I have to admit, I’d never hear of WiiM Audio until about a month ago. Then, I began searching for stereo options that support both Chromecast and AirPlay2. My house is often divided, with me being the lone Android user in our home. I wanted a solution for all to stream music to our kitchen. Not surprisingly, this proved difficult. That is, until I found WiiM Audio and the fantastic Pro streamer.
Design
Basically, the WiiM Pro is a Chromecast and AirPlay receiver wrapped in a small box, roughly the same size as a Roku. The streamer doesn’t have internal speakers, however, and relies on external outputs. This can be done via the array of ports on the rear of the unit. This includes composite, optical, and coaxial audio options. The back of the WiiM Pro is rounded out with power and network connectivity. Power is supplied via USB-C input. An RJ45 Ethernet jack serves as the hardwired network option, while Wi-Fi is also included internally. This allows the WiiM Pro fully powered and connected for any audio task you can throw at it.
You also have a few controls on the front of the unit. This capacitive strip allows for volume controls and play/pause if you keep it within reach. I’ve personally buried mine under a cabinet in my kitchen, but I could see some keeping these controls at the ready. Either way, it’s nice to have the ability to manipulate audio controls without software if needed.
Setup and streaming
Getting the WiiM Pro up and running in your home is a breeze thanks to the fantastic companion app. The initial wizard walks you through the process step-by-step. This includes how to connect your existing speaker system to the WiiM receiver, how to connect your network, and finally the streaming protocols you’d like to use.
These protocols are some of the most robust support I’ve ever seen in a single device. Chromecast, AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect all support casting from the first party applications to the WiiM. This makes the WiiM Pro one of the most complete streaming devices you’ll ever find on store shelves.
All this support doesn’t matter if it doesn’t work well, and I’m happy to report that WiiM nailed this. I’ve not had any issues with using the Pro audio streamer on iOS or Android. I can’t speak to all the music services, but I’ve been able to use Chromecast, AirPlay2, and Spotify connect as you’d expect. It just works with them as any first party option. You can even add the WiiM Pro to speaker groups on Google Home and Apple Home.
Final thoughts
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WiiM kinda reminds me of Sonos and older options like Logitech’s Squeezebox stereos had a baby with the Chromecast Audio. Having the majority of streaming services, and direct wireless casting capabilities, create a compelling device that many users may be looking for with previous options being limited or discontinued. It has far exceeded my expectations of a Chromecast option that also does AirPlay2 for the iPhone users in my home.
Finally, the price is also reasonable at $150. While it’s on a bit of the higher end for something that can’t directly create the audio, I think if you want a bulletproof way to add support for pretty much any streaming music service to existing audio gear, the WiiM Pro is the best option I’ve seen. Hit the links below to snag your WiiM Pro audio streamer now.
Purchase the WiiM Pro from Amazon
