I just wanted to add, that you can alter the room corrections settings. You just have to save the new eq profile first, then you can alter and fine tune the final result. It’s also possible to go into the room corrections settings and alter the frequency’s adjusted, the maxiumium gain and the Q factor before you run the corrections. It also lets you choose between harmon, Bk and flat target curves. All the best!
Thanks for reviewing something so affordable. The landmark product during my audio journey has to be the Cambridge Audio AXA35 amplifier, which I bought, thanks to your excellent review, a year ago. In spite of its power rating, it works like a beast, comfortably driving my not too sensitive Dali bookshelf speakers...
Tarun, you get straight to the point, speak clearly and give no fluffs… great job. I get that audio reviewing is subjective, but there’s something about the way you present that makes me trust you. Somehow I know you speak truthfully. 👍🏻 BTW, I heard that popping you mentioned on the analog in and out on my Ultra; but I changed interconnects and it went away. If you can try it, please provide an update. Thanks.
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Another great review! Always appreciate your approach to reviews. If you had to make a choice, for a streamer under $1,000, regardless of screen, what would you say has the best overall sound quality?
Thanks for a good review. I have owned the Ultra for about 6 weeks now and love it. As for landmark audio kit, it is either the original Sony Walkman or the google chromecast audio, a streaming device for £30 with an optical output. I still have one in my kitchen going into my Marantz amp (using marantz dac) and I love it. Also able to create a multi room set up with the WiiM. And it’s 11 years old. 🎉
The WiiM room correction CAN BE adjusted. Every single parameter of it! After running room correction, go into EQ, and it'll be set to the room correction settings, then you can adjust frequency, gain, and q for every one of them. Then you can save it and give it a name, and this can be repeated for twenty saved presets.
its impossible to do Room EQ , if it were possible Theaters would not waste so much money on construction , they would just use any room pop in Room EQ , available on PC for free , and there you go . But its not like that .
@@dedskin1interesting. But surely it must do something that we can acknowledge. I just ran the room correction on this unit. It cut the bass too much but the 9 other boosted or reduced frequencies gave more air and clarity to the mids and highs. Not sure if this "corrected" anything in the strictest sense but the sound is improved I ld say. Still experimenting tho..
@@diamondbracelette it can do something , exactly what you said , it EQed the sound , i do it as well , but i dont need no room EQ i do it manually with EQ. It can be done on Headphones , simulated room , so reverse is possible . But sound of a room is too complex , and just impossible to make a wall not reflect the sound without physically changing something .
Great review, thank you! I bought a Wiim Ultra on a whim! It performs perfectly using an external dac via USB. I have to say it sounds fantastic, your 'Oustanding' accreditation is well deserved. It doesn't sound bad with RCA out, but works best for my system as a transport.. The case is aluminium not plastic, and i really like having the screen for close up operation, I especially like the VU meter, not that is makes it sound better. I watched a tear down on this unit and its loaded with good quality components. My BS Node is having a little restbite atm.. Pls keep up the fantastic reviews...👍
Hello there, I was wondering if you know if I also use this Wiim Ultra as a transport then will the Wiim's EQ/ crossover settings and bass management be retained/effective still? And, why are you using an external DAC and what model is it? Is it for increase in sound quality only or for other reasons? As for sound quality improvements can you describe specifics?
@@Chimpsfingers No dac yet I've been using my Yamaha RXA4A avr for it's fuctionality such as bass managment and PEQ. I was hoping the Icon, dispite it having an ESS would sound liquidy, smooth with vocals and so to be devoid of producing those horrible harsh "S" sounds/ siblance that my ears are very bothered by and therefore distracting from my beloved music. Looking for the closest to natural presentation possible with no brightness. I need PEQ and sub out for my active sub plus bass management like high and low pass crossover settings so I was left considering the Icon which falls within my limited budget you see. I already have a Yamaha RXA4A avr (ESS 9007 Saber in it), a power amp hooked up to front lr preouts, an active sub crossed at 40 hz, and LS50 Metas. I listen to music 99 % of time the rest movies always in 2.1 channel. From everything I've gathered I need a better source and dac. Maybe minidsp instead of avr handling the dsp/sub crossovers, etc but I don't know. Regarding the Node Icon, the reason it looks hopeful for my purposes, dispite the absence of those silky AKM chips you speak of, is it is the only unit that has all the functionality that I demand, that new Qrono virus, I mean technology implimented which promises smooth frequencies from addressing clock timing issues, etc, and finally reviews from owners claim how it sounds very natural, harsh siblance free so no harsh S sounds and basically all else I want sonically. Also, I've heard some reviewers explain that the dac chip is only half of the sound the other half is using great quality parts and implimentation. But, all that said, do you believe this Icon will still produce glare/ hardness in S sounds (which, as I said, bothers me more than anything else) and upper frequencies because it's using an ESS? Harsh and sharp vocals are what bothers me - all else can sound as detailed and bright as it is in real live music. For example cymbals naturally sound that way but because that's it's natural sound I like it. Any advice from you would be very appreciated as I really don't have a clue about specific equipment thats best to solve my problem on a modest budget. I am not technically knowledgable enough to know what to choose including what synergizes best, etc, which is why I have an avr. I don't have the thinking for it all, I just have ears that want to enjoy beautiful sounding music.
My landmark audio product are my speakers, assuming that you aren't restricting the conversation to electronics. They are Martin Logan SL3's. I had originally planned on getting smaller ML, though I don't remember the model. While I was demoing them again I asked it I could hear the SL3 just for giggles. There were no giggles. I was blown away. After I heard them there was no going back to the more "accessible" Martin Logans. I ended up doing a whole ML home theater setup with Scripts in the rear, a Cinema center, and eventually a Descent for sub. I've never regretted that decision at all. Great review on the Wiim Ultra. I'm thinking about getting one eventually.
Great review. I run a Wiim pro into an Audiolab 7000a. Landmark for me was Apple airport express optical out into an external Dac. I think this really led the way regarding streaming
My son gave me an AirPort Express v2 he wasn’t using. I connect this into the great little Ruark MR2s and the matching sub for my study to stream Apple Radio classical. I also use a stereo pair of Apple HomePod minis under my 2 27 in monitors. By swapping the Ruarks over (left and right) as they are behind me when working at my desk, and balancing the sound carefully between front and back, it feel like I’m sitting in the orchestra. As I play in an orchestra (first violin) it’s a fun thing for me to do. For about £1000 it’s a good price/quality combo.
Thanks for the review. I have the Wiim Pro Plus and it works and has a lot of useful features. The DAC sound quality isn’t as good as more expensive units I have but at its price point it’s a great value.
I too have the Pro Plus and think it is an outstanding robust streamer, and agree it falls short with the internal DAC. I connected it to a Schiit Modius DAC and it was definitely an upgrade. I would say I have a budget audiophile system, and this combo is working well until I'm ready to upgrade my speakers and amp.
Thanks for a concise informative review. My 'landmark product' was a second hand Sugden A25 amp, purchased in the mid 90s. This unit was at the centre of my system for over fifteen years - until the push button switches eventually wore out... I still miss it.
I purchased the WiiM Ultra last month and I have been satisfied. It's connect to my TV and integrated amp in the man cave. If it last 5 or so years it was well worth it.
Excellent review as always. I’ve had the Wiim Pro Plus for about 6 months and use it exclusively as a streamer. I upgraded the power supply along with the Spdif cable, and the sound is excellent.
My experience is largely consonant with yours. Out of curiosity, what SPDIF cable did you upgrade to, and how big of a difference do you think it made relative to what you were using before? That's the one aspect I didn't upgrade yet. Thank you in advance.
Same here, Wiim Pro with linear power supply, Audioquest Cinnamon digital coax, and I added Ifi iPurifier 2 re-clocking before arriving to my Schiit multibit DAC. The sound is outstanding.
@blue6point62 that iFi Purifier 2 does make a difference IMHO ... used on an expensive streamer l was not totally happy with the sound and did what it said.
@@Artemis_Prix I went with the Wireworld Starlight 8 ($105 U.S.) replacing a Belden. Didn’t want to spend crazy $ figuring diminishing returns, and feel it is well worth it. I’d think the Audioquest Cinnamon would be great also. Because of the improvement I purchased some Wireworld bulk Stream 8 speaker cable to replace the Canare I was using and I am very happy with that. I did change Ethernet cables, using Audioquest Cinnamon over Beldens and there was improvement, but less significant than the Spdif and speaker wires. Lastly, I was amazed when I built an inexpensive 12 gauge power cord and replaced the stock one on my Soekris DAC. It all added up sonically, and reasonably dollar wise. Hope that helps. Ken
Great review as always. Being a cable repudiator who does not too often listen to vinyl anymore I‘m very happy with the features of this product. As the phono-input is an ADC there is no need for RCA cable, all passes through the one USB or COAX cable that is connected my WISA transmitter. For me there is no need for airplay as I use Tidal connect to bypass any potentiel sound treatment of my phone.
