A comparison of the best WiFi/Bluetooth streaming amplifiers of 2026

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Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled amplifiers let you listen to music online from a wide variety of services, as well as audio files shared on a home network or played directly from an iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. Many streaming amplifiers also support multi-room audio, allowing you to fill your entire home with sound. This comparative guide will help you find the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth amplifier best suited to your needs, budget, and speakers by offering a selection of the best streaming amplifiers of 2026.

Why choose a streaming amplifier?

Now considered essential, streaming hi-fi amplifiers combine high-performance sound with great ease of use. They integrate amplification, analog and digital connectivity (optical, HDMI, USB, etc.), and music streaming management, eliminating the need for multiple separate components (network player, DAC, amplifier, etc.). Entry-level models typically feature a simple Bluetooth connection for streaming music from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. The latest generation of smart amplifiers uses Wi-Fi to deliver CD-quality playback via AirPlay 2 or Chromecast, while also providing access to files shared on a NAS server, internet radio stations, and all major streaming services.

Modern and versatile, connected hi-fi amplifiers combine amplification, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and, in many cases, a full range of connectors in a single device, allowing you to enjoy both physical media and streamed music with ease. They’re easy to control using the remote, a mobile app, and even their touchscreen for the most feature-rich models, such as the WiiM Amp Ultra shown here.

You can also opt for an AV receiver, which offers many of these connectivity features while providing even greater versatility. With their multiple HDMI inputs, support for multichannel audio formats, and automatic calibration features, AV receivers can power everything from a stereo hi-fi system to a full home theater setup. This makes them ideal for versatile systems, although their sound reproduction in a pure hi-fi listening environment is slightly less refined than that of a dedicated stereo amplifier.

The best WiFi/Bluetooth amplifiers under €400

Connected amplifiers under €400 are an ideal entry point into modern hi-fi. Typically compact, they fit easily into a cabinet, on a desk, or next to a TV, making them discreet solutions for providing sound in a living space without clutter. Their power output, often modest, makes them best suited for driving a pair of bookshelf speakers or high-sensitivity floorstanding speakers in small to medium-sized rooms.

Tangent Ampster BT III: the best mini Bluetooth amp

The Tangent Ampster BT III streaming amplifier packs the essentials of modern hi-fi into an ultra-compact design. Compatible with Bluetooth aptX HD for streaming digital music, it also supports all your wired sources, including a turntable and a TV via HDMI ARC. It’s the ideal solution for powering a pair of bookshelf speakers positioned perfectly on either side of the TV.

50 W into 4 ohms, Bluetooth aptX HD, 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, RCA, optical, phono, and HDMI ARC inputs

Available for less than €200, the Tangent Ampster BT III is designed for users looking for a compact, easy-to-use stereo amplifier suited to modern needs. With 2 x 50 W into 4 ohms, it can power a pair of bookshelf speakers or small floorstanding speakers to fill an office or a room under 20 m² with sound. The built-in Bluetooth 5.1 receiver supports the aptX-HD codec for CD-quality streaming (up to 24-bit/48 kHz) from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Despite its compact size, this amplifier also offers a wide range of connectors, including two RCA inputs, one of which can be switched to phono mode to connect a turntable, an optical input for a CD player, and, most importantly, an HDMI ARC port for the TV (allowing the TV remote to control the amp’s audio). Designed for hassle-free everyday use, with automatic power-on when a signal is detected, the Tangent Ampster BT III is the natural choice for boosting your TV’s sound and building an affordable hi-fi system.

WiiM Amp: the best-seller

Ultra-compact and connected, the WiiM Amp hi-fi amplifier combines amplification, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth streaming, and HDMI ARC in a single device. It provides access to streaming services, local tracks, internet radios, and wired sources, including a TV via HDMI ARC. Everything can be easily controlled via its mobile app or by voice.

