Go to surfshark.com/cheapaudio for 4 extra months of Surfshark. WIIM Amp Pro amzn.to/4f21VP4 (affiliate) WIIM at Crutchfield howl.link/om5zrlda8z07w (affiliate) check out my other channel www.youtube.com/@cheapwatchman_official Intro graphics by johnvilardi.com BEST HIFI COMMUNITY OUT THERE patreon.com/cheapaudioman Support the Channel! Shop on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Join the best hifi community out there! patreon.com/cheapaudioman TRY ROON www.rofjdjk3ns.com/33G977/2CTPL/ Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P
How much bigger is the Ultra than the Amp Pro? I like the idea of a matching mini stack, but I think I recall seeing that the Ultra is slightly wider. Is that right?
I’ve a WiiM ultra , a Fosi BT20A and a pair of Dali Zensor pico speakers. Connected by QED Silver anniversary cables. In the living room of my flat , this sounds fantastic. I reckon I’ll blow the windows out soon . The WiiM and Fosi , I bought after watching Randys channel. He knows his stuff . Thanks .
To me the lack of AirPlay 2 is a deal breaker, I know it is not the most high quality audio but it is handy.. Currently my wife use it a lot to play music on multiple devices such as Apple HomePods and Sonos speakers, she doesn't care about Hi-Fi. To me, I was thinking on building a new Hi-Fi setup on the living room for listening to music directly from Tidal on the WIIM but also want to give my wife or even myself the ability to use the same setup to play music with AirPlay 2 at any moment on multiple rooms (I know, at lower quality but that's fine).
Nice review. I just bought the WiiM Amp a few weeks ago on prime days at $240. So I’m glad not a huge difference in the sound. Enjoying WiiM Amp and Roon/Tidal per your recommendations. Thanks!
Oh man, I can't wait for the Wiim Amp Pro Plus Wiim Amp Pro Plus SE (special edition) Wiim Amplifier LE (limited edition for the fall season, with Pumpkin Spice Aroma) Wiim Amp Hyper Finesse (audiophile edition) Wiim Amp Pentagon Biceps Extreme... (for real men with 3 inch lift kits and steel balls on their truck's hitch)
4. Crutchfield offers lifetime tech support. Maybe not as valuable in this space but in Mobile audio. They have done the research already and will get you working properly. Always tell people to order at least the dash kit from them. The amount of free info freely available there, they've already earned your business.
@HighResTime there doesn't have to be. I recognize this is not the audience that does, but I am also not able to tech support for everyone in my life who doesn't. That, to me, is a value-add.
I'm thinking about gifting myself a few of these. The new amp for my patio set, and a couple of the Ultras...one for my desk and one for the living room.
I really wanted to go with the Wiim amp. I just wanted a class A/B power source , so I went with the Ultra/Emotiva A2 mini combo(which, by the way, are on sale).
Hi, thank you very much for your opinion and pretty fair assessment, at least from my perspective. I am curious whether you have ever heard about Argon Audio SA1 Mk2 and SA2 streaming amps? I would really love to see how they perform compared to Wiim Amps.😂
Did THE BEST Cheap Audiophile Amp Just get Better? Wiim Amp Pro? If it did it's only until the next one comes along. One rollercoaster we're all long overdue getting off? I should say so!!!
very happy with the V3 Monoblocks, and appreciate their overall sound better than the Wiim Amp which I sold. I think much of this is due to my speakers low sensitivity. have yet to switch the op-amps to Sparkos. My current system is Wiim Mini>Geshelli Labs J2>Schiit Freya+ with Bugle Boy tubes>Fosi V3 Monos>Ascend Acoustics Sierra-1s
I’ve a WiiM mini and a WiiM pro. Both hooked up to Dacs and into living room and bedroom systems respectively. I don’t think you need to go any further than this tbh. My WiiM pro goes into the coax on my Pioneer A70DA and the Mini goes into the optical on an Smsl ps100 which is connected to a Fosi za3. Great video Randy!
Could i connect my macbook pro to the inputs and run lossless? The DAC on the MacBook is very very good likely better.. would that bypass and just use the wiim as a speaker amp only?. Is there any non hardwired way to play Apple Music? Or is it Bluetooth only? Also really wondering if you’d recommend the pro vs the regular .. is the DAC noticeably better?
Would it make sense to have a Wimamp, 3 monoblocks for the front 3 speakers or maybe 4 if you include the subwoofer and an AVR for the surround/overhead speakers? I've heard a few speakers in combination with a Naim amp/tuner speaker. I liked Dali Oberon 5 the least and the Dynaudio Evoke 30 the best because they aren't just clear sounding, but they fill the room/they're a bit bass-ie. If you get my point. Do you have a recommendation for other speakers that do the same that I might like better that is in about the same price range?
I have a bunch of input connections to my Topping Dx3 pro+. Does it make sense to connect my topping to Wiim Amp Pro? Sorry if it's a stupid question, but I'm planning on switching from powered speakers to passive.
Other than the DAC update I’m pretty disappointed in this product. WiiM either needed to include pre-outs or bumped up the power output. Going from plain WiiM amp to pro should come with a decent power bump. Also disappointed WiiM is dropping AirPlay, but it must be a legal / contractual issue with Apple. This is not as big of an issue for me because I have old airport expresses that I use to add AirPlay where necessary.