Outstanding as always Tarun. As far as landmark products go I'd have to say it started with the Denon CD player I bought back in 1985. Then a Kenwood integrated that was Dolby 5.1 capable and had a remote in the early 1990's. The remote was a game changer for convenience. More recently it was the iFi ZenBlue followed by the WiiM Pro. The Pro was another game changer for my music and how I listened to it. The WiiM app is simply amazing. Thank you and keep up the great work. Cheers...
My landmark product is a Quad66/606/CD67 trio with a pair of Infinity RS4B speakers, notable for their early use of ribbon tweeters, still going strong after 30 years! More recently, the RME ADI-2 DAC is outstanding.
Great review of the WiiM Ultra. Wiim has been knocking it out of the park. I bought a WiiM Pro Plus shortly after it came out and have been very happy with its performance. I also have a Jolida tube DAC (Jolida is now Black Ice) that I have hooked up to a Mac mini for Apple Music and that works great as well. Love your reviews.
External mics such as the Dayton iMM-6 series are supported for room correction for both iOS and android, admittedly calibration files can’t yet be loaded.
Thank you. I was too much busy with all the possible EQ-settings without getting the high tones less sharp and voices more in front. I did sent it back and ordered the new Node. I use a Analogue audio with two Kef R3 meta.
I enjoyed this review. Thank you. I'm still using a Node 2i but won't upgrade for the time being because I tend to approach streaming as a sort of shop window. My landmark purchase is a Cyrus i9 complete with psu XR. Introducing this amp transformed my listening experience in every way, and it still blows me away every time I set aside time for serious listening.
Tarun, The turning point in my audio journey was getting the Lyngdorf TDAI-1120. Its versatility as an amp and streamer is truly great from my point of ears :) - sound, RoomPerfect integration, and ease of use are exactly what I was looking for.
The Wiim products are excellent, you get a lot for the money…I have compared the Wiim Pro to a lot of streamers costing in the $3000 range which I sent back keeping the Wiim Pro…I use it as a streamer into the Denafrips Venus…a solid product….using the savings for better speakers..
Hi Tarun my system consist of the exposure 2025 Primare NP 25 streamer denafrips Ares ii DAC and B&W 705 speakers. I am very happy with this combination. I listen to a lot of vocal,acoustic instruments, blues and some jazz, with a sprinkle of operatic soprano music. The amp was bought on the grounds of your review. Thanks again for your reviews.
Hey Tarun, great review as always. As landmark products go I’m going to call the original game changer in the entry level market, the NAD 3020. I bought my first in 1980 and I refurbish one from time to time and they still amaze me with how well they perform. I think you should keep one around as the benchmark for any amp below £1,000 today. If they can’t beat it then they might as well pack up and go home. I’ll send you one if you like.
Spot on! You're so right about the NAD 3020. I still have one in my office, and it just keeps playing with effortless power and good SQ. Maybe the best amp ever produced price wise!? It makes my B&W 805 matrix sound so good, and it never runs out of juice. Epic epic unit.
I use the WiiM Ultra as a hub in my system going to a Geshelli Labs J2S w/the stacked pair of Sparkos SS2590 Pro OAs and a Jays Audio LHY25 lps to a retubed Willsenton R8 to my JBL Paragon. I have found cables to make a huge difference and the Oyaide DR510 pure OCC silver coax from the WiiM gives surprisingly better detail than AQ carbon or others. AQ Water RCAs to the R8 are far better than anything to date I have tried. This combo and using the subwoofer output of the WiiM for sub bass has been a winner for me!
My landmark moment was sitting down in a hifi store in Bournemouth in the early 90s after I convinced the bank to loan me enough money to buy my first system. I went in with the intention of buying a Marantz and walked out with Arcam. I’ve been a sucker for the ‘British’ sound ever since and why I run my WiiM Pro Plus through an Arcam irDAC using Chord cables! Thanks for a great review.
Yep - my landmark product is the Arcam A38. With an upgraded power cable and decent interconnects it still sounds fabulous. Had to go back to Cambridge (city) to have new caps, but they did a proper service and it now fits brilliantly between my WiiM Ultra, Audiolab 8200CD (another landmark candidate!) and KEF floorstanders. “British” sound, indeed. 😊
I had always grown up with a decent system in the house. Dad had a Boston Acoustics set powered and sourced by Pioneer. Eventually, there was a Harmon Kardon AVR and a pair if of MTM towers. However, my first real big audio awakening was replacing the AT95e with a Goldring E3 cartridge and stylus. What a huge difference in resolving power and dynamic range. That was the start of a journey and a very transformative product for me.
Good to watch as usual Tarun. What were my landmark audio products on my audio journey? Mine is nowhere near as vast as many due to "accessibility" but the 3 upgrades that stood out were.... *B&W 601 S2 - For the punch and clarity they had over my previous Tannoy speakers. *Nad C370 amplifier - For the weight and bass it bought, especially at louder listening levels. Also the ability to play quality at low levels compared with my previous amp (Rotel RA-01). It was scary turning the volume knob it pushed speakers so hard I backed off because I knew the speakers wouldn't take it. It had/has the red light power on problem (I still have it in the hope it'll get fixed one day). *Naim Nait 5si amplifier - for the soundstage it opened up (over my previous rotel RA-05 amp which replaced the Nad C370). The clarity, soundstage and weight still excites me. # Now my turn to ask you... What is my system's weak point? If you had a budget of £3 - 4K what would you do? The current system is.. B&W 601 S2 Naim Nait 5si Marantz CD 6005 CD player.
So, TEAC midi and then AIWA 3 disc changer system got me onto the audio path, helped with dad's two floor stander Pioneers stacked on top of each other with Pioneer separates playing Lion kings Circle of Life intro - followed by car "sounds" - a couple of Orion NTense carbon 15's will get anyone there, with 1600WRMS in the 90's... now? I'm paying ridiculous money for gear. Ugh. Great channel, been here awhile. keep it up :)
Once again thank you for a clear and informative review. Would love to hear you review the Primare NP 5. It is quite small form factor. I might approach them to to post you such a unit !!!!
I paired mine with my recently acquired Technics sbc700 speakers (finally!) and the Fosi monoblocks. I'm in nirvana. Listening to Graceland, the clicky rim shots from the drums were beside my head. Very happy.
My latest landmark products are the Neat Acoustics Motive SX3 bookshelves and dual Totem Acoustics Kin Sub8s. Another reviewer of the Ultra mentioned that he found the Ultra's room correction to be useful (despite its flaws) in identifying his room's anomalies. He then used the Ultra's parametric EQ to adjust in those areas. I too think the Ultra's high/low pass subout to be a noteworthy feature.
Tarun the issue some have is the Clicking Chip is a tad wonky, but there is a cheap fix. SMSL has a unit for $70 that can be used as a reclocker...the 0100 Pro allows you to run your outputs thru it and my understanding is it makes this Super Value Product into a Really Super Unit.
The Ultra is what the market wants. HDMI, subwoofer out with bass management, EQ, room correction, trigger, a volume wheel. Add a Hypex power amplifier and you’re close to SOTA. Incredible that this type of product isn't produced by many others. Build quality could be an issue though and personally I gladly would have paid the double for a more premium build.
That's how I'm using it, then into my Weiss 205. I wish they would make a premium stand alone streamer for around $600-800, it would kill the other brands.
I'd imagine the impact of the device before the DDC in the chain is functionally non-existent. After all, that's the point of a DDC. You're better off investing in a better power supply for said DDC.
@@ChrisStoneinator Emphasis on 'imagine'. Real world use often tells a different story. IIRC on the WIIM forum it was mentioned particular care was made to ensure clean USB output. Every step matters.
Mine arriving this week. Was going to connect via HDMI to TV tk Apple TV 4K and then out to my Sony Walkman DAC and then 3.5 into Sonos 100. Does this sound feasible ? Or am I going about it all wrong ?
Quad ESL, Magnepan MG .5, Spica TC 50, ProAc Tablette. Quicksilver GLA, Carver 1.0. EAR 834P. AR ES1. Benchmark DAC 1. BTW, thanks for doing this review. I think we were all waiting for this one.
I paired the Wiim ultra with a 20 Watt A Class amplifier from AliExpress which cost less than $300 and I can't believe how good it sounds. Amazing sound quality and functionality at a price that's hard to beat
Good one, thank you. I'm a Bluesound Node (N130), bloke. I upgraded my Node with the LHY/vinshineaudio, using their LPS Bundle: LPS25VA. What a difference that made, top to bottom, and have not wanted to upgrade to anything since then. DACs help take away that slightly metallic sound of the (early) Node. I use a Topping E70 velvet (sub $500) and it works very well in my set. I'm waiting for something very much better before upgrading. Perhaps the new Node Icon? Anyway, I can only look forward to your review of the Bluesound Node Icon and comparisons when that eventually comes into your view.
