimed to those that want a good inexpensive system, and not afraid to say EQ is an option. Happy Easter Randy !

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks. You too!!

[@dsnyder0cnn]

Entertaining as always. And a good recommendation. For around the same price, I often recommend the JBL 305P MkII powered monitors (currently on sale for $129 each or $258/pair). Add the WiiM Pro Plus, and you are still comfortably below $500. No ARC input, but optical from a TV works just as well. No bass management, but higher quality DAC and speakers. For a smaller room, a sub may not be missed.

[@michwoz]

With how much difference EQ can make, it is insanity not to use it. There are very few speakers and subwoofers that doesn't benefit significantly from EQ treatment, and those cost thousands of $. It is often possible to fix quite bad speakers, especially if you combine it with cheap calibrated measurement mic and free software. Another thing is that you can finetune your system to your own preference if you don't like what it offers by default. Having access to digital EQ is a cheat code. If your device has it (be it amp, dac, dsp, computer), you're a winner.

[@_fakeklg]

Reason #7,382 why this channel is fantastic: Randy ain’t ashamed to use and recommend EQ. ¡Bueno!

[@cheapaudioman]

Well thank you, my friend

[@dieseldust27]

Snubs don't like EQ lol

[@Artcore103]

EVERY system should use EQ. First, very precise PEQ based on measurements, THEN general EQ to taste to adjust the treble slope to taste, and boost the low bass (which should always be boosted unless you're a chump). Unless you have like KEF blade metas or something, you need EQ, there are extremely few "perfect" speakers regardless of price - and even then you should EQ to taste AND for the room, even though you wouldn't have to correct any "problems" in the speakers themselves. 10 band parametric is the bare minimum to set up most systems properly. If you run a sub, I'm counting that too in EQ, because it necessarily involves that by definition.

[@BaggyBag-jc4jk]

Ngl eq need someone with a good ear and lot of tweak ppl goes 4 plug n ply

[@wgm247]

Randy reminds me of my uncle

[@billbloomfield4972]

Appreciate your great suggestions! I setup the SSCS5’s with a Fosi BT20A and Schiit Modi 3E dac for a streaming setup in my painting studio. It sounds FANTASTIC ! All-in total = $300. WINNING !!! 🏆 🏆 🏆

[@johnstump2433]

Love the creativity of your latest videos. It reminds me of when you first started. You’ve come along way Grasshopper!

[@cheapaudioman]

Glad you like them!

[@traildoggy]

Me: starts day with black coffee and an acoustic guitar Randy: Cinnamon Rolls and Slipknot

[@cheapaudioman]

love it

[@craigpatterson8551]

As a beginner I so appreciate your videos. Thank you

[@madcrabber1113]

When I first got back into home audio I bought the Sony STR-DH190 stereo receiver and those Sony speakers and plugged my blu ray player etc into it and for streaming used my laptop connected with a 3.5 mm jack from the headphone out on the laptop into the 3.5 mm in on the front of the Sony. Used the eq built into the laptop and an old JBL PB10 sub that has high level inputs. Was very happy with that setup for a year or so then started back down the endless rabbit hole.

[@VENOM-vq3ju]

Sony amps should be avoided like the plague, especially the STR series. The most important element of an audiophile system are the speakers. In second position is the parametric equalizer. I am an audiophile who uses DIY Hi-Fi equipment

[@goincrabbin6756]

Thanks Randy! Patreon member here... I love my Sony's as my starter speakers. I did opt for the Bluesound Node streamer and the SMSL a300 amp instead of the Wiim. Hopefully this year I'll get that Geshelli J2 socketed DAC. (with the yadda yadda chips ;-) lol hi guys ) Its a start and I'm very happy with the sound.. it will only get BET-ter (🙂 ) as i upgrade. Love CAM's channel and his FB Patreon page!

[@diamondbracelette]

Team A300 in da house 🎉

[@interstellar8642]

always loving these videos honestly on a binge watch of all your videos to get all caught up, love what you're doing please keep it up always look forward to watching your videos

[@thomascraig9879]

Thanks, Randy. I set up a complete GREAT sounding audio system, in my living room, focused around a WIIM amp. Klipsch RP-600 M originals-scratch and dent…super cheap, super great! Entry level klipsch Sub R100SW. Pulls double duty as a 2.1 entertainment system AND a simply delightful music system. Less than $700 all in w/ cabling. Extraordinary value!!! Can’t say enough. Thanks again.

[@pjeffries301]

Excellent!

