Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Amadeus
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Power Output: 2 x 1175W @ 1% THD+N, 1kHz @ 4Ω
- Inputs: 1 x Bluetooth / 1 x XLR Input / 3 x Cinch Input / 2 x Phono MC/MM select
- Features: High End Bluetooth receiver
- Phono Stage: MM/MC with variable RIAA equalization
- Controls: 30° Harmonic Switch @ 8kHz
- Controls: 45° Harmonic Switch @ 10kHz
- Controls: +3dB Switch Bass @25Hz
- Controls: Bass Contour Switch @ 25Hz & 50Hz
- Controls: Bass Contour Adjust +6dB @ 25Hz & 50 Hz
Description
Our Amadeus is the top model of the WLM amplifier line. It is an integrated amplifier with 1175 watts per channel, a power that supplies even the most demanding loudspeaker systems with sufficient audiophile power at all times.
Our Amadeus is the top model of the WLM amplifier line. It is an integrated amplifier with 1175 watts per channel, a power that supplies even the most demanding loudspeaker systems with sufficient audiophile power at all times. Amadeus is fully symmetrical and has a Bluetooth receiver for wireless transmission of stored music signals and an absolute high-end phono preamplifier (MM and MC) with variable RIAA equalization curves. The preamp section is analog and hand-wired like the whole device.
All features of our reference preamp Anton can also be found in the integrated amplifier Amadeus: Inputs: 1 x Bluetooth / 1 x XLR Input / 3 x Cinch Input / 2 x Phono MC/MM select The power-amp stages are designed as High End Class D amplifiers and are also fully balanced. Technically they correspond to the state of the art monoblocks ("Johann") from WLM. A high-quality headphone amplifier is accessible via the front panel.
Front panel: On this front panel there are outstanding adjustment possibilities, which can only be found in this form on the Amadeus reference preamplifier: 30* Harmonic Switch @ 8kHz 45* Harmonic Switch @ 10kHz These toggle switches represent an optional analog correction network for phase rotations in the high-frequency range and, depending on the loudspeaker, have a clear influence on the correct spatial representation of the music event.
In the bass range, Amadeu...
All features of our reference preamp Anton can also be found in the integrated amplifier Amadeus: Inputs: 1 x Bluetooth / 1 x XLR Input / 3 x Cinch Input / 2 x Phono MC/MM select The power-amp stages are designed as High End Class D amplifiers and are also fully balanced. Technically they correspond to the state of the art monoblocks ("Johann") from WLM. A high-quality headphone amplifier is accessible via the front panel.
Front panel: On this front panel there are outstanding adjustment possibilities, which can only be found in this form on the Amadeus reference preamplifier: 30* Harmonic Switch @ 8kHz 45* Harmonic Switch @ 10kHz These toggle switches represent an optional analog correction network for phase rotations in the high-frequency range and, depending on the loudspeaker, have a clear influence on the correct spatial representation of the music event.
In the bass range, Amadeu...
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
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Maximilian
- Positioning: An entry-level complete system offering integrated amplification and speaker performance.
- Description: Features a unique integration of an active amplifier with passive loudspeakers clad in Tyrolean sheep wool and a discreet built-on switch that simplifies operation in small rooms. Compared to later lineup models, it provides straightforward connectivity and reliable sound quality for buyers with modest budgets and basic functionality needs.
Ella MK II
- Positioning: A beginner loudspeaker designed for first-time audiophiles seeking clear, engaging sound.
- Description: Uses the same D'Appolito configuration and Tyrolean sheep wool cladding as the entry-level system but presents a slightly refined design for improved ease of use. Compared to Maximilian, it offers similar core technology in a modest package while remaining budget-friendly for small room setups and basic home playback.
Elisabeth MK II
- Positioning: A compact, fully active loudspeaker built for medium to large rooms with enhanced adaptability.
- Description: Compresses flagship-level technologies into a smaller cabinet, featuring a transmission line and bass reflex enclosure that improve tonal control and room adaptation. Compared to the entry-level models, it offers more refined dynamics and functionality.
