I am only 998,900 short of my subscriber goal! Joking of course but please consider liking and subscribing as well. I would really appreciate it as it allows a small channel like mine to continue on! Have a good one!
Thank you for the review Matt, very nice and informative. I bought a WiiM Mini in May, and was very satisfied with the sound quality and the software, as well as with the frequency and contents of the software updates to the WiiM. But, around end of August I had the optical connector failure (WiiM was prone to this, Support told me they've rectified it since), so the Product support came into play and I was satisfied with that even more - I would go as far as to say that the WiiM Product Support is by far the best support service I've ever used, for any product and/or service - they've sent me a new unit as soon as I sent them a tracking number of my old unit going back to them. No hocus-pocus, no waiting for my faulty unit to come to their service, no inspections, or whatever - they've just sent a new one to me. So, kudos to WiiM!
I've noticed that virtually all the reviews on this device recommend an external dac. Why doesn't anyone seem to mention that all A/V receivers have built in DACs? I have an older Denon avr-3805 that has16 Burr Brown 192 kHz/24-bit DACs in differential configuration on all 8 channels, for example. Why in the world would I not just use the optical output to connect it to my receiver and use the internal dacs? Just curious why no one seems to mention this.
"Why doesn't anyone seem to mention that all A/V receivers have built in DACs?" Because they don't. not ALL of them. Think: For some people who have vintage high quality High-end 2-channel stereo from 70s 80s or even early 90s, there ARE no internal DACs. Sooooo...in THAT case, optical out into a nice high quality external DAC (which is better than MOST built in DACs in today's MOST consumer level receivers that focus on function more than audio quality) is a necessary step, WITH the option of using a high-end external DAC. (Take a look at the background behind the presenter in this video: you will see a few vintage devices, speakers, turntable, etc. I bet he also has these connected to some vintage amp/receiver that were built way before BT/internet/DACs were even thought of. THAT is the kind of person who would use an external DAC, and send the output to his high quality amp/rcvr. )., I know there ARE modern AVR/HT units that might sound good for 2-channel stereo ...BUT they will never match the sound quality of a dedicated MUSIC focused amp/receiver from the "olden" days. Because most of them are highly focused on apps/connectivity/functions and all the DD/DTS multi channel stuff. So not much room for big solid heat sinks or real power supplies, etc etc. VERY FEW high end companies make modern AVRs that ALSO focus on high-end 2-channel stereo SQ.
I am so happy with mine, I have purchased 3, one of which was for my father to pair with an Aiyima D03 and Sony SSCS5's. Another great DAC to pair it with is a Geshelli ($250) which has balanced out.
Four years ago a Node 2i on my main vintage system was a game changer. Was going to get another Node for office system. I’ve had an awful experience with other LinkPlay software, Audioengine B-Fi, but tried a Mini. Second best purchase I’ve made for my audio hobby. Hooked to my Modi3 and running Tidal Connect, the difference in perceived SQ is negligible.
100 % agree this is a fantastic streamer. I also have a Bluesound Node 2i and a Marantz PM7000N that has HEOS built in. Considering the much higher cost of the other two, you could just buy the WiiM Mini and an external DAC such as the Geshelli Labs J2 and for less than $350, you have a superior streaming experience. Great video! You earned a sub!
Indeed, the only reason I'm still thinking of a Node for my living room is that my vintage Carver preamp doesn't have a subwoofer out. I'm looking into whether any of the SVS subs can be fed a speaker level input though, then daisy chained to the mains. If so, I'll stick with a WiiM and an AKM based J2 and call it a day.
@@rosswarren436 Cyber Monday deal: 1. Schiit Audio has the Modi 3E DAC for $99. 2. Amazon has the WiiM Mini for $79. This is ridiculous!!!! I just picked up another Mini and a Modi 3E which has many favorable reviews!
I totally agree with you! This little WiiM mini is fantastic! I was using my iPad into an Audioquest Cobalt DAC through an Audioquest Evergreen 3.5mm to RCA into my McIntosh c50. I stream Amazon Prime and I was happy except for the cord. Enter WiiM mini optical to the built in McIntosh c50 DAC. Wow more open soundstage, and maybe at times deeper as well, better detail and more sparkle. I am looking at the HiFi Rose 150 to replace my aging Sony HAP-Z1ES. And probably will use it as well for streaming. But until then, this WiiM mini is more than enough for me. System also uses Klipsch Hersey IV’s, Magnepan LRS, SS McIntosh mc352,Carver Crimson 275 tube amp
Love the intro! I looked at the WiiM Pro, did not have the connections I was hoping for. I already had the Node, but then again, connections... I went with the Pi2 Mercury v2 and loaded RoPieeeXL on it. Rock solid and plays everything I throw at it. And I have to agree with the WiiM software, I wish they made it available as a standalone software package.
Outstanding Matt, I've seen other reviews on the WiiM over the past year or so but your video has convinced me to pull the trigger one. Keep up the great work.
Connecting this to a home theater receiver through optical output renders the subpar DAC inconsequential, right? My receiver will rely on its DAC in this case?
Thank you, great video! I have FX-Audio DAC-X6. Do you suggest to connect WiiM mini with optical cable to FX-Audio DAC-X6 or using its own internal DAC? Do you also suggest me two affordable and mini passive speaker?
