Digital audio sources such as smartphones and modern TVs often lack high-quality analog output, which does not allow you to unleash the potential of good acoustics. Compact Xiaomi Mi Audio Amplifier Pro is designed to solve this problem by providing clean signal and powerful amplification for your headphones or external speakers. Connecting this device opens access to Hi-Res Audio and significantly improves the detail of sound even at medium frequencies.
The process of integrating a gadget into your audio system does not require deep technical knowledge, but it has its own nuances, ignoring which can lead to no sound or low volume. In this guide, we will discuss all the steps from unpacking to fine-tuning the equalizer through the application, you will learn how to use digital input and analog output correctly for the best result.
It's worth noting that the device supports two main modes: as a portable amplifier for mobile gadgets and as a stationary component for a home audio system. The right use case depends on your needs and the equipment available. Let's take a closer look at each step so you can enjoy music without distortion and noise.
Compilation and study of the device interface
Before you start connecting the cables, you need to carefully examine the body and contents of the box. Xiaomi Mi Pro is designed in a minimalist aluminum body, which also acts as a radiator for heat removal. On the front panel there are three touch buttons and a status indicator, which changes color depending on the frequency of sampling of the incoming signal.
The side faces and ends have all the necessary connectors. Here you will find a combined Type-C port for power and digital input, a 3.5 mm connector for connecting headphones or AUX cable, and an optical output of Toslink. It is important not to confuse the ports, as physical damage to the contacts can cause the device to fail.
⚠️ Warning: Do not connect the device to power sources with voltages above 5V or currents below 1A, as this may lead to unstable operation or overheating.
The package usually includes a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable, and a brief instruction. You may also need a Toslink optical cable to work properly if you plan to connect the amplifier to a TV or game console, but it often has to be purchased separately.
Connection to a smartphone and computer
The most common use case is a smartphone-amp-headphone bundle. To implement this scheme, you'll need a cable with Type-C connectors at both ends or an adapter if your phone has a standard headphone jack, although in the case of the Xiaomi Mi Pro, a digital signal is preferable. Just connect the phone's charging port to the amplifier input.
After a physical connection, the indicator on the case should light up. If you use an Android smartphone, the system automatically recognizes the external audio device and switches the output. On computers running Windows or macOS, you may need to choose the playback device in the system audio settings. Make sure that the output device is chosen Xiaomi DAC or a similar name.
For iOS users, the situation is a little different. Because Apple uses its protocols, it may require the original Lightning to USB Camera Adapter to connect to an iPhone or iPad. In this case, the chain will look like this: iPhone → Adapter → USB Cable → Amplifier. This provides lossless audio transmission, unlike standard analog output.
Cable quality plays a major role. Cheap cables may not support data transmission, only working on charging. Use certified cables with USB 2.0 or higher support to ensure a stable digital stream without interruption.
Integration with TV and game console
Using the Xiaomi Mi Audio Amplifier Pro with a TV allows you to significantly improve the sound of the built-in speakers or connect powerful external acoustics. Most modern TVs have an optical output S/PDIF. To connect you will need a Toslink cable (optical).
Connect the optical output of the TV to the appropriate input on the amplifier. After that, you need to go to the TV menu to go to the sound settings and select "External speakers" or "Optical output." It is important to change the sound format on the PCM, since the amplifier may not decode complex Dolby Digital formats directly without a decoder.
☑️ Checking the TV connection
If your TV doesn’t have an optical output but supports USB audio output or has a 3.5mm (Mini-Jack) connector, you can use the appropriate cables. However, analog output from the TV is often of poor quality, so digital connectivity is always preferable to keep the signal clean.
Owners of gaming consoles such as PlayStation or Xbox will also appreciate the improved sound picture. Connecting through optics will allow you to hear enemy steps and atmospheric effects with new detail. Make sure that the console settings also display the LPCM output format.
Customize the sound through the Mi Home app
Although the device works without settings, to unlock the full potential, it is recommended to use the Mi Home app or a specialized amplifier plugin. Once you connect your smartphone to the same Wi-Fi network as the amplifier (if you use a Wi-Fi module) or through a direct connection, you will get access to advanced features.
You can configure the resampling settings and select filters, there are different equalizer modes available that allow you to emphasize bass or make high frequencies softer, and here you can display the current sampling rate and bitrate of the incoming signal in real time.
Secret High-Definition Regime
Remember to update the device’s firmware through the app. Developers periodically release updates to improve the stability of the Bluetooth module and correct compatibility with various smartphones. The update process takes several minutes and requires a stable connection.
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Use player apps with your own audio output engine (such as USB Audio Player PRO on Android) to get around system limitations and get bit-perfect sound.
Use of Bluetooth receiver mode
The device can work not only as a wired DAC, but also as a high-quality Bluetooth receiver. To activate this mode, you need to switch the device to the appropriate mode (usually with a long press of a button or through the application), the indicator will flash, signaling readiness to pair.
Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone and find a device called Xiaomi Amplifier. To transmit high-quality sound, it is important that both devices support the aptX HD or LDAC codec. If the codecs do not match, the sound will be transmitted in standard SBC quality, which is noticeable by ear.
| Parameter | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency range | 20 Hz - 40 kHz | Extended range for Hi-Res audio |
| Haronic coefficient | < 0.003% | Minimum signal distortion |
| Support for codecs | LDAC, aptX HD, AAC | High-quality wireless transmission |
| Working hours (from buffer) | 10:00 | When used with an external battery |
The distance to receive the signal is about 10 meters without obstacles, walls and metal structures can reduce the quality of the connection. If the sound starts to jam, try to bring the smartphone closer to the amplifier or remove sources of interference.
Problem Solving and Lack of Sound
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the device is connected, but the sound is not coming. First of all, check whether the audio output device is selected in the operating system settings. Often the system by default leaves the built-in speakers active.
⚠️ Warning: If the indicator is on red, it may indicate overheating or short circuit in the headphone circuit.
Another common problem is cracking or noise, which can be caused by poor contact in the 3.5 mm connector or the use of unshielded cables near sources of electromagnetic interference (routers, microwaves), replacing the cable with a better one often solves the problem.
If the device doesn’t turn on, try using a different power supply or plugging it into a USB port on your computer. The built-in battery (if the model implies it) could have completely drained and take time to build up the minimum charge before starting.
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Most audio problems are solved by checking the output format (PCM vs. Dolby) and replacing the connection cable.