The Bluesound Node is one of the best affordable, high-quality audio streamers. We are thrilled to announce the latest iteration of this great streaming device.
Most people now listen to music through streaming platforms. While vinyl has often been the medium of choice for audio lovers, improved high-quality streaming technology is available for the masses, with reasonable subscription prices and vast libraries. In addition, this option provides a level of flexibility and portability to your music collection never before enjoyed.
Previously, music streamers offered standard quality recordings as default. As a result, streaming was no better than listening to CDs. But thanks to the rise of MQA (Master Quality Audio), many popular streaming services now offer high-quality audio. As a result, they can stream better than ordinary CD-quality audio, as fast as regular audio, depending on your internet connection. And why audio streamers are a fast-growing category in our store.
Bluesound, a Canadian manufacturer, has offered its line of all-in-one speakers since 2014. It provides some of the highest quality streaming music speaker options for audiophiles under a thousand dollars. But for those who want to integrate streaming capability with our existing stereo and home theater systems, the Node allows us to take full advantage of the possibilities of streaming and MQA in reproducing sound.
Bluesound Node Review at a Glance
- Play high-quality audio from your favorite streaming service.
- Connect to the internet via dual-band WiFi, Gigabit Ethernet, or HD Bluetooth. You can also access your smart device’s music library using Bluetooth.
- Minimalist exterior design.
- Top-panel touch controls for preset radio stations.
- State of the art quad-core processor.
- Connect up to 64 home speakers at once.
- Control with optional Bluesound RC1 remote control.
- Update playlists in real-time using Alexa, Siri, and Google Voice.
- Connect to any stereo amplifier or consider the Bluesound Powernode, which combines the Node with built-in amplification.
Fast, simple setup
Setting up the Node takes only a few minutes. First, connect the Node to the power supply, add an RCA or Ethernet connection, or connect to WiFi. Then, download the Bluesound BluOS app. The app will allow you to connect your Node to a WiFi network. It will also allow you to connect streaming services on your phone or tablet to the Node. There aren’t many audio streamers with such a simple setup.
The BluOS app is available on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Kindle Fire.
Control the music with the BluOS app
The BlueOS app connects to a variety of popular streaming platforms, including:
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- iHeartRadio
- Pandorav
- IDAGIO
- Amazon Music
The app also enables fine-tuning of playback parameters, including:
- Adjust the balance across bass and treble
- Set the subwoofer crossover
- Adjust replay gain
- Choose between stereo vs. mono
- Adjust the volume limits
Additionally, you can purchase the optional Bluesound RC1 remote control to control playback. Or a wireless link to a subwoofer. You can also program some popular general-purpose remote controls to work with the Node.
Simple exterior, powerful interior
The Node sports a sleek, minimalist look that disguises advanced internal technology. Inside lies an audiophile-grade digital-to-analog converter (DAC) design that supports 24-bit/192 kHz audio processing. This DAC also supports MQA for master quality listening.
On the exterior, a simple light-up touch-sensitive interface provides options for controlling the flow of audio. The interface is motion-sensitive and only lights up when it senses you are nearby.
Compatible with multiple systems
The Node can connect to the internet through several ways:
- HDMI eARC
- A wireless network (WiFi)
- Ethernet
- Apple AirPlay 2
- aptX HD Bluetooth
- USB
The Node isn’t limited to playing audio content from streaming services. The Node can also play from TV or your existing audio library. Connect to your music using a HiFi system, RCA, 3.5mm jack, Apple devices, or other Bluesound devices.
Works in every room of the house
The Node can act as a multi-room hub to support your entire house’s music listening needs. With the award-winning BluOS platform, you can simultaneously connect to up to 64 different players in 24-bit high-resolution audio. You can even connect the Node to your home theater system. Several third-party brands are also BluOS compatible.
Control to your liking
There is no need for a remote, as quick access touch controls grace the top of the Node. You can select play/pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume with the swipe of a finger.
The Node also connects to voice assistants, including Siri, Alexa, and Google Voice. It can even integrate into a smart home, using full-featured integration with Elan, RTI, Crestron, Lutron, and other home control systems.
Amplify your streaming with the PowerNode
The PowerNode is Bluesound’s all-in-one solution, combining the robust functionality of the Node with built-in amplification and pre-amp. Just add any speakers to the PowerNode to listen to high-quality audio. The PowerNode combines a state-of-the-art Quad-Core 1.8ghz ARM® Cortex™ A53 processor with a 32-bit/384khz premium DAC design, ensuring flawless playback with precision and clarity. The PowerNode provides 80 watts per channel using Bluesound’s trademarked HybridDigital amplification technology. It also plays in Wireless Dolby surround sound.
Like the Node, the PowerNode supports the top music streaming platforms. It also provides the Node’s connectivity options and sports the same touch-sensitive frontal interface.
Conclusion
The Node is perfect for anyone who wants to get more out of their audio system without complicated machinery or a hefty price tag. It offers the possibility of a high-quality audio experience without the bulk and inflexibility of a vinyl collection. As a result, few audio streamers can compete in terms of value and functionality.
The PowerNode is an affordable integrated amplifier for your audio streaming. It is excellent for anyone who wants to get the maximum sound from their music without breaking the bank and in surprisingly little space.
Stop into Audio Video Synergy and give the Node a demonstration. The Node is a practical, economical way to expand your music listening experience.
