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21 May 2026
FutureShop is an authorised WiiM stockist. This first-look preview was written by Stevyn Durham following an exclusive press event at Ascot hosted by WiiM, where FutureShop was among a select group of invited UK audio specialists.
Our Verdict
WiiM are building a genuinely competitive connected audio ecosystem at a price point that undercuts established names like Sonos and Bluesound. The WiiM Sound, Sub Pro, and Sound Lite extend the range into a capable 2.1 system, and their software integration with major brands like JBL, Yamaha, and Pro-ject points to a much larger ambition.
Quick Take
- WiiM's software comes from LinkPlay Technology Inc. and already powers products from JBL, Yamaha, Pro-ject, and Harman. The streaming foundation is proven and mature
- The WiiM Sound is a compact smart speaker with a circular touch display, 50W woofer, and 2x25W tweeters. It streams at 24-bit/192kHz from Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, and others
- The WiiM Sub Pro extends the system to 24 Hz via an 8-inch driver. It includes RoomFit optimisation and an analogue RCA input for connection to conventional setups
- The WiiM Sound Lite drops the screen but retains the full audio specification. A good option for wall-mounted or out-of-reach placements
- The WiiM Home app handles EQ, alarms, multi-room sync, room correction, and routing across connected devices
- A second wave of products was teased at the event. Details remain classified
A select few of the country's most esteemed hi-fi and audio specialists (and that includes us), were cordially invited to experience the new waves of WiiM products.
WiiM – if you don't know – are relatively newcomers to the connected device segment; however, (and most importantly) their expertise lies in software controlling the fastest growing area of music playback.
The streaming experience depends on rock-solid software to deliver content properly. WiiM's development team, from LinkPlay Technology Inc., have gone further and built products rivalling usual suspects like Sonos and Bluesound.
Why choose the newcomers? Well, they're incredibly inexpensive, for now. What WiiM have lined up next takes us that last step into AV.
The Products
By now, you may already be acquainted with the first wave of products. By 2026, there will be a second wave (we would tell you about those, but we could be executed).
Nonetheless, what we can show you is the shape of things to come . . . First, there were speakers. A duo of smart speakers and a choice of two wireless subwoofers.
WiiM Sound
A compact and powerful smart speaker with a high-resolution touch display screen. The screen, with its circular form factor, adds an element of distinction to the design language, with useful functionality, and who doesn't enjoy a VU meter bouncing to the rhythm of their music?
WiiM continue to offer flexibility, including a 3.5mm line input, 100 Mbps Ethernet, on top of Bluetooth 5.3 for a stable connection and Wi-Fi 6E for more bandwidth, faster speeds and lower latency.
In the Royal Enclosure Ascot room, where we heard it, the 50W 4 long-throw woofer and 2 x 25W tweeters, the sound was satisfyingly full, especially when pairing two in stereo.
Introducing the companion product, the sound got fuller still . . .
WiiM Sub Pro
There's only so low a pair of 20-centimetre-high speakers can go. And that's where the WiiM Sub Pro steps in.
The subwoofer's class D digital amplifier and 8-inch driver go down to 24 Hz. That's pretty deep bass. Set up is simple and effective with RoomFit optimisation that will integrate the subwoofer with your WiiM Sound speaker and the room they're in (crossover frequency, level, phase, and latency are adjustable).
Interestingly for a Wi-Fi sub, an analogue RCA input allows the WiiM Sub Pro to connect to conventional setups. A smart move by WiiM – the Sub Pro is usable with anything sporting a pre-output.
WiiM Sound Lite
A streamlined smart speaker. All the same features as the WiiM Sound but without the luxury of a screen.
It will have its uses – suppose you wanted to wall-mount your speakers out of reach. What good would a screen be? Or maybe you simply don't need it.
The sound quality promises to be every bit as good as the full-fat version: 24-bit/192 kHz streaming from Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Qobuz, and more.
Other WiiMovations – The WiiM Home App
With a software background, control and flexibility with the WiiM Home app are solid. Access your favourite music services, adjust the EQ, set alarms, sync music across devices, create personalised routines, apply Room Correction, etc.
WiiM Home app can be incorporated into partnered products. Known brands using WiiM (or Link-Play) software include JBL, Yamaha, Pro-ject, Harman and more.
Another smart move: this could take WiiM to the mainstream of connected home audio. We saw an ingenious Pro-ject amplifier unit using the WiiM to receive audio, which connects neatly and conveniently into the back of their Box E speakers' terminals. Now, imagine a unit to fit any (low-power) speakers.
So what's next?
We told you that information is classified.
As you see, WiiM has already extended the range to a 2.1 system. I wonder what could be coming up around the corner. Can you guess?
We haven't said anything! That's just your imagination galloping ahead to 2026.
Closing thoughts
While no horses were racing at Ascot that day, it appears that WiiM have a good 'turn of foot', and maybe more than clipping heels with seasoned veterans.
All present retired from the presentation to polish off Ascot's finest small plates. The beef Wellington was particularly good, and the prospect of what WiiM had coming made up for the coffee. Watch this space.
If you are thinking about how WiiM products connect into a wider system, our Essential Guide to Digital Audio Interconnects covers the connection types and cables relevant to any streaming setup.
The WiiM Sound, WiiM Sub Pro, and WiiM Sound Lite are all available now at FutureShop with free UK delivery. Not sure which configuration is right for your space? Get in touch with our team for expert advice.