I'm curious to know what you'd recommend. Right now I just have a set of edifier Bluetooth speakers, but I'd like to buy more speakers to place around the house. Would you suggest: one Wiim unit to connect to multiple speakers by Bluetooth One Wiim as the transmitter over wifi to speakers that are wiim compatible (not sure which ones are) One wiim transmitter with multiple wiim receivers wired to speakers? Or what do you think? I'm not looking to spend a bunch of money, I just want to have sound in more places in the house and have it synchronized.
What about the most important question: digital-output sound quality compared to Blusound or Audiolab? it's also a shame WiiM dos not offer coax digital output like bluesound and Audiolab.
I would prefer a coax as well but sub 100 I don’t really expect it. Out of the box the node and 6000n will win out with the better DAC’s but pair the WiiM with a decent DAC and your in business.
The wiim mini is bit perfect, noise is -140db. Basically it's transparent. So if you think the bluesound node will sound better, it won't. Oh and I have both.
They are soon going to offer a "step up" (between $150-$200) from the WiiM Mini that will offer USB output. Not sure about coax, but USB should go a long ways. Not sure if it will offer ethernet input either, but that would be a nice feature too.
Some feedback on items I did not see mentioned in your review. If you want to listen to Iheart Radio, Siriusxm, or Pandora, you will need to use voice control. The WiiM software does not include the ability to stream these unless you use voice control. I currently have 2 WiiM mini. One in my office connected to an older Sansui and one in the Family Room connected to a Sony receiver. I like the ability to listen to my turntable in the office and stream the vinyl to the family Room and sync the music as well. All for under $200.00.
@@MattCoykendall1 Pair the Wiim Mini with a cheapo(!) Fiio Taishan via SPDIF and it is on par with the BS Node - if not better sounding. I'm extremely impressed and have helped my old 90s Marantz PM 66 SE KI amp to be futureproof...
It looks like Chromecast Audio, which cost less than 30 euros a few years ago. I've been using Cromecast Audio several years for streaming and I've been satisfied with it. It also doesn't have a very good dac, so I use a separate dac. Unfortunately, they stopped manufacturing and selling them.
But Chromecast isn't gapless in playback. (At least that is what I've heard reviewers say), while the WiiM Mini is. For people listening to EDM, live albums, progressive rock, jazz, and classical, where music is supposed to segue from one track to another seamlessly, gapless playback is important.
yeah? And if i need to connect it to my Yamaha A-S501 how do I do that, when the amp is also connected to the TV through optical? The 501 only has 1 digital port. I mean, they could have added a coax as well... I don't see how I can use this. But yea, it's cheap for what it's worth
I have a couple of questions please, if you can help: 1. Is it possible to "limit" the volume coming out of the Wiim Mini using the app setting of the Wiim Mini, so somebody can't push the volume too high without having access to the app itself? I own a house which I rent on airbnb, I have an amplifier providing a bit too much volume, so I'd like to limit the output volume thanks to the Wiim Mini if possible. Example: if someone connects to the Wiim Mini from their phone using Spotify Connect or Airplay, but they dont have access to the app, they wont be able to go above the volume I limited into the EQ setting of the Wiim app. Does it work, or am I asking too much? 2. Possible to connect to bluetooth without having access to the app itself? Thanks
Also a happy user of the Wiim Mini. I use the optical connection to a DAC. The only thing that confuses me is the sample rate. Isn't Toslink usually limited to 96kHz?
I’m very interested in purchasing this or the Wiim Pro. Not crazy about this tiny puck form factor for the Mini. From what I’ve seen, there is little difference between the two besides full sized outputs on the pro and a wired option for networking which I won’t currently be making use of. Perhaps I should get the mini and an outboard dac down the road?
Right, there are some nice upgrades but it only applies if you need these things like the coax connection and chromecast. If you don’t need the options save the money and apply it to the DAC upgrade.
Almost convinced! But have some questions. I am currently using a chromecast audio attached to my McIntosh integrated amp from 2014. Would this be an improvement over the chromecast audio? Would it be compatible with my RUclips music and google speaker? Finally would i be able to take advantage of the higher res audio with my built-in 2014 DAC? Thanks!!!
Hey, so we may have to dig a bit deeper. Your speaker will depend on the input connections it has, 3.5 plug, optical, things like that. The DAC in your McIntosh may provide the resolutions we need but I would need to know the model number.
Can I group 4 Sonos SL Speakers as Surround Speakers along with Sonos Arc ; Does new Wiim Amp will does it; let me know; I am looking for one amp which can group Sonos Arc and 4 or Sonos SL Speakers sounding speakers
I have a secondary system in a bedroom with an old yamaha natural sound desktop reciever /cd player, i got one of those arylic preamps to be a dac and feed a wifi/bt signal to it. Was working fine with my home network until I had to reinstall Windows to my main computer. Now it won't detect the songs on my dnla server no matter what, I've dumped hours to try to troubleshoot it. Rip. BT from the phone still works but I got all my nice FLACs on my PC server. I could try this, and just use the arylic as a dac? Its a pity cause I know for sure the original unit was working before.
I have an Arcam SA10 with built in 32bit DAC, can I just connect this streamer to my Arcam or do I still need to buy an external DAC? Im reading comments that it sounds better with the Geshelli Labs J2? Im assuming I would not need to purchase additional DAC because I have one built in my Integrated Amp?
I have the Wiim connected to my audiolab 6000a via toslink. Question is how much would I be looking at spending on an external DAC to improve on the audiolab
The Sabre DAC in the 6000 is well matched with the equipment, if you want to experiment with this make sure to buy from locations with good return polices as you may not find any great gains unless you get into more of the mid priced options.
