Best Streaming Amplifiers: Editors’ Choice 2024

If you don’t believe that streaming amplifiers are the future of high-end audio, you need to get off the gear fetishism train; which would almost certainly be 45 to 60 minutes delayed if riding NJ Transit or the TTC.

Streaming amplifiers (or Network Amplifiers) denote an integrated amplifier with digital music streaming capabilities built-in. Such a component adds two key elements — a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and a network interface (Wi-Fi and/or Ethernet) for connecting to the Internet. An internal operating system determines what music services are supported and how easy they are use.

How well an integrated amplifier combines traditional amplification with the usability and convenience of streaming digital music is what sets these picks apart from the pack. Interestingly, it’s the software and app usability that seals the deal for Editors’ Choice Awards in 2024.

What Should You be Looking for When Considering a Streaming Amplifier?

• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Support — Does it offer support for aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, SBC, AAC, and the latest Wi-Fi protocols?
• Connectivity Options — Does it include a headphone amplifier, phono pre-amplifier, subwoofer output, USB Type-C connector, USB Type-A/B input for flash drives, RCA line level inputs and outputs, HDMI ARC/eARC for connection to a TV?
• Multi-Room Streaming — Can you stream from the streaming amplifier to other wireless or Bluetooth loudspeakers throughout the home? Can it stream to a pair of Bluetooth IEMs or headphones?
• Power Amplifier — What kind of amplifier is used? Class A/B or Class D? How much power does it output into 8 ohms or 4 ohms?
• DAC — What kind of DAC is included? Does it support a minimum of 32-bit/192kHz PCM and other formats like DSD or MQA?
• Control App — Has the manufacturer created a great sounding brick that is unusable because of the app or is it very easy to use? Does the app work well with Apple, Android, and Windows-based devices? Are you perfectly fine with the device if you lose the remote? How often does the manufacturer update the control app with new features such as room correction software or bug fixes?
• Sound Quality — Regardless of price, just how good does this streaming amplifier sound? If it can’t offer similar or superior sonics to a standard integrated amplifier and network player, what is the point of buying one?

When Did This Become a Thing?

It is probably inaccurate to state that the Naim Uniti Atom was the first, but there is no question that it was the product that made high-end streaming amplifiers relevant for audiophiles and created a benchmark for the category.

Naim Uniti Atom

Being a trend setter isn’t always easy because there were always going to be dozens of competitors going forward, but the Naim Uniti Atom still belongs on any audition list if you can swing the rather high price tag. It doesn’t offer a phono pre-amp or mountains of power — but it still delivers a superior experience. One could touch that volume dial all day. It’s a brilliant piece of industrial design. Learn more in our Naim Uniti Atom Review.

Where to buy: $3,799 at Amazon | Crutchfield

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Best Streaming Amp Under $500

WiiM Amp Pro

The WiiM Amp Pro Streaming Amplifier ($379) offers all of the streaming goodness we’re used to from WiiM but also adds a built-in 60 Watt/Channel amplifier.

With the WiiM Amp Pro, you’ve got one less component to invest in: an integrated amp or power amp. Just add a standard pair of passive speakers and an optional powered subwoofer and you’ll be ready to rock.

This isn’t the company’s first powered streamer. We reviewed the company’s previous offering, the WiiM Amp earlier this year. The power, multi-room audio support, and surprising build quality makes this the network amplifier to beat below $500.

The WiiM Amp Pro is an upgraded version of that product, based on customer feedback. The WiiM Amp Pro improves on the standard WiiM Amp in a number of ways including an improved amplifier, higher quality DAC (Digital Audio Converter), more powerful WiFi connectivity and improved internal circuitry.

For third party compatibility, the WiiM Amp Pro can handle Google Chromecast, Alexa Cast, DLNA, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect. Apple AirPlay 2 is not supported, but it’s possible that certification could be added in the future. AirPlay 2 is supported in the WiiM Amp as well as other WiiM streamers (all but the WiiM Ultra). 

If you prefer, you can manage your content and devices within the WiiM Home App, with embedded support for Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, Qobuz, TIDAL, Pandora, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, SoundCloud, and more. “Roon ready” certification is currently in progress and should be announced shortly.

In addition to streaming, the WiiM Amp Pro offers a stereo RCA line input, optical S/PDIF digital input, HDMI ARC and USB-A inputs so you can add additional sources like a turntable, TV or CD player.

Note that there is no phono preamp on-board so you’ll need a turntable with a line level output or an outboard phono stage. The WiiM Amp Pro offers bi-drectional Bluetooth so you can connect your phone as a Bluetooth source or connect a pair of Bluetooth headphones or speakers – in addition to or instead of the wired speakers – for playback.

Not offering support for AirPlay 2 has made the WiiM Amp Pro and WiiM Ultra less popular with those locked into the Apple ecosystem, but that doesn’t take away from its strong pacing, resolution, neutral tonal balance and presentation and crisp sounding top end.

We would not recommend the WiiM Amp Pro with overly neutral sounding loudspeakers or low sensitivity floor standing loudspeakers if you have a larger listening space.

