Budget Streaming Amp: Core of Affordable Hi-Fi Systems

The quest for high-fidelity sound without breaking the bank just got a major upgrade. For years, affordable streaming amplifiers felt like a compromise – either lacking features or musical sophistication. That changed dramatically with the arrival of the WiiM Amp Pro. Priced at a remarkably accessible £399/$379/AU$699, this compact powerhouse has dethroned pricier competitors to become our top budget streaming amplifier recommendation, proving exceptional sound and smart features needn’t cost a fortune.

WiiM Amp Pro: Redefining Budget Hi-Fi Performance

Landing in our test rooms with significant buzz, the WiiM Amp Pro delivers a performance that belies its modest price tag. While it secured a strong four-star rating in our rigorous testing (just shy of five stars due to minor omissions we’ll address), its sonic character is impressively refined. Expect a clean, open, and smooth presentation that avoids harshness or fatigue. Tracks flow with an engaging energy that keeps you listening – whether you’re streaming intricate jazz or bass-heavy electronica. As noted in our hands-on evaluation, the Amp Pro exhibits a “starker and more efficient presentation” that pairs beautifully with warm-toned speakers like the Wharfedale Diamond 12.1. Combined, this duo creates a captivating hi-fi system for under £650/$800/AU$1400. Rhythmically, it’s agile though not the absolute tightest on the market, a slight restraint noticeable with complex, fast-paced music. Yet, its overall musicality and lack of distortion at reasonable volumes make it a joy for daily listening.

Unmatched Features and Connectivity for the Price

Where the WiiM Amp Pro truly shines is in its astonishingly comprehensive feature set for a sub-£400/$400 component. Built on WiiM’s acclaimed and user-friendly platform, it supports a vast array of streaming services and protocols:

• Extensive Streaming: Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, Chromecast built-in, internet radio, and DLNA playback. Managing multiple sources is seamless via the intuitive WiiM Home app.
• Physical Inputs: HDMI ARC (for easy TV connection), optical input, analog RCA inputs, and a USB-A port for local file playback from drives.
• Outputs & Tech: Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless headphone streaming (though note: no dedicated headphone jack), subwoofer output, and 64-bit/384kHz PCM & DSD256 support.
• Power: 60W per channel (into 8Ω) provides ample power for most bookshelf and standmount speakers.

Key omissions preventing a perfect score include the lack of AirPlay 2 support (a drawback for Apple ecosystem users) and the absence of a built-in phono stage, requiring an external one for turntable connection. However, for pure streamers or those with digital sources, its connectivity is exceptional value. As highlighted in testing, “Its user-friendly interface is a big reason why we’re fond of WiiM’s streaming products.” [External Link: Learn more about hi-res streaming services comparison on What Hi-Fi?]

Who Should Buy the WiiM Amp Pro (And Who Might Look Elsewhere)

The WiiM Amp Pro is the ideal centerpiece for anyone building their first serious hi-fi system focused on streaming or seeking a major upgrade from basic Bluetooth speakers or soundbars. It’s perfect for:

• Spotify, Tidal, or Qobuz subscribers wanting high-quality playback.
• Listeners integrating TV audio via HDMI ARC.
• Budget-conscious audiophiles seeking maximum features and performance per pound/dollar.

It’s less ideal for:

• Dedicated vinyl enthusiasts needing a phono input (require an extra purchase).
• Apple-centric users reliant on AirPlay 2.
• Those needing headphone listening via a wired connection.

Compared to the previous budget champion, the £899/$999 Technics SA-C600, the WiiM offers similar core functionality at less than half the price, making it a seismic shift in accessibility. While premium options like the Naim Uniti Atom deliver ultimate refinement and features, they command prices several times higher. The WiiM Amp Pro stands alone as the best-performing, truly budget streaming amplifier available today, setting a new benchmark.

Must Know

What streaming services work with the WiiM Amp Pro?
The WiiM Amp Pro supports a wide range, including Spotify (via Connect), Tidal (via Connect), Qobuz (via Connect), Amazon Music, Deezer, Apple Music (via Chromecast), and internet radio. It also features Chromecast built-in and DLNA for network playback. The intuitive WiiM Home app makes switching between them effortless.

Can I connect a turntable to the WiiM Amp Pro?
You can connect a turntable, but crucially, the Amp Pro does not have a built-in phono stage. You will need a turntable that has one integrated or purchase a separate external phono preamp to connect between your turntable and the Amp Pro’s RCA inputs.

Does the WiiM Amp Pro support AirPlay 2?
No, AirPlay 2 is notably absent from the WiiM Amp Pro’s feature list. This is a significant consideration for users heavily invested in Apple’s ecosystem who prefer seamless streaming from iOS/macOS devices. Bluetooth is available as an alternative for wireless audio from Apple devices.

What’s the power output of the WiiM Amp Pro?
The WiiM Amp Pro delivers 60 watts per channel into 8 ohms. This is ample power for driving most bookshelf and standmount speakers to satisfying volumes in typical living rooms. It also includes a subwoofer output for adding deeper bass.

How does the WiiM Amp Pro sound?
Our testing revealed a clean, open, and smooth sound signature. It’s engaging and energetic, making music enjoyable across genres. While very capable, it exhibits a slight restraint in ultimate rhythmic precision compared to some higher-priced amplifiers, particularly with complex, fast-paced tracks. It pairs excellently with warm, balanced speakers.

Is there a headphone jack on the WiiM Amp Pro?
No, the WiiM Amp Pro does not have a dedicated 3.5mm or 6.35mm headphone output. The only options for private listening are via its Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity to wireless headphones or by using the HDMI ARC output if your TV supports headphone passthrough.

The WiiM Amp Pro fundamentally disrupts the entry-level hi-fi landscape, offering a compelling blend of rich features, user-friendly operation, and genuinely enjoyable sound at an unprecedented price point. While audiophiles seeking ultimate rhythmic grip or specific features like AirPlay 2 might explore pricier territory, for the vast majority seeking brilliant streaming sound without extravagance, the WiiM Amp Pro is the new benchmark. Discover if this revolutionary budget streaming amplifier is the heart of your next music system – its value and performance demand serious consideration.