Affordable DAC's to use with WiiM mini?

[AndrewF]

Suggestions for an inexpensive DAC to pair with a WiiM mini, for a secondary hifi setup? Something better quality than the DAC that comes with the mini, ideally with RCA outputs.

And, also- is this truly needed (ie, is the DAC in the mini good enough?)

 

[DiggyGun]

I use the Khadas Tone 1 DAC, which I find to be very good for my needs and good value too.

With regard to your second question, reviews seem to indicate that the WiiM Mini does sound better with an external DAC.

May be worth trying one on demo that you could return if you don’t find an improvement.

DG…

 

[njprrogers]

The Topping DACs seem to be quite popular. Depending on your budget, the D10S measures great at entry level. Some people prefer the Schiit Modi or ifi DACs. Lots of budget options depending on how much you want to spend.

 

[Gray]

I use the Khadas Tone 1 DAC

So do I.
It is great value, with USB and coax inputs.
But (unless I'm mistaken) the Wiim Mini has neither of those outputs.

 

[DiggyGun]

So do I.
It is great value, with USB and coax inputs.
But (unless I'm mistaken) the Wiim Mini has neither of those outputs.

You could use a 3.5mm Mini Jack to Coax cable for the connection.

DG…

 

[Al ears]

You could use a 3.5mm Mini Jack to Coax cable for the connection.

DG…

For a digital signal I wouldn't consider this the best way.

 

[AndrewF]

So do I.
It is great value, with USB and coax inputs.
But (unless I'm mistaken) the Wiim Mini has neither of those outputs.

thanks. I think the Schiit Modi with optical fits my needs, if I decide an external DAC is needed.

 

[Witterings]

Topping E30 is worth a look as well, that's what I used before upgrading my amp with a good onboard dac.

 

[Gray]

You could use a 3.5mm Mini Jack to Coax cable for the connection.

DG…

How would a cable work when the KTB needs electrical digital and the Wiim Mini gives optical only?

(But Andrew is probably going for a Schiit anyway).

 

[nopiano]

(But Andrew is probably going for a Schiit anyway).

 

[AndrewF]

Don’t give me this schiit

 

[newworld]

I'm using the Schiit Modi 3 just because I have one, and it sounds very good. However, these days iFi probably makes the best add-on DAC's and components.

 

[DiggyGun]

How would a cable work when the KTB needs electrical digital and the Wiim Mini gives optical only?

(But Andrew is probably going for a Schiit anyway).

Thanks for clarifying that.

(Hope he enjoys his Schiit).

DG…

 

[Witterings]

Think the OP's long since gone but noticed some CA DacMagic 100's Open Box but Never Used discounted on e-bay, they've sold a few but still had 4 in stock so I'm guessing the never used may be genuine ... thought I#d mention in case anybody else stumbled on this thread and was looking for a half decent budget Dac.

 

[AndrewF]

Think the OP's long since gone but noticed some CA DacMagic 100's Open Box but Never Used discounted on e-bay, they've sold a few but still had 4 in stock so I'm guessing the never used may be genuine ... thought I#d mention in case anybody else stumbled on this thread and was looking for a half decent budget Dac.

No, I’m following. Thanks. I’m listening to the WiiM for now. It sounds better than the Airport, although there are obviously two variables (lossless/Hi Res source now). I’m not certain the integrated amp and speakers it is feeding into warrant more source upgrading.

 

[Witterings]

No, I’m following. Thanks. I’m listening to the WiiM for now. It sounds better than the Airport, although there are obviously two variables (lossless/Hi Res source now). I’m not certain the integrated amp and speakers it is feeding into warrant more source upgrading.

What is the amp / speakers ... maybe we can help you empty your wallet those as well

 

[AndrewF]

What is the amp / speakers ... maybe we can help you empty your wallet those as well

‘it’s in my signature. A secondary system in the bedroom, used often but not terribly critically. And it’s pretty decent actually.

 

[Fandango Andy]

A little late to this, so you have probably already got what you are looking for. I started with the internal DAC. I then tried a £20 fiio I had lying around. It did improve slightly on the internal DAC so I knew there was room to improve.

I settled on an SMSL SU-1 really happy with the results. Clear open sound. Mainly using with Amazon music. As good as CD at worst, generally better.