Reasonably-Priced Linear Power Supply for WIMM Pro Plus Streamer

The issue with the Topping LPS is twofold (no offense intended). First, it generates a lot of heat. Second, its maximum output is limited to 1A—seemingly enough for a WiiM or most DACs, but lacking the headroom to handle dynamic peaks. I tried it and returned it. Ideally, one should look for an LPS rated at least 2A.

I would get the Teddy Pardo and don’t look back. I use one with my Bluesound Node X and it’s exceptional.

There are many ways to spend an exorbitant sum for a linear power supply, but it's unnecessary. In a recent YouTube video, "Gabster" demonstrates measurements for various linear supplies, with the inexpensive Studer 900 clone performing exceptionally well for the money, demonstrating excellent voltage regulation with an impressive <1μV of ripple.

The "Studer 900" LPS in the link below can supply at least double the current of the OE 5V/2A unit supplied with the WiiM Pro Plus, and is around $100 delivered, USA tariffs included. I have used this with both a WiiM streamer and Geshelli Labs J2S DAC and have been 100% satisfied with the performance as compared to noisy OE wall warts.

Studer 900 Circuit LPS

@ted_b

Yes, I have extolled the virtues of these R-core power supplies here before (I have 3 of them, all 50W versions here, so a few more dollars (maybe $20-$25) than the one you linked to. Overkill for a Wiim Pro + or a Fiio K11 R2R which is what I'm using 2 of them on? Perhaps, but the proof is in the listening. 

They are grossly superior in terms of build quality and sound quality to something like the LHY LPS15VA, which is a toy by comparison. Yes, that will give you some improvement in sound quality but nothing like the LPS that Gabster tested and you linked to and I also own. 

You will not regret going overkill on a power supply like this and, as you say, it does not need to be a costly exercise. 

Good quality power cords are also important here (Preffair 503 with copper connectors on Aliexpress is outstanding) as well as a quality DC cable from the LPS to the DAC or streamer. $25-$35 will get you a very good silver plated copper or even all silver DC cable (USB C to fit the Wiim if you like) from someone like KAM Audio in HK that will also be a marked improvement over the giveaways that generally come with these power supplies. 

So pretty easy to come in with something very, very good all in for around $200 U.S. 

The immediately apparent difference between linear and switching power supplies is the absence of background noise. Any of the aforementioned Aliexpress units that cost roughly $50 delivered will do that.

Tales of power supply-related sonic improvements above and beyond noise suppression are... another matter, let's say. In any event, it should be obvious to everyone that spending $500 on a teddy prado or sbooster supply for a $200 wiim makes no sense. But spending $50 does, and will result in a noticeable improvement.