WiiM Mini in practice
The WiiM Mini audio streamer receives rave reviews almost everywhere. We decided to test it for a few weeks in our home environment to see if it lives up to expectations. One of the strengths of this streamer is definitely the price-to-performance ratio.
So, who is the WiiM Mini for and how can you maximize its use?
Firstly, users of integrated amplifiers and AV receivers without a streaming application, or those with a subpar one compared to WiiM Home, should consider the WiiM Mini. If streaming is still a minor or distrusted audio source for such users, the convenience of the WiiM Home app can quickly change that.
Since the Mini has both analog and digital outputs, which should you choose? If your connected AV receiver or amplifier has a high-quality D/A converter, opt for the optical output without hesitation. WiiM streamers have a Bit-Perfect algorithm that ensures excellent digital signal transfer (a feature found in much more expensive audio streamers).
However, if your amplifier lacks a digital input, the WiiM Mini can be connected via analog. An analog Jack-to-RCA cable is included in the package, as well as a digital optical cable.
Tip: For the best result, purchase the highest quality connecting cable your budget allows, as this will noticeably affect the outcome.
First setup
The package includes everything you need, including the mentioned cables and a power adapter, which is not always standard with similar devices these days. There's nothing stopping you from connecting the device and proceeding with the installation.
Download the highly praised WiiM Home app, and you’ll immediately see the advantage of this control software. The streamer quickly connects to the app, and you proceed with setup through simple steps. The device will ask if you prefer analog or digital connection, then perform a brief latency measurement (likely including regular firmware updates), and you can start using the device. You can use the streamer immediately without needing to register anywhere. Before signing into your favorite music service, you can choose from endless internet radio options from around the world, including Radio Paradise, which broadcasts in lossless quality. In the Czech Republic, the streaming service Tidal, which offers Hi-Res quality up to 192/24bit at a very reasonable price, makes the most sense for HiFi enthusiasts. However, users of other popular services (Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, etc.) need not worry, as all are included in the main menu. If you prefer controlling via a smartphone or tablet, services like Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Airplay 2 are also available. Regarding connectivity, it's worth mentioning that the WiiM Mini has an analog jack input, which we did not use in our test but could be useful for users with a shortage of inputs on their amplifier or connected active speakers. This provides an extra input as well as the possibility of EQ with extensive settings and volume control.
Sound quality:
We deliberately tested the Mini on an old AV receiver more than 15 years old. Since it still works reliably and we do not plan to replace it, the idea of a simple modernization with the WiiM streamer appeals to us greatly. We connected the device via analog output to test the audio quality through the analog output of a player costing less than 3,000 CZK. The result was truly surprising, especially with CD quality and Hi-Res recordings from the Tidal service. We also liked the praised Radio Paradise, which not only serves as a great background but also provides excellent listening quality. You can choose from four genres. For background music and radio in general, vTuner and TuneIn meet the expectations of nearly 99% of listeners. Of course, it’s important to note that "classic" radio broadcasts in MP3 quality are significantly inferior to lossless quality, and even a higher model wouldn’t help here.
Conclusion
We are very impressed with the device priced at 2,600 CZK from all perspectives. It is hard to find something comparable in this price range. The app significantly surpasses the control software of established brands, and the sound quality is more than sufficient, plus the digital output with Bit-Perfect function. If you have a high-quality older amplifier or AV receiver and are considering joining the streaming audio trend, don't hesitate to try this device!