Streaming has become one of the easiest ways to enjoy high-quality music at home, but choosing the right streaming hardware can be confusing.
A music streamer can add network streaming to an existing amplifier or powered speaker system, while a streaming amplifier combines network music playback with amplification for passive speakers.
For this comparison, we’re looking at five products aimed at different levels of home audio:
- WiiM Pro Plus
- WiiM Ultra
- WiiM Amp Ultra
- Fosi Audio S3 HiFi Music Streamer DAC Preamp
- WiiM Amp Pro
The major difference is simple: the WiiM Pro Plus, WiiM Ultra and Fosi S3 are primarily streamer/DAC/preamp products, whereas the WiiM Amp Ultra and WiiM Amp Pro integrate amplification for passive speakers. WiiM’s own specifications distinguish its streamers from its streaming amplifiers accordingly.
WiiM Pro Plus
Overview
The WiiM Pro Plus is designed for users who already own an amplifier, powered speakers or another compatible audio system and want to add modern network streaming.
It features an AKM 4493SEQ DAC, analog and digital connections, dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet. WiiM lists analog output performance of up to 120 dB SNR and -113 dB THD+N for the Pro Plus.
- AKM 4493SEQ DAC
- AirPlay 2
- Google Cast Audio
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Roon Ready
- Wi-Fi 5
- Bluetooth
- Ethernet
- RCA line input/output
- Optical input/output
- Coaxial output
- Voice remote support
WiiM Ultra
Overview
The WiiM Ultra is positioned above the Pro Plus as a more feature-rich music streamer and digital preamp.
It adds a larger chassis, touchscreen interface and more connectivity options.
WiiM lists the Ultra with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, HDMI ARC, optical, line and phono inputs, plus multiple audio outputs.
- 3.5-inch touchscreen
- ESS ES9038 Q2M DAC
- HDMI ARC
- Phono input
- Optical input
- Line input
- USB storage/audio functionality
- Headphone output
- Wi-Fi 6
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Ethernet
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Roon Ready
- Google Cast
WiiM Amp Ultra
Overview
The WiiM Amp Ultra is fundamentally different from the Pro Plus and Ultra because it includes speaker amplification.
This means it can form the core of a compact stereo system with passive speakers.
The supplied product description highlights a 100W streaming amplifier, ESS ES9039Q2M DAC, dual TI TPA3255 amplifiers, RoomFit EQ and a touchscreen.
you can consolidate much of the system into one component.
That can reduce:
- Equipment count
- Cable clutter
- Setup complexity
- Space requirements
Fosi Audio S3 HiFi Music Streamer DAC Preamp
Overview
The Fosi Audio S3 is an interesting alternative for audiophile-oriented systems.
Fosi describes it as an all-in-one digital transport, DAC and preamp using an AK4493SEQ DAC. The manufacturer specifies PCM support up to 32-bit/384kHz and lists balanced XLR outputs.
- AK4493SEQ DAC
- Wi-Fi 6
- Bluetooth 5.3
- AirPlay 2
- Google Cast
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- DLNA
- XLR balanced outputs
- Optical
- HDMI eARC
- Subwoofer output
- Ethernet
- Fosi Audio app
Fosi lists a 120 dB or greater SNR and THD+N of 0.00018% or lower for the S3.
WiiM Amp Pro
Overview
The WiiM Amp Pro combines streaming functionality and amplification in a compact format.
WiiM’s specifications list the Amp Pro at 60W per channel into 8 ohms and 120W per channel into 4 ohms, with a TI TPA3255 amplifier platform.
- Streaming amplifier
- 60W/channel at 8 ohms
- 120W/channel at 4 ohms
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Bluetooth 5.3
- HDMI ARC
- Optical input
- Line input
- USB
- Subwoofer output
- Google Cast
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Roon Ready
FAQ
Which is the best music streamer?
The WiiM Pro Plus is an excellent overall choice for an existing stereo system.
Which is the best premium streamer?
The WiiM Ultra, particularly if you need HDMI ARC, phono input and a touchscreen.
Which is the best streaming amplifier?
The WiiM Amp Ultra is the strongest premium all-in-one option in this comparison.
Is WiiM Amp Pro an amplifier?
Yes. It combines streaming functionality with integrated amplification for passive speakers.
Does WiiM Pro Plus need an amplifier?
Yes, when used with passive speakers. The Pro Plus itself isn’t a speaker power amplifier.
Does WiiM Ultra have HDMI ARC?
Yes.
Does WiiM Ultra have a phono input?
Yes.
