Marcus Carlsen
Linkplay Technology, known for its WiiM series of network audio players, introduces its first integrated amplifier, the WiiM Amp. As expected, the new product is equipped with network functionality – to get a complete stereo system, just add a couple of speakers to the WiiM Amp amplifier. All control is concentrated in the proprietary WiiM Home application, and streaming can be controlled both from WiiM Home and from native applications of streaming services. The new product also includes voice control.
According to the manufacturer, the WiiM Amp is suitable for those who want to breathe new life into their vintage acoustics, or for those who prefer to use classic passive acoustics with their favorite streaming platforms. WiiM Amp is equipped with an amplifier made on TPA3255 assemblies from Texas Instruments and operating in class D. The amplifier develops up to 60 W for each of two channels when operating with a load with a nominal impedance of 8 Ohms and 120 W for a load of 4 Ohms.
The WiiM Amp amplifier’s DAC is implemented on an audiophile Saber ES9018 chip from ESS Technology. Using the patented 32-bit HyperStream DAC architecture, low distortion and wide dynamic range are achieved. This chip exhibits a signal-to-noise ratio of 135 dB and a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of -120 dB at sampling rates from 44.1 to 192 kHz.
The WiiM Amp is equipped with a parametric equalizer to optimize sound according to individual user preferences, connected speakers and room acoustics and offers 24 preset equalizer profiles, a 10-band graphic equalizer, configurable separately for each source (line-in, BT or computer network) , as well as a 4-band parametric equalizer that allows for more precise adjustments.
The switching arsenal of the WiiM Amp amplifier includes a linear analog input on RCA connectors, a digital optical input and an HDMI ARC port. In addition to two pairs of screw acoustic terminals for connecting speakers, there is an output for an active subwoofer. The WiiM Amp supports Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Alexa Music Cast, Deezer, Qobuz, Pandora, DLNA, Spotify Connect, as well as TIDAL HiFi and HiFi+. It can work with voice assistants Siri, Alexa and Google. The manufacturer promises that WiiM Amp will soon receive Roon Ready certification. The WiiM Amp network integrated amplifier is available in silver and space gray.
WiiM Amp Specifications
Inputs:
– 1 x Stereo RCA
– 1 x Optical
– 1 x HDMI ARC (listed twice, possibly a mistake)
– 1 x USB-A
– 1 x Ethernet RJ45
Outputs:
– Speaker Jacks
– 1 x Subwoofer Output
Connectivity:
– Wi-Fi
– Bluetooth
Output Power:
– 2×60 W at 8 Ohm
– 2×100 W at 4 Ohm
Supported Network Protocols:
– AirPlay 2
– DLNA
– Chromecast
Compatible Voice Assistants:
– Amazon Alexa
– Google Assistant
– Siri
Dimensions:
– 190*60*190 mm
