Bluesound update their NODE and POWERNODE wireless, multi-room, hi-res music streamers
Image Credit: Bluesound
Bluesound have announced replacements for their NODE 2i and POWERNODE 2i, with updated designs, controls, DACs, processors and more.
Much like Sonos, Bluesound design wireless multi-room speakers and components for music streaming, with a particular emphasis on hi-res audio. The updated NODE and POWERNODE drop the 2i suffix. Capable of streaming 24-bit/192kHz and MQA audio, Bluesound NODE and POWERNODE are the perfect modern addition to your existing HiFi system. NODE and POWERNODE bring access to hundreds of internet radio stations, your own digital music library, and hi-res music streaming services such as Spotify HiFi and Apple Music. NODE and POWERNODE are essentially the same, however POWERNODE adds 2 x 80 watts HybridDigital amplification technology for passive speakers, in an impressively compact exterior.
NODE and POWERNODE pack a Quad-Core 1.8GHz ARM Cortex A53 processor and a 32-bit/384kHz premium DAC design. The front of each has a 3.5mm jack for hooking up a pair of wired headphones. Around the rear, each has a decent amount of I/O, with HDMI eARC connectivity, subwoofer output, mini TOSLINK/3.5mm input, USB-A port for external drives and Gigabit Ethernet. On the NODE you’ll find analog stereo RCA, coaxial RCA and TOSLINK digital optical outputs, while the POWERNODE has 5-way binding post speaker terminals. You can also connect up a pair of wireless headphones via 2-way aptX HD Bluetooth. For a wire-free setup, dual-band Wi-Fi will connect to your network.
Control Bluesound’s NODE and POWERNODE via the BluOS Controller app on iOS, Android, Mac and PC. Here you can create and control a seamless multi-room system with other Bluesound speakers throughout the home. You’ll also find powerful software features to customize your listening preferences in detail, such as tone controls, fixed volume output, subwoofer crossover optimization and settings to enhance external DAC connections.
Futher control is managed through the updated top panel touch controls, with buttons for play/pause, track skipping, volume and presets for one touch shortcuts to your favourite music or station. A built-in IR sensor means you can use your own remote or the optional $59 Bluesound RC1 Remote Controller. Voice control is a new addition the NODE and POWERNODE, with support for Siri, Alexa or Google Assistant. Alternatively, use AirPlay 2 to beam music to the streamer.
Available in Black or White, NODE is $549, with pre-orders open today on Amazon and shipping starts on June 7th. Also available to order today in Black or White, POWERNODE is $899, with the same shipping date listed.
