Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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.

Product Strengths

  • Good bass, warmth in the mids, and decent soundstage and detailed reproduction
  • Tone controls are subtle, unobtrusive, and well-executed, without affecting soundstage or resolution
  • Features Yamaha's Top-Art technology, which results in greater signal clarity and optimized vibration damping due to its symmetrical design
  • A/B speaker outputs with bi-wiring, digital inputs, subwoofer out, and ample RCA inputs, making it versatile for different audio setups

Product Considerations

  • High frequencies can be a bit splashy and edgy on some tracks, requiring tone control adjustments
  • Lacks some excitement and drive in its performance—not as musical as some rivals
  • The volume knob's indicator is hard to see
  • At maximum gain, unused inputs leak other analog inputs into the signal, indicating bad separation of signal sources
  • The loudness knob functionality is odd

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Onkyo A-9010 was preferred by one reviewer for its amplification magic, despite being less powerful
  • The Cambridge Audio AX35 pulls ahead in smoothness in the high frequency
  • The built-in phono stage on the Cambridge Audio AX35 is better
  • The Onkyo A-9010 is more musical

Takeaway: The Yamaha A-S301 is a versatile and feature-rich integrated amplifier that delivers good sound quality, making it a solid choice for entry-level audiophiles or those seeking a well-rounded stereo amplifier. Its robust design and multiple connectivity options ensure it can integrate seamlessly into various audio setups.

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

A-S301

reviews

[{"title":"Yamaha A-S301 review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/yamaha-a-s301","source":"whathifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Yamaha A-S301 Stereo Receiver Review","link":"https://perfectacoustic.co.uk/yamaha-a-s301","source":"perfectacoustic.co.uk","datePublished":""},{"title":"Yamaha A-S301 Stereo Integrated Amplifier Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/blogs/yamaha-a-s301-stereo-integrated-amplifier-review","source":"hometheaterhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Z Review - Yamaha A-S301 [The Return of Real Amp Problems]","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_Gob1PnzJI","source":"YouTube","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Yamaha AS301 Integrated Amplifier Review | Solid budget buy","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4MZT4GQD28","source":"YouTube","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"The $350 Integrated Amp Comparison | Yamaha AS301 vs Cambridge Audio AXA35","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agNXgVza5Rk","source":"YouTube","datePublished":"2022"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Power Output: 2 x 95W (max), 2 x 60W (RMS)
  • Features: ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology)
  • Construction: Fully balanced design (input to output)
  • Base: ART (Anti-Resolution and Tough)
  • Components: Custom power transformer / 6,800 uF block capacitors / extruded aluminum heat sink
  • Digital Audio Inputs: Yes (for TV or Blu-ray Player)
  • Additional Features: Pure Direct mode, Continuously variable loudness, Automatic standby
Designed for excellent sound quality, with a beautiful appearance. An integrated amplifier with the advantage of digital inputs.
Impressive sound quality with an elegant look. An integrated amplifier with the advantages of digital inputs ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) and high-quality components Fully symmetrical construction (from input to output) ART (Anti-Resolution and Tough) Base Custom-built mains transformer / 6,800 uF block capacitors / extruded aluminum heat exchangers High power of 2 x 95 W (max.), 2 x 60 W (RMS) Pure Direct mode for a purer sound Continuously adjustable loudness Digital audio inputs for TV or Blu-ray player Connector for YBA-11 Bluetooth Wireless Adapter Simple, elegant design Automatic standby
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:

  • Yamaha leverages its deep expertise in musical instrument manufacturing to design audio equipment aiming for "True Sound," faithfully reproducing the intended sound of instruments and vocals, making them sound realistic.
  • Yamaha products, particularly amplifiers and receivers, often offer a wide range of connectivity options, including legacy inputs (like phono stages) alongside modern features, catering to both traditional and contemporary audio setups.
  • Yamaha's MusicCast ecosystem integrates seamlessly with their audio products, providing multi-room audio capabilities and access to streaming services, allowing users to easily expand their audio setups wirelessly.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
39
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
84
Founding Year
1887

Our take on the brand

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.

