Is this the smart speaker audiophiles have been waiting for?
Image credit: WiiM
WiiM have announced their very first smart speaker, combining a dedication to high definition music with a Homepod style speaker.
WiiM’s Sound looks like the Apple HomePod but it promises something more. The smart speaker is one of three new connected devices from WiiM promising convenient music playing combined with high definition playback.
WiiM dropped onto the scene with their fantastic, HiFi equivalent of a Chromecast Audio. After Google stopped producing their aux-connected device which allowed WiFi streaming directly into stereos and speakers, WiiM not only came to the rescue but upgraded the format.
In 2023, Wiim dropped three high quality devices that enabled music streaming playback at high definition plugged into existing audio setups. The target audience was clearly the modern audiophile, with the convenience of music streaming but a quality deserving of good audio rigs.
Three new devices from WiiM
Three new connected devices have been announced by WiiM, including their very first smart speaker: Sound. WiiM’s Sound offers high resolution audio that adapts to your room.
A 1.8″ high-res touchscreen lets users control the device directly, displaying artwork during playback. Hands-free support from Alexa, Google Assistant, and a WiiM Voice Remote means the speaker can be used even without a phone.
Image credit: WiiM
The Sound’s technology will read your space and adapt to to it. WiiM say it “actively takes precise acoustic measurements of your room, crafting customised corrections for your audio equipment”.
Using Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and 100Mbps Ethernet, the Sound offers fast and reliable connections to allow for high definition music streaming. This is pumped through 100W of power, offering 24-bit, 192 kHz quality.
Stereo lovers can connect two WiiM Sound speakers for stereo sound or connect it up to a home theater setup as a surround or center channel speaker for Dolby 5.1 sound.
Those looking to thicken up their sound with some bass can enjoy WiiM’s new Sub Pro, their very first subwoofer. The sub offers 250W of power with a frequency range of 25-200Hz to provide rich low end no matter how deep. The Sub Pro also tweaks its sound with room correction.
Image credit: WiiM
Finally, there is the WiiM Amp Ultra, their “most refined streaming amplifier yet”. The Amp Ultra connects up to speakers offering power and high-definition playback from streaming services.
A 3.5 inch touchscreen on the front provides a visual counterpart to streaming playback with album art and touch control. The amp also supports voice control with a bundled wireless remote, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
The Amp Ultra features dual antennas for a strong WiFi connection that enables high-res music playback. The amp delivers 100W of power to each channel for up to four passive speakers. The Amp Ultra connects conveniently up to the Sub Pro for a powerful, interconnected sound.
Image credit: WiiM