These reviews from all of these guys are always entertaining, but just remember folks that if you're watching a review with an affiliate link, there's a built-in conflict of interest there. It wouldn't be *quite* fair to say that the whole review is a commercial in these cases, but do take yourself through the incentives before you base your purchase on anything you hear on a channel like this one.
The majority of those affiliate links have such a low percentage that it’s more along the lines of. “well I might as well put it on there” then of having any real value to the reviewer. I would actually think it was weird if someone didn’t have an affiliate link. Particularly when you see that someone has an affiliate link on a review that speaks negatively about the product, that shows that it’s just more of a default to have it on the off chance that someone buys it.
These reviews are driving me crazy! It's as if these tiny class D chip amps are the only game in town. The specs are insanely high compared with traditional AB amps. But there are user comments saying that these chip amps sound anemic, they don't drive speakers as loud as a boring 30W~40W AB amp from 40 years ago. And the Cambridge Audio CXA35 is quite affordable if you want something new. The lack of comparisons is driving me crazy. It's a class D chip amp bubble.
It is not unusual to play music at 100db. Not everyday but need to buy system that can keep up. That’s why power is essential. 60 watts is great if you don’t listen loud. Emotiva XPA gives me all the power I need.
After using the ultra with the ZA3 and the sparkos, you can tell a little difference, worth the 80 bucks? Not really, id ratjer of put the 80 bucks into another setup, or paid my steaming fees for a few extra months
What smallish speakers and a subwoofer would be good with Wiim amp? I have the amp and a good but quite large bookshelf speakers. I am looking for a smaller ones because i put them on the workstation table or screw on the wall sides of the screens.
I need help. I've been switching between 5.1 home theater receivers, I've had Yamaha, Sony, Onyko, Pioneer, and NONE of them give me that FULL CONTROL, I'm looking for. They all want to add all this processing and/or weird sounds, my center channels don't sound anything like my left and right speakers, no matter which speakers I use. I consider myself pretty knowledgeable about these types of systems. I'm fine using a 2.1 for regular video watching but when I'm watching a movie I'd much rather have surround sound (5.1 - 10.2) but each speaker sounds so dramatically different. I mean like HZ wise, if I test let's say 4000hz, the left and right speaker sound the same, but the center will sound different not as clear, same with the rear speakers they'll sound completely different, EVEN tho the rear speakers are the exact same brand and model as the front left and right speakers. Is there a surround sound receiver that gives you that free control or even sound? Is this just me? Or shouldnt all the channels sound the same with all the effects off???
Even with the same speakers you need to calibrate your speakers to your listening position. Your receiver should have a set up area where you can tell the system what size speakers you have, the distance from listening, whether you have a subwoofer (to two), for example. Your Blu-Ray player (or media player) could also have this in it as well. (You can do it by distance but probably better to play pink noise and measure with e sound meter.)
@dhawker I have done this, I've even swapped the speakers themselves thinking maybe they're the problem. It doesn't seem to be the issue. I have changed the source, it all leads the these surround sound receivers, even putting the speakers all side by side. I have read manuals, none of the receivers I've had have had EVEN sound NOR the controls needing to adjust these sounds. I only currently have 2 receivers ones fairly old onyko and the Sony is old enough. I feel I want a new receiver but I do not wish to buy a $1000 receiver and this problem continue. Do surround sound receivers just naturally do this? Is there any type of hidden menu. I'm currently using a Sony multi channel av receiver STR-DN1030
All the channels should sound the same with all effects/processing off. I've never experienced what you're talking about. I bought my system as much for 5.1 music and home theater so I don't want any sound processing at all. One thing I would try - just to try and isolate the issue a little bit - is to play from two different sources: 1) Blu-ray player and then 2) video stream (say, Netflix, which can have pretty good audio. Try them on different inputs and then try them on the same input and see if there are any differences. It's like there's a setting on somewhere that you're missing. Hopefully someone else will weigh in here. I've never encountered this. But, no, this isn't a normal issue with AV receivers.
One additional thought. I'm trying to figure out what problem would persist using multiple receivers and swapping out speakers? Double check the wiring to your speakers. If they aren't red to red / black to black (on, say, from the receiver to the center) that speaker would be out of phase and sound "processed". I'd look at all your speakers and test the phase on the ones that sound "off". That's all I got.
7:27 They’re terminals on both ends, that happen to be binding posts. Also on both ends. Terminal is a more generic term. Binding post is a type of terminal, as is a screw, spring clip, or even the banana jack seen on the backs of some amps - looking at you Schiit Rekkr & Gjallarhorn.
My apologies for sounding like a neophyte, but I've reached out to Wiim and Audioengine for some help and I'm not getting any, so I figure y'all would be much better suited since you're probably trying to navigate all this new digital-era stuff, too. Here's my setup: -A turntable (has a built-in pre-amp) -A smartphone/tablet (for Spotify, et al) -A CD player, and -Passive/wired speakers (I could probably buy powered speakers if need be -- see Audioengine option below). -Fosi BT20A No coax, no HDMI, nothing special needed. So, which product -- the Wiim Ultra or the Audioengine A2+ Home Music System w/ Bluetooth aptX (with my Fosi) -- should I get to make all of this work? I appreciate any help anyone can lend.
