Are all streamers the same?

Not wanting to whip a dead horse, but I didn’t see anyone mention the fact that some streamers have better clock chips than others, so a bit less jitter is always a good thing, even if it borders on the inaudible.

The other issue is to make sure if you are feeding a DAC from a streamer, and if the clock chip in your DAC is better, that it is doing the driving and not the clock in the streamer. i.e. Use whichever provides the less jitter. Sometimes in order to get that to work you have to use USB or another input. Or even a DDC. As @jji666  states, experiment to see what sounds best to you. 

We can hope that more expensive streamers use better clock chips and provide "cleaner" output, but YMMV.

Regarding WiiM, they have been very good about upgrading software based on user feedback, far more than some "high end" streamer companies. They know the Ultra had some issues at rollout and are working on them. At least they aren’t Sonos. LOL.

I’ve compared their O/S with that of a friend’s Bluesound Node 2, and I find WiiM’s just as good if not better. [I don’t use Roon].

Software bugs are one reason I generally wait about 6 months before jumping on any new device. Manufacturing quality also generally gets better over time as changes are made in the assembly line process. I plan on buying one around Christmas to feed an external DAC via USB, hoping by then most software bugs will be worked out.

I have three of their cheaper products feeding "cheap but better" external DACs (Schiit Modi) in a few systems (garage, outbuilding, and bedroom) and for the most part I have had no problems using them over the last couple years. I’m using Android and Windows PCs. I have no idea how well they play with iOS or Macs.

I have built several PC servers - the most recent being a 2box one with a paul hynes PSU. It sounds considerably better than the earlier builds easily challenging my vinyl for sound quality. Recently obtained a Grimm MU1 which is better again, the; flow, separation, energy and clarity improved. The USP being AES rather than usb to DAC conection and very sophisticated clocking of the output signal.

It sounds even better when used as an end point from my PC server.

I like the analogy to cars. A whole lot of marketing but essentially all the same.  Numerous superficial differences yet what matters most is where you drive in the car, whether it gets good fuel, and of course reliability. To quote Paul Simon, “cars are cars all over the world.”

Think of it this way:

Digital streamers are no more necessarily the same than the digital mastering that goes into making the digital recordings.  

It’s all digital!  Pretty much anything is possible. Especially when software is involved which it always is. 

Not all audio streamers are the same, and they can indeed sound different. Here are a few key factors that contribute to these differences:

1. Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): The quality of the DAC inside the streamer can significantly impact sound quality. Higher-end streamers often have better DACs, which can produce clearer and more detailed audio.
2. Build Quality and Components: The materials and components used in the construction of the streamer, such as capacitors and resistors, can affect the sound. High-quality components can reduce noise and distortion.
3. Software and Firmware: The software and firmware that manage the streaming process can also influence sound quality. Some streamers have better algorithms for handling digital signals, leading to improved audio performance.
4. Connectivity Options: The types of connections available (e.g., Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB) and their quality can impact the stability and quality of the audio signal.

Regarding the power supply, it plays a crucial role in the performance of an audio streamer:

• Noise and Interference: A high-quality power supply can reduce electrical noise and interference, which can otherwise degrade the audio signal. This is particularly important for sensitive audio equipment.
• Stability: A stable power supply ensures that the streamer operates consistently, which can help maintain sound quality. Fluctuations in power can introduce noise and affect the performance of the internal components.
• Isolation: Some high-end streamers use isolated power supplies to prevent interference from other devices. This isolation can lead to a cleaner and more accurate sound.

In summary, while all audio streamers serve the same basic function, their design, components, and power supply can lead to noticeable differences in sound quality. If you’re looking for the best possible audio experience, it’s worth considering these factors when choosing a streamer123.

CoPilot.