60 W into 8 ohms, Bluetooth, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, streaming services, DLNA, 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, RCA, optical, and HDMI ARC inputs

A true best-seller in its category, the WiiM Amp is a compact class D amplifier capable of delivering a comfortable 60 W into 8 ohms or 120 W into 4 ohms with energy and clarity. With excellent efficiency, it can effectively power a pair of bookshelf speakers or small floorstanding speakers. Its major advantage lies in its integration with the LinkPlay ecosystem, which provides access to the vast majority of streaming services, including Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Amazon Music, and Qobuz. It can also play tracks up to 24-bit/192 kHz shared over the local network via DLNA and stream music through AirPlay 2, Chromecast, or Bluetooth. The connectors include four inputs: one RCA, one optical, one USB-A for playing audio files stored on a USB device, and one HDMI ARC for a TV. Very easy to use, this amplifier can be conveniently controlled using the included remote, via the excellent WiiM mobile app, or by voice thanks to its compatibility with voice assistants.

Priced at just €370, this latest-generation hi-fi amplifier benefits from a well-thought-out pricing strategy, leaving no room for competition—which simply doesn’t exist in this segment. In fact, to date, no all-in-one network player/amplifier is as feature-rich at this price point, nor as powerful…

On-Mag

Elipson Connect 250: the network amplifier designed for integration

Ideal for integrated systems and multi-room setups, the Elipson Connect 250 amplifier can be installed directly behind a piece of furniture, a TV, in a drop ceiling, or on a wall thanks to its compact size and included mounting bracket. It can power a pair of architectural or bookshelf speakers, allowing you to enjoy streaming services and wireless playback.

30 W into 8 ohms, Bluetooth, streaming services, DLNA, 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, 3.5 mm mini-jack input

The Elipson Connect 250 is designed for users looking for an amplifier that’s easy to integrate and primarily intended for digital files and streaming. Its ultra-compact design and mounting bracket allow it to be installed directly on the back of a piece of furniture, a TV, in a wall cavity, or mounted on the wall, making it the ideal solution for minimalist setups, integration projects, or discreet systems in a living room, bedroom, or office. It comes with an infrared repeater, so it can be easily controlled with the included remote even when completely hidden: an essential feature for invisible installations. With an amplification rating of 2 x 30 W into 8 ohms or 2 x 50 W into 4 ohms, it is ideally suited for powering a pair of architectural speakers or bookshelf speakers.

Based on the same LinkPlay ecosystem as the WiiM amplifiers, the Elipson Connect 250 can access most streaming services, tracks shared on the local network, and Bluetooth streaming. However, its connectors are more limited, featuring a single 3.5 mm mini-jack input for connecting a CD player or a pre-amplified turntable, for example. With multi-room compatibility, it’s also ideal for enjoying music on a secondary system.

Sony STR-DH190: the most powerful Bluetooth amplifier

Powerful and affordable, the Sony STR-DH190 amplifier is ideal for easily powering bookshelf or floorstanding speakers while enjoying Bluetooth streaming from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. It will appeal to fans of transparent, dynamic sound.

100 W into 8 ohms, Bluetooth, five RCA inputs (including one MM phono input), headphone output, A + B speaker terminals

Capable of delivering up to 2 x 100 W, the Sony STR-DH190 is by far the most powerful streaming amplifier under €400. It can effectively power a wide range of bookshelf and floorstanding speakers, even in a large living room. In addition, its dual A + B driver outputs allow you to power up to two pairs of speakers simultaneously or independently—enough to provide sound for a secondary room or an outdoor area. In terms of features, this Sony network amplifier includes a Bluetooth receiver for wireless music playback, an FM tuner for radio, and five analog RCA inputs, including a phono input for connecting a turntable. For private listening sessions, a jack for headphones is located on the front panel.

Note from the expert
When using two pairs of speakers simultaneously (A + B), the amplifier must drive a larger electrical load. In most amplifiers, the A and B terminals are wired so that the impedances add up in parallel. In practical terms, two pairs of 8-ohm speakers connected simultaneously can reduce the total impedance to 4 ohms, which requires much more current from the amplifier. It is therefore important to check that the load is compatible before using two pairs of speakers.