I did the same power supply upgrade and echo your comments, what an improvement! I thought it was good before but even better now. I am using it ad a second system soon so waiting for the node icon with twin dacs. Over to you Tarun for the Node Icon review please.
Nice review . I purchased the Wiim mini when it was launched and used it as a stop gap dac / streamer / pre amp going into a power amp speaker combo costing more than £65k ( ch precision and Stenheim) and the little WiiM was no slouch and performed admirably . When my dCS dac finally arrived I used the WiiM as a streamer only into the dCS dac connected via optical and again it performed very well . I genuinely couldn’t always tell the difference but agree the soundstage depth and width were less and I think the WiiM a little brighter and lacking in texture / subtlety . The app is fantastic and I have retained the WiiM mini and use it as a streamer into a meridian f80 all in one that I purchased in 2008 . The meridian f80 is my landmark product .
Somewhere around 1990, I purchased, at a garage sale, a Dynakit pre and power combo. As a front end, a RadioShack portable CD player (remember those) and a Pioneer turntable. Used them with a couple different bookshelf speakers. Talk about soundstage depth and 3 dimensionality.
Do you think there is any difference between WiiM Pro and WiiM Ultra on the streaming only capability ? Meaning if both used with an external DAC will there be any sound differences
There shouldn't be any difference when running the same DAC over coax/toslink BUT the Ultra has the USB port to allow for asynchronous digital audio transfer to a DAC. This supposedly gives better performance.
I used to run a wiim pro plus with external dac (audiolab 8200cdq) ,bought the wiim ultra and it sounds obviously better than the pro plus in my system as a streamer into audiolab 8200cdq..Adding a quality ethernet switch with galvanic isolation and re clocking made another big improvement so I guess bit perfect output is not the only factor in sound quality. Hope this helps.
I have to tell you that I've had striking results with partnering equipment. Im running the Ultra fed by a premium power cord to a Spring KTE and 300Bs, and I am very impressed with it.
My 'landmark products' are the first I bought that gave me that feel of HiFi sound quality: a Sony TA-2650 amplifier, ST-2950F tuner, Akai GX-270D reel-to-reel tape deck and a pair of National Panasonic SB-39 speakers. The system still works, now serving as secondary system. At the time it was so good for its money that three other people bought the same (with turntables instead of a tape deck). With the tape deck now replaced by a laptop and landmark entry DAC, a Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100, the system still plays the former collection of carefully assembled mixtapes implemented as playlists on a set of FLAC files. Which brings me to the real landmark of my now two systems: the music collection, including the playlists. Whatever future equipment the systems will have, that's the one constant factor. Which also means that if the laptop and DAC are to be replaced with a streamer/DAC it must be able to hold the Flac files on a SSD or connected external drive. The Eversolo can do that, I'm not sure the WiiM Ultra can.
Yes it can. The WiiM has a USB-A port to play locally stored files. I have my entire CD collection on a 128GB USB drive the size of a thumbnail plugged in the back. The WiiM software reads this and organises it no problem. I haven't yet found something the WiiM can't do and plenty of things it can that no other box anywhere near the price can. It may not be the most Hi-Fi thing out there, but a well-chosen amp and speakers make up for that.
Another great review ! Your reviews greatly help those of us having limited access to products, Specially to get an idea of a comparative view. My purchase of the hegel h160 was actually based on your review and its been a great buy. I have my eye on a hegel h360 but unable to decide if I should go for the newer h190 since couldn't find any meaningful comparisons around. Would you be able to shed some light?
I’ve been looking at the marantz 70s ( ore even the 60n) to replace my old yamaha receiver , as i no longer have surround setup. My setup then is the marantz 6007 cd player, rotel rb980 power amp and Dali 710, so yes, some getting pritty old stuff here. I actually just discovered this product today as my music listening been dorment for a good while, and I think this just might be the product for me as i want to continue use of the poweramp anyway. Thank you for an exelent test.
I returned to the audio hobby a few years ago after a multi-decade hiatus. But I still had my old gear. So I have a WiiM mini feeding a Schitt Modi 3+, , the preamp is a Hafler 101, the amp is a Hafler 200 (built from the kit around 1980. I had it serviced by a local audio shop when I began my audiophile encore). Those feed KLH 5 speakers. The DAC on the Wiim Mini isn't it's strong point - the Schitt Modi helps a lot - and using the optical feed to the DAC makes a noticable difference. But to the main point here, the WiiM Mini on its own delivers an excellent signal - so I have to assume the company's later products are even better - especially for the price. A final note, I added iFi X power supplies for both the Wiim Mini and the DAC - which also made a very noticable improvement - especially for the WiiM Mini.
Thanks Tarun. It's worth mentioning the full bass management when using a sub. Perfect for any size of bookshelf speakers. This is a really fantastic feature. Sadly it doesn't seem to work with an external DAC.
I loved my Rotel RA-01, affordable but just so nice, naturally warm sounding.... Same for the Yamaha NS-555's. And lastly, the SVS SB-1000 for being such a musical sub, subtly (for a sub) adding to the music...
It definitely is a landmark product! I own only the WiiM Pro+ streamer, but I find it simply fantastic! Also I found RC in my room unbelievably good! Because of room limitations (big, lots of windows, no carpets and very little furniture) I fight with room modes in bass. Pro+ did a very good job in resolving these issues. Not perfect but much better than before! And - of course it is possible (and advisable) to fine tune the result afterwards manually! And one more thing: This was the best electronic product I ever bought in regards to ease of installation!!!
Thanks for the review. I have a Mini and a Pro Plus that I use in secondary systems and think their App and setup are great. Not sure if setup couldn't be any easier for the technology challenged.
Rather than "faux metallic finish", under the heading "Superior Build", the WiiM Ultra overview on the WiiMhome webpage, states "..with our sleek aluminum-encased device, featuring a 3.5" glass-covered touchscreen." It appears to be constructed on a molded plastic chassis sleeve encased in a precisely fitting cast(?) aluminium enclosure.
I replaced my WiiM mini with the Ultra a few months ago. I only use it as a transport, using an external NJC Audio Dac feeding an Exposure 2510, as I wanted an affordable streamer with a screen. I’m glad you didn’t use any of the review to criticise the size of the screen, unlike some reviewers, as for me it’s just perfect - if I wanted something to read the minute detail, I’d hook it up to a tv! Overall I’m very pleased with it. I’ve not used it with the internal DAc or as a standalone amp, but it does a very good job, and as you say, the app is really good. Great review 👏🏻
Tarun thanks! I use the Wiim mini into my Arcam CD S50 DAC as a transport only ! From all the reviews I don’t think any Wiim upgrade will make a significant difference if used as a transport only ! But would be interested to hear otherwise!
Tarun, do you do in room measurements with each of your speakers? What I've realised is that my room (and thus all rooms) affects the frequency response more than the speakers. I've swapped speakers multiple times and the same bass nulls and modes exist no matter which speaker I use. In theory you could try and spends thousands on room treatment but you may not achieve a meaningful change. On the other hand, REW can create eq settings that you can plug in to the WiiM. The difference it makes is so vast that I can only assume that most reviewers choose not to do it, or talk about it, because it doesn't sell. Either way, for those willing to take the time to measure with a mic and REW, those PEQ settings will change your life.
Great feedback!! May I ask how easy it is to transfer the REW adjustments into the Wiim's PEQ? Presumably then a retest would show a good result. Or perhaps repeating the exercise a few times...
@@IainMacUK the tricky part of the process is getting used to doing measurements and then creating the eq settings. But once you've gotten used to it, doing it again it's really easy. I took independent measurements of each speaker and created eq settings for each. I'm not sure if there's an easier way to do it but I just typed the settings in manually in to the WiiM via the app. I then measured again and it made a bug difference. It's not completely flat but a lot flatter. You can also quickly A/B in the app so you don't make things up in your head. It makes you realise that the slight tonal differences between equipment is nothing compared to the tonal differences that your room imparts on the sound. It's pretty horrific yet it doesn't get much air time.
@@c0mbat15 I see the value in measurements but it isn’t the focus on my channel. Measurements can identify certain problems in the room. Ultimately, I am a believer speaker and listening position is about 70% of getting it right 😊
One correction - room correction can be adjusted as this is only set of peq parameters. Can be fully further corrected :) Regarding comparison with eversolo - first of all difference in price allows to invest much more in external dac like ares, so effect in similar price is uncomparably better than eversolo alone. Especially when lfe port is used with proper cross and bass management - lack in eversolo. (unfortunately video didn't mentioned properly about this crucial functionality). In case of sub, and with external dac, and in case of arc source, eversolo alone can not compete. Also eversolo in comparison can not work as DDC, wiim can, which also can be crucial when external dac is in use. There is no Chromecast in eversolo, no analog in, And soft stability (especially tidal connect) is much better on wiim.
I think you mentioned just the MM support of the Phono stage? In fact it also supports the higher gain needed for MC cartridges, to be selected in the menu.
