Wiim Ultra streaming vs. Onkyo NR 6100 built-in streaming

[GregW]

Recently I upgraded from an 17 or so year-old Onkyo TX-SR605 so I could pass along 4K (and 8K) video signals, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X to my tv and 5.1 speaker setup so I picked up a Onkyo TX-NR6100.

The receiver comes with a bevy of streaming sites built in including Google Cast/Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Airplay 2, BT, play from USB, DNLA/network, Roon, wifi, Amazon Music, Pandora, Tidal, Tunein, Deezer and maybe more.

So far i've just used my phone a few times to stream via BT to the receiver and also used the Wiim to stream on the same service (Spotify) to the Ultra connected to the AVR.

The Wiim Ultra is an awesome streaming box/preamp. I now however realize that outside of the screen showing what is playing, it possibly does not offer really anything more than my AVR does.... is the sound/DAC supposedly better with the Wiim leading to better sounding music? (subjective question i know).

If it really doesn't add any features I might sell the Wiim if I conclude it doesn't really sound better as it seems like 100% of what is does is already built into my AVR.

Any thoughts on this much appreciated. thanks!

 

[Mr Ee]

Welcome.

Possibly depends on what you stream and how much you like / dislike the Heos app.
You specifically mentioned Spotify, so no real difference there as for both you're presumably using the spotify app and spotify connect.

re the sound difference, yes, only you can decide.
From what you've written and how you've used it, it does seem that the ultra is a little redundant.

 

[WiiM Team]

Hi GregW,

Thank you for sharing your setup details!​

Your Onkyo TX-NR6100 paired with the WiiM Ultra is already a fantastic AV system. Regarding whether to keep or sell the WiiM Ultra, here are some key factors to consider:

Features & Experience​

• Streaming Capabilities: While your Onkyo AVR includes many built-in streaming services, WiiM Ultra offers higher-resolution audio support (such as TIDAL MQA and Qobuz 24-bit streaming) and provides a smoother multi-room audio management experience through the WiiM Home app.
• User Experience: The WiiM Ultra has a dedicated display for track information, eliminating the need to rely on your TV or AVR UI. Additionally, the WiiM Home app is often more intuitive and convenient for managing music playback.

Integration & Advanced Features​

• Multi-Room Audio: If you plan to expand your system with additional speakers or zones, WiiM Ultra provides better device synchronization and audio management across multiple rooms.
• Room Correction & EQ Adjustments: WiiM Ultra supports room correction, allowing your speakers to deliver optimal sound quality in your specific listening environment. You can also customize the EQ to fine-tune the sound signature to your liking.

Smart Presets​

• WiiM Ultra allows you to create personalized Smart Presets, enabling one-tap switching of your preferred setup, including input source, output device, playback settings, volume, EQ, and shuffle mode.
• For example, you can set a "TV Mode" where the volume and EQ are automatically adjusted for an optimal movie-watching experience, making it more convenient and efficient.

Overall, WiiM Ultra adds value through better audio quality, room tuning, flexible control, and advanced streaming capabilities. If these features enhance your experience, it’s still a great addition beyond what your AVR offers.

Best regards,
WiiM

 

[GregW]

thank you both for answering! I have been wanting to see how much better Tidal MQA or Quobuz 24 bit sound as i've never heard a high-res streaming track before.

I pretty much only use Spotify and Soundcloud for streaming so my AVR may be sufficient by itself unless I decide to pay for Tidal/Qobuz.

I appreciate the insight as to my setup and question and very helpful replies .