Pros:

• Support for the latest Wi-Fi 6E and BT 5.3 standard with two antennas for rock-solid Bluetooth or Wi-Fi audio streaming
• Improved TI TPA3255 Class D amp module with 60 Watts per channel at 8 ohms, or 120 Watts per channel at 4 ohms with additional post-filter feedback (PFFB) loop
• Premium 32-bit/384kHz ES9038 Q2M SABRE DAC
• Elegant aluminum case with subtle design tweaks over the regular version
• Built-in room correction to optimize your system for your specific listening environment
• Nothing better for the money
• Control app has become the benchmark for most affordable streaming products

Cons:

• Neutral tonal balance will be a hit/miss with some speakers
• AirPlay 2 is not supported
• No phono preamplifier

Where to buy:

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Best Streaming Amplifier Under $1,000

Marantz M1

The Model M1 is a compact wireless streaming amplifier designed to provide a great music listening experience from a variety of wireless and wired sources. In addition to providing access to both streaming and physical content, the M1 also has a built-in amplifier – just connect speakers and you are set to go.

The M1 is designed to deliver 100W of stereo output with low distortion (0.005% THD). In addition to the built-in amps, the M1 also provides a subwoofer output. Users have the ability to adjust both the high-pass and low-pass filter frequencies (Crossover points) as well as +/-15dB of subwoofer level trim.

This enables users to obtain just the right balance between the subwoofer and the other speakers in a system.

The Model M1 supports the hi-res music experience over digital music streaming platforms, your network, or even USB, including 24-bit/192kHz PCM support and provision for DSD. To ensure these high-resolution signals are delivered in the best possible quality, Model M1 operates in the digital domain from end to end.

For additional system flexibility, the Model M1 incorporates the HEOS platform (accessible via the HEOS app). Services available on the HEOS platform include forthcoming updates for TIDAL and Roon Ready support.

The Model M1 can also share HEOS music throughout a house with other HEOS-enabled products in the Marantz portfolio, including both stereo and AVR components (scalable to up to 32 discrete zones). 

Pros:

• HEOS app
• Powerful and dynamic sounding
• Supports Hi-res PCM and DSD
• HDMI ARC/eARC
• Support for AirPlay 2, Spotify and TIDAL Connect

Cons:

• Only 1 line level input
• $200 more than the Denon Home Amp
• No phono preamplifier

Where to buy:

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Best Streaming Amplifier Under $2,500

NAD Masters M10 V3

The NAD Masters M10 V2 BluOS Streaming Amplifier was an easy selection in 2023 and it’s still a great option if you can find one on sale. The M10 V3 has some important updates and even better sound quality for $2,499 USD.

Not only does it offer a lot of connectivity options; including an HDMI eARC for those looking to consolidate their music listening and movie watching in one compact system, but it also offers Dirac Live Room Correction to help with loudspeaker setup in rooms that may not be ideal.

The V3 has a full-color touchscreen display and brushed aluminum chassis, and features an ESS SABRE ES9039 DAC that delivers incredible dynamic range and ultra-low distortion. 

The M10 V3 features a Hybrid Digital amplifier with nCore technology that is rated to deliver 100 watts of Continuous Power (into 8 and 4 Ohms) and 160 watts of Dynamic Power (8 Ohms), with virtually zero noise or distortion. 

The M10 V3 includes abundant inputs and outputs to connect any source, including a new dedicated MM phono input that adds RIAA equalization. A USB Type A input is provided for connecting a computer or music drive. RCA stereo analog, Optical, and Coaxial inputs are also included.

HDMI eARC is also included making it a rather versatile option for those who wish to combine music and home theater in a compact one-box system.

One of the biggest benefits is that the V3 incorporates BluOS, the multi-room music platform, that can be controlled from any smartphone, tablet, or desktop. Users can use BluOS to stream music streaming services, internet radio stations, and personal music libraries stored on a network drive or computer. BluOS supports hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.

BluOS allows the V3 to be connected to compatible wireless speakers and audio systems for a multi-room music experience. 

BluOS also enables the M10 V3 to be used as a wireless Dolby Digital home theatre system. Using the BluOS app, M10 V3 can wirelessly connect to a second M10 V3, or other BluOS-enabled speakers, and create an immersive 4.1 home theatre system from a sleek and compact device.

Apple AirPlay 2 and aptX HD Bluetooth are also supported for limitless streaming of any app or service. 

The M10 V3 offers the same level of power and a very similar feature set so the question remains — why buy this over the M10 V2?

The optional Dirac Live Bass Control (which is not a free upgrade), MM phono stage, and better DAC are the key reasons. The M10 V3 trades some midrange warmth for better transparency and upper midrange detail and a slightly enhanced sense of space. It’s not a huge leap but the price remains the same for all of the features and improved sonics.