[@snoepox1257]

What about the power? I am afraid it would not have enough power when i would use it in my living room.

[@wekkimeif7720]

klipsch Sub R100SW can't even hit 30 hz properly, which is what subwoofer used for music should at minimum be capable. For proper movie sounds subwoofer needs to hit at very least 25 hz better if it goes even lower.

[@bugsbunny4698]

I bought the WiiM Amp for my office and combined it with the Elac Debut 5.2, which is 510€ altogether in Germany. With a tiny little tweak on the parametric equalizer of less than 2dB this makes a killer system! I love it. ❤

[@adsph]

Well done Randy. I'm smiling at the moment. The Wiim amp is a product that has great value. Haven't heard one myself but I have a Fosi BT20A. Its so fun to listen to.

[@JoseMarzanJr]

Went for the same set up last week! Working out fine!

[@michealboudreaux]

OK, so you recently slayed me with the best intro...now you bring the heat with the most amazing outtro, nicely done sir!

[@Jedi71]

Look at all this new production value! Love to see it! 🙂

[@ronjoiner]

One of the best-produced videos you have done! Excellent!

[@cheapaudioman]

Wow! Thanks!

[@gupdaddy]

Rocking my b1+ through my wiim amp at my temp apartment while they fix my house. Thankx randy, its getting me through it!

[@VisionCarrierDreamCatcher]

The basic advice here is golden for someone starting on this journey. The start is such a heavy lift. Your advice lead me to WiiM Pro, Aiyima AO7, SMSL SU1 and the Sony CSS5s. Throw in a Spotify sub and I have been audio heaven ever since. I’m now slowly building my next level system. RSL sub, Musician Audio Knight 1 already acquired. Now trying to figure out amplification.

[@aiiaznsk8er]

I found my SSCS5s at a pawn shop for $80, based on your recommendation a few years ago. They've been solid on an Aiyima A07, with an SVS SB1000 pro. Can't beat it for the price.

[@traildoggy]

Aiyima T9 Fluance Signature 2 way bookshelf Wiim mini Edifier T5 sub All bought on sale prices, Total system under $500 - I'm very happy with this setup

[@tonyschreurs2776]

Gotta love the equipment from Edifier. So much quality for a very reasonable price!

[@jacobjohnson4763]

For anyone looking to get the Sonys, I can say that I got mine when they were still $88 and paired them with a pair of thrift store KLH 12’s and the combo has been as good as I could ever want.

[@golarac6433]

Thanks man I was looking for a new amp. This does more than I wanted

[@gabrielgarza863]

Got my Sony SScS5 around black friday week and I ordered it as a used pair for 70 dollars. They ended up being open box. Hooked them up to Schiit Audio Ghorn and Valhalla 2 as the tube preamp. They sung beautifully. Used them with the Fosi Audio V3. Still sounded good. The DAC I used was the Schiit Modi Mulitbit. I ended up gifting these to my best friend and he has them hooked up to a Schiit Ghorn and Schiit Syn for their TV. The whole family said "how have we lived without having proper sound. This is such a difference." My opinion is to make sure your source is where you should focus first for major investment or upgrade, and then follow the chain. Hope this helps anyone.

[@Michael-xz1nk]

Great system for the price. I got an earlier version of the Sony’s at Best Buy for $49 years ago. They still sound great.

[@HELLtoPAY715]

My favorite budget setup is a lepai mini amp powering a pair of Aiwa bookshelf speakers from my tabletop stereo I had as a teenager. With a little boost in the bass and treble it sounds so perfect.

[@johnbewty]

Love the focus on affordable starter audiophile gear. I spent some time with those Sony bookshelves and they're totally fine even though the "Super tweeter" is lolwtf. As you said EQ and bass management go a long way towards making cheap speakers and subs work.

[@DFlemming]

That's quality content with a sense of humor! Keep up the good work Randy.

[@michaelwright1602]

Randy, I must say this is one well produced video! Bravo Sir! Big smile on my face watching this, and a chuckle or two. ;-)

[@cheapaudioman]

Ahhh… thanks!

[@donjaun540]

Wow Randy this was a very interesting video. Both of these products are a value. Thanks

[@keithgegg997]

What is the piece of equipment that the WIIM amp is sitting on in your living room (with the large knob on the right?). And oh yes great video, especially the part talking with your Advance Paris Integrated!

[@pet2r]

Love the energy man! Stumbled up on this channel and Instantly subscribed... 😊

[@subliminalvibes]

Classic Randy in the house. This is what I'm here for! 👍😎 I could buy FOUR of these for the same price as a clutch for a '97 Honda. Don't ask me how I know...