Franz
- Positioning: A flagship active system engineered for immersive and spatially stable sound reproduction.
- Description: Uses a unique dipole driver arrangement with high-precision AMT tweeters and multiple drivers, ensuring a physically engaging listening experience in large rooms. In contrast to Elisabeth MK II and other entry-level products, it delivers superior spatial imaging and dynamic performance.
Ferdinand
- Positioning: A premium passive loudspeaker positioned as the reference model for high-quality sound reproduction.
- Description: Features a novel cabinet design with handcrafted wood and advanced transmission line together with bass reflex integration, setting it apart in acoustic precision. Compared to the active products, its passive design—with the need for an external amplifier—provides detailed, high-fidelity sound.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
687
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
16
Founding Year
2002
Our take on the brand
WLM is a hifi speaker brand that combines AMT tweeters with Race Track oval woofers in their fully active Franz S speakers, and uses a unique twin-driver PAC system to create a virtual point source for enhanced soundstage. Their speakers are known for high sensitivity that works well with low-power amplifiers, and they emphasize analog filtering over DSP in their designs.
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What if you spend more?
Chord Electronics
Mojo 2
650
650
/
65
Reviews
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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iFi
xDSD Gryphon
599
599
/
30
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Bluesound
Powernode
949
949
/
18
Reviews
The Bluesound POWERNODE is the HiFi amp reinvented for the streaming age, combining audiophile-grade componentry and multi-room music capabilities to create an intuitive “just add speakers” hi-res sound system for modern music lovers. The compact minimalist exterior disguises 2 x 80 watts of award-winning HiFi amplification, a premium hi-res DAC design, and access to all the music ever recorded with a tap in our BluOS Controller app for smart devices and laptops.
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Punchy and musical performer
- BluOS is a treat to operate
- Convenient design as a source and amplifier in one, only needing speakers to complete the system
- Engagingly musical performer—dynamically fluid and punchy, with plenty of energy
- More neutral sounding now, making gains in clarity and insight across the frequency range
- Connectivity options are through 3.5mm headphone-type connectors, shared with mini-TosLink connections
Product Considerations
- Tough competition from other streaming amplifiers
- No way to send data out to an external DAC
- The Powernode was occasionally hard on transients and dynamic bursts
- There is no included remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz has a wider-scale, roomier soundstage and greater subtlety
Takeaway: The Bluesound Powernode is a superb streaming amplifier that is better than ever, offering excellent sonic talent and a well-rounded feature set. It provides a convenient and high-quality music experience for anyone looking to simplify their home audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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aune
S17 Pro
699
699
/
9
Reviews
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
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Product Strengths
- Fully balanced technology, with balanced inputs and outputs.
- Delivers powerful amplification, with up to 7.5 watts of power, capable of driving a wide range of headphones, including hard-to-drive models.
- Features a linear power supply with a large transformer and capacitor bank, providing a stable and powerful power source.
- Provides two current modes (50mA and 100mA) to tailor the sound tonality, allowing users to choose between a more forward/analytical sound and a warmer/fuller sound.
- Employs an R2R network for volume control, ensuring channel balance even at low volumes.
Product Considerations
- Runs quite hot due to its Class A amplification, requiring adequate ventilation, with chassis temperatures potentially reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, and the unit may switch from 100mA to 50mA mode if it overheats.
- High power output might not be ideal for very sensitive IEMs, potentially limiting volume control flexibility.
- The preamplifier output is always active, meaning it doesn't mute when headphones are plugged in, requiring caution to prevent damage.
- The LCD display cannot be dimmed or switched off, and the red color of the 100mA mode may appear washed out.
- Some report volume slots are not regular or have large jumps, and/or that the remote control can be buggy.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Topping A90 Discrete: The S17 has a richer sound, wider soundstage, and easier dynamics, especially in 100mA mode, placing it in a higher tier.
- Vs. Topping A90D: The S17 Pro is capable of even stronger dynamic swings, with a slightly cleaner and less cluttered soundstage.
- Vs. Violectric V222: The Aune S17 Pro is more 'tubey' and warmer sounding than the V222.