The best streaming amplifiers under €1,000

At this price point, network amplifiers offer greater versatility thanks to a much more comprehensive set of connectors, capable of centralizing all audio sources—both digital and analog. Power output is also increased thanks to generously sized power supplies that provide a greater power reserve, enabling the amplifier to drive any type of speaker with greater authority and precision. These latest-generation Wi-Fi/Bluetooth amplifiers also offer greater refinement, both in terms of sound quality and component quality, delivering a more precise, stable, and musical listening experience for everyday use.

Marantz M-CR612: the ultra-versatile all-in-one amplifier

Ideal for setting up a compact all-in-one hi-fi system, the Marantz M-CR612 amplifier features its own network player, an FM/DAB tuner, a CD player, and a full range of connectivity options for anyone looking for a ready-to-use hi-fi system compatible with any audio source

60 W into 6 ohms, AirPlay, Bluetooth, streaming services, internet radio, 24-bit/192 kHz DLNA, CD player, FM/DAB tuner, A + B speaker terminals

The Marantz M-CR612 is an all-in-one amplifier that will be particularly appealing to those who want a complete hi-fi system that’s easy to set up and doesn’t require separate components. It combines an amplifier, CD player, network player, FM/DAB+ tuner, and streaming capabilities in a single compact unit designed for versatility. Thanks to its built-in CD player (compatible with CD, CD-R/RW, and MP3/WMA on CD) and support for high-resolution digital files (WAV/FLAC/ALAC up to 24-bit/192 kHz, DSD), you can continue to enjoy your physical music collection while taking advantage of the convenience of digital streaming.

Thanks to the Heos ecosystem, the Marantz M-CR612 Wi-Fi amplifier can access major streaming services (Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, Spotify, etc.), internet radio stations via TuneIn, music shared on the local network, as well as AirPlay and Bluetooth streaming. Its connectors support up to four sources, including a USB device, and can power four speakers.

A good balance between CD, DAB radio, and internet. Compact design. Good power output. Meets my expectations. Easy to set up via Wi-Fi. My only minor regret is that the USB port isn’t on the front panel.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review posted by PhilPVM on Son-Vidéo.com

Sonos Amp: the multi-room solution

Compact, powerful, and ultra-connected, the Sonos Amp Bluetooth/Wi-Fi amplifier transforms any speakers into a Sonos or AirPlay 2 multi-room streaming system. It’s ideal for streaming music throughout your home and easily enjoying TV audio through a pair of speakers.

125 W into 8 ohms, AirPlay 2, streaming services, internet radios, DLNA, multi-room, HDMI ARC and RCA, wireless surround sound supported

The Sonos Amp is designed primarily for those looking for a compact, powerful, and highly connected amplifier. With its generous 125 W per channel of power into 8 ohms, it can drive everything from bookshelf speakers to floorstanding and outdoor speakers, delivering transparent, dynamic, and well-balanced sound. A pioneer in multi-room audio, this Sonos amplifier transforms passive speakers into part of a full Sonos network, with the ability to sync them with other Sonos devices or AirPlay 2 throughout the home. This lets you enjoy music in every room of the house and even in the garden, all easily controlled via the excellent Sonos mobile app. The latter provides access to music services like Tidal, Qobuz, Apple Music, and more, as well as tracks shared over the network via DLNA and internet radio stations. Connectors include an RCA input for connecting a pre-amplified turntable or CD player, as well as an HDMI ARC input for the TV. You can even pair it with a set of Sonos Era 100 or Sonos Era 300 wireless speakers for surround sound. An excellent, flexible solution, perfect for music, movies and TV shows!

Marantz Stereo 70s: a network AV receiver

With its HDMI 2.1 ports and ultra-slim design, the Marantz Stereo 70s fits naturally under a TV. It stands out as a stylish and high-performance alternative to a regular AV receiver, delivering high-quality stereo sound for both music and TV programs.

