I finally took the plunge based on your review. Installed a new node into my system. As an all analog tube and vinyl junkie I resisted this forever. I have the node connected to a Manley stingray 2 via audioquest King Cobra interconnects powering Wilson Watt puppies. I am feeding it Amazon HD files. This has changed my mind not only about streaming but digital audio all together. The convinence it undeniable and the sound quality of the ultra hd files is fantastic! Well recorded all analog records still sound quite a bit better to me on my rig but this exceeded my expectations by a long shot. Super fun to quickly and easily explore new music. Well done!
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I would argue it is entry level based on its price point. My streamer cost $5k and some can cost upwards of $20k. How much is the Bluesound? Sound performance wise it may be able to compete way above its weight class, but it’s still an entry level product based on its price point. And I am not trying to poo poo this streamer at all, in fact its probably the smartest buying decision you can make because as the price goes up the performance per dollar goes way down. So this product is a tremendous value.
Yeah, $20,000 to send digital data to your dac, really. These niche companies have always - from a marketing standpoint - been able to separate people with a lot of money, from their money. It is from the exact same playbook that created $20,000 cd players / transports. Since when did $600 become entry level? Marketing!
Finally, a review that answered all of my questions regarding the Node. Thanks Simon, excellent production too! (you are nuts). I love my 2i, but it will soon have to go when I decide on my end game front end. If the USB output through a DDC like the Denafrips Iris is equal to something like a Pi Bridge ...... then I might get to eat my own cake!
Simon.....Looks like I was delivered to you via the youtube algorithm. Cheers to that! I own two of the Node 2i’s hooked up to different integrated amps in the house and I swear by them.1st...I have a lifetime subscription to Roon (back when it was affordable) and they are seamless. 2nd....BluOS is grossly underrated. Best alternative to Roon there is......and 3rd, their versatility is amazing. I will be picking up a new one based on your review. Great review.....and a new subscriber.
I have an older Node2i in my second system which I thinks performs very well. In my main system I use a Roon Nucelus for streaming and as a Roon core that feeds a Denafrips Aries II. I have tested the Node 2i in my main system and feel the Nucelus does a slightly better job over all. What I would really be interested in is BlueOS Vault for CD ripping and storage. Keep up the great reviews, your the best!
This is a great review, which I'm going to have to watch through a couple of times. I've been very happy with my Node 2.1, but the revamped touch screen would make it very accessible for my wife. Hmmmmm. Thanks so very much Simon! A lovely, creative film, per usual.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thanks! And I'm using the Blusound Node 2.1 for headphone listening. Not optimal, and I'm going to see what happens when I patch it into the Cambridge Dac Magic 200M (when it arrives). Thanks again for your review!
I’ve got an SMSL headphone amp at the moment which a Chinese company sent me to review, so happy to share my thoughts fully on patreon if it helps Catherine.
Great video. As a transport only with a great DAC such as the Denafrips Pontus 2, will an Innuos or Lumin streamer be much better sound quality than the new Node? Or is the Node that good to be achieving 90+% of the other streamers at 1/3 to 1/5 the price?
Very good review Simon. Bluesound recently updated the USB-functionality to support connected DAC's. Nice to know how that sounds when using usb external DAC (like Hegel H390). That should improve the sound quality even more...
@@13thnotehifireviews7 ...these are interesting news, as I would like to use usb as input for external storage and SPDIF out to DAC. Otherwise using USB output over DDC (digital to digital converter).
Hi Simon, may be you should compare the ifi Zen Stream with this new Node. It would be interesting to hear your thoughts in terms of the sound quality between the two. Cheers
I did try with that one and it was on the radar. I think the node would be hard to beat for its utility and as I said in the review similar sonics as transports, in all probability.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 thanks for the prompt reply. I replaced my ageing Node2 with the Zen Stream and couldn't be happier, the sound quality is one or two leve above, from just streaming Spotify. The sound is much more engaging and better now. This is just my experience. Thanks.
I played with the node 2 and obviously have the node 2i, with the node 2i being a step up to the node and again with this new one, but as I always say….choosing streamers either as transports or with DACs at around this price is a big part down to function and utility. That’s what I’ve found testing lots of streamers.
