Wiim Amp Ultra 리뷰: TV 입력이 있는 환상적인 스트리밍 앰프

Source: Wired

The Wiim Amp Ultra aims to fix the limitations of its predecessor, offering a step up in performance at a very attractive price. It delivers noticeably cleaner, more expansive stereo sound than the Amp Pro I’ve been using, even though it lacks some features I’d expect at this price point (such as AirPlay and a dedicated phono input). Overall, the Amp Ultra impresses with a strong mix of performance, design, and build quality on my TV stand.

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Getting started with the Amp Ultra is as slick as it gets. Opening the box reveals two boxes of cables, a rechargeable voice remote, and a cold‑metal cube with an obsidian glass front that looks like a “Mac Mini on steroids.” For those new to amplifiers, you’ll need to grab some speaker wire, but otherwise Wiim includes all necessary accessories, including four push‑in banana plugs for plug‑and‑play connections.

사진: Ryan Waniata

After connecting my TV via HDMI ARC and attaching the speakers, I powered the unit and saw a QR code on the 3.5‑inch color touchscreen (yes, it’s a color touchscreen!). The QR code launches the Wiim Home app, which handles network setup. The app initially couldn’t find the unit, but tapping the volume knob caused the Amp Ultra to appear. A quick five‑minute firmware update later, I was ready to go.

The Wiim system, like Sonos, offers many playback options. From smart services to multi‑room audio, the app lets you customize your home listening experience.

다채로운 작은 상자

Wiim produces a range of products, including the similarly styled Wiim Ultra, which is a streamer without amplification. The Amp Ultra combines everything in a compact 7.87 × 8.3 × 3 in. enclosure.

Inside is a small Class‑D amplifier capable of up to 100 W per channel at 8 Ω (200 W at 4 Ω), sufficient for virtually any speakers you own unless you have exceptionally demanding gear. Digital‑to‑analog conversion is handled by an ESS ES9039Q2M SABRE DAC, supporting high‑resolution audio up to 24‑bit/192 kHz—well beyond CD quality. The rear panel offers HDMI ARC (TV), optical, RCA analog line‑in, a USB port for flash drives, Ethernet, and a subwoofer output.

Wireless connectivity starts with Wi‑Fi 6 and includes Google Cast, Alexa Cast, and a host of streaming services such as Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Plex, and niche options like SoundMachine. Spotify Connect is enabled by default; other services must be turned on to “reduce network load,” according to the brand. AirPlay 2 and Apple Music are absent, which may be a deal‑breaker for some listeners. Bluetooth 5.3 is also available, but if Apple Music is your primary source, you might prefer the standard Wiim Amp.