As an owner of the original Wiim amp. I am an overall happy customer. The app, remote, setup, software upgradability, EQ, connectivity and form factor are all great. I was a bit disappointed with the amplifier. I replaced a JVC mini system that was rated at 20W*2 at 8 Ohms. The Wiim did not get much louder and there is some "ghost giving up" as Randy mentioned well before max volume. If you need a lot of (power) volume or want the purest sound, look elsewhere. Otherwise the original is a solid value when on sale for less than $299.
For around $300 you can buy a Cambridge Audio CXA35 and that's a proper amp! Just add a Wiim streamer. Yeah, you'll be spending twice as much than just buying a Wiim amp. But you won't be "upgrading" 5 months later.
I've tested the Wiim Amp and Amp Pro and neither one got very loud as some of the other amps I've tested that include the Cambridge AXR100 and AXR85, Bluesound Powernode Edge, and even the SMSL A0300. I tested with the ELAC Debut 3.0 DB63 each time. Is there some kind of setting I need to switch? Because I love the ease of use of the Wiim and would like to keep it around.
How does Wiim Amp sound compared to AO300 and Bluesound power node edge? I would prefer whichever is warmer and less fatigue. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you!
I think that the bottom line is that not only can small low current amps not push 90db. Elacs, KEFs, etc will either bottom out or distort like hf and possibly fry. Thanks CheapAudioMan for the honest evaluation. This is basically what I have been trying to figure out since debuting the KEFs at a high end audio store. I found the same with the ELACs. This is why I typically stick with used high end. Because old Levinson, Linn, Krell, Accoustat...all kick the crap out of this stuff. Imho, this type of equipment is likely good for a family lounge, office, bedroom. I reckon pretty nice for those applications. But if I want to have a few beers and crank up full power sound these little budget boxes are not the answer. In fact, I don't consider brands like Dali and KEF to be budget and they just don't cut it. If you are like me then you will want a full on audition or open return guarantee policy.
@@ramondelgado6778 impossible to get sound comparisons of the denon and marantz at the moment, fas as im aware. The denon has different internals so im wondering with a big discount too, is sound quality affected... Wiim just needs an ultra with 100 watt into 8ohms and its game over for value hifi setups IMO
Not even close. The M1 is in a different league. Watch some reviews of the M1 and you'll find a few who compare it to the Wiim. Just because they look alike doesn't mean the internals are the same.
Where does the DAC chip in the newer WiiM Amp fall when compared to the WiiM streamer lineup? I.e., would quality of sound be better with an a/b integrated like the Denon PMA 600, or even a cheap Japanese class a/b receiver + one of the WiiM streamers than you would get with the WiiM amp?
@@ThatAnalogDigital That's why I have a separates system with a good DAC and power amplifier. I use airplay while im doing housework. It is not for critical listening.
After buying the wiim amp, after seeing randys previous reviews it did suck when the original Wiim amp wouldnt connect to my 6E network, at all, resulting in the need to hard wire to one of my Google wifi routers, is this 80 Euro + upgrade going to be worth it overall? I doubt it, the original amp, is fantastic, the app is fantastic, the integration is fantastic, the choice of streaming apps is fantastic, the room correction is a bit naff, am i gonna buy one? yes of course if I can find small small speakers to add to my bathroom 😂😂😂 the last room without a wiim source, truly now a wiim fanboy
I’m liking the idea of going with a Wiim, but a little confused on the Bluetooth capabilities. Does it also stream out a BT signal to other audio devices that are not Wiims? I’d like to be able to play YT music videos on my living room TV w/passive speakers connected to the Wiim amp, but also stream the audio out to a Bluetooth speaker(like a Bose) in my patio for multi-area audio. Is the Wiim Amp Pro capable of this?
I bought an Arylic B50 amp for my patio set, based on a video from this channel, the thing works great, but am I better off with this wiim amp? I dont see much of a difference. Thoughts?
I have the pro plus and the ultra. They’re awesome. I would never sell them for anything. The updates the firmware unbelievable what a great company they care about us audiophiles.
Nice Weekend ! Please, I would like to know the name of the android app. for the measuring loudness in dB-s, with freqency monitoring, You are useing. Thank You, Regards
Wiim is great , like bluesound , eversolo , luxman , mcintosh , soulnote , you get what you pay for , ( sometimes you get good items for good prices ) but there is no dollar for 99 cent , thanks and regards
Yep, I am becoming a bit of a Wiim fanboy. By the way, nice speaker AB switch. FWIW, I link my to Wiim Pros and use the volume sliders to AB. Not as good as your setup, but I can AB two systems that way.
Hey Randy, Klipsch is having a killer sale! I guess they're unloading the RP speakers at 50% off. I just grabbed a pair of RP8000F towers for $299 each. I got a pair for less than a single one. I couldn't NOT buy them. Granted, you don't get the updated tweeter or choice of finishes, but damn! The RF50m are only $199 each. You should be talking about this.
@@Audiodreamer192-24 I KNOW! I'm excited too! But I already have the HEOS streaming platform on multiple Marantz AVRs, CD players and Streamers, in all 3 of my home theaters. For me, it would be a purchase of sheer, undiluted luxury. Not sure I want to go there, but also having serious FOMO, LOL. 🤭
@@thetrumanshow4791 me too! I have a spare bedroom full of 2.0 amps, dacs, avr’s speakers, my wife hates it lol I have 2 nodes and an eversolo dmp-a6 master edition. But I really want the icon it’s supposed to be awesome so F ya! I’m getting one!
It's an interesting thing, but it's more like a toy, in the sense that you quickly replace it with a new one...toys, of course...new ones arrive practically every week.