You're right, the WiiM Ultra does provide a gain setting for MC pickups as well. But the additional gain pretty much is exactly what you lose in THD+N. Also, WiiM do not specify the input resistance in the MC position, so all in all it's probably not the Ultra's most exciting feature. However, in MM mode it sounds pretty good and is a fine match e.g. for the Denon DL-110 high output MC.
@@naibafabdulkobor4301 thanks for adding that. I have no MC so I wouldn't know the quality of this stage, might not be spectacular. But in any case I just wanted to mention it's there...
A note about Airplay 2: I don't thing it's WiiM holding users ransom because of corporate shenanigans. It's supported on most of their other devices. It's likely a licensing backlog that didn't coincide well with the release date. I was told when I bought it that some units were already being shipped with it enabled and mine "might well already have it". I haven't checked as I don't use it but it's fair to assume it is coming in an update soon.
On that last point, I regret that the news isn't so positive. A specific authentication chip is needed to achieve MiFi certification needed for official Apple Airplay 2 support, but this was omitted from the WiiM Ultra design. Therefore, a separate SKU and hardware would be necessary to support AirPlay for the WiiM Ultra.
Tarun, great video and about time! I have the Ultra, and a Volumio Rivo with the Farad Super3 power supply... The Ultra... Use a twin lead USB cable, Pangea makes one, and power it with an LHY Battery Power Bank, out to a quality DAC, and the Ultra will be knocking at the door of streamers in that $1000 to $2000 range. And of course, diminishing returns... The Ultra can get one to at least 85%-90%, and that is high praise. ;-) Any reviews on the Fyne Audio F500SP speakers in the mix? I bought a pair and have found them to be quite the speaker. Would be nice to hear your opinion. Thanks!
The WiiM ultra is nowhere near a Rivo + Farad + an equivalent DAC. The only conclusion you can draw is that if it is to your ears, then you have spent a lot of money on the Rivo and Farad and not yielding a return on it.
@@jmtennapel You can get the Ultra darn close, with some tweaks, and that was my point. If on a budget, the Ultra is the way to go. And nothing wrong with my ears.
@@arneseth3814 No, there is no way as of yet to power the WiiM Ultra externally. I am sending power from a separate power supply to the twin lead Pangea USB cable. Look up this cable, it has a data lead and a power lead. the two leads are terminated into a USB B plug that goes into the external DAC.
I recently purchased a WiiM Amp (on reduced price) to replace an ancient Sony disc/cassette system for my kitchen system. Even using the old Sony speakers the sound is amazing when playing local FLACs from ripped CDs stored on cheap SSD, and Qobuz. The included equaliser does a good job of helping the speakers in bass and treble for this "music while you cook" system. Extremely happy with the purchase and if it last three years I will be delighted - there will be even better offerings from Wiim by then. BlueSound app may be better but not at many £100s more expensive and too large a form factor for my space.
Great video as always. I agree with pretty much everything you say, with exception of using Ultra as a transport, which for me I prefer to the Eversolo, when using the USB out anyway. The Ultra is a bit more dynamic sounding for me. Curious as to which digital output yo you were using to compare devices as transport only?
Great review. Your skepticism regarding Apple Airplay may right, But IMO it seems more likely to be Apple not wanting to either provide integration specs or certification. A good example - Blusound is still waiting for Apple Music support and is the only music service still missing, I could be wrong...
The WiiM is the product that I've wanted to exist since I sold my Naim Uniti Atom a couple of years ago. The Naim did everything so well and I couldn't find anything that was as good and could be controlled entirely from a smartphone. Even a flirtation with a Gato DIA-250S NPM left me cold in spite of its high-end cred, beautiful construction and huge power. It was just a pain to use and didn't sound as full and natural as the Naim. The WiiM connected to a Leak Stereo 230 and Elipson Heritage XLS7 is a very retro style system, but just about as modern in functionality as you can get. Using the WiiM's variable digital output and a trigger means music starts as soon as I press play on my phone without ever touching the amp.
No Kidding, I just bought a CD player on eBay with a TDA1541 DAC. If that is not landmark? :) I am thinking to pimp it with Sowter current transformers at the DAC output.
Intrigued by the room correction, had it on my Denon AVR-2808 - Audyssey MultEQ XT TBH I'm with happy with my Echo Link + Dot into (coax digital) a Marantz PM6006 but room correction with some changes to the your lounge is much better than electronic upgrades...It's usually poor setup/adjustment that kills budget HiFi...
I am running this through Genelec 8030 c's and I find the top end a wee bit on the harsh side and a bit bright especially when a singer reaches for a higher note. The Genelec's are lovely speakers but just overly analytical, which I guess is what they are designed to do. I will audition the Eversolo A8 with some Home active speakers. I am listening from 2.5 metres and really the Genelecs are be better at 2m but it's not possible in my smallish room.
How did you connect both the Wiim Ultra and the Eversolo to the Ares? Optical, USB? Wondering how there could be that much of a difference as a transport when using something like USB...? Thanks for any help here.
My Ultra sounds great in the treble and mid range, however I struggle with its bass quality when compared to my Naim streamer, it beats the Naim in the mid and highs in my opinion and when you consider its modest price one cant really complain.
As ever, reviews with clarity, informative and relevant. Good production also.
I just wanted to add, that you can alter the room corrections settings. You just have to save the new eq profile first, then you can alter and fine tune the final result.
It’s also possible to go into the room corrections settings and alter the frequency’s adjusted, the maxiumium gain and the Q factor before you run the corrections. It also lets you choose between harmon, Bk and flat target curves.
All the best!
@@aj8ky thx for the heads-up 😊
👍 thanks for all the amazing content!
I watch a lot of audio reviewers, and yours are always top notch, keep up the great work.
Thanks for reviewing something so affordable. The landmark product during my audio journey has to be the Cambridge Audio AXA35 amplifier, which I bought, thanks to your excellent review, a year ago. In spite of its power rating, it works like a beast, comfortably driving my not too sensitive Dali bookshelf speakers...
@@AlexanderG-mi7ip that is great. Thank you 😊👍
Tarun, you get straight to the point, speak clearly and give no fluffs… great job.
I get that audio reviewing is subjective, but there’s something about the way you present that makes me trust you. Somehow I know you speak truthfully. 👍🏻
BTW, I heard that popping you mentioned on the analog in and out on my Ultra; but I changed interconnects and it went away. If you can try it, please provide an update. Thanks.
@@drfubars thank you. Much appreciated. I tried 3 interconnects and the issue remained 😊
Its the british accent. We've been conditioned to trust it
@@Starch1b2c3d4a I hope that is not the only reason 🤣
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Another great review! Always appreciate your approach to reviews. If you had to make a choice, for a streamer under $1,000, regardless of screen, what would you say has the best overall sound quality?
@@johnd7268 currently the EverSolo DMP-A6 😊
Thanks for a good review. I have owned the Ultra for about 6 weeks now and love it. As for landmark audio kit, it is either the original Sony Walkman or the google chromecast audio, a streaming device for £30 with an optical output. I still have one in my kitchen going into my Marantz amp (using marantz dac) and I love it. Also able to create a multi room set up with the WiiM. And it’s 11 years old. 🎉
Google Chromecast Audio - agreed. I still use one in my bedroom system.
@@willlodge5386 thx for sharing 😊
Excellent review. Amazing what is achieved for such a low price. Really good for the consumer. Got me thinking. Thanks !
The WiiM room correction CAN BE adjusted. Every single parameter of it! After running room correction, go into EQ, and it'll be set to the room correction settings, then you can adjust frequency, gain, and q for every one of them. Then you can save it and give it a name, and this can be repeated for twenty saved presets.
Wow.
its impossible to do Room EQ , if it were possible Theaters would not waste so much money on construction , they would just use any room pop in Room EQ , available on PC for free , and there you go . But its not like that .
@@dedskin1interesting. But surely it must do something that we can acknowledge. I just ran the room correction on this unit. It cut the bass too much but the 9 other boosted or reduced frequencies gave more air and clarity to the mids and highs. Not sure if this "corrected" anything in the strictest sense but the sound is improved I ld say. Still experimenting tho..
@@diamondbracelette it can do something , exactly what you said , it EQed the sound , i do it as well , but i dont need no room EQ i do it manually with EQ.
It can be done on Headphones , simulated room , so reverse is possible . But sound of a room is too complex , and just impossible to make a wall not reflect the sound without physically changing something .
Don’t forget it also has
bass management!
I love how dust free that glass top is when you show off your amps. well done
@@mauort6870 thank you 😊
Great review, thank you! I bought a Wiim Ultra on a whim! It performs perfectly using an external dac via USB. I have to say it sounds fantastic, your 'Oustanding' accreditation is well deserved. It doesn't sound bad with RCA out, but works best for my system as a transport..
The case is aluminium not plastic, and i really like having the screen for close up operation, I especially like the VU meter, not that is makes it sound better. I watched a tear down on this unit and its loaded with good quality components. My BS Node is having a little restbite atm..