Pros:

• BluOS app
• Powerful and dynamic sounding
• Supports 32-bit PCM and DSD
• HDMI ARC/eARC
• Support for AirPlay 2, Spotify and TIDAL Connect
• 2 Subwoofer outputs
• Dirac Live and Dirac Live Bass Control (upgrade)
• MM Phono Pre-amplifier

Cons:

• Only 1 line level input
• There is an additional cost to do the full version of Dirac Live

Where to buy:

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Best Streaming Amplifier Under $3,500

Cambridge Audio Evo 150

Paying homage to its iconic P40 Integrated Amplifier that helped launch the brand in 1968, Cambridge Audio introduced the new Cambridge Audio Evo 75 and Evo 150 Network Amplifiers and the market reacted rather favourably.

What’s clear from the spec sheet is that Cambridge Audio designed the Evo series to knock Naim off its rather comfortable perch. The Uniti range have sat on the streaming throne for a number of years — but all of that certainly changed with the Evo 150. 

Both models are Roon-Ready and support TIDAL Connect, and MQA hi-res digital streaming.

The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 features a built-in MM phono preamp which was not included in the Edge A or CXA61 Integrated Amplifiers. It’s good to see Cambridge Audio listening to consumers and reviewers (ahem) in this regard.

Evo also comes with a choice of formed black side panels made from Richlite — an innovative new material made primarily from recycled paper. The side panels can be switched out according to each customer’s style.

The rather elegant looking design also features a dual-concentric rotary dial and large 6.8 inch LCD display panel that shows off album artwork in full color.

Evo 150 uses high quality components and is powered by Hypex NCore Class D amplification which is rated at 150 watts per channel.

What makes the Evo 150 so unique is its brilliant industrial design, easy-to-use control app, connectivity options, MM phono section, and extremely engaging and open sounding presentation.

Loudspeakers like the Q Acoustics 5040 and DALI Oberon 5 excel when driven by the Evo 150. Or pair Cambridge Audio’s Evo CD transport and Evo S loudspeakers which we have also reviewed.

Pros:

• Control app
• Powerful and dynamic sounding
• ESS Sabre DAC
• Balanced and single ended inputs
• Pre-out
• HDMI ARC/eARC
• Support for AirPlay 2, Spotify and TIDAL Connect
• Subwoofer output
• Hypex NCore Class D amplifier is excellent
• MM Phono Pre-amplifier

Cons:

• Phono pre-amplifier only supports MM
• StreamMagic app still trails BluOS and WiiM App

Where to buy:

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Best Streaming Amplifier for Headphones

Naim Uniti Atom HE

Whilst listening to the Naim Audio Uniti Atom HE Streamer at Focal Powered By Naim Houston, we were struck by the most obvious use for the product.

Streamer. DAC. Preamplifier.

We agree that the name is slightly odd considering there is already a Naim Uniti Atom and there is no question that it will cause confusion for people who will think that it includes a power amplifier for your speakers. It does not. 

You can add a power amplifier to it if you already have one and a pair of passive loudspeakers. 

It includes the brilliant tactile volume dial that makes the Uniti Atom so appealing, and it offers the same access to the major streaming platforms and is Roon-Ready. 

The headphone amplifier is significantly better than the one inside the original Uniti Atom. By a rather large margin. Naim wants you to use the Uniti Atom HE with a pair of Focal headphones so don’t misunderstand the primary purpose of the product, network streamer and headphone amplifier.

You can certainly use any other brand of headphones (We tried HiFiMAN and Meze Audio so far and both were great matches) but the headphone amplifier was designed by Naim engineers using the top Focal models as their benchmark; which makes logical sense as the two brands are part of the same larger company.

The only thing missing is an internal phono preamp and we do wish that Naim would make some space for one going forward. Otherwise the Uniti Atom HE supports a wide range of connectivity options and protocols including Apple AirPlay 2, Wi-FI, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and SBC.

Using the Ethernet port provides the most stable connection but the wireless and Bluetooth performance are excellent.

The Uniti Atom HE utilizes a Burr-Brown DAC that supports up to 24-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD64 and DSD128 and offers file support for AAC, MP3, FLAC, ALAC, WMA, OGG, and AIFF.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Naim Uniti Atom HE is its Class A (and Class A/B) headphone amplifier which remains in that mode with most headphones, but will switch over to Class A/B when the impedance drops and the need for more power increases.

Needless to say, the Uniti Atom HE can deliver more than 3.2 watts of power into specific headphones and the ability to serve as a digital hub and preamplifier for a standalone amplifier or pair of active loudspeakers makes it rather versatile.

Pros:

• Connectivity options
• Support for hi-res PCM and DSD
• Can run two pairs of headphones at the same time
• Excellent control app
• Powerful and excellent pacing

Cons:

• No phono preamplifier
• Expensive

Where to buy:

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What Do We Plan on Reviewing in 2025?

We have reviews forthcoming in 2025 of the McIntosh MSA5500, Naim Uniti Nova Power Edition, Ruark R610, NAD C 399, and more…

Related Reading:

• Best Digital Music Streamers
• Best Integrated Amplifiers
• Best Wireless Speakers
• The Latest Editors’ Choice Awards