Absolutely! The Fosi V3 Mono just broke me. What a gimmick! You end up spending north of $300 for two weak amps with two enormous power bricks. And you have to buy a preamp on top of that. So it's even more cluttered and it costs more. Reviewers were going bananas over these mono blocks, like it's the "market disruptor". And now people are saying that they don't sound too different from a Fosi V3, they don't go loud and that they overheat and burn. What's wrong with just buying a proper integrated AB amp for $350?
I had the Wiim Pro for a while but had some serious security concerns about it on the WiFi, it would display as if it were never hooked up to my WiFi, yet you enter all your passwords and everything. Never buying Wiim again.
TH-cam started making many comments and replies apparently disappear for some time now. I figured out I I don't see my reply in the notification area and I go to the vid and still don't see it - If I reverse the Sort by - there it is. I have chatted with many who see their comments and replies gone. Does anyone know how or why this happens?
TH-cam has an algorithm that deletes posts because it thinks you are rude or you are spamming. There is no fighting the algorithm. If it could kill, I would be long dead.
So short sighted not to include Airplay 2. If you’re putting speakers in every room (so buying a lot of amps) Airplay is the easiest thing to control them with. It’s an absolute dealbreaker.
There’s specifications on the amplifier and there not good at all. 60 Watts/channel at 8 ohms;120 Watts/channel at 4 ohms no frequency response mentioned, no distortion mentioned. I’m even doubting the “double” wattage at 4 ohms. This is most likely a class D amplifier. It’s rare for a class D amp to double its power output. Everything I’m seeing is you’re much better off purchasing one of their other streamers and purchasing a separate amplifier. My opinion of course.
I would say Schiit has disrupted just as much as wiim has. Also CheapAudioman has really turned into"greatvalueaudioman" because while your recommendaitons always seem to be very price to performance oriented they are no longer necc cheap.
@@Audiodreamer192-24 negative princess. I am happy with my systems. I don't put people down who are happy with their inexpensive or expensive systems unlike snobby audiophiles. Have a great day!!
Go to surfshark.com/cheapaudio for 4 extra months of Surfshark.
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How much bigger is the Ultra than the Amp Pro? I like the idea of a matching mini stack, but I think I recall seeing that the Ultra is slightly wider. Is that right?
I’ve a WiiM ultra , a Fosi BT20A and a pair of Dali Zensor pico speakers. Connected by QED Silver anniversary cables. In the living room of my flat , this sounds fantastic. I reckon I’ll blow the windows out soon . The WiiM and Fosi , I bought after watching Randys channel. He knows his stuff . Thanks .
I'm curious. How do you have your Fosi and Wiim set up? Your gear goes into your Fosi and your Fosi into your Wiim? Or vice-versa?
To me the lack of AirPlay 2 is a deal breaker, I know it is not the most high quality audio but it is handy.. Currently my wife use it a lot to play music on multiple devices such as Apple HomePods and Sonos speakers, she doesn't care about Hi-Fi. To me, I was thinking on building a new Hi-Fi setup on the living room for listening to music directly from Tidal on the WIIM but also want to give my wife or even myself the ability to use the same setup to play music with AirPlay 2 at any moment on multiple rooms (I know, at lower quality but that's fine).
Nice review. I just bought the WiiM Amp a few weeks ago on prime days at $240. So I’m glad not a huge difference in the sound. Enjoying WiiM Amp and Roon/Tidal per your recommendations. Thanks!
Oh man, I can't wait for the
Wiim Amp Pro Plus
Wiim Amp Pro Plus SE (special edition)
Wiim Amplifier LE (limited edition for the fall season, with Pumpkin Spice Aroma)
Wiim Amp Hyper Finesse (audiophile edition)
Wiim Amp Pentagon Biceps Extreme... (for real men with 3 inch lift kits and steel balls on their truck's hitch)
Im sure the next product will be the Wiim Amp Ultra which just comes with a screen
LOL... Well best stick to overpriced and overrated "hi-end" stuff then...
You can keep all of those. I'll wait for the Wiim Amp Ultra Pro Signature Edition
4. Crutchfield offers lifetime tech support. Maybe not as valuable in this space but in Mobile audio. They have done the research already and will get you working properly. Always tell people to order at least the dash kit from them. The amount of free info freely available there, they've already earned your business.
lol. There’s nothing confusing about setting any of this up. Who needs tech support? I mean come on now.
@HighResTime there doesn't have to be. I recognize this is not the audience that does, but I am also not able to tech support for everyone in my life who doesn't.
That, to me, is a value-add.
WIIM is just killing it!!! I'm going to be gifting a few of these amps for Christmas! Great Review Randy!!! 👍👍👍
I'm thinking about gifting myself a few of these. The new amp for my patio set, and a couple of the Ultras...one for my desk and one for the living room.
We love you. You crazy cheap audio man. 🥰
Köszönjük!
Thank you so much!!
No AirPlay is what kills this for me. For a streaming amp that should really be standard.
I really wanted to go with the Wiim amp. I just wanted a class A/B power source , so I went with the Ultra/Emotiva A2 mini combo(which, by the way, are on sale).
The A2M is fantastic!!!!!
@@samsneediii1793 when they are not sold out.
Hi, thank you very much for your opinion and pretty fair assessment, at least from my perspective. I am curious whether you have ever heard about Argon Audio SA1 Mk2 and SA2 streaming amps? I would really love to see how they perform compared to Wiim Amps.😂
Did THE BEST Cheap Audiophile Amp Just get Better? Wiim Amp Pro?