- Vs. HIFIMAN EF600: The Aune S17 has better volume control, higher dynamic range, better driving power, and better resolution.
Takeaway: The Aune S17 Pro is a powerful and versatile headphone amplifier that delivers rich, detailed sound, allowing listeners to experience music in new ways. With its balanced design and flexible current modes, it can enhance a wide range of headphones and audio setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
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What competes at this price?
iFi
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
- Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
- XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
- Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
- ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality
Product Considerations
- Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
- Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
- Battery life estimation can be unreliable
- No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
- Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
- Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
- Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
- Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
- Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer
Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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SMSL
AO200 MK II
341
/
Released
2024
AO200 MKⅡ Stereo amplifier features a new digital high-power amplifier chip MA5332 from Infineon, Germany, offering higher quality with high efficiency and low power consumption. It uses NJRC's electronic volume control chip NJW1194 from Japan for precise volume control and low distortion.
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a neutral and transparent sound signature, providing an accurate representation of the source material
- Offers plenty of power for its size, capable of driving even demanding bookshelf speakers without losing composure
- Features built-in EQ presets and bass/treble tone controls for customizing the sound
- Built with high-quality materials, featuring an aluminum alloy chassis that is both durable and lightweight
- Has versatile connectivity options, including balanced XLR inputs, RCA inputs, USB input, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Internal DAC and Bluetooth performance are underwhelming compared to the amplifier section
- The stock SBC Bluetooth codec limits wireless audio streaming quality
- EQ settings can be confusing and require some experimentation to dial in a balanced sound
- The volume knob might be slightly wobbly
- The power cord could be too short for some setups and might need to be replaced
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MKII offers nearly double the power output and sounds more dynamic than the SMSL AO200 (original)
- Compared to the Yamaha A-670, the AO200 MKII offers more detail and soundstage, though the Yamaha is warmer and more forgiving
- The AO200 MKII has higher driving power, a more dynamic sound, and lower distortion than the Arylic A50+
- The AO200 MKII offers a more palpable and lifelike sound than the Topping PA5
- The AO200 MKII has better driving power at times, better EQ with no degradation, and is a better value than the Burson Funk
Takeaway: The SMSL AO200 MKII is a compact and powerful stereo amplifier with a neutral sound, making it a solid option for those who want clean sound, plenty of connectivity options, and customization features. It is a good value that can improve the sound of many speaker setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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Topping
G5
299
/
Released
2022
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Phenomenal sound quality.
- Very usable and enjoyable interaction due to a physical volume knob.
- Plenty of power for almost everything and can drive just about anything.
- Versatile; it can be used as a desktop all-in-one, a Bluetooth portable DAC/amp, a portable amplifier, and even a DAC for speakers.
Product Considerations
- Susceptible to EMI noises, which can be a deal breaker; static noises, pops, and crackle sounds can occur when a phone is placed directly on top of it.
- Not a completely balanced architecture; the 3.5mm & 4.4mm headphone outputs sound the same.
- Charging port may not indicate charging on anything higher than an 18W charging block, and some chargers may not work.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FIIO BTR-7: Sounds more refined and has more detail and resolution.
- Vs SMSL C200: The C200 sounds significantly warmer with a fuller, juicier bass line and a little bit more airy, while the G5 is more focused on clean and clear edges, tidy, well-focused—and clean.
- Vs SMSL M500 MK2: The M500 MK2 sounds overall better with dynamics at the same level as the G5 and fuller, warmer tonality—and a bigger, more spacious soundstage.
- Vs Moondrop Moonriver 2: The treble is more refined, better details up top, and a sharp edge without being overboard like the Moonriver 2 can.
Takeaway: The G5 is a well-built and versatile portable DAC/amp with a neutral, clean, and dynamic sound. It is great for those looking for an all-in-one solution that can drive almost any headphone or IEM.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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SMSL
DO400
499
/
Released
2023
The DO400 is an ES9039SPRO audio DAC that supports MQA decoding and MQA-CD. It features a new 3rd generation XMOS XU-316, with PCM support up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD support to DSD512. The new generation flagship DAC chip ES9039MSPRO of USA ESS has built-in MQA hard decoding.
