Wiim, the company making waves in the network music streamer market, has taken a bold step towards challenging Sonos with the release of its first two wireless speakers in partnership with Swedish audio specialist Audio Pro. These new models, the 50-watt Audio Pro A10 MKII Wiim Edition ($229) and the 80-watt C10 MKII Wiim Edition ($399), are essentially the same as Audio Pro’s existing speakers but with the added benefit of Wiim OS, the company’s impressive multiroom audio streaming software.
The arrival of these speakers is a significant move for Wiim. Since debuting its affordable Wiim Mini in 2022, the company has steadily expanded its lineup with devices like the Wiim Pro, Wiim Pro Plus, Wiim Amp, and Wiim Ultra, each offering enhanced features and higher-quality components. However, the absence of wireless speakers in its portfolio left a noticeable gap, particularly when compared to the comprehensive ecosystem offered by Sonos.
Partnering with Audio Pro allows Wiim to bypass the complex engineering challenges associated with developing high-fidelity speakers, enabling them to enter the market with a competitive product much faster. This collaborative approach also highlights a key difference between Wiim and Sonos. While Sonos focuses solely on its own hardware, Wiim is embracing a more open strategy by working with third-party manufacturers to expand its ecosystem of compatible devices.
Both Wiim Edition Audio Pro speakers are controlled via the intuitive Wiim Home app, providing seamless access to a vast library of music through popular services like Spotify, Amazon Music, Tidal, Deezer, and Qobuz. You can also stream music from your personal collection stored on a networked device. For those who prefer direct streaming, both speakers support Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, DLNA, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Wiim boasts that these speakers can handle high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/192kHz and offer gapless playback support for up to 24-bit/192kHz. They also promise future firmware updates that will introduce Automatic Room Correction and Advanced Bass Management features. While the speakers lack built-in microphones, they seamlessly integrate with existing Google Assistant and Siri devices, allowing users to control playback via voice commands.
Interestingly, these Audio Pro models retain compatibility with Audio Pro’s own multiroom audio platform, giving existing Audio Pro users the flexibility to choose their preferred software.
Audio Pro A10 MK II Wiim Edition ($229):
The A10 MKII is a compact cylindrical speaker featuring two amps, a 1.25-inch tweeter, a 3-inch long-throw woofer, and two 4.5-inch passive radiators. Its onboard controls include power/standby, source selection (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Aux), play/pause, volume, reset, Bluetooth pairing, and four preset buttons for customized playlists, radio stations, or routines. It also boasts a 3.5mm analog input, allowing users to connect external sources like turntables. The Wiim Home app enables seamless sharing of these connected sources across all your Wiim devices. For those seeking a more permanent installation, the speaker features a threaded insert on its back, enabling wall mounting. Audio Pro offers compatible wall and ceiling mounts, as well as an innovative bracket that includes a power tap for track lighting systems.
Audio Pro C10 MK II Wiim Edition ($399):
The C10 is designed as a tabletop speaker, delivering 80 watts of power through three amps, two 0.75-inch tweeters, and a single 5.25-inch long-throw woofer. It features the same top controls as the A10 but with six preset buttons instead of four. The fabric grille is magnetically attached, making it easy to remove if you prefer the uncluttered look of the exposed drivers. In place of the A10’s 3.5mm analog input, the C10 offers a set of stereo RCA ports, simplifying connection to standard analog sources. It also includes a dedicated subwoofer output, making it a versatile option for larger rooms.
Wiim’s foray into the wireless speaker market with its partnership with Audio Pro marks a significant step in its mission to challenge Sonos. The combination of high-quality audio, robust multiroom capabilities, and seamless integration with popular music services presents a compelling alternative for music enthusiasts seeking a user-friendly and feature-rich audio system.