[@tjeerdkruidhof5808]

Randy, I have a question I love that’s an all in but for 300 you could buy a Aiyima A07 max a wimm mini or pro and add a smsl su1 dac? It’s about the same price and gives you more flexibility?

[@brettrwertz]

The production quality of your videos is amazing! I love the random foreshadowing stock videos that are sprinkled throughout always makes me laugh! 😂

[@naastradamus]

Randy, I'm 1 minute in, and your music choice cracking me up!!

[@RemisRandR]

Question or suggestion for a future video : any great affordable recommandations for a preamp that allows to connect multiple analog inputs and multiple digital inputs and has volume control that could be put in front of ZA3 monoblocks?

[@lilpoindexter]

So glad i listed to you about the SSCS5

[@PKJGoops]

I’ve a Mojo 2 DAC. Would it still be worth using that DAC with this Wiim, would it be a worthwhile step up? I love the utility of this but I’d opt for the mini with a DAC if I could get the same features.

[@TJ-zf9wb]

Thank You Randy. Could you please update your recommended gadgets list ?

[@droopydog6272]

Keep spreading the word, Randy! Snagged some SSCS5's alongside the matching SACS9 subwoofer on sale this past November based upon your overwhelming praise. I hooked 'em up to an old Sony STR-DE595 AVR with a 32" Sony Trinitron CRT, and play all my Playstation 2 games on it. It's my all-Sony retro oasis. Sounds amazing!

[@bertpeters1866]

Cinnamon rolls! Cheap audio! And the sound of the coffee pouring in my earbuds was amazing.

[@cheapaudioman]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@ymmichael1]

Randy, if I have a spare iFi micro iDSD that does a beautiful job as a preamp, is there a simple amp you’d recommend to pair with that and the Sonys? Would a cheap Chinese amp (e.g., a Lepai LP2020A+) be enough? Or would you say that I’d be much better off starting from scratch and getting the WiiM?

[@onechain13]

I got a pair Sony SS-CS5 for $40 "Like New" open box on Amazon. I gifted them to my bro-in-law for his first real surround system as the Front Left Right. A low priced second hand Pioneer AVR and a Polk T30 center from Facebook Marketplace. He's been pretty darn happy.

[@travis3567]

Can you recommend a budget setup for a home theater/living room? Preferably with the ability to hide wires.

[@socorroprieto7113]

I purchased the Arylic A50+ a couple years ago. Would this be a worthwhile purchase for me? I’m using it with a pair of Q Acoustic 3010 in my bedroom.

[@chriswindham9868]

Love it. I got a used pair of Elac UniFi 2.0 UB52 for $250. Using a WiiM Pro + into a Loxjie A30 amp I had already. Sounds amazing.

[@Edward-sn2ln]

I have a pair of Sony SS-CS3 speakers with SA-CS9 Subwoofer. Would you say they are better/worse/same as the SS-CS5 ? Also, do they pair well with NAD C-370 integrated amp? Would the WIIM be a good addition to this setup? Thanks

[@freemenofengland2880]

I don't have any Sony SSCS5 for reference - BUT I do have some Moukey Passive Bookshelf Speakers, peak power 110 Watt Three-way Black-M20-3, that you recommended - and they do sound awesome at low to medium volume for watching KZbin videos, driven by an Aiyima A07 amp. They were £90 British pounds which is much higher than in the States and are currently all sold out.

[@williambarney2874]

I'm dying 😂!!! Great video, the ending is hilarious!!

[@therealboofighter]

I know it’s lacking features, but this Wiim amp up against Sonys lowest receiver would be a good mashup. People have said that it is a great little starter amp.

[@bengleason508]

Thanks Randy!

[@EsotericArctos]

Guessing that is a typo in the video title and pice ins meant to be price. I know, being pedantic. I love these videos highlighting how good the cheaper equipment is. Too many feel they can't get into Hi-Fi because it is too expensive, but it really is not expensive to get into the hobby.

[@riccitone]

SO loved this. You’re the real deal Randy 👍🏼🙏🏼

[@MyNorthAmetican40]

What do you recommend for a WIIM type that has surround sound for my tv

[@SMccrate01]

This combo is probably going to be right where I live financially, however I do have some room to expand that budget some. I currently see the Elac Debut B5.2 and 6.2 on sale frequently--the B5.2 seems to be preferred by many reviewers and is on sale for around $229 or something, roughly $100 more than the SSCS5s. Would the Elacs be a good pairing with the Wiim Amp? I want to make a blended 2.1 system with HDMI arc. I would love to get the Marantz Stereo 70 as the core of the system or the Cambridge device, but need to tamp down the costs. Thoughts?