Great review Paul. The only thing missing in all the reviews I have seen so far (including yours) is how to set-up the Node with third party speakers (wireless). Waiting for you to do a vid on that. Whilst waiting for that review I keep watching your remarkable performance on BGT.
Nice review, I think you covered most of the reasons I upgraded from the 2i to the 2021. After selling my 2i I was able to purchase the 2021 for a little over C$200 more which in hifi terms is frankly peanuts. Beyond the sound sounding slightly punchier but otherwise not much different(great!), the functionality upgrade has been much appreciated. I love the presets as they mean I don’t have to pick up my phone as often and find the app. I like the more direct volume control. Most of all I love the new HDMI Arc input as my unit sits close to my tv and means I can output tv sound through my speakers easily. It also means I can control the volume of the node with the TV remote, yet another good reason to NOT pick up the phone. Btw I do love changing the volume on my Apple Watch app too, very handy. Finally I look forward to trying the USB out to DAC feature. Will you be keeping your 2021 and testing this yourself down the road?
Thanks Kevin.definitely agree with your comments especially in audiophile terms comment. Will have this one for future to be able to do that test, and waiting Hegel to go Roon ready too.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 great! I had the node 2i going via both coax and optical to a Schitt Modi multibit previously. After buying a switch to enable quick swapping between onboard Dac and the Schitt external Dac I was surprised to find I had a preference for neither, and sold the multibit happily. One thing of note, I was surprised that even when using the node purely as a transport (to the external Dac), I could still control the volume from the Node. This shows that some of the data out contains volume value. Back to the point lol, I have a decent enough (Tag Mcn), amp and Kef LS50 speakers and at this quality level I couldn’t discern a difference, but this is fine by me for the price and functionality. Whether the usb out takes it to another level due to reduced jitter etc I guess it depends on many factors but I look forward to hearing your feedback with Dacs at various price points :-) Cheers!
Thanks for another great video!! Does the Bluesound show you the resolution play back bit/frequency rate on the app or device? This might be picky but I do like to know that?
I have the original Node 2 and run through the DAC of my CD player (Marantz SA-11S3). I contacted Bluesound, they said no upgrade in sound quality if you are using an external DAC.
The 2i and the new Node are excellent products, as you say. Sound is high, clearly not the best, but 75% of best for sensible money. It is the flexibility, features and decent build quality that make it so useful. I know some very high end systems that began with a Node to try out streaming and now find use in a second system. Well presented as always.
I’d disagree as the differences between these products tends to be small sound wise at this price, but where the gap can be wider is in functions, use and utility
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Right. Node is definitely more versatile. I needed a pure streamer for 2 channel listening and found the Zen stream to be much more cleaner. Give it a try if you can mate... Great review btw
Thanks v much. Often it just comes down to sonic preference , so you say cleaner and another will say they want a little more tone to prefer a node. Who is right?
Another great review! I upgraded from the Node 2i some 2 months ago to the Innuos Zenith MK3. I now use Roon instead of BlueOS and I think Roon is a bit better. The Zenith is a clear step up from the Node 2i but it should be at 5 times the price. As often said, the staging is wider, the backdrop blacker. I am not entirely convinced the price of Roon is worth it for my usage and I hear good things about the recently released InnuOS 2.0 so I may change after a year. I am VERY glad I made the move to Innuos as I can now rip my CD's easily and store them on an SSD drive also. But back to the bluesound nodes. For the money they are exceptional value!
I don’t think so. They don’t sell the 2i currently but you can buy the new node. I would personally look at Roon or just the functionality you want with streaming so good on the h390
Excellent review thanks, I purchased one after watching and think it’s a great device. Does using the Nodes volume control degrade the sound quality at all? I’m using fixed volume output at the moment and using my amp to adjust, would be convenient to use the BluOS app if it has no negative effects.
I just bit the bullet, so to speak and bought one of the new nodes, missed out on a sweet deal the store had on a superseded ex demo model. But I have ripped my CD’s and when I pick up my NAS, I will be able to stream it. Also trying out Qobuz. I would say that it is similar Sound compared to an Cambridge Audio Azur 751 Bluray player and the DACs in that. I would have loved the CXN but couldn’t swing the extra $1000 over the node. I would have enjoyed a NAD TA 758 or 778, to replace my Denon 2807 home theatre amp, and getting a streamer in one package but again I couldn’t swing the sort of money.