If I use an external expensive DAC, do you think there is any difference in terms of music quality, soundstage etc.. between the streamers like Wim mini and other more expensive streamers like BNode?
Seems like a solid product, but need a coax out for my GaN 1. I like that the node is upgradeable, upgrading the 24mhz clock and the power supply make the node an incredible value. Haven't heard much about the audio lab
I have upgraded the clock and power supply on my bluesound node 3, and it still sounds the same as my wiim mini. Even though it's hard to take, it's the truth ! Oh and the rest of my system is top notch (measurements prove it).
the internal dac on the Wiim wont offer much benefit over the iphone, the wiim is introduced into your system for alot of other features but not so much the internal dac offerings. A good external DAC teamed up with the WiiM, now your going to hear a difference in my opinion.
Thankfully, I am very happy with the iPhone / iPad DAC. Moreover, I really have no room for another component in my custom cabinets without introducing clutter. I guess I am a music first audiophile.
Good review but i have a question no one has ever addressed. Can it stream from your owned library, i.e music you have inside your phone that are yours? Without using Bluetooth but rather playing from wifi? I have 72,000 song library.
Just use apple play 2. CD quality sound (not hi res but better than BT) direct from your phone to the WiiM. The WiiM app has a hand option for accessing and sorting your personal library once connected to your phone.
Maybe it was once but it's gone downhill VERY quickly. Its UI is terrible as is their customer support, just take a look at their support forum. Sending my PRO back tomorrow.
I use it with my Yamaha WXC50 and its a gem streaming far better and reliably than the Yamaha, I use optical out on WIIM so I get to use the built in DAC of the Yamaha.
Having using it for a while, recently it's software got crazy. Everything is upside down. Impossible to operate. Sent an email to their support with no reply from them. Is anyone encountered such a problem?
My head has been hurting trying to work out how to get a little hifi back into my life with my Spotify sub. I want to get an old integrated amp and bookshelf speakers to toake me back to the 90's! Your video was much clearer than most others about that route but and I was getting excited until..the Topping D30 is £299 in the UK. That's not what I call budget friendly. I was hoping it would be around the £150 mark. Am I missing something? The Shiit Modi is almost impossible to find here too
@@MattCoykendall1 Thanks for replying Matt! The iFi Zen is a better price, around £200 here. If I get the WiiM Mini and plug it into the iFi Audio Zen DAC V2 can i then go straight into an integrated amp like the NAD 3020? Do I need an amp with optical in to take the signal from the Zen or can I do RCA to RCA? This is the bit that confuses me..the different input/output options. I actually quite like the look of the NAD 3020 V2 which I can get new for £299 here in the UK. The speakers I will pair with it will be small enough to sit on my (big) desk - so bookshelf speakers at most. It's for my office which is 5x3.5m so I don't need masses of room filling sound. Merry Christmas from across the pond 😎
@@dugbert9 I was going by memory there and made a mistake, that IFI dac only has a USB digital input, we need a DAC with an optical connection for the WiiM Mini. Are you able to get any of the SMSL DAC's at decent rates? The SMSL SU8s would be a good option but likely come in at a little higher price point. The Modi would still be my pick for you so it's unfortunate that you cant get these. Honestly you could just start out with the Mini, and use its internal dac for the time being and go direct into your receiver from it, add the new DAC down the line.
@@MattCoykendall1 'start out with the Mini, and use its internal dac for the time being and go direct into your receiver from it, add the new DAC down the line' - that sounds like a plan. The DAC landscape seems to be awkward to traverse not least because the models seem to change so quickly (I looked for SMSL DAC's here and there are a lot of different models). I'm not an audiophile given my budget and maybe ears! I just want better than a BT speaker form Bose, Sonos etc. I used to have a Denon amp with Tannoy speakers 25 years ago and it was enough for me and I'd like to get back to that level of sound but using Spotify as my source. So I started my research on RUclips, got into a mess with all the jargon etc but this video of yours almost made my breakthrough. If only I could get one of those Schiit's I'd be complete. I almost bought a pair of KEF LSX's today but then read a comment saying that it's suspcious that so many are availabel used but only a fe wmonths old and that put me off. It's a jungle out there!! Thanks again for taking time to respond. Maybe easier to ask you what you would do in my shoes. Is there a budget route with an all in one box solution for streaming? e.g Amp, dac and streamer? I used to have a Linn Classik and they are £250 now, used. If I could put Spotify through that I'd be happy. WOuld just get some B&W bookshelf speakers and it would be great.
@@dugbert9 This would be an option: arylic a50+ amzn.to/3FUSYXv or a more premium option would be bluesound power node amzn.to/3FRIdF9 Both of these have streamers with built in amplifiers and a decent DAC!
Awesome! Thanks for the demonstration! Did you used to do teleprompter reading sometime in your life? I'm interested in your audio setup. No, not the speakers but what's on your rack. Thanks
My only small complaint, (and it might not be due to the WiiM Mini), is that when playing Tidal Connect to it from a PC, the PC will often lose connection to the WiiM if you are doing "too much" else on the PC. Fortunately, the music and the queue continues to play on the WiiM Mini, but it would be nicer if the connection was more solid and wasn't lost as often.
Interesting, I have not experienced these drops but I am also not currently running this through my PC either. Might be worth sending something into support just to see what they come back with, you may need to clear out your drivers and then reconnect/install to the pc.