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The DO400 is a versatile device, serving as a DAC, preamp, headphone amplifier, and Bluetooth receiver
- It offers a highly resolving and transparent sound, with a measured dynamic range of 133dB on its XLR output and 126dB on its headphone output
- It has very tight control over the drivers, sounds quite dynamic and clean, and delivers a punchy sound
- The DO400 features extensive I/O with HDMI, USB, XLR 4-Pins, and Pentaconn 4-Pins
Product Considerations
- It does not have analog inputs, which limits the sources one can pair it with
- The DO400's case cover is steel, and the rotary knob wobbles
- Some may find its sound signature a bit too linear for some genres
- The remote control is plastic-y
- The speedy nature of the ESC by Silicon might result in a less impressive initial kick in the eardrums via headphones, compared to the XLR and RCA outputs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Topping DX7 Pro Plus, the DO400 is more organic and dynamic sounding
- Compared to the Topping DX5, the DO400 offers noticeably better line output
- Compared to the Chord Mojo 2, the Chord Mojo 2 sounds better when used as a DAC, offering better detail retrieval and a richer tone timbre, but the DO400 has more power
- Compared to the SMSL SU-9, the DO400 sounds slightly brighter and less-smoothed over—there's an analytical quality to the treble end
Takeaway: The SMSL DO400 is a great-sounding all-in-one unit that offers a lot of features for the price. Its noiseless performance with IEMs and ability to drive most headphones make it a worthwhile purchase.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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WiiM
Wiim Amp & Amp Pro
299
/
Released
2023
WiiM Amp is a compact yet powerful streaming amplifier that combines Hi-Fi sound quality with modern streaming features. It delivers 60W per channel into 8 ohms and features a high-performance ESS DAC chip for pristine audio reproduction.
WiiM is a hifi brand that makes streaming devices with high-end features at unusually low prices, including their WiiM Pro Plus with its premium AKM DAC that outperforms its price point. Their products are designed to make high-quality streaming accessible to more people, offering performance comparable to much more expensive equipment at a fraction of the cost.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Features and performance at an affordable price
- Stylish, well-made design
- Native support for nearly all streaming services like Spotify and Tidal, both wired and wirelessly
- Simple setup via smartphone and the WiiM Home app
- Includes HDMI with ARC as well as CEC, and a dedicated subwoofer output with bass management
Product Considerations
- Bluetooth and AirPlay communication can be inconsistent, particularly for iPhone users
- At higher volumes, the amp can struggle with certain genres of music or recordings with greater dynamic range, resulting in audible distortion and clipping
- Sound can become more sterile and two-dimensional at higher volumes, glossing over nuance and fine detail
- May not be suitable for larger spaces or for those who prefer listening at higher volumes, especially with speakers that are hard to drive
- Some users might hear a faint whine from the chassis or speaker tweeters, as the amplifier is not completely silent
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Arylic B50: The WiiM Amp has a more complete chassis design with an internal power supply, a slicker app, and better overall industrial design, even if they use similar chipsets
- Vs Bluesound PowerNode/Audiolab 6000A Play/7000A: The Bluesound and Audiolab products are better options for larger spaces or higher listening volumes
- Vs Denon AV receiver: The Denon AV receiver does not have the streaming comprehensiveness of the WiiM Amp
- Vs Sonos Amp: The Sonos Amp may sound better, but the WiiM Amp combined with a subwoofer can provide a more complete sound experience for less money
- Vs PS Audio Sprout 100: The WiiM Amp's amp and DAC sections are superior
Takeaway: The WiiM Amp is a versatile and affordable streaming amplifier packed with features, making it a great entry point into hifi or a convenient solution for smaller spaces. Its comprehensive streaming capabilities and user-friendly app provide a seamless listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
WiiM is a hifi brand that makes streaming devices with high-end features at unusually low prices, including their WiiM Pro Plus with its premium AKM DAC that outperforms its price point. Their products are designed to make high-quality streaming accessible to more people, offering performance comparable to much more expensive equipment at a fraction of the cost.
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