2024-08-25 06:19:20
Canadian manufacturer Bluesound wants to expand its range of streaming-enabled audio devices by the end of the year with three new models, all of which do the same thing but come in three price ranges. – All under €1,000. Customers then have a choice between the new entry-level model NODE Nano (which is now available), NODE (without any additional name added) and the NODE Icon, which is announced as the top model.
All three new launches are streams with DAC and pre-function. This means that the devices offer analog outputs to connect to active speakers or power amplifiers with passive speakers. This means that the devices can be integrated into many existing hi-fi systems.
Functionally, all new products based on the well-known Bluesound platform and app (for iOS, Android, Mac and Windows) offer access to a large number of music services, including Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz , Amazon Music. Technologies such as AirPlay 2 and Roon Ready are also available and all new products offer two-way Bluetooth. So you can not only receive and play music via Bluetooth, for example from smartphones, but also send music to BT-enabled headphones and speakers.
Bluesound NODE Nano
The new entry-level model Nano (N030) is equipped with an ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip (up to 24 bit/192 kHz) and was originally intended as a cheap way to expand the available audio systems to include the world of music streaming. As the name suggests, the Nano is also small and can fit anywhere.
Analogue and digital outputs for RCA, coaxial, optical and USB connections are available. Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band WLAN are on board for network connectivity. There are two user-assignable touch buttons on the housing (formerly called “sensor buttons”), as well as touch-sensitive pads for volume and power.
Bluesound NODE
The next level of activity is NODE (N132). It also features the ESS Saber ES9039Q2M DAC, which is said to provide a “significant performance boost over previous generations.” The NODE also offers THX AAA headphone enhancement (also found in the Volumio MOTIVO tested here), as well as aptX Adaptive Bluetooth and DSD support. It also features a built-in IR learning function for control using existing remotes and a touch panel with a proximity sensor and up to five program-based presets.
In contrast to the Nano, this model has more extensive connections. Includes HDMI eARC, subwoofer output and trigger port. While the Nano is connected to the power supply with an external power supply, the NODE (N132) power supply is inside the building. You only need the “razor” power cable without the carpet briquette.
Bluesound NODE Icon
Bluesound describes the new top model as its “pointer track”. The most important and striking difference from the previously mentioned models is a 5-inch color display – without touch function – in an aluminum housing. For signal conversion, the NODE Icon works with two ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chips in a dual-generator configuration. Greater effort was also put into the accuracy of the clock and the internal power supply than with other new releases in order to ensure the best possible sound quality.
Connection options are similar to those of the NODE (N132), with the main difference being that the Icon also has balanced XLR analog outputs.
Money and presence
NODE NANO (N030) can be ordered or available in black from authorized Bluesound dealers for 349 euros.
NODE (N132) can be pre-ordered in black and white for 599 euros. Delivery to major retailers is expected to begin at the end of September 2024.
The NODE ICON (N530) is also available for pre-order and costs 1,099 euros in black aluminum. The first delivery is planned for mid-November 2024.
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