If it did it's only until the next one comes along.
One rollercoaster we're all long overdue getting off? I should say so!!!
OK. So how does the Wiim Amp Pro sound in comparison to the Fosi V3 Monoblocks? There's a shootout I'd enjoy finding out who comes out on top.
very happy with the V3 Monoblocks, and appreciate their overall sound better than the Wiim Amp which I sold. I think much of this is due to my speakers low sensitivity. have yet to switch the op-amps to Sparkos. My current system is Wiim Mini>Geshelli Labs J2>Schiit Freya+ with Bugle Boy tubes>Fosi V3 Monos>Ascend Acoustics Sierra-1s
@@mapgeek6 I think Randy did that. He thinks the separates sound better.
What I really want Wiim to make is a competitor to the Bluesound Vault.
I’ve a WiiM mini and a WiiM pro. Both hooked up to Dacs and into living room and bedroom systems respectively. I don’t think you need to go any further than this tbh. My WiiM pro goes into the coax on my Pioneer A70DA and the Mini goes into the optical on an Smsl ps100 which is connected to a Fosi za3. Great video Randy!
Could i connect my macbook pro to the inputs and run lossless? The DAC on the MacBook is very very good likely better.. would that bypass and just use the wiim as a speaker amp only?. Is there any non hardwired way to play Apple Music? Or is it Bluetooth only? Also really wondering if you’d recommend the pro vs the regular .. is the DAC noticeably better?
Would it make sense to have a Wimamp, 3 monoblocks for the front 3 speakers or maybe 4 if you include the subwoofer and an AVR for the surround/overhead speakers?
I've heard a few speakers in combination with a Naim amp/tuner speaker. I liked Dali Oberon 5 the least and the Dynaudio Evoke 30 the best because they aren't just clear sounding, but they fill the room/they're a bit bass-ie. If you get my point. Do you have a recommendation for other speakers that do the same that I might like better that is in about the same price range?
Just the review I was awaiting. Great work R. U continue to speak a hifi language that I understand ….and appreciate.
I have a bunch of input connections to my Topping Dx3 pro+. Does it make sense to connect my topping to Wiim Amp Pro? Sorry if it's a stupid question, but I'm planning on switching from powered speakers to passive.
I'm trying the Surfshark deal. Supporting your work thanks dude!
Other than the DAC update I’m pretty disappointed in this product. WiiM either needed to include pre-outs or bumped up the power output. Going from plain WiiM amp to pro should come with a decent power bump. Also disappointed WiiM is dropping AirPlay, but it must be a legal / contractual issue with Apple. This is not as big of an issue for me because I have old airport expresses that I use to add AirPlay where necessary.
These reviews from all of these guys are always entertaining, but just remember folks that if you're watching a review with an affiliate link, there's a built-in conflict of interest there. It wouldn't be *quite* fair to say that the whole review is a commercial in these cases, but do take yourself through the incentives before you base your purchase on anything you hear on a channel like this one.
Yes, one man's opinion 😮
Truth
Yes, audioman should review coffee!
The majority of those affiliate links have such a low percentage that it’s more along the lines of. “well I might as well put it on there” then of having any real value to the reviewer. I would actually think it was weird if someone didn’t have an affiliate link. Particularly when you see that someone has an affiliate link on a review that speaks negatively about the product, that shows that it’s just more of a default to have it on the off chance that someone buys it.
These reviews are driving me crazy! It's as if these tiny class D chip amps are the only game in town. The specs are insanely high compared with traditional AB amps. But there are user comments saying that these chip amps sound anemic, they don't drive speakers as loud as a boring 30W~40W AB amp from 40 years ago. And the Cambridge Audio CXA35 is quite affordable if you want something new. The lack of comparisons is driving me crazy. It's a class D chip amp bubble.
It is not unusual to play music at 100db. Not everyday but need to buy system that can keep up. That’s why power is essential. 60 watts is great if you don’t listen loud. Emotiva XPA gives me all the power I need.
How would you compare it to a WiiM Pro Plus with a Fosi Za3 with Sparkos Opamps?
After using the ultra with the ZA3 and the sparkos, you can tell a little difference, worth the 80 bucks? Not really, id ratjer of put the 80 bucks into another setup, or paid my steaming fees for a few extra months
What smallish speakers and a subwoofer would be good with Wiim amp? I have the amp and a good but quite large bookshelf speakers. I am looking for a smaller ones because i put them on the workstation table or screw on the wall sides of the screens.
I need help. I've been switching between 5.1 home theater receivers, I've had Yamaha, Sony, Onyko, Pioneer, and NONE of them give me that FULL CONTROL, I'm looking for. They all want to add all this processing and/or weird sounds, my center channels don't sound anything like my left and right speakers, no matter which speakers I use. I consider myself pretty knowledgeable about these types of systems. I'm fine using a 2.1 for regular video watching but when I'm watching a movie I'd much rather have surround sound (5.1 - 10.2) but each speaker sounds so dramatically different. I mean like HZ wise, if I test let's say 4000hz, the left and right speaker sound the same, but the center will sound different not as clear, same with the rear speakers they'll sound completely different, EVEN tho the rear speakers are the exact same brand and model as the front left and right speakers. Is there a surround sound receiver that gives you that free control or even sound? Is this just me? Or shouldnt all the channels sound the same with all the effects off???
