Ultra to Vibelink connection

[cmcc]

What's the optimal connection between the Ultra and Vibelink considering I'll use the Ultra for volume control? Analog/RCA or digital out to Vibelink? I thought I have read that analog into the Vibelink provides 100w/ch vs 60w/ch for digital inputs. I understand the Vibelink DAC is newer, but is it that much improved (and circuitry around the DAC) in the Vibelink to go for a digital input?
Thanks for any suggestions/opinions.

 

[slartibartfast]

“
Ryan: We’ve also had questions about why the rated power output for the Optical and Coaxial inputs is higher than those for the Analog RCA inputs. Can you explain what’s happening here?

The Vibelink Amp is designed with both exceptional audio quality and reliability in mind. For optical and coaxial inputs, the DAC processes digital signals directly, ensuring high precision and low distortion. This optimized processing allows the amplifier to achieve maximum output power while maintaining clean and accurate sound.

When using RCA inputs, the amplifier handles pre-processed analog signals that bypass the DAC. This ensures consistent audio clarity and avoids distortion, though it may result in slightly lower maximum output power compared to digital inputs. The amplifier also manages thermal performance carefully, ensuring safe and efficient operation regardless of connection type. Processing and receiving the analog input has a tendency to increase the temperature at high levels. We're committed to delivering rich sound and reliable performance for all devices, at an affordable price.”

Thread 'WiiM Talks Vibelink Amp Continued'

Apr 18, 2025

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After last WiiM Talk’s deep dive into Vibelink, the response from our community has been incredible. The thoughtful questions keep rolling in, and we’re thrilled to continue the conversation. To ensure we’re addressing as many of your inquiries as possible, I’ve once again sat down with the Product Manager behind Vibelink and other WiiM innovations.

In this second installment, we’ll explore more of what makes Vibelink tick, tackling your latest questions about its features, design choices, and what’s next for this exciting lineup. We're happy to keep having...

• RyanWithWiiM
• wiim talks wiim vibelink amp
• Replies: 6
• Forum: Community Spotlight

• 

Hmm, what causes increased temperature rise with an analog input? What does processing and receiving the analog input involve that causes this?

 

[LetThereBeMusic]

If you don't care about the display, the phono input, the USB input, the HDMI ARC input, the fully configurable subwoofer output with filtered main speakers and the built-in power supply you could just as well go with the WiiM Pro Plus.

You could save another ~70 bucks and go with the WiiM Pro, as you won't use its inferior DAC anyway, but the one in the WiiM Vibelink Amp.

If you want the physical WiiM remote you'll have to buy it separately for the Pro. It's less than 25 quid, so still cheaper than the Pro Plus, which comes with the remote included.

The WiiM Pro and Pro Plus also support AirPlay 2 in case this is of any importance.

Using the optical connection to the Wiim Vibelink amp, would the Wiim Mini provide the same exact functionality as the Wiim Pro for even less money?

 

[Burnside]

Using the optical connection to the Wiim Vibelink amp, would the Wiim Mini provide the same exact functionality as the Wiim Pro for even less money?

I honestly wouldn’t consider anything less than a Pro these days due to its extra connectivity and features compared to a mini. It has four times the ram and twice the number of cpu cores as the Mini so is more future proofed in my opinion. If you’re looking to save money, I’d wait for a sale. You might also want to compare the features and price of a WiiM Amp or Amp Pro v. the vibelink plus pro

 

[Mr Ee]

would the Wiim Mini provide the same exact functionality as the Wiim Pro

No, imo the lack of a trigger out on the mini is the real issue here as you either need to have bluetooth enabled and use the wiim app or reach round the back to turn the vibelink on.
As Burnside alludes to above, also depends what you want to play etc. as the mini is more limited in those respects.