New DAC after Wiim

[HansD-NL]

Watch cheap,audio man on YouTube and others

Exactly as I (we) expected. Expectation bias or mismatched levels as Burnside said. Please do enjoy the music and free yourself from charlatans selling fairy dust. Ask any real (audio) Pro, they will roll their eyes because they know the subject and the truth.

 

[HansD-NL]

Would guess that's the opposite case as the RME when used as a preamp would apply better audio execution than on the WiiM Ultra.

Yes, I own the RME. It's simply outstanding on all inputs.

"better audio execution" does not mean anything but I agree that the RME is the Swiss army knife of DAC's for multiple reasons, all their products are outstanding and very well engineered.

 

[Thermik]

I have a Topping E70 Velvet (with AKM 4499) connected to my Wiim Ultra Streamer via USB. The output from there is RCA to 2x Fosi ZA3 (mono) with Sparkos SS3602 drivers. For me, it's the optimal setup, at least for my ears and my wallet.

 

[Horsey]

"better audio execution" does not mean anything but I agree that the RME is the Swiss army knife of DAC's for multiple reasons, all their products are outstanding and very well engineered.

Better audio execution = better sound.

 

[dangermouse]

Better audio execution = better sound.

Why use three words when two would suffice?

 

[mlsstl]

Not mentioned by anyone yet is that the WiiM Ultra's line out is single-ended RCA. The OP indicated that he is using the balanced XLR outputs of the Mimir. Balanced outputs typically have double the voltage output of single-end. Depending on the input circuits of the preamp that could affect the perceived sound. If nothing else, the volume control may be in a quite different spot for each of the DACs. And then there is always the issue of trying to get an exact level match where comparing two devices. Even a very slight difference in volume level between the two will affect what one hears.