[@alphatang2000]

Great video Randy!!! All the way around great great...

[@cheapaudioman]

Thank you kindly!

[@jportugal100]

What subwoofer would you recommend with this? And what would you say would complete a surround sound system for this?

[@amonamonny1830]

Hi can you please give an advice which to choose for playing pc game between smsl m300se and Fiio k11. I mainly play on iems.

[@JM-fm8zg]

Do you recommend this setup over the Wiim Pro > DAC > ZA3 > SSCS5 from the previous video? I still want to be able to build on it. Maybe do another ZA3. This setup doesn't look like you can really upgrade it. Since it's all done with the wiim amp.

[@dreamzsiva]

Love these new high quality, quriky edits!

[@cheapaudioman]

Appreciate it!

[@ronzack4572]

As an owner of those little Sony speakers (thanks to Randy!), I can backup everything he says about them. They are AMAZING for their price! The only thing you would need to add to really make it a supreme system, is a subwoofer of some kind. Lots of good inexpensive options on Amazon. Sadly, due to room restrictions, I can't do that with mine, but it's no big deal. I still love those Sonys as they are! Thank you Randy, for being the BEST cheapaudioman there ever was!!!

[@cheapaudioman]

Right on!

[@davidhall382]

I was thinking of combining the wiim amp with the Novus N5B 2-Way 5.25" Bookshelf Speaker (on sale @$352 a pair)- yes almost double the price of this system but I’m interested in your thoughts

[@davidbartochowski7832]

Great review as always

[@ZZZ_ZZZ_ZZZ_ZZZ_ZZZ]

Happy to see the fan in frame. I had to go back and find that link to add in to my wish lust.

[@cheapaudioman]

such a great fan

[@ProteinSelect]

Are these comparable to the Jamo Studio Series S 803 HCS-WH? I got them on your recommendations and was wondering if I should switch them out with these, thanks!

[@RogerBergqvist]

Happy Easter!

[@leonardofuentez5688]

Love these funny skits, don't stop. Love how you talk about how us HIFI lovers still have a family that can destroy our equipment and that's a big part of why we don't want to spend so much money sometimes.

[@cheapaudioman]

there's always something flying around the living room that shouldn't be...

[@alonsouai]

this work good thinking in a gaming setup, i mean works better than an audio bar system for the similar price, like the samsung Q-930C ??

[@Abakaschi]

Does the AMP support room measurements / correction? If not, how would I know how to tune the EQ to make this sound great in my room?

[@arckeys6132]

Is there a good setup for floor standing speakers that's budget friendly?

[@Dpower20]

I heard the WiiM Amp is getting room correction, which may be a huge plus depending on how they implement it. Any idea if this will work like traditional AVR room correction (which adjusts frequency and volume per speaker) or if it will just be a blanket frequency adjustment?

[@jameshastings6538]

Have you listened to the Sony SS-CS3 Hi-Res Floorstanding Speakers? I’m debating on getting these. These or the ELAC floor standing speakers.

[@AdaptGaming]

Im at a bit of a loss on what i need to do. Im trying to figure out a way that I can Power a couple of KEF Q350s as well as having the option to use wired IEMS without having to change the output setting on the computer. I do need to get An AMP and will likely have to get a DAC to go along with it. I was considering getting the IFI Zen Dac V2 and using it as a pre amp for the speaker amplifier. But I think I've researched myself into the middle of nowhere. Budget would be $500. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[@dman081]

Any recommendations for an atmos or at least 5.1-capable setup in this same “best low price value” category?

[@SIDEWISE]

Would you recommend this for a home theatre. I have a sound touch 300 and am after something much better.

[@Dreamer5211]

Hey Randy , using your link , I was able to find the WiiM Pro Plus . HELP !! Can that act as a ' sort of ' powered speaker corrector for Fluance Ai41 powered speakers ? I love the speakers , however they are killing my ears , very sharp on the top end , tons of bass for a 5" driver plus they look great and fit perfectly in my bedroom . I have spent a ton of time watching your videos on speakers and amps , but I just can`t part with those Fluance speakers because when used with my Mac Mini -- iTunes -- using the iTunes EQ , the Ai41's really come to life , so logically the sparkers are great -- but need correction . Please advise , many thanks and Happy Easter to you and your family . Dreamer 

[@richgrao]

So wondering how this Wiim amp @ 299 would compare to main stream receivers from Yamaha, Onkyo, or Sony that are sub $200 paired with a Wiim Mini or Pro? Basically the same price or even cheaper amplification.