@@MattCoykendall1 to be fair, I'm using an ancient PC in my office that I've upgraded over the years, but it is a lowly Core 2 Duo processor. I use it for most of my music stuff and my other better i7 PC for CAD work. I should try it using the better PC sometime and see how it does. But thanks!
@@jayem1826 correct. I've discovered if I leave the Tidal window maximized and then leave say my email or Facebook up in a window that has been minimized to be smaller, it does better. This is a fairly old PC. I keep using it mostly for music related stuff because my large iTunes library is on a external USB drive connected to it. I need to try it on my newer, faster PC over the holidays and see if it too has a connection issue with dropping the WiiM if I'm doing other tasks. Like I said the music queue keeps playing on the WiiM but you just don't have any feedback on your PC showing what song is playing. My wi-fi router is in the same room as these two PCs. The connection is over 2.4 GHz and the speed I get down from Spectrum (my provider) is about 100 Mbps. I've not upgraded to their 300 Mbps plan because my Motorola modem that I bought and paid for caps out at 100 Mbps, and if I switched Spectrum would want to charge me more $$$ every month.
Agreed no ethernet. The is not just the cheapest category thing. I use a re-clock dejiter SPDIF device between the WIM Mini and my processor. But many people might benefit from a USB audio output. In addition the Pro version should aspire to do Amazon Music Atmos and Ultra HD. I am lost why anyone would use Tidal or Qobuz. If you have Amazon Prime just stick to the Amazon Music Ultra HD tracks. Why are audiophiles making this complicated? It is going to come down to Apple Music vs. Amazon Music and the bundles people want.
For me at least i Findd Amazon music interface so buggy and cumbersome to use; and i dont see Amazon adressing or making the experience any better!. This comes down like the guy said in the video. You could have the best in terms of music and sound quality but if the interface makes it a hastle to work with i personally would look elsewere!!. It lacls feature richness and the ability to match music with other new music or playlist in the same sense that Tidal and Qobuz do! Im not hating on Amazon just that it seems they are not so invested in making the music HD experience better
for each speakers in multi rooms need in each room one wiim and one speaker ....and you mean is it a good thing?......a made my own multi room with eleven speakers and wifi for +- 1000 US dollars.
If you guys are using thus, I would rather you guys just use your smart TV as transport unless you are using in pure listening room and this would make a lot of sense.
I am only 998,900 short of my subscriber goal! Joking of course but please consider liking and subscribing as well. I would really appreciate it as it allows a small channel like mine to continue on! Have a good one!
Thank you for the review Matt, very nice and informative.
I bought a WiiM Mini in May, and was very satisfied with the sound quality and the software, as well as with the frequency and contents of the software updates to the WiiM.
But, around end of August I had the optical connector failure (WiiM was prone to this, Support told me they've rectified it since), so the Product support came into play and I was satisfied with that even more - I would go as far as to say that the WiiM Product Support is by far the best support service I've ever used, for any product and/or service - they've sent me a new unit as soon as I sent them a tracking number of my old unit going back to them. No hocus-pocus, no waiting for my faulty unit to come to their service, no inspections, or whatever - they've just sent a new one to me.
So, kudos to WiiM!
I've noticed that virtually all the reviews on this device recommend an external dac. Why doesn't anyone seem to mention that all A/V receivers have built in DACs? I have an older Denon avr-3805 that has16 Burr Brown 192 kHz/24-bit DACs in differential configuration on all 8 channels, for example. Why in the world would I not just use the optical output to connect it to my receiver and use the internal dacs? Just curious why no one seems to mention this.
"Why doesn't anyone seem to mention that all A/V receivers have built in DACs?"
Because they don't. not ALL of them. Think: For some people who have vintage high quality High-end 2-channel stereo from 70s 80s or even early 90s, there ARE no internal DACs. Sooooo...in THAT case, optical out into a nice high quality external DAC (which is better than MOST built in DACs in today's MOST consumer level receivers that focus on function more than audio quality) is a necessary step, WITH the option of using a high-end external DAC.
(Take a look at the background behind the presenter in this video: you will see a few vintage devices, speakers, turntable, etc. I bet he also has these connected to some vintage amp/receiver that were built way before BT/internet/DACs were even thought of. THAT is the kind of person who would use an external DAC, and send the output to his high quality amp/rcvr. )., I know there ARE modern AVR/HT units that might sound good for 2-channel stereo ...BUT they will never match the sound quality of a dedicated MUSIC focused amp/receiver from the "olden" days. Because most of them are highly focused on apps/connectivity/functions and all the DD/DTS multi channel stuff. So not much room for big solid heat sinks or real power supplies, etc etc. VERY FEW high end companies make modern AVRs that ALSO focus on high-end 2-channel stereo SQ.
I am so happy with mine, I have purchased 3, one of which was for my father to pair with an Aiyima D03 and Sony SSCS5's. Another great DAC to pair it with is a Geshelli ($250) which has balanced out.
Good point on the Geshelli, another good buy.
Four years ago a Node 2i on my main vintage system was a game changer. Was going to get another Node for office system. I’ve had an awful experience with other LinkPlay software, Audioengine B-Fi, but tried a Mini. Second best purchase I’ve made for my audio hobby. Hooked to my Modi3 and running Tidal Connect, the difference in perceived SQ is negligible.
