Earlier this year, we reviewed theWiiM Pro, a small box that adds Wi-Fi streaming and whole-home audio capabilities to any old stereo system. We were extremely happy with the WiiM Pro’s performance, but we had just a few small complaints—WiiM Pro lacked some important features for audiophiles, and the remote control wassold separately. Now, Linkplay Technology is addressing these complaints with itsWiiM Pro Plusaudio box.
The WiiM Pro Plus is functionally identical to the WiiM Pro. Both units add wireless streaming protocols like Chromecast Audio, AirPlay 2, Alexa Cast, Spotify Connect, and DLNA to any stereo receiver. They can also take audio from up to two analog sources (turntables, tape players, etc) and convert it into a high-res digital format, which may be streamed to headphones and speakers over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Notably, if you own multiple WiiM boxes, you’re able to link them together wirelessly for whole-home audio. (Yes, you can also use this box to manage a TV’s audio or upgrade an AVR.)
Linkplay Technology’s new WiiM Pro Plus simply adds a remote control and some audiophile-focused quality improvements. The standout upgrade, at least for some users, is 192kHz/32-bit digital output for analog audio sources (up from 192kHz/24-bit in the WiiM Pro). The addition of DSD decoding also ensures that the WiiM Pro Plus can play archive-quality DSD files (which are much rarer than PCM, but somewhat common in the jazz and classical scene). These functions are achieved through the use of an AKM 4493SEQ DAC and TI Burr-Brown Audio PCM1861 ADC.
Notably, the WiiM Pro Plus' remote control has an integrated microphone for Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant voice commands. you’re able to use your voice to adjust the playback volume, switch between analog sources, and request a song or playlist from your favorite streaming service. These functions can also be controlled through an app, and naturally, some basic playback controls are featured on the front of the WiiM Pro Plus box.
Like the cheaper WiiM Pro, the upgraded WiiM Pro Plus is powered by a USB-C cable. It connects to wired playback equipment (speakers, amplifiers, a soundbar, etc) over RCA, optical, or coaxial cable. You also have RCA and optical line inputs for up to two external audio sources (turntables, tape players, etc). If you want to pair WiiM Pro Plus with more than two analog audio sources, I suggest using aswitch boxor a small audio receiver to expand your input selection (some CD players can also fulfill this task). Note that if your turntable lacks an integratedphono preamp, you’ll need to buy one to use it with WiiM Pro Plus.
You canpurchase the WiiM Pro Plustoday for $220. It ain’t cheap, but it’s a lot less expensive than an audio receiver with the same capabilities. If you don’t care about the WiiM Pro Plus' extra features, I suggest that you buy the cheaperWiiM Probox and avoice remote, which will only run you $170 in total.