75 W into 8 ohms, AirPlay 2, streaming services, internet radio, 24-bit/192 kHz DLNA, HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs supports 4K at 120 fps and 8K at 60 fps

A cross between a traditional hi-fi amplifier and an AVR, the Marantz Stereo 70s was designed to serve as the heart of a modern audio-video system and enhance the sound of your TV. It stands out in particular for its comprehensive HDMI connectivity, with a total of six inputs, three of which are HDMI 2.1-compatible, as well as an HDMI eARC output that allows you to centralize all your sources. Gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming boxes, and media players can all be connected simultaneously while supporting video signals up to 4K at 120 frames per second and 8K at 60 frames per second. Gaming-specific features, such as VRR, QFT, and ALLM, are also included to ensure a smooth and responsive experience.

Its hi-fi focus is evident in its carefully designed audio section, which includes several analog inputs, including a phono input for an MM cartridge so you can get the most out of a turntable. Delivering 2 x 75 watts into 8 ohms via the brand’s proprietary HDAM amplification stages, this amp is perfectly capable of driving a pair of reasonably demanding bookshelf or floorstanding speakers. The inclusion of two subwoofer outputs also adds depth and impact to the bass, perfect for driving the rhythm of action scenes.

EverSolo Play CD: the connected amplifier with a touchscreen

With its large touchscreen, the EverSolo Play CD amplifier brings a modern twist to the living room stereo system by offering intuitive music control while enhancing the listening experience with a variety of interactive features. It supports most of the latest streaming standards, features its own CD player with a ripping function, and offers a full range of connectors, including HDMI ARC for connecting to a TV.

60 W into 8 ohms, streaming services, internet radio, 32-bit/768 kHz DLNA, HDMI ARC, RCA, and phono inputs, touchscreen

As a leading expert in network players, EverSolo presents an enhanced version of its signature design here. This latest-generation model stands out for its large front-panel touchscreen, which allows for seamless navigation through various streaming apps, the local library, and numerous settings, including customizable equalizers and DSPs. During playback, it can display album art, a spectrum meter, or various VU meters to enhance the listening experience. The amplifier can also be controlled remotely using the excellent EverSolo mobile app, which lets you browse sources, select tracks, start streaming songs, and adjust the volume without leaving your couch.

The CD version of this amplifier also has the advantage of including a player for physical discs, with the option to rip them for easy listening later. Finally, the extensive selection of connectors includes several USB ports for connecting flash drives and hard drives, two RCA inputs, one of which is a phono input for connecting a turntable, as well as three digital inputs, including an HDMI ARC port to connect a TV. With an output of 60 W into 8 ohms, it’s best paired with a pair of bookshelf speakers or small floorstanding speakers with good sensitivity.

The Eversolo Play proves that an all-in-one system can balance versatility, modern design, and high-end sound quality. From its robust aluminum chassis and vibrant 5.5-inch touchscreen to its expansive input options and seamless app integration, the Play offers an experience that’s as intuitive as it is refined.

Major HiFi

The best streaming amplifiers under €2,000

With amplifiers priced between €1,000 and €2,000, you enter a decidedly high-end category. The quality of the components continues to improve, as does the attention paid to power supplies and amplification stages, resulting in greater finesse, richness, and nuance in the sound. These models also offer enhanced functionality, with higher-performance DACs and, in the most feature-rich models, full acoustic calibration systems with an external microphone to optimize the sound reproduction based on the listening environment. A selection curated for discerning music lovers seeking musicality, precision, and absolute versatility.

Yamaha R-N1000A: the streaming amplifier with automatic calibration

Powerful and intelligent, the Yamaha R-N1000A combines streaming, hi-fi amplification, and microphone-based acoustic calibration to deliver a listening experience perfectly tailored to your living room. With its powerful 100 W output into 8 ohms, it drives a wide range of bookshelf and floorstanding speakers with dynamism and clarity.

100 W into 8 ohms, streaming services, internet radio, 32-bit/384 kHz DLNA, HDMI ARC input, USB-B, RCA, and phono inputs, microphone calibration

The Yamaha R-N1000A network amplifier is designed for music lovers looking for a solution that can adapt perfectly to their speakers and listening environment. To achieve this, it utilizes YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) technology—derived from the brand’s AV receivers—to perform high-precision acoustic calibration in stereo. It comes with a microphone that you simply place at your listening position so the amplifier can analyze the specific characteristics of the listening room and the speakers to adjust its settings accordingly. The Yamaha R-N1000A Wi-Fi/Bluetooth amplifier works in tandem with the RSC (Reflected Sound Control) system to control sound reflections in the room. This makes this latest-generation Yamaha amplifier an excellent choice for those who want optimal sound quality without having to manually adjust the equalizer or speaker placement.