Pls keep up the fantastic reviews...👍
@@shaunroberts9285 thank you. I appreciate you sharing 😊
Hello there, I was wondering if you know if I also use this Wiim Ultra as a transport then will the Wiim's EQ/ crossover settings and bass management be retained/effective still? And, why are you using an external DAC and what model is it? Is it for increase in sound quality only or for other reasons? As for sound quality improvements can you describe specifics?
What DAC are you using ?
@@Chimpsfingers No dac yet I've been using my Yamaha RXA4A avr for it's fuctionality such as bass managment and PEQ. I was hoping the Icon, dispite it having an ESS would sound liquidy, smooth with vocals and so to be devoid of producing those horrible harsh "S" sounds/ siblance that my ears are very bothered by and therefore distracting from my beloved music. Looking for the closest to natural presentation possible with no brightness. I need PEQ and sub out for my active sub plus bass management like high and low pass crossover settings so I was left considering the Icon which falls within my limited budget you see. I already have a Yamaha RXA4A avr (ESS 9007 Saber in it), a power amp hooked up to front lr preouts, an active sub crossed at 40 hz, and LS50 Metas. I listen to music 99 % of time the rest movies always in 2.1 channel. From everything I've gathered I need a better source and dac. Maybe minidsp instead of avr handling the dsp/sub crossovers, etc but I don't know. Regarding the Node Icon, the reason it looks hopeful for my purposes, dispite the absence of those silky AKM chips you speak of, is it is the only unit that has all the functionality that I demand, that new Qrono virus, I mean technology implimented which promises smooth frequencies from addressing clock timing issues, etc, and finally reviews from owners claim how it sounds very natural, harsh siblance free so no harsh S sounds and basically all else I want sonically. Also, I've heard some reviewers explain that the dac chip is only half of the sound the other half is using great quality parts and implimentation. But, all that said, do you believe this Icon will still produce glare/ hardness in S sounds (which, as I said, bothers me more than anything else) and upper frequencies because it's using an ESS? Harsh and sharp vocals are what bothers me - all else can sound as detailed and bright as it is in real live music. For example cymbals naturally sound that way but because that's it's natural sound I like it. Any advice from you would be very appreciated as I really don't have a clue about specific equipment thats best to solve my problem on a modest budget. I am not technically knowledgable enough to know what to choose including what synergizes best, etc, which is why I have an avr. I don't have the thinking for it all, I just have ears that want to enjoy beautiful sounding music.
My landmark audio product are my speakers, assuming that you aren't restricting the conversation to electronics. They are Martin Logan SL3's. I had originally planned on getting smaller ML, though I don't remember the model. While I was demoing them again I asked it I could hear the SL3 just for giggles. There were no giggles. I was blown away. After I heard them there was no going back to the more "accessible" Martin Logans. I ended up doing a whole ML home theater setup with Scripts in the rear, a Cinema center, and eventually a Descent for sub. I've never regretted that decision at all.
Great review on the Wiim Ultra. I'm thinking about getting one eventually.
@@mkcraghead thank you. Great anecdote 👍
Great review. I run a Wiim pro into an Audiolab 7000a. Landmark for me was Apple airport express optical out into an external Dac. I think this really led the way regarding streaming
@@morgannickw great 👍 thank you 😊
My son gave me an AirPort Express v2 he wasn’t using. I connect this into the great little Ruark MR2s and the matching sub for my study to stream Apple Radio classical. I also use a stereo pair of Apple HomePod minis under my 2 27 in monitors. By swapping the Ruarks over (left and right) as they are behind me when working at my desk, and balancing the sound carefully between front and back, it feel like I’m sitting in the orchestra. As I play in an orchestra (first violin) it’s a fun thing for me to do.
For about £1000 it’s a good price/quality combo.
Thanks for the review. I have the Wiim Pro Plus and it works and has a lot of useful features. The DAC sound quality isn’t as good as more expensive units I have but at its price point it’s a great value.
I too have the Pro Plus and think it is an outstanding robust streamer, and agree it falls short with the internal DAC. I connected it to a Schiit Modius DAC and it was definitely an upgrade. I would say I have a budget audiophile system, and this combo is working well until I'm ready to upgrade my speakers and amp.
@@BobbyBass-x6i thx for sharing 😊
The Ultra has a different DAC, the ESS 9038, so hoping it ups the game
Thanks for a concise informative review. My 'landmark product' was a second hand Sugden A25 amp, purchased in the mid 90s. This unit was at the centre of my system for over fifteen years - until the push button switches eventually wore out... I still miss it.
@@threecakes thank you. I bet it was a very nice amp 😊
I purchased the WiiM Ultra last month and I have been satisfied. It's connect to my TV and integrated amp in the man cave. If it last 5 or so years it was well worth it.
@@adaboy4z Durability is my only major concern with the Ultra, but it performs great with all of the music that I've thrown at it so far.
Thank you, Tarun for another very professional review. I believe that Eversolo should have put an eARC input on the DMP-A6 / DMP-A6 Master Edition.
Thx. I agree. I suspect the mk2 version may have it 😊
Excellent review as always. I’ve had the Wiim Pro Plus for about 6 months and use it exclusively as a streamer. I upgraded the power supply along with the Spdif cable, and the sound is excellent.
@@kenr9447 thank you 😊
My experience is largely consonant with yours. Out of curiosity, what SPDIF cable did you upgrade to, and how big of a difference do you think it made relative to what you were using before? That's the one aspect I didn't upgrade yet. Thank you in advance.
Same here, Wiim Pro with linear power supply, Audioquest Cinnamon digital coax, and I added Ifi iPurifier 2 re-clocking before arriving to my Schiit multibit DAC. The sound is outstanding.
@blue6point62 that iFi Purifier 2 does make a difference IMHO ... used on an expensive streamer l was not totally happy with the sound and did what it said.
@@Artemis_Prix I went with the Wireworld Starlight 8 ($105 U.S.) replacing a Belden. Didn’t want to spend crazy $ figuring diminishing returns, and feel it is well worth it. I’d think the Audioquest Cinnamon would be great also. Because of the improvement I purchased some Wireworld bulk Stream 8 speaker cable to replace the Canare I was using and I am very happy with that. I did change Ethernet cables, using Audioquest Cinnamon over Beldens and there was improvement, but less significant than the Spdif and speaker wires. Lastly, I was amazed when I built an inexpensive 12 gauge power cord and replaced the stock one on my Soekris DAC. It all added up sonically, and reasonably dollar wise. Hope that helps. Ken
I greatly appreciate this review. I was interested in all the comparisons with arcam eversolo and bluesound. Excellent review 👍
@@824tonimarie thank you kindly 😊👍
Another informative and concise review.Good job Tarun
Thank you 👍
Tarun, brilliant review. I have mine!!! Next WiiM will come out with an amp included!!!!
@@jamesminotto8036 Thank you kindly. The WiiM is already out 😊👍
Great review as always. Being a cable repudiator who does not too often listen to vinyl anymore I‘m very happy with the features of this product. As the phono-input is an ADC there is no need for RCA cable, all passes through the one USB or COAX cable that is connected my WISA transmitter. For me there is no need for airplay as I use Tidal connect to bypass any potentiel sound treatment of my phone.
@@therealgoetz thx for sharing 😊
Outstanding as always Tarun. As far as landmark products go I'd have to say it started with the Denon CD player I bought back in 1985. Then a Kenwood integrated that was Dolby 5.1 capable and had a remote in the early 1990's. The remote was a game changer for convenience. More recently it was the iFi ZenBlue followed by the WiiM Pro. The Pro was another game changer for my music and how I listened to it. The WiiM app is simply amazing. Thank you and keep up the great work. Cheers...
Preach. Love the Wiiim pro.
My landmark product is a Quad66/606/CD67 trio with a pair of Infinity RS4B speakers, notable for their early use of ribbon tweeters, still going strong after 30 years! More recently, the RME ADI-2 DAC is outstanding.
@@martinpaling1989 thank you for sharing 😊
Great review of the WiiM Ultra. Wiim has been knocking it out of the park. I bought a WiiM Pro Plus shortly after it came out and have been very happy with its performance. I also have a Jolida tube DAC (Jolida is now Black Ice) that I have hooked up to a Mac mini for Apple Music and that works great as well. Love your reviews.
@@crimlarksSteve thank you 😊
External mics such as the Dayton iMM-6 series are supported for room correction for both iOS and android, admittedly calibration files can’t yet be loaded.
Thank you. I was too much busy with all the possible EQ-settings without getting the high tones less sharp and voices more in front. I did sent it back and ordered the new Node. I use a Analogue audio with two Kef R3 meta.
@@Maarten-i8e thx for sharing 😊
I enjoyed this review. Thank you. I'm still using a Node 2i but won't upgrade for the time being because I tend to approach streaming as a sort of shop window. My landmark purchase is a Cyrus i9 complete with psu XR. Introducing this amp transformed my listening experience in every way, and it still blows me away every time I set aside time for serious listening.