Fantastic review Simon! My setup is around 10 years old now. B&w cm9, Rotel rb1090 and rc1090 power and pre amp and a rel t7 sub. I stream via a sonos connect going through a musical fidelity m1 dac and have a play 5 in another room. My question to you is, should I upgrade to a bluesound node ( and maybe add a denafrips ares 2 later when budget allows ) or get a cambridge cxn v2? The cambridge route would mean retiring the rotel pre. I would also like to keep the sonos play 5 in service if possible. Would the node and cxn v2 be a significant improvement in sound quality?Please advise when you have the time. Thanks!
Thanks a lots for the review. Can I ask you a question ? I recently subscribed on Amazon music HD. I'd like to know if this streamer support it, and if it is easy to use by the app which drive this streamer Thanks
It’s not listed as a service in their tech lowdown manual on their website but Amazon hd (cd quality) which I’ve never used supports airplay 2 (which is basically at cd quality). I wouldn’t use the ifi’s app as it’s not great. Amazon may have a better app but you’ll know better than me if you use it. I stick to Spotify, tidal and Qobuz as the main services I use.
Hello there! Nice video! I have one question.. Can you set the signal quality out? I have e pair of Meridian DSP 6000's. And they handle mat the max 24/96. So anything above wont make a sound. How do I get around this? An DAC with max said resolution after the output? Or could it be set internally in the node?
Well done Simon ! Hope they come out with a similar update with the Vault2i as I want to rip all my CD's. Bluesound has always presented itself as an amazing value especially compared to some of those $2K to $20K streamers (which I do not understand). And BlueOS is one of very few platforms that support Amazon Music HD natively... Amazon Music HD support seems to be very hard to come by.
Cool product at. Great review! The killer for me is no I2S output for my Dac. I would bypass the internal Dac of this and really don’t want to have to buy another $600 for for DDC to get this signal up to I2S.
Very honest review. Interesting comments about the CXN V2, which I own. I can use it in two ways. 1. As a streamer and using its own dac then analogue out. 2. From a laptop using Audirvana Studio and usb into the CXN's dac and analogue out.. I can say that the latter has the edge sound quality wise over the CXN alone though not by a huge amount. To me, this shows that the streamer does influence the end result but not by a huge amount - as you said. I also have an OPPO 205 and can use the ESS dacs in that via usb from the laptop which gives me another nuanced sound. I can also use upnp for either system and to me that just sounds identical to using USB. I prefer laptop based systems for streaming services simply because I prefer a bigger screen and less fiddling about with apps on phones which always seem to be out of charge which is also used up very fast with music apps. The CXN is also used for chromecasting from another laptop and for internet radio (which works better than the Audirvana internet radio options at the moment. (Work in progress I think.)
Great work, you speak highly of the Sonore product. I am planning to level soon. I lot of respected reviewers feel that the sotm sms-200 is superior. What do you think? Is it time to compare?
Late to this party! I bought a discounted Node 2i a year or two ago, stuck it on top of the 20-year-old Naim three-box electronics, and off I went. Works well and of course goes loud, loud, loud! Same as it ever was...
I saw the new nodes (2021) are being discounted atm, in the uk at least. The usb out (which the 2i doesn’t have) does sound better than coax by a decent margin. Im running mine into an Aune S9c pro DAC with the Aune SC1 master clock. The clock seems to work better with the usb input from the node too. It is worth trying usb if your dac supports it and is good enough plus rest of system of course.
I just hooked up my Node to my RME DAC via optical and it sounds amazing! MQA tracks via tidal are reading either 88.2 or 96 kHz so what I’m i missing since the RME isn’t a MQA DAC??
I dont think you are missing anything. MQA is slight, if any improvement. It's more about being a great transport and a great DAC then any format, any day of the week, month, or year!
You either have to add it as a ‘service’ I think or it may appear only when there is an MQA live stream like the jazz refreshed concert Bluesound did. Either way this was just to show that it’s a feature all bluos apps can access when the concert is online.
….2/2 I looked in music services and there is no MQA option in there, so what I presume happens is they add it, as something to select for accessing the MQA live broadcast, when they do that again, which I’d think is probably likely.
