To try and get this back on topic . . .
There are certainly advantages to using devices like a Shield, especially if you are hosting local video content. But the assertion that "most folks" are bypassing their TV OS in preference to such products is questionable at best, as is the implicit corollary that one can therefore ignore the case of native TV "source" of HDMI audio.
My anecdotal perception is a LOT of people are using the "native" streaming functions on their "smart" TVs, perhaps even a majority. FWIW, my 2019 LG gets firmware updates regularly (~ 30-60 days?), has apps to support virtually every significant streaming service (all of which also update regularly) and has been functionally consistent and without problems for 4 years. It works so well that I rarely use my Chromecast dongle anymore. Or my Blueray/DVD.
Whatever the % may be who aren't using Shield or similar sources, the demographic is inarguably large enough that the case of connecting "native" HDMI from the TV to the Wiim Amp is a relevant sub-topic here, and justifies discussion to resolve the issues being seen between some TV models/configurations and Wiim.