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Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Yamaha
A-S701
799
799
/
6
Reviews

Excellent sound and outstanding performance. An integrated amplifier with the advantages of digital inputs. ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) and high-quality components Fully symmetrical construction (from input to output) ART (Anti-Resolution and Tough) Base Custom built mains transformer / 12,000 uF block capacitors / extruded aluminum heat exchangers 160 W x 2 (max), 100 W x 2 (RMS) output power CD direct amplification and Pure Direct mode Continuously adjustable loudness Gold-plated speaker and RCA connectors Digital audio inputs for TV or Blu-ray player Connector for YBA-11 Bluetooth Wireless Adapter Simple, elegant design (device front and controls made of aluminum) Automatic standby

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Impressive sound performance delivers clear and vibrant audio across different genres
  • Features Pure Direct Mode, Variable Loudness Control, and ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) for a cleaner sound
  • Sleek and minimalist design with a brushed aluminum front panel provides a professional and clean appearance
  • Offers versatile connectivity options including digital coaxial, optical inputs, a phono input (MM or high-output MC cartridges), auxiliary inputs, and a subwoofer output

Product Considerations

  • Lacks built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, requiring an external adapter for wireless streaming
  • Remote control design feels a bit dated
  • Unit is quite large, so ensure there is enough space in a setup
  • Tone controls may feel limiting for those who prefer extensive customization
  • Minimalist display might leave some users wanting more information at a glance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Yamaha A-S701 compared to Yamaha supplies in the '70s and '80s continues the tendency of sounding great if taken care of

Takeaway: The Yamaha A-S701 is a solid amplifier that provides a sensible balance between sound quality, connectivity, and user convenience. It is a worthy contender for anyone looking to upgrade their current audio setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Yamaha
R-N600A
705
705
/
2
Reviews

The Yamaha R-N600A offers full-fledged Hi-Fi technology developed over many years and is compatible with MusicCast, giving you more freedom and flexibility in your listening. Authentic HiFi quality with the latest ToP-ART structure and a Pure Direct mode ESS SABRE ES9010K2M Ultra DAC for superior S/N performance With MusicCast you can stream music from your favorite music services Front panel USB port and network capability enable powerful native playback at DSD 11.2 MHz and 384 kHz Subwoofer output for external subwoofer connection Dedicated phono inputs to enjoy your record collection Optical connection panel for TV sound in HiFi quality

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Impressive sound quality, especially considering its price, with a dynamic, powerful, and natural sound
  • Good power delivery, with measured output exceeding manufacturer specifications, leading to enhanced control over the sound transducers
  • Incorporates design principles from Yamaha's ToP-ART flagship models, featuring Class AB topology, mirror-symmetrical circuitry, and short signal paths
  • Features a variety of connections, including phono, DAC, subwoofer output, and network streaming capabilities (MusicCast, AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth)

Product Considerations

  • Current delivery may be somewhat limited, as power decreases at lower impedance
  • Lacks YPAO room calibration, which is available in the higher-end R-N800A
  • Does not have HDMI connectivity, which is only available on the R-N1000A
  • The interface may take some getting used to

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The R-N600A quickly surpasses the Creek 4040A due to Yamaha's significantly oversized amplifier stage
  • The Moonriver holds its ground but is four times the price of the R-N600A; the Yamaha sounds a bit brighter and more energetic, though not as detailed or refined in soundstage depth
  • The R-N600A gets closer to the sound quality of the Yamaha R-N2000A than one might expect, possibly closer than Yamaha intended
  • The R-N600A has a congested layout, while the R-N800A has distinct separations of input and output boards

Takeaway: The Yamaha R-N600A is an affordable all-in-one hifi package with unexpected power and a range of useful features. It is a great choice for those looking for excellent sound quality and versatile connectivity without spending a fortune.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Yamaha pioneered the concept of hifi with their first hifi player in 1954 and was the first to use pure beryllium diaphragms in their NS-1000M speakers, which became a benchmark for professional studios. The brand uniquely integrates their musical instrument expertise into their audio equipment design, allowing them to accurately replicate the sound of their instruments through their audio systems.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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.
Check Amazon
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
G5
299
/
Released
2022
Check Amazon
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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Product Page
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.
Check Amazon
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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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