Even with the same speakers you need to calibrate your speakers to your listening position. Your receiver should have a set up area where you can tell the system what size speakers you have, the distance from listening, whether you have a subwoofer (to two), for example. Your Blu-Ray player (or media player) could also have this in it as well. (You can do it by distance but probably better to play pink noise and measure with e sound meter.)
@dhawker I have done this, I've even swapped the speakers themselves thinking maybe they're the problem. It doesn't seem to be the issue. I have changed the source, it all leads the these surround sound receivers, even putting the speakers all side by side. I have read manuals, none of the receivers I've had have had EVEN sound NOR the controls needing to adjust these sounds. I only currently have 2 receivers ones fairly old onyko and the Sony is old enough. I feel I want a new receiver but I do not wish to buy a $1000 receiver and this problem continue. Do surround sound receivers just naturally do this? Is there any type of hidden menu. I'm currently using a Sony multi channel av receiver STR-DN1030
That’s strange
I have several avr’s and never had the problem you describe….IDK
All the channels should sound the same with all effects/processing off. I've never experienced what you're talking about. I bought my system as much for 5.1 music and home theater so I don't want any sound processing at all. One thing I would try - just to try and isolate the issue a little bit - is to play from two different sources: 1) Blu-ray player and then 2) video stream (say, Netflix, which can have pretty good audio. Try them on different inputs and then try them on the same input and see if there are any differences. It's like there's a setting on somewhere that you're missing. Hopefully someone else will weigh in here. I've never encountered this. But, no, this isn't a normal issue with AV receivers.
One additional thought. I'm trying to figure out what problem would persist using multiple receivers and swapping out speakers? Double check the wiring to your speakers. If they aren't red to red / black to black (on, say, from the receiver to the center) that speaker would be out of phase and sound "processed". I'd look at all your speakers and test the phase on the ones that sound "off". That's all I got.
7:27 They’re terminals on both ends, that happen to be binding posts. Also on both ends. Terminal is a more generic term. Binding post is a type of terminal, as is a screw, spring clip, or even the banana jack seen on the backs of some amps - looking at you Schiit Rekkr & Gjallarhorn.
Great informative video sir!
My apologies for sounding like a neophyte, but I've reached out to Wiim and Audioengine for some help and I'm not getting any, so I figure y'all would be much better suited since you're probably trying to navigate all this new digital-era stuff, too.
Here's my setup:
-A turntable (has a built-in pre-amp)
-A smartphone/tablet (for Spotify, et al)
-A CD player, and
-Passive/wired speakers (I could probably buy powered speakers if need be -- see Audioengine option below).
-Fosi BT20A
No coax, no HDMI, nothing special needed.
So, which product -- the Wiim Ultra or the Audioengine A2+ Home Music System w/ Bluetooth aptX (with my Fosi) -- should I get to make all of this work?
I appreciate any help anyone can lend.
What app is that you are using for the DB and frequency meter?
As an owner of the original Wiim amp. I am an overall happy customer. The app, remote, setup, software upgradability, EQ, connectivity and form factor are all great. I was a bit disappointed with the amplifier. I replaced a JVC mini system that was rated at 20W*2 at 8 Ohms. The Wiim did not get much louder and there is some "ghost giving up" as Randy mentioned well before max volume. If you need a lot of (power) volume or want the purest sound, look elsewhere. Otherwise the original is a solid value when on sale for less than $299.
For around $300 you can buy a Cambridge Audio CXA35 and that's a proper amp! Just add a Wiim streamer. Yeah, you'll be spending twice as much than just buying a Wiim amp. But you won't be "upgrading" 5 months later.
Hi. Could the new WiiM amp run a pair of the new KEF Q Concerto Meta’s?
I'm considering the same combo... hopefully someone will chime in.
Randy you're looking extra fit these day, good job and keep up the hard work! Are you back on any particular routine?
I've tested the Wiim Amp and Amp Pro and neither one got very loud as some of the other amps I've tested that include the Cambridge AXR100 and AXR85, Bluesound Powernode Edge, and even the SMSL A0300. I tested with the ELAC Debut 3.0 DB63 each time.
Is there some kind of setting I need to switch? Because I love the ease of use of the Wiim and would like to keep it around.
How does Wiim Amp sound compared to AO300 and Bluesound power node edge?
I would prefer whichever is warmer and less fatigue. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you!
I think that the bottom line is that not only can small low current amps not push 90db. Elacs, KEFs, etc will either bottom out or distort like hf and possibly fry. Thanks CheapAudioMan for the honest evaluation. This is basically what I have been trying to figure out since debuting the KEFs at a high end audio store. I found the same with the ELACs. This is why I typically stick with used high end. Because old Levinson, Linn, Krell, Accoustat...all kick the crap out of this stuff. Imho, this type of equipment is likely good for a family lounge, office, bedroom. I reckon pretty nice for those applications. But if I want to have a few beers and crank up full power sound these little budget boxes are not the answer. In fact, I don't consider brands like Dali and KEF to be budget and they just don't cut it. If you are like me then you will want a full on audition or open return guarantee policy.
How does it sound vs a marantz M1? Much of a difference?
That would be a great comparison! Also, Denon makes a variant of the M1 for $200 less (799 vs 999) and wondering how they compare.