@@EricRhodeslives my video clip I used Eric was from last year when they did that jazz MQA concert, so in all likelihood you have a much later update anyway.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 so Bluesound did an MQA live concert? Or another service like Tidal? (Not that I really care as I run the Node into an Ares2 which doesn't do the final unfold and STILL sounds better than the Node DAC directly) Love your channel btw.
What a great review. You keep improving yourself at every video. Besides the compliments, i’d like to know your opinion about comparing this new blusound as a transport with the ifi zen stream. Thanks!
The Zen streamer has only two streaming services preconfigured. The Node is the friendliest in this regard. You can use your own dac instead of the built in one. MQA with the internal dac can be used for the occasional mqa file.
I’d agree . I think the Node will probably be the better all rounder because sq is often so close in streamers as transports and whilst node another 100 it has so many more features. I know what I’d buy!
Thanks for sharing your opinions. I have to say i’m curious about the Zen Stream sound quality because of it uses some technologies to improve it’s digital outputs: Active Noise Cancellation on USB and iPurifier on SPDIF.
We loved a bit of shipping forecast on the car radio on the way back from Raving back in the day. It used to come on about dawn and always made us all giggle. P.s Ive got a Node 2021 and a SMS-200 on demo at the minute. Im using the USB out on both into my Chord Qutest. Im only on my 2nd day into having both products, so hard to tell properly sound wise but easy of use for apps, qobuz, spotify, tunein etc the Node wins hands down. I dont use Roon but do have a 60 day trial but doubt I will pay for it as well. I was previously using my Audirvana Studio from my laptop in my Qutest. Will report back..............
Great video and review. Nice camera work. Don't take this the wrong way but a Swiffer duster cloth or a can of compressed air would go a long way when showing off the beautiful details of the hardware.
Good feedback. Thanks. I realised that after but it’s not a duster or air , I was dusting all the time in these shots but particles still stick. Trick of the trade is anti static spray apparently. I’ll do that next time and all learning curve. 😀
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thank you for your reply that is most-appreciated. In that regards (using USB) it sounds likely the Node(gen3) is a worthwhile upgrade over the 2i?
@@13thnotehifireviews7 i don’t have external dac so would be using it connected to marantz 8006 with living voice auditorium speakers.. Cambridge audio tell me there is no plans for a v3 anytime soon
Thanks for that. I’m of the mind the node might be not up to par with my 10k system as a transport but it’s very possible I’m wrong on that. Maybe I should not pass judgement based on price and give this a go. It certainly seems to match my lack of connectivity knowledge. It seems simple enough to get going.
Thank you for your review. did have one question. I keep seeing your video showing BluOS app on the MacOS desktop instead of an Ipad but I don't think its really available for the mac. If it is can you provide a link to it. It does not appear to be in the MacOS app store.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thank you. Found the MacOS version on BlueSounds Website as you said. Have gotten so used to the App stores I didn't think to look there since the IOS and IpodOS App stores had it for those platforms.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I think I will go get the new Node and add it to my existing 2i (move some things around). Just wondering how you rate it's DAC when compared to some of the Schitt Audio ones. I will have to compare. I use my current 2i with the Emotiva DAC available in my preamp/controller. Also have a Schitt DAC and Cambridge DacMagic Plus.
Hello Simon, thanks for your reviews! I have recently purchased a Node and I’m still trying to figure out why I like it much better as transport and dac rather than transport with Rme Adi2 doing the dac as sound in the latter case becomes way too forward and analytical while the Node is simply musical. Would be nice to hear your opinion ! Thanks
Couple things. Did u try the wifi? It's supposed to be more reliable in the new version. Lastly, How was ur experience with paring it with another node so both play at the same time?
I´m using the first USB Bridge made by Allo ( with Sparkyboard SBC) and Linear PSU and can tell that the external Harddisc connected sounds much spacious with darker backround than same Audio files streamed via Quobuz over USB Bridge. Unfortunatly in most product videos about Allo USB /DigiOne SBC with there hatboards these signal output difference are not mentioned/pointed out.