[@jmcgee2013]

I know it's not ideal, but could I drive these speakers with a Topping DX3Pro+? Haven't quite figured out the power calculations yet, and I saw people say that the Topping could do it in some* cases, albeit not many.

[@philipketchum1407]

I picked that Sony speaker up for $72 on Amazon. I use them with a Marantz full WiFi receiver as a portable music system. I moved it around the house when I’m working. Killer little system. Way better than a little Bluetooth portable speaker.

[@ronzack4572]

No Lies Detected.

[@RichardMar]

never ever you got the SS-CS5 for 72 USD

[@philipketchum1407]

@@RichardMar Amazon sale. $71.99 free prime shipping. Got them before the positive reviews on KZbin got everyone’s attention. OK to be jealous but calling people liars because of it is sad.

[@No_Limits_411]

I bought smsl al200 because of you. I like the bold midrange. And it does push some air. Satisfied. It replaced my pricier amp.

[@zombielandiii2711]

What was your pricier amp?

[@No_Limits_411]

@@zombielandiii2711 sabaj a30a

[@leedesantos1559]

I have that exact system pairwd with an SVS sub. More than enough for me

[@gmellott]

Hey Randy, I was wondering if you would check out the new Speedwoofer 10e from RSL, I think it would be a good budget subwoofer and wonder if you could do a review, Thanks for the awesome content.

[@chrislandy5597]

I’m considering setting up a system like the one in the video, the Wiim Amp and the Sony SSCS5s. If I also run RCA from the Wiim to a Sony SACS9 powered sub, can I use the speaker outputs from the sub to power two smaller surround sound speakers as well? Would this setup even make sense? New to the game.

[@macthecat]

I love your channel. Do you review cd players/transports or turntables/cartridges? If not, why not? I don’t recall any such reviews.

[@hgodfrey]

Would you consider making a how to video for the Wiims parametric eq?

[@cheapaudioman]

great idea

[@jamesvoysey333]

Got the Wiim, paired with klipsch 41"s and klipsch sub 120. Cheap system, great sound.

[@H4GRlD]

It's insane that we can get excited about EQ-ing in 2024. 😆 Thanks for the suggestions!

[@Jeffro422]

I was going to buy the Sony's but I went with the Neumi BS5's. Powered by an Aiyima A07. Just added an open box R-12sw for $150. Really pleased for $300 an a first "real" setup but the itch is real. RSL 10e and WIIM may definitely be in my future. Thanks for all your recommendations and insight.

[@johnbigboote7954]

A budget desktop DAC, amp, and more! Will this be the thing that replaces my NuForce Icon ?

[@DevlinStone]

Just a question: why wouldn’t you see a say (second hand) Denon X1600 or anything like that in the price competition? Is it bc of the space issue?

[@Kritikas8]

yes!!! got sony speakers connected to marantz mcr611 and i am happy :) thanks to you made my choice

[@iAbdullah_Hamad]

Can you pair this wiim amp with a pair of jamo s628 floorstanding speaker?

[@tyotaterry]

Love the comedy. Don’t listen to the stick in the muds, there’s plenty of boring channels around for them. Still loving the cs5s as you recommended for near field low volume listening on a desktop setup. I have my cs5s hooked up to a ares2, and old marantz Hd1-amp. All used at bargain prices. Great sound at bargain prices is always possible thanks again Randy, my sons are starting to get into the game and already are using parts of my old systems recommended by you. Still getting lots of entertainment and value from you from down here in New Zealand.

[@Kocsis_Robert]

whats your opinion about edifier powered speakers? e.g. s1000?

[@stevenveerhoff9208]

I know you love the Sony speakers, but have you ever compared them to the Neumi BS5?

[@mikesturtevant429]

hahahh the ending had me dying 🤣🤣🤣🤣 GREAT video, love the new style!!! keep em coming Randy!! 😎😎

[@ruralero1]

What do you think about the minirig 3 and sub?

[@arena_rock_man9030]

Is there a difference between a digital and an analog equalizer?

[@chuck5124]

Great job Randy. WiiM continues to deliver quality and innovation. So would you say this WiiM amp is the WiiM Pro with the TI3255 plus opp amps and a classy cover and knobs? I’m a believer in WiiM products because of your reviews.