100 % agree this is a fantastic streamer. I also have a Bluesound Node 2i and a Marantz PM7000N that has HEOS built in. Considering the much higher cost of the other two, you could just buy the WiiM Mini and an external DAC such as the Geshelli Labs J2 and for less than $350, you have a superior streaming experience. Great video! You earned a sub!
Right, when you get the WiiM at such a low price it leaves you wide open to get a wide selections of good DACs. Thanks for the watch Ramon.
Indeed, the only reason I'm still thinking of a Node for my living room is that my vintage Carver preamp doesn't have a subwoofer out. I'm looking into whether any of the SVS subs can be fed a speaker level input though, then daisy chained to the mains. If so, I'll stick with a WiiM and an AKM based J2 and call it a day.
@@rosswarren436 I am pretty sure you can feed the subwoofer with speaker level inputs to any of the SVS offerings. Good luck!
@@ramondelgado6778 thanks Ramon! I'll definitely check that out at SVS's website soon.
@@rosswarren436 Cyber Monday deal: 1. Schiit Audio has the Modi 3E DAC for $99. 2. Amazon has the WiiM Mini for $79. This is ridiculous!!!! I just picked up another Mini and a Modi 3E which has many favorable reviews!
I’m streaming with mine while I type this! It always works perfectly. Thanks for the review.
Glad to hear it is working well, I cant say I have had any issues either.
I totally agree with you! This little WiiM mini is fantastic! I was using my iPad into an Audioquest Cobalt DAC through an Audioquest Evergreen 3.5mm to RCA into my McIntosh c50. I stream Amazon Prime and I was happy except for the cord. Enter WiiM mini optical to the built in McIntosh c50 DAC. Wow more open soundstage, and maybe at times deeper as well, better detail and more sparkle. I am looking at the HiFi Rose 150 to replace my aging Sony HAP-Z1ES. And probably will use it as well for streaming. But until then, this WiiM mini is more than enough for me. System also uses Klipsch Hersey IV’s, Magnepan LRS, SS McIntosh mc352,Carver Crimson 275 tube amp
The WiiM is a great bargain, the rose 150 is another level and looks like a great unit.
Name dropper
Just got one, last week, and I am very impressed. Some day, I may try it through an external DAC but, right now, I am happy.
Good choice!
Love the intro! I looked at the WiiM Pro, did not have the connections I was hoping for. I already had the Node, but then again, connections... I went with the Pi2 Mercury v2 and loaded RoPieeeXL on it. Rock solid and plays everything I throw at it. And I have to agree with the WiiM software, I wish they made it available as a standalone software package.
Outstanding Matt, I've seen other reviews on the WiiM over the past year or so but your video has convinced me to pull the trigger one. Keep up the great work.
Glad you enjoyed it! Enjoy the Mini also
Hi I have a chromecast audio and gapless playback is not working, is it working With the wiim mini? I Use Spotify Tidal and Deezer….
Connecting this to a home theater receiver through optical output renders the subpar DAC inconsequential, right? My receiver will rely on its DAC in this case?
Correct
Thank you, great video! I have FX-Audio DAC-X6. Do you suggest to connect WiiM mini with optical cable to FX-Audio DAC-X6 or using its own internal DAC? Do you also suggest me two affordable and mini passive speaker?
I'm curious to know what you'd recommend. Right now I just have a set of edifier Bluetooth speakers, but I'd like to buy more speakers to place around the house. Would you suggest:
one Wiim unit to connect to multiple speakers by Bluetooth
One Wiim as the transmitter over wifi to speakers that are wiim compatible (not sure which ones are)
One wiim transmitter with multiple wiim receivers wired to speakers?
Or what do you think? I'm not looking to spend a bunch of money, I just want to have sound in more places in the house and have it synchronized.
What about the most important question: digital-output sound quality compared to Blusound or Audiolab? it's also a shame WiiM dos not offer coax digital output like bluesound and Audiolab.
I would prefer a coax as well but sub 100 I don’t really expect it. Out of the box the node and 6000n will win out with the better DAC’s but pair the WiiM with a decent DAC and your in business.
The wiim mini is bit perfect, noise is -140db. Basically it's transparent. So if you think the bluesound node will sound better, it won't. Oh and I have both.
They are soon going to offer a "step up" (between $150-$200) from the WiiM Mini that will offer USB output. Not sure about coax, but USB should go a long ways. Not sure if it will offer ethernet input either, but that would be a nice feature too.
Some feedback on items I did not see mentioned in your review. If you want to listen to Iheart Radio, Siriusxm, or Pandora, you will need to use voice control. The WiiM software does not include the ability to stream these unless you use voice control. I currently have 2 WiiM mini. One in my office connected to an older Sansui and one in the Family Room connected to a Sony receiver. I like the ability to listen to my turntable in the office and stream the vinyl to the family Room and sync the music as well. All for under $200.00.
@@MattCoykendall1 Pair the Wiim Mini with a cheapo(!) Fiio Taishan via SPDIF and it is on par with the BS Node - if not better sounding. I'm extremely impressed and have helped my old 90s Marantz PM 66 SE KI amp to be futureproof...
It looks like Chromecast Audio, which cost less than 30 euros a few years ago. I've been using Cromecast Audio several years for streaming and I've been satisfied with it. It also doesn't have a very good dac, so I use a separate dac. Unfortunately, they stopped manufacturing and selling them.
Yes lots of people have used chromecast with good results, I feel like this is the evolution.
