The Wiim Amp Ultra endeavors to resolve this concern, appealing to those seeking a bit more than just dependable functionality at an attractive cost. In this aspect, it swiftly proved its worth, delivering perceptibly clearer, more expansive stereo audio than the Amp Pro which has resided at the core of my living space for the past few months. The sound isn’t flawless, and it omits certain functionalities I’d anticipate at this valuation (such as AirPlay and a dedicated record player input), yet it effortlessly captured my esteem regardless. The Wiim Amp Ultra showcased an admirable blend of capability, aesthetics, and craftsmanship throughout multiple weeks positioned on my television stand. Related: ACC Football: Who’s…
Expeditious Setup
Initiating operation with the Amp Ultras is remarkably straightforward. Unboxing reveals two containers of wires, a substantial rechargeable voice-activated remote, and a cool aluminum block featuring an opaque glass face. It projects the image of a souped-up Mac Mini. Individuals unfamiliar with amplifiers will need to procure speaker cabling, but otherwise, Wiim supplies all required accessories, including four banana plugs (push-on cable terminals) for effortless attachment. Related: Koepka’s Consistenc…
Picture: Ryan Waniata
After connecting my television via HDMI ARC and attaching my speakers, I supplied power to unveil a QR code on the 3.5-inch colored display (this unit boasts a colored display!) for the Wiim Home application, which then manages the network configuration. Initially, the app couldn’t locate my device, but following a tap on the volume dial, the Amp Ultra promptly appeared. After a five-minute update, I was prepared to proceed.
The advantage of the Wiim ecosystem—akin to Sonos—is the multitude of playback options. From intelligent services to multi-room sound, a wealth of customization can be performed within the application to tailor your domestic auditory experience.
Feature-Rich Device
Wiim manufactures numerous items, including the visually similar Wiim Ultra, which does not provide amplification but rather functions as an auxiliary streamer to modernize older amplifiers. The Amp Ultra consolidates everything within a single 7.87 x 8.3 x 3-inch enclosure.
Housed within is a compact Class-D amplifier capable of up to 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms (200 watts at 4 ohms), a power output sufficient for practically any speakers you possess, unless you’re transporting something exceptionally specialized. Digital audio conversion is managed by an ESS ES9039Q2M SABRE DAC chip—the component that translates your digital audio into analog sound waves—supporting high-resolution sound up to 24-bit/192-kHz, which surpasses CD quality. At the rear, a concise array of physical inputs is present, including the aforementioned HDMI ARC TV port, digital optical, RCA analog line-in, a USB port for flash drives, Ethernet connectivity, and a subwoofer output.
Wireless connectivity commences with Wi-Fi 6 and encompasses compatibility for Google Cast, Alexa cast, and an array of streaming platforms, ranging from familiar names like Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect, to network applications such as Plex and obscure services you’ve likely never encountered, like SoundMachine. Spotify Connect is enabled by default, while others require activation to “diminish network load,” according to the manufacturer. AirPlay 2 and Apple Music are notably absent, which will be a significant omission for some listeners. You can access it via Bluetooth 5.3, but candidly, if Apple Music serves as your primary listening center, I would opt for an alternative choice, including the conventional Wiim Amp.
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