Tarun, The turning point in my audio journey was getting the Lyngdorf TDAI-1120. Its versatility as an amp and streamer is truly great from my point of ears :) - sound, RoomPerfect integration, and ease of use are exactly what I was looking for.
I know what you mean as I had one with me for a bit ... but then had to give it back 😢
Hi....will the 1120 drive a low sensitivity speaker like the JBL 530(85 db)?
The Wiim products are excellent, you get a lot for the money…I have compared the Wiim Pro to a lot of streamers costing in the $3000 range which I sent back keeping the Wiim Pro…I use it as a streamer into the Denafrips Venus…a solid product….using the savings for better speakers..
@@Charles12509 thx for sharing Charles 😊
Hi Tarun my system consist of the exposure 2025 Primare NP 25 streamer denafrips Ares ii DAC and B&W 705 speakers. I am very happy with this combination. I listen to a lot of vocal,acoustic instruments, blues and some jazz, with a sprinkle of operatic soprano music. The amp was bought on the grounds of your review.
Thanks again for your reviews.
@@louisbotes337 that is great 👍
Top review Tarun.
Thank you kindly 😊👍
Hey Tarun, great review as always. As landmark products go I’m going to call the original game changer in the entry level market, the NAD 3020. I bought my first in 1980 and I refurbish one from time to time and they still amaze me with how well they perform.
I think you should keep one around as the benchmark for any amp below £1,000 today. If they can’t beat it then they might as well pack up and go home. I’ll send you one if you like.
Spot on! You're so right about the NAD 3020.
I still have one in my office, and it just keeps
playing with effortless power and good SQ.
Maybe the best amp ever produced price wise!?
It makes my B&W 805 matrix sound so good,
and it never runs out of juice. Epic epic unit.
I use the WiiM Ultra as a hub in my system going to a Geshelli Labs J2S w/the stacked pair of Sparkos SS2590 Pro OAs and a Jays Audio LHY25 lps to a retubed Willsenton R8 to my JBL Paragon. I have found cables to make a huge difference and the Oyaide DR510 pure OCC silver coax from the WiiM gives surprisingly better detail than AQ carbon or others. AQ Water RCAs to the R8 are far better than anything to date I have tried. This combo and using the subwoofer output of the WiiM for sub bass has been a winner for me!
@@cherihorvath2047 nice setup 😊
My WiiM Pro sounds great especially after using a iFi iPower 2 supply - I use it via a separate DAC.
@@amok281 cool 😎
Unfortunately the Ultra has a built in power supply.
@@IainMacUKbut is a better quality SMPS than the Pro, probably something like the ifi power 2.
@@massimilianomilanese504
It won't have the noise cancellation. Definitely not as good
My landmark moment was sitting down in a hifi store in Bournemouth in the early 90s after I convinced the bank to loan me enough money to buy my first system. I went in with the intention of buying a Marantz and walked out with Arcam. I’ve been a sucker for the ‘British’ sound ever since and why I run my WiiM Pro Plus through an Arcam irDAC using Chord cables! Thanks for a great review.
Yep - my landmark product is the Arcam A38. With an upgraded power cable and decent interconnects it still sounds fabulous. Had to go back to Cambridge (city) to have new caps, but they did a proper service and it now fits brilliantly between my WiiM Ultra, Audiolab 8200CD (another landmark candidate!) and KEF floorstanders. “British” sound, indeed. 😊
You have just convinced me to try streaming Tarun. At the price it’s not much of a risk vs the outlay. Much appreciated 👊🏻🎵
I had always grown up with a decent system in the house.
Dad had a Boston Acoustics set powered and sourced by Pioneer. Eventually, there was a Harmon Kardon AVR and a pair if of MTM towers.
However, my first real big audio awakening was replacing the AT95e with a Goldring E3 cartridge and stylus. What a huge difference in resolving power and dynamic range.
That was the start of a journey and a very transformative product for me.
@@danielhomer1865 thx for sharing 😊
Good to watch as usual Tarun.
What were my landmark audio products on my audio journey?
Mine is nowhere near as vast as many due to "accessibility" but the 3 upgrades that stood out were....
*B&W 601 S2 - For the punch and clarity they had over my previous Tannoy speakers.
*Nad C370 amplifier - For the weight and bass it bought, especially at louder listening levels. Also the ability to play quality at low levels compared with my previous amp (Rotel RA-01). It was scary turning the volume knob it pushed speakers so hard I backed off because I knew the speakers wouldn't take it.
It had/has the red light power on problem (I still have it in the hope it'll get fixed one day).
*Naim Nait 5si amplifier - for the soundstage it opened up (over my previous rotel RA-05 amp which replaced the Nad C370). The clarity, soundstage and weight still excites me.
# Now my turn to ask you... What is my system's weak point?
If you had a budget of £3 - 4K what would you do?
The current system is..
B&W 601 S2
Naim Nait 5si
Marantz CD 6005 CD player.
@@kiddcapri1711 thank you. There are no obvious bottlenecks in the components you listed 😊
You’re simply the best ❤ thank you for this review
In addition I found fine detail improved notably on the WiiM Ultra using a Gustard N18 Pro Ethernet switch and use a Supra Cat8 cable.
@@cherihorvath2047 cool 😎
Bullshit
So, TEAC midi and then AIWA 3 disc changer system got me onto the audio path, helped with dad's two floor stander Pioneers stacked on top of each other with Pioneer separates playing Lion kings Circle of Life intro - followed by car "sounds" - a couple of Orion NTense carbon 15's will get anyone there, with 1600WRMS in the 90's... now? I'm paying ridiculous money for gear. Ugh. Great channel, been here awhile. keep it up :)
Once again thank you for a clear and informative review. Would love to hear you review the Primare NP 5. It is quite small form factor. I might approach them to to post you such a unit !!!!
@@louisbotes337 thx 😊
I enjoy your reviews.
@@50slump thx for watching 😊
Great review 😊
@@Ricky-cl5bu thank you 😊
I paired mine with my recently acquired Technics sbc700 speakers (finally!) and the Fosi monoblocks. I'm in nirvana. Listening to Graceland, the clicky rim shots from the drums were beside my head. Very happy.
My landmark item was the original KEF LS50. I was shocked and pleased at how good they were for such a low price.
@@richardramorino3319 thx for sharing 😊
My latest landmark products are the Neat Acoustics Motive SX3 bookshelves and dual Totem Acoustics Kin Sub8s.
Another reviewer of the Ultra mentioned that he found the Ultra's room correction to be useful (despite its flaws) in identifying his room's anomalies. He then used the Ultra's parametric EQ to adjust in those areas. I too think the Ultra's high/low pass subout to be a noteworthy feature.
@@geoffreydebrito7934 thx for sharing 😊
Best wiim ultra review todate. Tq.
Great review thanks
Tarun the issue some have is the Clicking Chip is a tad wonky, but there is a cheap fix. SMSL has a unit for $70 that can be used as a reclocker...the 0100 Pro allows you to run your outputs thru it and my understanding is it makes this Super Value Product into a Really Super Unit.
@@RedSinter thx for sharing 😊
Milestones have been solid state, compact discs, ogg vorbis, and streaming.
@@CosmicKnight1 cool 😊
Just a correction. The Wiim Ultra offers ARC not eARC as you state on a few occasions. Otherwise, excellent review :)
The Ultra is what the market wants. HDMI, subwoofer out with bass management, EQ, room correction, trigger, a volume wheel. Add a Hypex power amplifier and you’re close to SOTA.
Incredible that this type of product isn't produced by many others. Build quality could be an issue though and personally I gladly would have paid the double for a more premium build.
@@pewe7314 good points 😊
nice review; my landmark is still Chartwell ls3/5 powered by Sugden a21 signature...nearfield listening😊
@@edwinblokland9454 nice 😊
Sound quality using the USB out to a DDC like the Singxer SU-6 is outstanding.
Same here.. I am using the USB out to a Denafrips Iris 12th DDC output to I2S and Ultra will put out some impressive sound.
That's how I'm using it, then into my Weiss 205. I wish they would make a premium stand alone streamer for around $600-800, it would kill the other brands.
I'd imagine the impact of the device before the DDC in the chain is functionally non-existent. After all, that's the point of a DDC. You're better off investing in a better power supply for said DDC.
@@ChrisStoneinator Emphasis on 'imagine'. Real world use often tells a different story. IIRC on the WIIM forum it was mentioned particular care was made to ensure clean USB output. Every step matters.
Mine arriving this week. Was going to connect via HDMI to TV tk Apple TV 4K and then out to my Sony Walkman DAC and then 3.5 into Sonos 100.
Does this sound feasible ? Or am I going about it all wrong ?
Just ordered this with a Mojo 2 connecting to ARCAM 25 and MA silver 500 7gs as my first hifi system.
