Wiim Mini Audio Streamers – Still the value champ under $500?
It’s about time…
The WiiM Mini AirPlay2 Audio Streamers are a game changer in the world of audio streaming. You can now forget about spending excessive amounts of money on eBay for a discontinued Google Chromecast Audio or Airport express or even a dandy Raspberry Pi for that matter. The Wiim Mini is most likely the most economical and straightforward method to connect a hi-fi system to Bluetooth, Spotify, Tidal Connect, and Apple AirPlay 2 (also Roon friendly). At this time, Wiim sells the Mini exclusively on Amazon linked here.
Before getting into more detail, if you’re not up to speed on what exactly a dedicated streamer is and why you would want one in your system then have a quick look at our previous article here: Should I Buy a Dedicated Music Streamer :
Once you’ve connected the Mini to your home WiFi network and connected it to an amplifier (or DAC), you can start streaming music. There’s also gapless playback. The WiiM Mini also supports multi-room audio, allowing users to stream audio to multiple speakers or sound systems at the same time. This feature makes it easy to create a multi-room audio system in your home, allowing you to enjoy music in different rooms without needing to move your device around. Additionally, the device also supports AirPlay2’s “Audio Sharing” feature which allows you to share audio with multiple people at the same time.
Wiim Vs. The Competition
The Wiim Mini app, interface and usability are as good, if not better than everything else out there. The Bluesound Node is perhaps the only other company that’s got this sorted as well, but you’ll pay for it in excess of $500. Yes, the Bluesound has a DAC, but if you’re plugging into a decent amp with an already decent DAC then why pay for what you don’t need. On the flip side, the Wiim lets you decide on your own DAC and there are plenty to choose from within a reasonable price range.
While it may not have the same level of audiophile-grade components or advanced processing capabilities, it still delivers high-quality audio that will be appreciated by most listeners. Additionally, the WiiM Mini is also easy to set up and use, making it a great option for those who are new to audio streaming or are looking for a more user-friendly device.
Sound Quality/Formats:
The Wiim Mini gives listeners with additional audio streaming services and audio material that uses immersive sound, lossless audio, or MP3 quality. Playback of high-resolution lossless music files from services like Spotify, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Deezer, and Qobuz is possible on WiiM devices. It offers 24-bit, 192kHz audio output, which is identical to studio recordings made by artists. The integrated TI stereo DAC offers remarkable performance across all audio categories with a 106-dB SNR, dynamic range, and -92dB THD+N output.
- Compact and portable design for easy transport and setup
- Simple plug-and-play setup process
- Superb app and great usability
- Allows for streaming of audio content from Apple devices using AirPlay2
- Supports multi-room audio
- USB powered, can be connected to a power bank for use on the go
- support AirPlay2’s “Audio Sharing” feature which allows you to share audio to multiple people at the same time
- High-quality audio output and supports Hi-res formats
- Easy to use for both music enthusiasts and casual users
- Affordable price point compared to other audio streaming devices on the market
In short, great usability and sound quality =nothing short of one of the best audio streamers out there for many times its price, including, dare I say it, the beloved Bluesound Node –this one is a no-brainer.
Thanks for checking out this Wiim Mini Review!
The HiFi Jedi