Wiim mini are making the pro version with Chromecast built in . That will obsolete all other streamers.
But Chromecast isn't gapless in playback. (At least that is what I've heard reviewers say), while the WiiM Mini is. For people listening to EDM, live albums, progressive rock, jazz, and classical, where music is supposed to segue from one track to another seamlessly, gapless playback is important.
yeah? And if i need to connect it to my Yamaha A-S501 how do I do that, when the amp is also connected to the TV through optical? The 501 only has 1 digital port.
I mean, they could have added a coax as well...
I don't see how I can use this. But yea, it's cheap for what it's worth
How does it sound when paired with a decent DAC? How is the imaging and soundstaging?
Pair it with a better DAC and these are extremely competitive, sound quality well above its price range.
Bigjuergo
vor 1 Sekunde
does it use the DAc when connected with optical cable to my amplifier or is the dac of my amp used? thx!
I have a couple of questions please, if you can help:
1. Is it possible to "limit" the volume coming out of the Wiim Mini using the app setting of the Wiim Mini, so somebody can't push the volume too high without having access to the app itself? I own a house which I rent on airbnb, I have an amplifier providing a bit too much volume, so I'd like to limit the output volume thanks to the Wiim Mini if possible.
Example: if someone connects to the Wiim Mini from their phone using Spotify Connect or Airplay, but they dont have access to the app, they wont be able to go above the volume I limited into the EQ setting of the Wiim app. Does it work, or am I asking too much?
2. Possible to connect to bluetooth without having access to the app itself?
Thanks
i would connect to Chord Qutest dac instead of my chromecast audio in order to get airplay and amazon music.... it would be a nice move?
The software is half the battle, maybe more. Will be interesting to see what they offer in the Pro version.
For this mini, you can link it right up to any speakers that are bluetooth capable near by? or do they have to be wired to the mini?
Also a happy user of the Wiim Mini. I use the optical connection to a DAC. The only thing that confuses me is the sample rate. Isn't Toslink usually limited to 96kHz?
That used to be the case, 192 is a possibility now depending on the implementation.
Hi ! Can you tell me what charger must buy to be working good the streamer ? With good cable type c and with good charger are the sound better ?
Excellent video , I was looking for a wireless streamer for my Hegel h 95 . Thanks
Excellent, should be a great pairing.
I’m very interested in purchasing this or the Wiim Pro. Not crazy about this tiny puck form factor for the Mini. From what I’ve seen, there is little difference between the two besides full sized outputs on the pro and a wired option for networking which I won’t currently be making use of. Perhaps I should get the mini and an outboard dac down the road?
Right, there are some nice upgrades but it only applies if you need these things like the coax connection and chromecast. If you don’t need the options save the money and apply it to the DAC upgrade.
Almost convinced! But have some questions. I am currently using a chromecast audio attached to my McIntosh integrated amp from 2014. Would this be an improvement over the chromecast audio? Would it be compatible with my RUclips music and google speaker? Finally would i be able to take advantage of the higher res audio with my built-in 2014 DAC?
Thanks!!!
Hey, so we may have to dig a bit deeper. Your speaker will depend on the input connections it has, 3.5 plug, optical, things like that. The DAC in your McIntosh may provide the resolutions we need but I would need to know the model number.
@@MattCoykendall1 hey thanks! It’s a McIntosh MA 5200
@@slistone1940 McIntosh- Optical: 16Bit, 24Bit - 32kHz to 96kHz. So you will be able to set the output on the WiiM to 24 bit 96kHz.
Can I group 4 Sonos SL Speakers as Surround Speakers along with Sonos Arc ; Does new Wiim Amp will does it; let me know; I am looking for one amp which can group Sonos Arc and 4 or Sonos SL Speakers sounding speakers
Would this be something I could use to cast my turntable to AirPlay-enabled speakers? (With a phono preamp, of course)
Can the Mini stream from a local library from a NAS or a local Plex server?
Hey man! I noticed the Polk 707’s in the background!! What’s your thoughts on them ?? Heard they are a giant killer for the money??!!
I really enjoy them, had them for quite a few years. I also have the 703 bookshelf and 706c center.
Great, concise review, Matt - I left a subscription, thanks, Carlo
Thanks Carlo, appreciate the watch!
Can I stream just any audio from my phone - for instance, from a foobar2000 player app or does it only work with a dedicated streaming service?
It's a Bluetooth receiver too, so you can stream anything from a smartphone, this will be at a lower quality, but still not bad.
Can it connect to a bluetooth speaker wirelessly?
I have a secondary system in a bedroom with an old yamaha natural sound desktop reciever /cd player, i got one of those arylic preamps to be a dac and feed a wifi/bt signal to it. Was working fine with my home network until I had to reinstall Windows to my main computer. Now it won't detect the songs on my dnla server no matter what, I've dumped hours to try to troubleshoot it. Rip. BT from the phone still works but I got all my nice FLACs on my PC server. I could try this, and just use the arylic as a dac? Its a pity cause I know for sure the original unit was working before.
The mini would be an option!
I have an Arcam SA10 with built in 32bit DAC, can I just connect this streamer to my Arcam or do I still need to buy an external DAC? Im reading comments that it sounds better with the Geshelli Labs J2? Im assuming I would not need to purchase additional DAC because I have one built in my Integrated Amp?
Correct, no need for an additional DAC with your integrated amp. You will likely want to use the optical input on your Arcam.