With its generous power output of 2 x 100 W RMS into 8 ohms, this Yamaha amplifier can drive both bookshelf and floorstanding speakers. Its balanced architecture with ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) topology ensures a dynamic, transparent, and faithful sound reproduction across a wide frequency range from 10 Hz to 100 kHz. Equipped with the brand’s musicCast multi-room ecosystem, the Yamaha R-N1000A amplifier is compatible with AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, and DLNA/UPnP, and can access web radio stations as well as most streaming services. Connectors are plentiful, and include HDMI ARC for TV, USB-B for computers, optical/coaxial, RCA, and even a phono input for a turntable.

Tonewinner AD-86D: the class A connected amplifier

As one of the rare, high-power (2×120 W into 8 ohms) class A network amplifiers available, the Tonewinner AD-86D delivers an exceptionally smooth and transparent sound reproduction. Fully featured, it includes a 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, a Bluetooth receiver, and multiple analog and digital inputs for easily connecting all the sources in a modern high-end hi-fi system.

120 W into 8 ohms, Bluetooth, 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, HDMI ARC, micro-USB, RCA, optical, and coaxial inputs

The Tonewinner AD-86D connected amplifier brings class A performance within reach; a quality long reserved for very high-end audiophile models. Thanks to this technology, it can deliver a powerful output of 2 x 120 W into 8 ohms in class A with natural, smooth, and warm sound. Its large toroidal transformer, coupled with massive capacitors providing a total continuous capacitance of over 57,400 μF, ensures dynamic sound reproduction and perfect control over the speakers, even floorstanding speakers equipped with large woofers.

When it comes to connectivity, the Tonewinner AD-86D amplifier doesn’t disappoint: an HDMI ARC input for connecting to a TV, a built-in DAC compatible with 24-bit/192 kHz + DSD, USB, optical, and coaxial inputs, a micro-SD card reader for direct file playback, as well as three analog RCA inputs and dual subwoofer outputs. Finally, you can stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth thanks to the built-in receiver.

With the Tonewinner AD-86D amplifier, the Chinese brand has made a real splash in the hi-fi market by offering a powerful, generously equipped pure class A amplifier that is surprisingly affordable considering its performance. Listening to this amplifier, its performance lives up to its technical promises: deep, controlled bass, a richly textured midrange, precise, silky highs, all supported by a broad, well-constructed soundstage. Thanks to its extraordinary power handling capacity, the Tonewinner AD-86D manages to combine refinement and energy, for a listening experience that’s as lively as it is captivating.

Excerpt from our review of the Tonewinner AD-86D.
Note from the expert
Acoustic calibration allows an amplifier to automatically adapt the sound to the room using a measurement microphone. It corrects resonance, imbalances, and issues related to speaker placement to achieve a more balanced, precise, and natural listening experience, without complex adjustments. This is a major advantage for reverberant rooms and those without any acoustic treatments.

The best high-end streaming amplifiers

With high-end connected amplifiers, you get the very best in design, musicality, and technological integration. Every element is designed without compromise: carefully selected components, huge power supplies, ultra-precise amplification stages, and top-tier DACs all contribute to a strikingly realistic sound reproduction. These exceptional components are designed to reveal all the subtleties of the finest recordings and to integrate seamlessly into the heart of the most sophisticated hi-fi systems, powering even the most demanding speakers.

Naim Uniti Atom HDMI: design and musicality

A true embodiment of Naim’s expertise, the Uniti Atom HDMI combines carefully selected components with a premium aluminum-machined design. Its impeccable finish, stunning color display, glass volume knob, and high-precision amplification make this network amplifier as pleasing to the eye as it is to the ear—designed for the most demanding stereo systems.