@@ramondelgado6778 impossible to get sound comparisons of the denon and marantz at the moment, fas as im aware. The denon has different internals so im wondering with a big discount too, is sound quality affected... Wiim just needs an ultra with 100 watt into 8ohms and its game over for value hifi setups IMO
Not even close. The M1 is in a different league. Watch some reviews of the M1 and you'll find a few who compare it to the Wiim. Just because they look alike doesn't mean the internals are the same.
Where does the DAC chip in the newer WiiM Amp fall when compared to the WiiM streamer lineup? I.e., would quality of sound be better with an a/b integrated like the Denon PMA 600, or even a cheap Japanese class a/b receiver + one of the WiiM streamers than you would get with the WiiM amp?
😂 "My" shirt says, I'm not arguing with you. I'm just explaining why I'm right."😮
I don’t understand why WiiM is moving away from AirPlay 2. That is the only protocol I use for whole home streaming.
@TheFrugalAudiophile Because people who care about audio quality are not using wireless protocols from their sources.
@@ThatAnalogDigitalaudio quality from a Wiim? Hahaha….
@@s.daniel9224??? You can output it to a good Dac. Still, who’s using Bluetooth or any wireless protocol for serious listening?
@@ThatAnalogDigitalmost people watching this video.
@@ThatAnalogDigital That's why I have a separates system with a good DAC and power amplifier. I use airplay while im doing housework. It is not for critical listening.
Hey what app are you using for your spl meter??
What up Cheap! Just checking in....
After buying the wiim amp, after seeing randys previous reviews it did suck when the original Wiim amp wouldnt connect to my 6E network, at all, resulting in the need to hard wire to one of my Google wifi routers, is this 80 Euro + upgrade going to be worth it overall? I doubt it, the original amp, is fantastic, the app is fantastic, the integration is fantastic, the choice of streaming apps is fantastic, the room correction is a bit naff, am i gonna buy one? yes of course if I can find small small speakers to add to my bathroom 😂😂😂 the last room without a wiim source, truly now a wiim fanboy
What is the app on the phone please?
Alternate way of considering value proposition? Rather than $80, think of it as 27% more?
I’m liking the idea of going with a Wiim, but a little confused on the Bluetooth capabilities. Does it also stream out a BT signal to other audio devices that are not Wiims? I’d like to be able to play YT music videos on my living room TV w/passive speakers connected to the Wiim amp, but also stream the audio out to a Bluetooth speaker(like a Bose) in my patio for multi-area audio. Is the Wiim Amp Pro capable of this?
No, every amp I've seen with Bluetooth is for receiving/playing only, not for transmitting to other devices.
cant wait for wiim to make a high end headphone amp (with streamer + high end DAC)
Wow! I had no idea you could squeeze so many promotions into a single video. Insane skills dude!
Professional salesman 😮
@@uni-byte thank you so much. I like money because it buys stuff.
I bought an Arylic B50 amp for my patio set, based on a video from this channel, the thing works great, but am I better off with this wiim amp? I dont see much of a difference. Thoughts?
Yes you will be, and even more better off the more you fall in love with the functionality and fill your home with these devices
@benhardy172 thanks. I'm hoping they roll out a Wiim Ultra Plus 2.0 Edition with a bigger screen, all black. Santa Please!
Can you use this to power a soundbar and a TV? If yes, how?
More interested in the Cambridge EXA100 on your rack :)
Please correct me. But do these wiims take the place of example, denon and other avr product s
If you're only wanting a 2.1 setup, it can.
No not at all in any way
Nope! The Wiim amp is an absolute toy in comparison.
I have the pro plus and the ultra. They’re awesome. I would never sell them for anything. The updates the firmware unbelievable what a great company they care about us audiophiles.
Nice Weekend !
Please, I would like to know the name of the android app. for the measuring loudness in dB-s, with freqency monitoring, You are useing.
Thank You,
Regards
Is there a link to the speaker A/B Switcher? I apologize if I cannot see it. I am on a phone.
Long time fan. Watch your videos all the time.
They should have an additional identical box, to expand the amp to double the power. This will be a real killer.
I believe Wiim is part of the Microsoft family. Could have something to do with no Airplay.
What is the mic APP that is used?
we expect a wiim amp 2 with at least 2x200w 4ohm in 2025 and then it will fit perfectly. hope you put pressure on this to come 😉
Wiim is great , like bluesound , eversolo , luxman , mcintosh , soulnote , you get what you pay for , ( sometimes you get good items for good prices ) but there is no dollar for 99 cent , thanks and regards
Binding posts are speaker terminals, but not all speaker terminals are binding posts…
Some of them are those terrible spring clips.
Omg you have dali opticon 8 mk 2 at home and you told us?😉🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Yep, I am becoming a bit of a Wiim fanboy. By the way, nice speaker AB switch. FWIW, I link my to Wiim Pros and use the volume sliders to AB. Not as good as your setup, but I can AB two systems that way.
Hey Randy, Klipsch is having a killer sale! I guess they're unloading the RP speakers at 50% off. I just grabbed a pair of RP8000F towers for $299 each. I got a pair for less than a single one. I couldn't NOT buy them. Granted, you don't get the updated tweeter or choice of finishes, but damn! The RF50m are only $199 each. You should be talking about this.