@@MattCoykendall1 thanks for the help 😊 will most likely order this!
I have the Wiim connected to my audiolab 6000a via toslink. Question is how much would I be looking at spending on an external DAC to improve on the audiolab
The Sabre DAC in the 6000 is well matched with the equipment, if you want to experiment with this make sure to buy from locations with good return polices as you may not find any great gains unless you get into more of the mid priced options.
Thanks for the reply Matt, I was thinking chord mojo 👍
If I use an external expensive DAC, do you think there is any difference in terms of music quality, soundstage etc.. between the streamers like Wim mini and other more expensive streamers like BNode?
If there was I would bet 99% of the population would have trouble in a A/B test.
How does the Wiim dac compare to iPhone 10dac?
Seems like a solid product, but need a coax out for my GaN 1. I like that the node is upgradeable, upgrading the 24mhz clock and the power supply make the node an incredible value. Haven't heard much about the audio lab
Yeah the node is a fine product as well.
I have upgraded the clock and power supply on my bluesound node 3, and it still sounds the same as my wiim mini. Even though it's hard to take, it's the truth ! Oh and the rest of my system is top notch (measurements prove it).
@@r423fplip good for you. Which measurements?
Out of Digital plug whats the resolution l can send to my hi res dac???
192/24
Trying to get something for my Klipsch fives, someone recommended wiim instead of Chromecast audio.
Anyone know if it'll work?
How does dac compare to iPhone 10 dac…all I am using today and happy with it. Please advise.
the internal dac on the Wiim wont offer much benefit over the iphone, the wiim is introduced into your system for alot of other features but not so much the internal dac offerings. A good external DAC teamed up with the WiiM, now your going to hear a difference in my opinion.
Thankfully, I am very happy with the iPhone / iPad DAC. Moreover, I really have no room for another component in my custom cabinets without introducing clutter. I guess I am a music first audiophile.
chances are, you'd be hard pushed to notice much of a difference, if anyhting at all!
Exactly my experience and I’m happy. Thanks!
@@Michael-xz1nk exactly, most modern DACS are good enough. What matters the most are the speakers, their placement and room acoustics.
Good review but i have a question no one has ever addressed. Can it stream from your owned library, i.e music you have inside your phone that are yours? Without using Bluetooth but rather playing from wifi? I have 72,000 song library.
No, I don’t believe this functionally is available yet.
@@MattCoykendall1
My dilemma.
You can play via DLNA. it supports DLNA
Just use apple play 2. CD quality sound (not hi res but better than BT) direct from your phone to the WiiM. The WiiM app has a hand option for accessing and sorting your personal library once connected to your phone.
@@jemsmay2167
Im not an apple user at all. I take it its not a free service?
Great video. Big fan of these 😊
Right, can’t really go wrong here.
@@MattCoykendall1 that’s for sure!!!!
Wiim mini software is great, very well done. They have really brought the price point down for streamers.
Appreciate the watch!
Do I need to download the app if am simply going to stream RUclips Music via Airplay 2?
I would suggest downloading the app and going through the settings and preferences first, after that you should be good to go.
Wiim’s software support is the best out there outside of Sonos. This is because linkplay is a software company first.
Maybe it was once but it's gone downhill VERY quickly. Its UI is terrible as is their customer support, just take a look at their support forum. Sending my PRO back tomorrow.
I use it with my Yamaha WXC50 and its a gem streaming far better and reliably than the Yamaha, I use optical out on WIIM so I get to use the built in DAC of the Yamaha.
Having using it for a while, recently it's software got crazy. Everything is upside down. Impossible to operate. Sent an email to their support with no reply from them. Is anyone encountered such a problem?
How about the Andover songbird?
I have not reviewed that one yet, I do have the arylic s10 in now though.
My head has been hurting trying to work out how to get a little hifi back into my life with my Spotify sub. I want to get an old integrated amp and bookshelf speakers to toake me back to the 90's! Your video was much clearer than most others about that route but and I was getting excited until..the Topping D30 is £299 in the UK. That's not what I call budget friendly. I was hoping it would be around the £150 mark. Am I missing something? The Shiit Modi is almost impossible to find here too
I wish the Schiit was available for you, that would have been a great budget pick. How about the iFi Audio Zen DAC V2?
@@MattCoykendall1 Thanks for replying Matt! The iFi Zen is a better price, around £200 here. If I get the WiiM Mini and plug it into the iFi Audio Zen DAC V2 can i then go straight into an integrated amp like the NAD 3020? Do I need an amp with optical in to take the signal from the Zen or can I do RCA to RCA? This is the bit that confuses me..the different input/output options. I actually quite like the look of the NAD 3020 V2 which I can get new for £299 here in the UK. The speakers I will pair with it will be small enough to sit on my (big) desk - so bookshelf speakers at most. It's for my office which is 5x3.5m so I don't need masses of room filling sound. Merry Christmas from across the pond 😎
@@dugbert9 I was going by memory there and made a mistake, that IFI dac only has a USB digital input, we need a DAC with an optical connection for the WiiM Mini. Are you able to get any of the SMSL DAC's at decent rates? The SMSL SU8s would be a good option but likely come in at a little higher price point. The Modi would still be my pick for you so it's unfortunate that you cant get these. Honestly you could just start out with the Mini, and use its internal dac for the time being and go direct into your receiver from it, add the new DAC down the line.