@@muratmustafa4532 cool 😊
Quad ESL, Magnepan MG .5, Spica TC 50, ProAc Tablette. Quicksilver GLA, Carver 1.0. EAR 834P. AR ES1. Benchmark DAC 1. BTW, thanks for doing this review. I think we were all waiting for this one.
I paired the Wiim ultra with a 20 Watt A Class amplifier from AliExpress which cost less than $300 and I can't believe how good it sounds. Amazing sound quality and functionality at a price that's hard to beat
@@eugenefudge3685 great 😊
Unsurprisingly, I jumped with joy at the high praise for the DALI-Exposure combo 😊
Good one, thank you.
I'm a Bluesound Node (N130), bloke. I upgraded my Node with the LHY/vinshineaudio, using their LPS Bundle: LPS25VA. What a difference that made, top to bottom, and have not wanted to upgrade to anything since then. DACs help take away that slightly metallic sound of the (early) Node. I use a Topping E70 velvet (sub $500) and it works very well in my set.
I'm waiting for something very much better before upgrading. Perhaps the new Node Icon?
Anyway, I can only look forward to your review of the Bluesound Node Icon and comparisons when that eventually comes into your view.
I did the same power supply upgrade and echo your comments, what an improvement! I thought it was good before but even better now. I am using it ad a second system soon so waiting for the node icon with twin dacs. Over to you Tarun for the Node Icon review please.
Nice review . I purchased the Wiim mini when it was launched and used it as a stop gap dac / streamer / pre amp going into a power amp speaker combo costing more than £65k ( ch precision and Stenheim) and the little WiiM was no slouch and performed admirably . When my dCS dac finally arrived I used the WiiM as a streamer only into the dCS dac connected via optical and again it performed very well . I genuinely couldn’t always tell the difference but agree the soundstage depth and width were less and I think the WiiM a little brighter and lacking in texture / subtlety . The app is fantastic and I have retained the WiiM mini and use it as a streamer into a meridian f80 all in one that I purchased in 2008 . The meridian f80 is my landmark product .
@@mrsinghsstereos6662 thank you. I appreciate you sharing 😊
Somewhere around 1990, I purchased, at a garage sale, a Dynakit pre and power combo. As a front end, a RadioShack portable CD player (remember those) and a Pioneer turntable. Used them with a couple different bookshelf speakers. Talk about soundstage depth and 3 dimensionality.
Do you think there is any difference between WiiM Pro and WiiM Ultra on the streaming only capability ? Meaning if both used with an external DAC will there be any sound differences
There shouldn't be any difference when running the same DAC over coax/toslink BUT the Ultra has the USB port to allow for asynchronous digital audio transfer to a DAC. This supposedly gives better performance.
Thank you for this info
I used to run a wiim pro plus with external dac (audiolab 8200cdq) ,bought the wiim ultra and it sounds obviously better than the pro plus in my system as a streamer into audiolab 8200cdq..Adding a quality ethernet switch with galvanic isolation and re clocking made another big improvement so I guess bit perfect output is not the only factor in sound quality. Hope this helps.
@@andrewholmes210 Thank you
I have to tell you that I've had striking results with partnering equipment. Im running the Ultra fed by a premium power cord to a Spring KTE and 300Bs, and I am very impressed with it.
My 'landmark products' are the first I bought that gave me that feel of HiFi sound quality: a Sony TA-2650 amplifier, ST-2950F tuner, Akai GX-270D reel-to-reel tape deck and a pair of National Panasonic SB-39 speakers. The system still works, now serving as secondary system. At the time it was so good for its money that three other people bought the same (with turntables instead of a tape deck).
With the tape deck now replaced by a laptop and landmark entry DAC, a Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100, the system still plays the former collection of carefully assembled mixtapes implemented as playlists on a set of FLAC files. Which brings me to the real landmark of my now two systems: the music collection, including the playlists. Whatever future equipment the systems will have, that's the one constant factor. Which also means that if the laptop and DAC are to be replaced with a streamer/DAC it must be able to hold the Flac files on a SSD or connected external drive. The Eversolo can do that, I'm not sure the WiiM Ultra can.
Yes it can. The WiiM has a USB-A port to play locally stored files. I have my entire CD collection on a 128GB USB drive the size of a thumbnail plugged in the back. The WiiM software reads this and organises it no problem. I haven't yet found something the WiiM can't do and plenty of things it can that no other box anywhere near the price can. It may not be the most Hi-Fi thing out there, but a well-chosen amp and speakers make up for that.
@@colanitower thx for sharing 😊
Another great review ! Your reviews greatly help those of us having limited access to products, Specially to get an idea of a comparative view. My purchase of the hegel h160 was actually based on your review and its been a great buy. I have my eye on a hegel h360 but unable to decide if I should go for the newer h190 since couldn't find any meaningful comparisons around. Would you be able to shed some light?
I’ve been looking at the marantz 70s ( ore even the 60n) to replace my old yamaha receiver , as i no longer have surround setup. My setup then is the marantz 6007 cd player, rotel rb980 power amp and Dali 710, so yes, some getting pritty old stuff here. I actually just discovered this product today as my music listening been dorment for a good while, and I think this just might be the product for me as i want to continue use of the poweramp anyway. Thank you for an exelent test.
@@maxsollie thank you 😊
loved the vid mt.
Thank you 👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 no probs sir.
Waiting for the Bluesound Icon later in the year
Sure the Icon is likely to be better but at nearly 3 times the price of the Ultra it should be.
Yep, a very nice review!
@@AdiMaco thank you 😊
I returned to the audio hobby a few years ago after a multi-decade hiatus. But I still had my old gear. So I have a WiiM mini feeding a Schitt Modi 3+, , the preamp is a Hafler 101, the amp is a Hafler 200 (built from the kit around 1980. I had it serviced by a local audio shop when I began my audiophile encore). Those feed KLH 5 speakers. The DAC on the Wiim Mini isn't it's strong point - the Schitt Modi helps a lot - and using the optical feed to the DAC makes a noticable difference. But to the main point here, the WiiM Mini on its own delivers an excellent signal - so I have to assume the company's later products are even better - especially for the price. A final note, I added iFi X power supplies for both the Wiim Mini and the DAC - which also made a very noticable improvement - especially for the WiiM Mini.
i love this mans sence of humor
@@bill5067 thank you 😉👍
I just hope people understand it
Would have been nice if they also provided an internal storage. Good review 👍
Thanks Tarun.
It's worth mentioning the full bass management when using a sub.
Perfect for any size of bookshelf speakers.
This is a really fantastic feature.
Sadly it doesn't seem to work with an external DAC.
@@IainMacUK thx for sharing 😊
I loved my Rotel RA-01, affordable but just so nice, naturally warm sounding.... Same for the Yamaha NS-555's. And lastly, the SVS SB-1000 for being such a musical sub, subtly (for a sub) adding to the music...
@@julianvanderkraats408 thx for sharing 😊
It definitely is a landmark product! I own only the WiiM Pro+ streamer, but I find it simply fantastic! Also I found RC in my room unbelievably good! Because of room limitations (big, lots of windows, no carpets and very little furniture) I fight with room modes in bass. Pro+ did a very good job in resolving these issues. Not perfect but much better than before! And - of course it is possible (and advisable) to fine tune the result afterwards manually!
And one more thing: This was the best electronic product I ever bought in regards to ease of installation!!!
@@MCG5555 thx for sharing your experiences 😊
Looking at getting this during black friday here in the states to connect to a turntable and KLIPSCH The Seven's
@@chrisbullock6477 cool 😎
Nice after i Bluesound N130 i went to sonore ultra rendu V1.2 and a roon server that really made things eazy with it’s parametric eq
@@urbantone thx 😊
Thanks for the review. I have a Mini and a Pro Plus that I use in secondary systems and think their App and setup are great. Not sure if setup couldn't be any easier for the technology challenged.
Rather than "faux metallic finish", under the heading "Superior Build", the WiiM Ultra overview on the WiiMhome webpage, states "..with our sleek aluminum-encased device, featuring a 3.5" glass-covered touchscreen." It appears to be constructed on a molded plastic chassis sleeve encased in a precisely fitting cast(?) aluminium enclosure.
@@SeeTeeShock thx 😊
I replaced my WiiM mini with the Ultra a few months ago. I only use it as a transport, using an external NJC Audio Dac feeding an Exposure 2510, as I wanted an affordable streamer with a screen. I’m glad you didn’t use any of the review to criticise the size of the screen, unlike some reviewers, as for me it’s just perfect - if I wanted something to read the minute detail, I’d hook it up to a tv! Overall I’m very pleased with it. I’ve not used it with the internal DAc or as a standalone amp, but it does a very good job, and as you say, the app is really good. Great review 👏🏻
@@neilingram3973 thank you 😊
Tarun thanks! I use the Wiim mini into my Arcam CD S50 DAC as a transport only ! From all the reviews I don’t think any Wiim upgrade will make a significant difference if used as a transport only ! But would be interested to hear otherwise!
