WiiM Amp vs. WiiM Amp Pro: Choosing the Right Streaming Amplifier for Your Needs - Magnetic Magazine

Will Vance • Nov 4, 2024

With the release of the WiiM Amp Pro, the streaming amplifier game just got a serious upgrade. The Amp Pro isn’t just a step up—it’s a bold leap in audio quality, connectivity, and versatility. While the original WiiM Amp already packs a punch with seamless streaming and solid sound, the Amp Pro steps it up with high-tech features designed for those who demand only the best from their audio setup.

In this article, we’re diving into the core differences between the WiiM Amp and the Amp Pro. Whether you’re an audiophile who lives for that pristine, high-fidelity sound or you just want an easier way to upgrade your home setup, here’s what you need to know to choose the right WiiM amplifier for you.

Pricing and AvailabilityThe WiiM Amp Pro, with Roon Ready features, is available now on Amazon for $379. Existing Amp Pro users have received an over-the-air update notification to enable Roon Ready on their devices. For more information about the WiiM Amp Pro or other WiiM products, please visit www.wiimhome.com.

The WiiM Amp Pro’s standout feature is its Post Filter Feedback (PFFB) technology. This isn’t just a buzzword—it’s what ensures you get crisp, clear, and load-independent sound. PFFB tech lets the Amp Pro handle anything you throw at it, whether you’re blasting the latest album in high-res or listening to a delicate jazz recording. The difference? You get an unfiltered, direct sound experience without distortion or color, even at higher volumes.

But that’s not all. The Amp Pro brings in an ESS ES9038Q2M DAC—a high-end digital-to-analog converter—and a Texas Instruments op amp for added finesse. The combo pushes a 120 dB signal-to-noise ratio and ultra-low distortion at -105 dB. Translation? You’re looking at a massive step up in audio clarity and precision. This upgrade can make all the difference for audiophiles who crave detail, pulling out nuances in tracks that lesser amps might miss. If you want a device that truly respects high-fidelity audio, the Amp Pro is where you’ll want to invest.

Beyond sound quality, the Amp Pro is a connectivity powerhouse. Unlike the original WiiM Amp, the Amp Pro supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio. These upgrades mean faster connections, less lag, and smooth streaming, especially when you’re working with high-bandwidth files like FLAC or TIDAL HiFi+.

With dual antennas, the Amp Pro is built for reliable, uninterrupted playback across multiple rooms, even in larger homes. So if your setup spans several rooms or you like to sync up audio throughout your space, the Amp Pro’s connectivity is on point. The original WiiM Amp, while great for straightforward setups, doesn’t offer the same stability or range, so if high-quality streaming across rooms is your goal, the Amp Pro is going to deliver.

Both models offer compatibility with all the major streaming platforms—Spotify, Amazon Music, TIDAL, and more—but the Amp Pro also features HDMI ARC. This lets you channel your TV’s audio directly into your home system, upgrading everything from movie soundtracks to gaming. If you’re looking for an amplifier that’s ready to be the true center of your entertainment hub, the Amp Pro has you covered.

One area where the Amp Pro really pulls ahead is in its EQ customization and room correction. Equipped with 24 EQ presets, a 10-band graphic EQ, and a 10-band parametric EQ, the Amp Pro offers precise audio control across all inputs. Whether you’re streaming from HDMI, optical, Bluetooth, or RCA, you can tweak the sound to match your room’s unique acoustics and your personal taste. This kind of customization is ideal for those who want full control over their audio setup.

But it doesn’t stop there. The Amp Pro’s automatic room correction is the real game-changer. It takes acoustic measurements of your space and adjusts the output to suit, meaning you get balanced, distortion-free audio in any setting. For dedicated listeners, this feature is gold—it takes away the guesswork and makes sure your sound is always at its best, no matter where you place your speakers. The standard WiiM Amp doesn’t offer this level of EQ flexibility or room correction, so if tuning is important to you, the Amp Pro is a big win.

The WiiM Amp Pro’s design is more than just a pretty face. Encased in a durable aluminum shell, it’s built to handle heat and keep performance steady, even through hours of use. You also get an intuitive volume knob with built-in play/pause functionality and LED indicators for volume and status—a small touch that makes the experience even smoother.

The Pro version also includes the WiiM Voice Remote, which adds another layer of convenience. Control your music, adjust volume, or pause playback from anywhere in the room. Both models integrate with Alexa and Google Assistant, so voice control is also in the mix, but having the dedicated remote is a nice touch for hands-free operation.

What’s the biggest difference between the WiiM Amp and the Amp Pro?The Amp Pro offers higher-quality sound with PFFB technology, enhanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, and extra features like room correction and HDMI ARC. These upgrades make it an ideal choice for audiophiles or those with multi-room setups.

Is the WiiM Amp Pro worth the upgrade for most users?If audio quality, connectivity, and customization are top priorities, the Amp Pro is a worthwhile investment. For casual listeners who just need a solid streaming amp, the original WiiM Amp still delivers great performance at a lower cost.

How does Wi-Fi 6E benefit the Amp Pro?Wi-Fi 6E provides faster, more stable connections, especially important for streaming high-resolution audio. With dual antennas, the Amp Pro can maintain strong connections across multiple rooms, so you get lag-free sound no matter where you are.

Can the Amp Pro connect to a TV?Yes, the Amp Pro supports HDMI ARC, allowing it to channel audio directly from your TV. This feature is ideal for upgrading your TV’s sound and integrating it with your home audio system.

How does room correction work on the Amp Pro?Room correction analyzes your room’s acoustics and automatically adjusts audio output to suit. This gives you balanced sound without the need for manual adjustments, ensuring a consistently great listening experience.

The WiiM Amp and Amp Pro both bring high-quality streaming audio into your home, but the Amp Pro raises the bar with enhanced sound, connectivity, and flexibility. If you’re looking for an amplifier that goes beyond basic streaming and delivers audiophile-level quality, the Amp Pro is the perfect fit. With its PFFB tech, customizable EQ, and Wi-Fi 6E, it’s built to handle any setup and deliver flawless, high-fidelity audio.

On the other hand, if you’re after solid sound without all the extras, the original WiiM Amp is still a great choice and easy on the budget. But if you want your home audio to be ready for anything, and you’re serious about the sound, the Amp Pro is the way to go. Whether you’re streaming, watching movies, or setting up a multi-room experience, the WiiM Amp Pro is here to take your listening experience to the next level.