Please tell me you you'll be reviewing the Bluesound Node Icon? 🤸♂🎶 🎷
I’m getting one of those. They ship next month
@@Audiodreamer192-24 I KNOW! I'm excited too! But I already have the HEOS streaming platform on multiple Marantz AVRs, CD players and Streamers, in all 3 of my home theaters. For me, it would be a purchase of sheer, undiluted luxury. Not sure I want to go there, but also having serious FOMO, LOL. 🤭
@@thetrumanshow4791 me too! I have a spare bedroom full of 2.0 amps, dacs, avr’s speakers, my wife hates it lol
I have 2 nodes and an eversolo dmp-a6 master edition. But I really want the icon it’s supposed to be awesome so F ya! I’m getting one!
@@Audiodreamer192-24 😂LOL!
@@thetrumanshow4791 she calls me a hifi hoarder 😂
Bruh! You got to review the new Fosi preamp ZD3 with a bunch of opamps
lol. Why? All of this super cheap stuff is so similar.
Many orher channels have done it including Fosi itself. Why do you want Cheap to do another test?
@@ThatAnalogDigitalincorrect
I'll just continue to use the original wiim amp. Still doing a great job.
More like Akitika 💖💖💪💪
Please suggest me the best bookshelf speakers for my small room under 1000 dollars
@@thaanesh235 some used powered speaker probably is best
Almost anything will do! People are raving about the new ELAC speakers.
wiim executives listen, next time make the word "pro" be really "pro", so the $80 difference can be justified....
It’s geeky but I would like to hear your opinion of the hifiberry amp.
Will dropping AirPlay, suggest to me that apple is planning on making their own device!
a 5.1 WIIM preamp would be so great
Buy an avr, way better than wiim anything
No, AirPlay is a deal dealbreaker
Yes, Airplay is my favorite way to stream music.
Dali's have two mid bass drivers a piece, that's the difference with the Elac.
It's an interesting thing, but it's more like a toy, in the sense that you quickly replace it with a new one...toys, of course...new ones arrive practically every week.
Absolutely! The Fosi V3 Mono just broke me. What a gimmick! You end up spending north of $300 for two weak amps with two enormous power bricks. And you have to buy a preamp on top of that. So it's even more cluttered and it costs more. Reviewers were going bananas over these mono blocks, like it's the "market disruptor". And now people are saying that they don't sound too different from a Fosi V3, they don't go loud and that they overheat and burn. What's wrong with just buying a proper integrated AB amp for $350?
These amp chips need 48V power to perform with authority. Do they get this in this iteration? Possibly not.
Two of those class d monoblock that you had would never equal the Cambridge audio acts 25 no matter how you slice it
there should come a Wiim end amp, which you can connect to the ultra.
without that it makes more sense to connect two Vosi V3 mono blocks with 2 separate powersupplies
Who is that cool music by?
I have struggled to enjoy the WiiM app
You ever do head phone TH-cam reviews?
I had the Wiim Pro for a while but had some serious security concerns about it on the WiFi, it would display as if it were never hooked up to my WiFi, yet you enter all your passwords and everything. Never buying Wiim again.
I wonder what kind of credentials you have in electronics
Gods help me, when you said, "You get what you get..." my brain immediately added, "...if you don't buy a Schiit.
TH-cam started making many comments and replies apparently disappear for some time now. I figured out I I don't see my reply in the notification area and I go to the vid and still don't see it - If I reverse the Sort by - there it is. I have chatted with many who see their comments and replies gone. Does anyone know how or why this happens?
I am seeing that too, even thought I see replies to my comment.
TH-cam has an algorithm that deletes posts because it thinks you are rude or you are spamming. There is no fighting the algorithm. If it could kill, I would be long dead.
I've had comments and replies that I made appear to post and then dissappear lately too.
@@ethimself5064 happens too me as well
@@stevengagnon4777 Been going on for at least 6 months.
So short sighted not to include Airplay 2. If you’re putting speakers in every room (so buying a lot of amps) Airplay is the easiest thing to control them with.
It’s an absolute dealbreaker.
cheapaudioman must be getting compensated very well for the shameless infomercials. He's lost all credibility with me.....
A streamer with no airplay? Deal-breaker
There’s specifications on the amplifier and there not good at all. 60 Watts/channel at 8 ohms;120 Watts/channel at 4 ohms no frequency response mentioned, no distortion mentioned. I’m even doubting the “double” wattage at 4 ohms. This is most likely a class D amplifier. It’s rare for a class D amp to double its power output. Everything I’m seeing is you’re much better off purchasing one of their other streamers and purchasing a separate amplifier. My opinion of course.
I would say Schiit has disrupted just as much as wiim has. Also CheapAudioman has really turned into"greatvalueaudioman" because while your recommendaitons always seem to be very price to performance oriented they are no longer necc cheap.
$80.00 price increase doesn't cover inflation.
Disposable tech !
Someone paid too much for their gear😂
@@rockroll9513someone is jealous 😂
@@Audiodreamer192-24 negative princess. I am happy with my systems. I don't put people down who are happy with their inexpensive or expensive systems unlike snobby audiophiles. Have a great day!!
Como buen gringo quiere que el servicio al cliente le contesten en USA, a mi me da lo mismo si me contestan en Mexico, Chile, Argentina etc
Faaa. In argentina costs😮 $550
No preamp out? Deal breaker.
No AirPlay = why it’s affordable.
No such thing as giant killer. You get what you pay you pay for.
👍💯
Without proper power 🔋 supply
It's just another average streamer
Streaming is the audio files with safe sex is to normal people