My Hybrid Audio Setup
Some thoughts about my audio equipment
I’ve been running a setup that bridges decades of audio technology. It’s made me think about the trade-offs between convenience and longevity.
The WiiM Amp is the command center. It handles streaming, connects to my TV via HDMI ARC, and looks slick with its Mac Mini vibes. But the software can be glitchy. And I keep wondering what happens in 5-7 years when updates stop and streaming services change their APIs. Maybe I should have gone with a WiiM Ultra streamer paired with a separate amp for better future-proofing. One downside: no phono preamp built in, so I added a Schiit Mani to the chain for vinyl. Another box, another cable.
The real star is my Kenwood KD-550 turntable. I found it used and after some light maintenance—lever grease, oiling some mechanical parts—it performs like a champ. This thing is built like a tank. Dense plinth, solid construction, direct drive motor with serious precision. What gets me is the modular design. Almost everything is user-serviceable and replaceable except maybe the motor. Try finding that in today’s disposable tech. A modern turntable with this level of engineering would cost $3,000-4,000. If the motor holds up (these direct drives were built to last decades), I can’t imagine ever needing to upgrade.
The speakers came almost by accident. A pair of Boston Acoustics MR-V60s from the 90s that I basically got for free. Originally designed for home theater, but perfect for music in my space. There’s not much documentation about them online, which makes them feel like a hidden find. The mid-range detail is exceptional. They could use more low-end punch (they were meant to pair with a subwoofer), but for everyday listening they’re great. Something someone practically gave away has become one of my favorite components.
This mixed setup has me thinking about audio equipment differently. The vintage gear represents building things to last generations. The WiiM represents our current era’s focus on features, connectivity, and software. I wonder if we’ll ever return to building electronics with 30+ year lifespans, or if software-dependent audio means we’re locked into upgrade cycles forever.