Comparing the WiiM Amp Ultra to the Sonos Amp
Comparing the WiiM Amp Ultra to the Sonos Amp is a battle between the “New School” of high-performance transparency and the “Old Guard” of ecosystem reliability.
Before we dive in, a quick clarification: WiiM has two “Ultra” products. The WiiM Ultra is just a streamer/pre-amp (no built-in amplifier), while the WiiM Amp Ultra is the integrated amplifier that directly competes with the Sonos Amp. For this comparison, we are looking at the WiiM Amp Ultra.
The Comparison: Feature vs. Ecosystem
1. Power and Load Stability
The Sonos Amp is a powerhouse, delivering 125W per channel at 8 ohms. It is famous for driving large towers or outdoor speakers with ease. However, the WiiM Amp Ultra (100W at 8 ohms) counters with PFFB (Post-Filter Feedback). This technology ensures the frequency response remains flat regardless of the speaker’s impedance. On the Sonos, your speakers might sound slightly “colored” depending on their design; on the WiiM, the amp stays out of the way.+3
2. High-Res Audio & Processing
This is where WiiM pulls ahead for audiophiles.
- WiiM: Uses the flagship ESS 9039Q2M DAC, supporting 32-bit/384kHz and DSD. It includes a 10-band Parametric EQ and Room Correction via the WiiM Home app, allowing you to fix “boomy” bass caused by your room’s acoustics.+1
- Sonos: Limits you to 24-bit/48kHz. While it sounds great, it lacks the surgical EQ tools and high-res headroom of the WiiM. Its “Trueplay” room tuning is excellent but usually requires an iPhone and specific Sonos/Sonance speakers to work fully.
3. The “Screen” Factor
The WiiM Amp Ultra features a vibrant 3.5-inch glass touchscreen that displays album art, VU meters, and playback controls. It makes the device look like a piece of modern Hi-Fi gear. The Sonos Amp is a minimalist, headless black box designed to be hidden in a rack or a cabinet.+1
4. The Ecosystem Catch (AirPlay 2)
This is the dealbreaker for many. The WiiM Amp Ultra does NOT support AirPlay 2. If you are an Apple-centric household, you cannot “cast” audio from your iPhone to the WiiM using the native iOS menu. You must use the WiiM app, Spotify Connect, or Chromecast. The Sonos Amp remains the king of seamless multi-room integration and fully supports AirPlay 2.
Technical Comparison Table
| Feature | WiiM Amp Ultra | Sonos Amp |
| Power Output (8Ω) | 100W per channel | 125W per channel |
| Power Output (4Ω) | 200W per channel | 250W per channel |
| DAC Chip | ESS ES9039Q2M (Flagship) | Internal (Generic/Custom) |
| Max Resolution | 32-bit / 384kHz | 24-bit / 48kHz |
| Room Correction | Yes (Built-in via App) | Yes (Trueplay – iOS only) |
| EQ Type | Parametric & Graphic | Basic Bass/Treble |
| Display | 3.5″ Color Touchscreen | None (Status LED only) |
| Connectivity | HDMI ARC, Phono, USB, Optical | HDMI ARC, RCA Line-In |
| AirPlay 2 | No | Yes |
| Ecosystem | Open (Google/Alexa/WiiM) | Closed (Sonos Only) |
| Price (Approx.) | ~$499 | ~$699 |
The Verdict
I find the WiiM Amp Ultra to be the superior choice for anyone who actually enjoys “tweaking” their sound. The inclusion of room correction and a proper parametric EQ at a lower price point makes the Sonos look overpriced and technically stagnant.
Buy the WiiM Amp Ultra if:
- You want the absolute best sound measurements and high-res support.
- You need Room Correction to fix a difficult-sounding room.
- You want a physical screen to see what’s playing without opening an app.
Buy the Sonos Amp if:
- You are already “all-in” on Sonos (e.g., you have a Sonos Arc or Era speakers).
- AirPlay 2 is a non-negotiable requirement for your family.
- You need the extra 25W of power for very large, inefficient floor-standing speakers.