Tarun, do you do in room measurements with each of your speakers? What I've realised is that my room (and thus all rooms) affects the frequency response more than the speakers. I've swapped speakers multiple times and the same bass nulls and modes exist no matter which speaker I use. In theory you could try and spends thousands on room treatment but you may not achieve a meaningful change. On the other hand, REW can create eq settings that you can plug in to the WiiM. The difference it makes is so vast that I can only assume that most reviewers choose not to do it, or talk about it, because it doesn't sell. Either way, for those willing to take the time to measure with a mic and REW, those PEQ settings will change your life.
Great feedback!!
May I ask how easy it is to transfer the REW adjustments into the Wiim's PEQ?
Presumably then a retest would show a good result.
Or perhaps repeating the exercise a few times...
@@IainMacUK the tricky part of the process is getting used to doing measurements and then creating the eq settings. But once you've gotten used to it, doing it again it's really easy. I took independent measurements of each speaker and created eq settings for each. I'm not sure if there's an easier way to do it but I just typed the settings in manually in to the WiiM via the app. I then measured again and it made a bug difference. It's not completely flat but a lot flatter. You can also quickly A/B in the app so you don't make things up in your head.
It makes you realise that the slight tonal differences between equipment is nothing compared to the tonal differences that your room imparts on the sound. It's pretty horrific yet it doesn't get much air time.
@@c0mbat15 I see the value in measurements but it isn’t the focus on my channel. Measurements can identify certain problems in the room. Ultimately, I am a believer speaker and listening position is about 70% of getting it right 😊
One correction - room correction can be adjusted as this is only set of peq parameters. Can be fully further corrected :)
Regarding comparison with eversolo - first of all difference in price allows to invest much more in external dac like ares, so effect in similar price is uncomparably better than eversolo alone. Especially when lfe port is used with proper cross and bass management - lack in eversolo. (unfortunately video didn't mentioned properly about this crucial functionality). In case of sub, and with external dac, and in case of arc source, eversolo alone can not compete.
Also eversolo in comparison can not work as DDC, wiim can, which also can be crucial when external dac is in use. There is no Chromecast in eversolo, no analog in, And soft stability (especially tidal connect) is much better on wiim.
Correct! I love it!
I think you mentioned just the MM support of the Phono stage? In fact it also supports the higher gain needed for MC cartridges, to be selected in the menu.
You're right, the WiiM Ultra does provide a gain setting for MC pickups as well. But the additional gain pretty much is exactly what you lose in THD+N. Also, WiiM do not specify the input resistance in the MC position, so all in all it's probably not the Ultra's most exciting feature. However, in MM mode it sounds pretty good and is a fine match e.g. for the Denon DL-110 high output MC.
@@ewoutbuhler5217 thx for sharing 😊
@@naibafabdulkobor4301 thanks for adding that. I have no MC so I wouldn't know the quality of this stage, might not be spectacular. But in any case I just wanted to mention it's there...
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks for acknowledging!
@@ewoutbuhler5217 And I did give a like for your comment. 😃
🤗THX TARUN it’s the best time to be an audiophile 💚💚💚
@@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461 thx 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314Apple + Masimo then they will have their own hardware and ASIC chips in the DAC 🤔
THX just a marketing gag...
A note about Airplay 2: I don't thing it's WiiM holding users ransom because of corporate shenanigans. It's supported on most of their other devices. It's likely a licensing backlog that didn't coincide well with the release date. I was told when I bought it that some units were already being shipped with it enabled and mine "might well already have it". I haven't checked as I don't use it but it's fair to assume it is coming in an update soon.
@@chrisburn7178 thx for sharing 😊
On that last point, I regret that the news isn't so positive. A specific authentication chip is needed to achieve MiFi certification needed for official Apple Airplay 2 support, but this was omitted from the WiiM Ultra design. Therefore, a separate SKU and hardware would be necessary to support AirPlay for the WiiM Ultra.
@@gracenotes5379
Very true.
No firmware update will change this.
Plug in a Wiim Pro for Apple Support.
An amazing little box of tricks.
@@martinburn I agree 😉
Tarun, great video and about time! I have the Ultra, and a Volumio Rivo with the Farad Super3 power supply... The Ultra... Use a twin lead USB cable, Pangea makes one, and power it with an LHY Battery Power Bank, out to a quality DAC, and the Ultra will be knocking at the door of streamers in that $1000 to $2000 range. And of course, diminishing returns... The Ultra can get one to at least 85%-90%, and that is high praise. ;-)
Any reviews on the Fyne Audio F500SP speakers in the mix? I bought a pair and have found them to be quite the speaker. Would be nice to hear your opinion. Thanks!
Hello, what the LHY battery power bank is for? And where I can purchase one?
The WiiM ultra is nowhere near a Rivo + Farad + an equivalent DAC. The only conclusion you can draw is that if it is to your ears, then you have spent a lot of money on the Rivo and Farad and not yielding a return on it.
@@jmtennapel You can get the Ultra darn close, with some tweaks, and that was my point. If on a budget, the Ultra is the way to go. And nothing wrong with my ears.
So you can power the Wiim Ultra via the USB input/ouput socket bypassing the internal switching mode power supply?
@@arneseth3814 No, there is no way as of yet to power the WiiM Ultra externally. I am sending power from a separate power supply to the twin lead Pangea USB cable. Look up this cable, it has a data lead and a power lead. the two leads are terminated into a USB B plug that goes into the external DAC.
I recently purchased a WiiM Amp (on reduced price) to replace an ancient Sony disc/cassette system for my kitchen system. Even using the old Sony speakers the sound is amazing when playing local FLACs from ripped CDs stored on cheap SSD, and Qobuz. The included equaliser does a good job of helping the speakers in bass and treble for this "music while you cook" system. Extremely happy with the purchase and if it last three years I will be delighted - there will be even better offerings from Wiim by then. BlueSound app may be better but not at many £100s more expensive and too large a form factor for my space.
Great video as always. I agree with pretty much everything you say, with exception of using Ultra as a transport, which for me I prefer to the Eversolo, when using the USB out anyway. The Ultra is a bit more dynamic sounding for me.
Curious as to which digital output yo you were using to compare devices as transport only?
Great review. Your skepticism regarding Apple Airplay may right, But IMO it seems more likely to be Apple not wanting to either provide integration specs or certification. A good example - Blusound is still waiting for Apple Music support and is the only music service still missing, I could be wrong...
@@michaelknibbs thx 😊
The WiiM is the product that I've wanted to exist since I sold my Naim Uniti Atom a couple of years ago. The Naim did everything so well and I couldn't find anything that was as good and could be controlled entirely from a smartphone. Even a flirtation with a Gato DIA-250S NPM left me cold in spite of its high-end cred, beautiful construction and huge power. It was just a pain to use and didn't sound as full and natural as the Naim. The WiiM connected to a Leak Stereo 230 and Elipson Heritage XLS7 is a very retro style system, but just about as modern in functionality as you can get. Using the WiiM's variable digital output and a trigger means music starts as soon as I press play on my phone without ever touching the amp.
No Kidding, I just bought a CD player on eBay with a TDA1541 DAC. If that is not landmark? :)
I am thinking to pimp it with Sowter current transformers at the DAC output.
@@hugobloemers4425 I certainly was a landmark chip 😊
Intrigued by the room correction, had it on my Denon AVR-2808 - Audyssey MultEQ XT TBH I'm with happy with my Echo Link + Dot into (coax digital) a Marantz PM6006 but room correction with some changes to the your lounge is much better than electronic upgrades...It's usually poor setup/adjustment that kills budget HiFi...
@@daysofgrace2934 thx for sharing 😊
Jitter of the DAC in the case of proper implemented USB. And for noise same story see galvanic isolation...
I am running this through Genelec 8030 c's and I find the top end a wee bit on the harsh side and a bit bright especially when a singer reaches for a higher note. The Genelec's are lovely speakers but just overly analytical, which I guess is what they are designed to do. I will audition the Eversolo A8 with some Home active speakers. I am listening from 2.5 metres and really the Genelecs are be better at 2m but it's not possible in my smallish room.
@@johnhanratty3007 thx for sharing 😊
Beginning to realise this is maybe more about my room being bright. Shall look at acoustic solutions and better speaker placement!
How did you connect both the Wiim Ultra and the Eversolo to the Ares? Optical, USB? Wondering how there could be that much of a difference as a transport when using something like USB...? Thanks for any help here.
Quite strange the omission of AirPlay support in this unit, since it IS supported in the WiiM Pro Plus.
@@scottnewellguitar Agee’s 🤔
Another suggestion for a review, if I may be so bold; the Musical Fidelity MX Stream.
@@OgamJan thx 😊
My Ultra sounds great in the treble and mid range, however I struggle with its bass quality when compared to my Naim streamer, it beats the Naim in the mid and highs in my opinion and when you consider its modest price one cant really complain.
@@tonyhodgkinson4586 thx for sharing your experiences 😊