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The WiiM Ultra is a versatile music streamer and digital preamp that brings high-fidelity audio to a broader audience without the premium price tag. Combining modern design with a wealth of features, it offers a compelling solution for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
Product Overview
The WiiM Ultra is a compact and stylish device that serves as a bridge between traditional audio equipment and modern streaming services. With its sleek aluminum housing and a 3.5-inch touchscreen, it not only looks good but also provides intuitive control. Priced at approximately $329, it positions itself as an affordable option in the high-fidelity audio market. www.av.comFuture Audiophile Magazine
Key Specifications:
- Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M, supporting high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/384kHz. Future Audiophile Magazine+2Wiim Blog+2
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, HDMI ARC, USB, Optical, Coaxial, RCA, and Phono inputs. wiimhome.com+2Future Audiophile Magazine+2
- Outputs: USB, Optical, Coaxial, RCA, Subwoofer out, and 3.5mm headphone jack. wiimhome.com+1
- Room Correction: Built-in room correction via the WiiM Home app. Crutchfield+3Future Audiophile Magazine+3WIRED+3
- Display: 3.5-inch touchscreen for album art and playback controls. Crutchfield
Key Features
1. Comprehensive Connectivity
The WiiM Ultra offers an impressive array of connectivity options, including HDMI ARC for TV integration, a phono input for turntables, and multiple digital and analog outputs. This versatility ensures compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment. Amazon+5WIRED+5theafterword.co.uk+5
2. High-Resolution Audio Support
Equipped with the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC, the WiiM Ultra supports high-resolution audio formats up to 32-bit/384kHz, delivering clear and detailed sound reproduction. Future Audiophile Magazine+2Wiim Blog+2
3. User-Friendly Interface
The 3.5-inch touchscreen provides easy access to album art, playback controls, and settings. Additionally, the WiiM Home app offers remote control capabilities, including room correction and equalizer settings. Future Audiophile Magazine+2Crutchfield+2WIRED+2Future Audiophile Magazine+2
4. Built-In Room Correction
The WiiM Ultra includes room correction features that analyze your listening environment and adjust the audio output for optimal sound quality. This ensures a more accurate and immersive listening experience. Wiim Blog
Pros
- Affordable Pricing: Offers high-fidelity audio features at a competitive price point.
- Extensive Connectivity: Supports a wide range of audio equipment and streaming services. WIRED
- High-Resolution Audio Support: Delivers detailed and accurate sound reproduction. Amazon+6Wiim Blog+6Tom’s Guide+6
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive controls via touchscreen and mobile app.
- Built-In Room Correction: Enhances audio performance based on your environment.
Cons
- No Apple AirPlay Support: Lacks compatibility with Apple AirPlay, limiting integration with Apple devices. Future Audiophile Magazine
- Limited Preamp Functionality: While it offers preamp capabilities, it may not match the performance of dedicated preamps.
- No XLR Outputs: Absence of balanced XLR outputs may be a drawback for certain audio setups. Future Audiophile Magazine
Final Verdict
The WiiM Ultra stands out as a feature-rich and affordable solution for those looking to enhance their audio systems with modern streaming capabilities. Its comprehensive connectivity, high-resolution audio support, and user-friendly interface make it a compelling choice for both audiophiles and casual listeners. While it may lack certain features found in higher-end models, its performance and value proposition are commendable.Tom’s Guide