40 W into 8 ohms, AirPlay, Chromecast, Bluetooth, streaming services, 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, HDMI ARC, USB, RCA, optical, and coaxial inputs, display

An iconic model from the British manufacturer, the Naim Uniti Atom HDMI amplifier stands out for the quality of its components, starting with an oversized toroidal power supply that effortlessly powers most speakers on the market, despite its modest output of 40 W into 8 ohms in Class A/B. This network amplifier also stands out for its compact size and stylish design, featuring a large, backlit volume knob on the bottom and a large 5-inch (12.7 cm) LCD screen on the front (non-touch). The display can show current playback information as well as audio file metadata (album art, artist, title, etc.). The amplifier can also be controlled via a mobile app available for iOS and Android.

When it comes to streaming, the Naim Uniti Atom HDMI network amplifier supports all major protocols, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth aptX, AirPlay, Chromecast, DLNA/UPnP, and makes it easy to access services such as Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, and Internet radio, as well as a local library stored on a USB drive. It features a 24-bit/192 kHz-compatible DAC, accepts major digital sources (optical, coaxial, USB, HDMI ARC), and includes an analog input for a turntable, for example. It thus offers an all-in-one solution for those seeking a compact, exceptionally well-designed amplifier capable of centralizing all audio sources (streaming, TV, local files, physical sources) without compromising on sound quality or usability.

Marantz Model 40n: Marantz musicality in the age of streaming

A premium network amplifier that combines hi-fi tradition with modern technology, the Marantz Model 40n captivates with its warm, musical sound and 70 W of power into 8 ohms, making it equally well-suited for bookshelf and floorstanding speakers. It’s also ideal for enjoying Hi-Res streaming as well as wired sources such as a turntable or a TV.

70 W into 8 ohms, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, streaming services, 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, HDMI ARC, USB-A, RCA, phono, optical, and coaxial inputs

A true showcase of the brand’s expertise in connected amplification, the Marantz Model 40n embodies the perfect balance between hi-fi tradition and modernity. It features a class AB architecture combined with the renowned HDAM modules, a generously sized toroidal transformer, and a large power supply, all of which ensure musicality, dynamism, and stability. This audiophile foundation is enhanced by a built-in DAC supporting PCM up to 24-bit/192 kHz and DSD, as well as comprehensive network connectivity via the HEOS platform. The amplifier provides access to major streaming services, internet radios, and wireless streaming via AirPlay 2, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and DLNA/UPnP.

Its range of connectors, reflecting its ambitions, includes optical and coaxial digital inputs, an MM phono input for a turntable, a USB-A port for playing audio files from an external device, and an HDMI ARC input designed to retrieve and output audio from a TV. Designed to take full advantage of all these sources, the Marantz Model 40n delivers up to 2 x 70 W into 8 ohms, with a sound that is warm, natural, and rich in harmonics—capable of enhancing both music and TV audio.

The design, the build quality, the ease of use […] – it’s a lovely piece of kit. The Marantz is also admirable in its large-scale, rich, punchy yet relaxed delivery.

What Hi-Fi? ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Atoll SDA200 Signature: French connected hi-fi

The Atoll SDA200 Signature amplifier combines high-precision balanced amplification with a top-of-the-line power supply and DAC section to get the most out of both streaming and wired sources. It delivers a highly neutral, dynamic, and transparent sound with any pair of speakers thanks to its very high power output of 120 W into 8 ohms.

120 W into 8 ohms, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, streaming services, 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, optical, coaxial, RCA, and USB inputs

The Atoll SDA200 Signature Wi-Fi amplifier is designed for music lovers seeking a true all-in-one device that makes no compromises on quality. Designed and assembled in France, it embodies the entire Atoll philosophy: short circuit paths, discrete components, oversized power supplies, and a carefully engineered symmetrical architecture. It features dual push-pull amplification using MOS-FET transistors, powered by two independent toroidal transformers and massive filtering capability. This configuration delivers a powerful 120 W into 8 ohms with a high current reserve, remarkable dynamic range, and exemplary control of even the most demanding speakers.

