Wiim Amp or Wiim Amp Pro: We compared them
The comparison between the WiiM Amp and the WiiM Amp Pro is a classic case of “refinement over revolution.” While both devices share the same compact footprint and power ratings, the Pro version targets audiophiles who demand better measurements and specific technical features like load independence.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the differences, followed by a side-by-side technical comparison.
The Core Differences: What Makes the “Pro” Professional?
1. DAC Evolution (ES9018 vs. ES9038Q2M)
The most significant internal change is the jump from the aging ESS 9018K2M to the ESS 9038Q2M SABRE DAC. On paper, this is a massive leap in Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N). While the original Amp is “clean enough” for most casual setups, the Pro pushes the noise floor down to a point where it rivals dedicated high-end streamers.
2. Post-Filter Feedback (PFFB)
This is the “secret sauce” of the Pro. Class D amplifiers (like the TPA3255 used in both) often suffer from “load dependency,” meaning their high-frequency response changes depending on the impedance of your speakers. PFFB corrects this by measuring the signal after the filter and feeding it back into the loop.
- Result: The Amp Pro should sound consistent regardless of whether you’re driving 4-ohm or 8-ohm speakers, whereas the original might sound slightly brighter or darker depending on the speaker pairing.
3. Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth 5.3
The Pro moves to Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz) and Bluetooth 5.3. If you live in a crowded apartment with 50 nearby Wi-Fi networks, the 6 GHz band provides a “cleaner” highway for high-res streaming. However, for most users with a stable 5 GHz router, the real-world difference in “sound quality” from this upgrade is negligible.
4. The AirPlay 2 Controversy
It is critical to note that the WiiM Amp Pro (and WiiM Ultra) lacks AirPlay 2 support. This is a significant blow for Apple users. While Chromecast, DLNA, and Tidal/Spotify Connect are present, the absence of AirPlay 2 makes the “Standard” Amp actually more versatile for those deep in the Apple ecosystem.
Technical Comparison Table
| Feature | WiiM Amp (Standard) | WiiM Amp Pro |
| DAC Chip | ESS Sabre ES9018K2M | ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M |
| PFFB Support | No | Yes (Load Independent) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 98 dB | 120 dB |
| THD+N (at 5W) | 0.002% (-92 dB) | 0.0005% (-105 dB) |
| Output Power (8Ω) | 60W per channel | 60W per channel |
| Output Power (4Ω) | 120W per channel | 120W per channel |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (Dual-band) | Wi-Fi 6E (Triple-band) |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 (LE Audio supported) |
| AirPlay 2 | Yes | No |
| Roon Ready | Yes | Yes (at launch/update) |
| HDMI ARC | Yes | Yes |
| Thermal Design | Standard Heatsink | Advanced (Copper/Graphene) |
| Weight | 1.84 kg | 2.08 kg |
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
I’m skeptical that most listeners will hear a night-and-day difference between these two in a blind test using budget bookshelf speakers. The “Pro” moniker is earned through better laboratory measurements, not necessarily a transformative listening experience.
Choose the WiiM Amp (Standard) if:
- You use an iPhone/Mac and require AirPlay 2.
- You are pairing it with entry-level speakers (e.g., KEF Q150, ELAC Debut B6.2) where the DAC’s noise floor is already below the speakers’ limits.
- You want the best “bang for buck” for a simple TV/Music setup.
Choose the WiiM Amp Pro if:
- You have difficult speakers with fluctuating impedance curves (PFFB will keep the response flat).
- You are an Android/PC user who doesn’t care about AirPlay but wants the best possible SNR for high-res files.
- You live in an area with high wireless interference and want to utilize Wi-Fi 6E.