@@MattCoykendall1 'start out with the Mini, and use its internal dac for the time being and go direct into your receiver from it, add the new DAC down the line' - that sounds like a plan. The DAC landscape seems to be awkward to traverse not least because the models seem to change so quickly (I looked for SMSL DAC's here and there are a lot of different models). I'm not an audiophile given my budget and maybe ears! I just want better than a BT speaker form Bose, Sonos etc. I used to have a Denon amp with Tannoy speakers 25 years ago and it was enough for me and I'd like to get back to that level of sound but using Spotify as my source. So I started my research on RUclips, got into a mess with all the jargon etc but this video of yours almost made my breakthrough. If only I could get one of those Schiit's I'd be complete. I almost bought a pair of KEF LSX's today but then read a comment saying that it's suspcious that so many are availabel used but only a fe wmonths old and that put me off. It's a jungle out there!! Thanks again for taking time to respond. Maybe easier to ask you what you would do in my shoes. Is there a budget route with an all in one box solution for streaming? e.g Amp, dac and streamer? I used to have a Linn Classik and they are £250 now, used. If I could put Spotify through that I'd be happy. WOuld just get some B&W bookshelf speakers and it would be great.
@@dugbert9 This would be an option: arylic a50+ amzn.to/3FUSYXv or a more premium option would be bluesound power node amzn.to/3FRIdF9 Both of these have streamers with built in amplifiers and a decent DAC!
Is the dac as good as in the iPhone XR?
Sorry, no experience with that one
Awesome!
Thanks for the demonstration!
Did you used to do teleprompter reading sometime in your life?
I'm interested in your audio setup. No, not the speakers but what's on your rack.
Thanks
My only small complaint, (and it might not be due to the WiiM Mini), is that when playing Tidal Connect to it from a PC, the PC will often lose connection to the WiiM if you are doing "too much" else on the PC. Fortunately, the music and the queue continues to play on the WiiM Mini, but it would be nicer if the connection was more solid and wasn't lost as often.
Interesting, I have not experienced these drops but I am also not currently running this through my PC either. Might be worth sending something into support just to see what they come back with, you may need to clear out your drivers and then reconnect/install to the pc.
@@MattCoykendall1 to be fair, I'm using an ancient PC in my office that I've upgraded over the years, but it is a lowly Core 2 Duo processor. I use it for most of my music stuff and my other better i7 PC for CAD work.
I should try it using the better PC sometime and see how it does. But thanks!
So, your PC is connected to the 5GHz stream? And you can't do any other ON LINE function such as browsing or emailing?
Thanks
@@jayem1826 The WiiM connects to your home wifi, no need to connect direct to the Wiim. You can still do everything browsing, email ect.
@@jayem1826 correct. I've discovered if I leave the Tidal window maximized and then leave say my email or Facebook up in a window that has been minimized to be smaller, it does better. This is a fairly old PC. I keep using it mostly for music related stuff because my large iTunes library is on a external USB drive connected to it.
I need to try it on my newer, faster PC over the holidays and see if it too has a connection issue with dropping the WiiM if I'm doing other tasks.
Like I said the music queue keeps playing on the WiiM but you just don't have any feedback on your PC showing what song is playing.
My wi-fi router is in the same room as these two PCs. The connection is over 2.4 GHz and the speed I get down from Spectrum (my provider) is about 100 Mbps. I've not upgraded to their 300 Mbps plan because my Motorola modem that I bought and paid for caps out at 100 Mbps, and if I switched Spectrum would want to charge me more $$$ every month.
I bought Wiim mini and I love it
So I bought wiim pro too
They’re great 👍🏻
Yeah they are!
Agreed no ethernet. The is not just the cheapest category thing. I use a re-clock dejiter SPDIF device between the WIM Mini and my processor. But many people might benefit from a USB audio output. In addition the Pro version should aspire to do Amazon Music Atmos and Ultra HD.
I am lost why anyone would use Tidal or Qobuz. If you have Amazon Prime just stick to the Amazon Music Ultra HD tracks.
Why are audiophiles making this complicated? It is going to come down to Apple Music vs. Amazon Music and the bundles people want.
I am primarily an Amazon music customer, works great for me.
For me at least i Findd Amazon music interface so buggy and cumbersome to use; and i dont see Amazon adressing or making the experience any better!. This comes down like the guy said in the video. You could have the best in terms of music and sound quality but if the interface makes it a hastle to work with i personally would look elsewere!!. It lacls feature richness and the ability to match music with other new music or playlist in the same sense that Tidal and Qobuz do!
Im not hating on Amazon just that it seems they are not so invested in making the music HD experience better
for each speakers in multi rooms need in each room one wiim and one speaker ....and you mean is it a good thing?......a made my own multi room with eleven speakers and wifi for +- 1000 US dollars.
Sensible, nice, review. Thank you!
Thanks for watching!
If you guys are using thus, I would rather you guys just use your smart TV as transport unless you are using in pure listening room and this would make a lot of sense.
Is nobsound q4 sound stage better than this?
I have PlayFi App in combinaion with my McIntosh RS100 and it's PAIN IN THE ASS. Countless streaming losses or it couldn't find the speaker at all.
Yeah... I have fought this same fight a time or two.
I hope the pro version ditches the DAC, adds coax out and Roon Ready 😎
I wouldn’t mind a coax either.
Busted Airplay and abysmal customer support. Pass.
Cant i just connect my pc or phone to my speakers. I dont see the point of these devices.