Request to Compare WiiM Pro Plus and Model 40n via AirPlay2

A reader recently commented that the sound quality of WiiM Pro via its dedicated app seems inferior to that of AirPlay2, and requested a comparison between the sound of WiiM Pro Plus using AirPlay2 and Model 40n

In response, we set up the WiiM Pro Plus in an optimal environment using a battery + TAIS adapter and optical isolation with Sonore. We then compared its sound to that of Model 40n connected via Wi-Fi for network playback. The conditions heavily favor the WiiM Pro.

From the WiiM Pro Plus, we used analog output with the BJ-Electric ML-RH. The LAN setup and analog cables alone cost more than three WiiM Pro Pluses.

The tracks we listened to included:

"Dangerous" on Amazon Music Ultimate. While it's technically Hi-Res Lossless, it gets downconverted to 44.1kHz 16-bit through AirPlay2.

Sound Quality Analysis

Upon listening, the sound felt noticeably sparse. At least in my setup, the audio via the dedicated WiiM app had better high-frequency extension, more details, and superior separation compared to AirPlay2. However, the difference wasn't as vast as expected, though the detail level did vary significantly.

The issue might be less about 44.1kHz itself and more about the downconversion accuracy or inherent limitations of AirPlay2's sound quality.

Next, we compared AirPlay2 sound with that of Model 40n via HEOS. The network conditions are overwhelmingly in favor of WiiM Pro.

Comparison with Model 40n

There's no contest here. The difference is apparent from the very first sound effect—identifiable within five seconds. HEOS delivers superior detail, clarity, soundstage, and spatiality. This playback truly highlighted Michael Jackson's brilliance in a way WiiM Pro Plus could not. The WiiM's sound only conveyed about half of Jackson's intricate audio work, primarily due to poor sound separation. Some might prefer the forward sound of WiiM Pro Plus via AirPlay2, but the separation issue remains.

Finally, we connected Model 40n to a wired LAN using the Sonore Optical Module. The result? Simply phenomenal. WiiM Pro cannot match this quality.

For a test, we then played AirPlay2 on Model 40n. The sound quality was good, but the spatiality suffered. Nevertheless, it was significantly better than WiiM's AirPlay2.

Listening to Amazon Music HD on Model 40n felt like a privilege—a delight to experience such sound quality at this price point.

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