In addition to its high-performance amplification, the Atoll SDA200 Signature features a high-end 24-bit/192 kHz DAC, analog stages built with hand-selected components, a thick aluminum chassis that minimizes vibration, and circuit paths designed to minimize interference. This meticulous design results in a transparent, natural, and extremely stable listening experience while retaining the convenience of a streaming amplifier, with AirPlay 2, DLNA, and Roon compatibility, as well as direct access to numerous streaming services, including Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and Amazon Music.

Note from the expert 
The power supply is the true driving force behind a hi-fi amplifier: the transformer, capacitors, and current capacity directly determine the dynamics, bass response, stability, and finesse of the sound. A generous power supply allows the amplifier to deliver instantaneous power without compression, prevent distortion at high volumes, and ensure better control over the drivers. When amplifiers are otherwise equivalent, it is often the quality of the power supply that sets them apart.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Bluetooth amplifier and a Wi-Fi amplifier?

A Bluetooth amplifier lets you stream music directly from a smartphone quickly and easily, but the sound quality is limited by compression, and the range is shorter. A Wi-Fi amplifier connects through your home wireless network: it offers better audio quality, direct access to streaming services, multi-room capabilities, and remote control via a mobile app.

Can you use a streaming amplifier without a smartphone?

Yes, to some extent. Most streaming amplifiers can be used without a smartphone for wired sources, using the remote control or the front-panel buttons. However, when it comes to managing digital files, accessing streaming services, and multi-room functionality, a smartphone is generally still essential, as these features almost always require a dedicated app or a protocol that uses the smartphone as the source. For truly standalone use—without relying on a phone—it’s therefore advisable to opt for a connected amplifier with a built-in touchscreen, allowing you to control the music directly from the device.

Can you connect a TV to a streaming amplifier?

Yes, most modern models have an HDMI ARC/eARC input to receive audio from the TV and control the volume using the TV remote. If your amplifier doesn’t have this connector, you can still connect it to a TV using an optical digital cable.

What is a multi-room amplifier?

A multi-room system lets you stream music to multiple rooms at the same time using several devices from the same brand or devices that are compatible with each other. For example, an amplifier like the Sonos Amp can work with all Sonos speakers, while a WiiM Amp can be paired with other WiiM or AirPlay 2 products, such as Elipson, Audio Pro, or Octavio.

What is a DLNA amplifier?

A DLNA amplifier is a network-connected amplifier capable of directly playing music stored on a local network, such as music from a computer, a NAS, or a hard drive connected to the Internet router. Thanks to the DLNA/UPnP protocol, it can access the entire music library without needing to physically connect the audio source.

What is an AirPlay 2 amplifier?

An AirPlay 2 amplifier is a connected amplifier capable of receiving music wirelessly from an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV via the AirPlay 2 protocol. It lets you instantly stream all the music on your smartphone (Apple Music, Qobuz, YouTube, local files, etc.) without needing a dedicated app. AirPlay 2 also offers synchronized multi-room playback, which is ideal for streaming the same music to multiple rooms using other compatible devices.

What is a Chromecast amplifier?

A Chromecast amplifier is a streaming amplifier featuring built-in Chromecast technology, allowing you to stream music directly from a smartphone, tablet, or computer using compatible apps (Qobuz, Spotify, YouTube Music, Deezer, radio stations, etc.). Unlike Bluetooth, the music is streamed directly from the Internet to the amplifier, ensuring better sound quality, a more stable connection, and the ability to use your smartphone for other tasks while listening. Chromecast also supports multi-room playback by synchronizing music with other compatible devices in multiple rooms.

What is microphone calibration?

Microphone calibration is a feature that allows the amplifier to automatically analyze the room’s acoustics using an included or optional microphone. The amplifier emits test signals to the speakers, measures the room’s response (resonance, distances, reflections, imbalances), and then automatically adjusts the sound to achieve a more balanced, precise reproduction that is better suited to the actual listening environment. This technology is particularly useful when the room has certain limitations (close walls, large glass surfaces, suboptimal speaker placement) and helps achieve a more natural, clearer, and better-controlled sound without complex technical adjustments.

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