Great review Simon. As this new node has the hdmi socket, could I technically use my TV as the nodes screen, when playing music on Spotify? . I actually have the Spotify app on my TV and I'm hopping that the new hifi service will support this app.
Hi Steve, Thanks very much. I don’t think you can tbh. It’s more an audio return channel feature , hence ARC, and I didn’t try it with my tv. I do have a long hdmi cable so will give it a whirl but you know you can use Spotify connect with the node?. Bw simon
@@13thnotehifireviews7 so the HDMI input is used just to connect the TV to my hifi via the node, so the TV's sound comes out the hifi speaker's? I have it connected to the hifi via optical at the minute, but I'm guessing the sound would be improved via HDMI?
@@steverees1936 There is no video information sent to/from the Node when connecting your TV via HDMI eArc (enhanced Audio Return Channel), but it will allow you to control the volume with your TV remote, provide picture to sound synchronisation and it supports higher audio quality than the original HDMI, such as Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. etc
Very nice review, my question is can you recommend me how can i improve my system? i am currently using Powernode2 with triangle borea br02, inakustik silver excellence speaker cable between.
Hello: I’m in the market on getting on buying new up to date music equipment. I’m in the dark on what to buy and part of that is the fact that there is so much to choose from. I’ve been returning to a awesome Hifi shop in my area and they are very helpful with help me with learning before I buy. This is important to me because I feel it’s a new step and a big one on going from a normal basic stereo receiver to a Hifi unit. The Node is one unit I’m interested on buying and the other is the NAD C 388. Again i am new to this and I’m trusting the fellows on leading me in the right direction. I’m looking for something that is good for streaming, awesome sound clarity, and decent power. Please message me on what your thoughts are. Thanks
As a preamp and dac will I benefit hook it up to my HK 3490 (yes it stills run). Now using Chromecast digital to the Dac in the HK 3490 and frankly it sounds really good.
I bought a Node 2i a year or so ago. I do like it but the only main issue I had was breakup on Bluetooth. Whenever I listened to music via my Bluetooth headphones I get almost constant static and break up. Sent Bluesound an email and yes they were helpful but they suggested switching off all WiFi and other Bluetooth products as they can interfere with hi-res Bluetooth streaming. I wonder if the newer model has managed to get rid of this problem. If I was sitting within 1.5m of the unit the problem almost disappeared but sometimes you’d still get loud crackling. My only other issue is the app needs some work. It looks great but sometimes the simplest function requires five or six touches. Otherwise a great piece of kit.
I used it with my Sony’s I showed in the vid and never any problems - 2i and new one. It sounds more like a problem with the headphones. I’ve got some infra red ones I watch tv in bed with, not so much about sound quality there, and they get break up. Which headphones do you use. Ps I’ve always found bluos to be one of the best apps below roon , and tbh I think you won’t get away from finger taps from most apps. Things like remotes help and being able to operate on the unit. I especially like units where you can operate them ‘old school’ in situ without an app because of passcodes etc.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Hiya. No I don’t think so. They are B&W PX7’s so a good make. I think the issue (and this was kind of confirmed via bluesound) is my Hi-Res FLAC streams require huge amounts of data to reach the headphones, I guess the slightest issue with connection causes breakup. Oddly it sometimes does it when I turn so maybe it’s a bit of both. Headphones and transmitter. I’ve used the headphones with both APTX HD mobile phones but mainly my A&K player with no problems. So there’s something that the Node doesn’t like. I just recently treated myself to a pair of Sony in-ears, I may try those to see if I have the same issue but those use LDAC not APTX HD so I assume it will default to a standard resolution Bluetooth connection and bit rate. On that sort of connection the 2i seems to be fine. I guess that’s the issue, lots of people say they have no problem but there are so many file formats, then you have hi-res, normal, etc. all are different bit rates, file sizes, connection types. Is what it is I guess. Bluesound did confirm that they had received other reports of this issue but were unfortunately unable to provide me with a solution. Apart from shutting down WiFi, etc.
Thanks for clarifying. I’m a bit of a traditionalist as I tend to use a dac - the rme mainly, and headphone amp at a desk - currently reviewing smsl h0200, with my Mac book, all wired, so nothing goes wrong. Then use the Sony’s mainly for walk abouts and trains for noise cancelling.
BluOS and the node input into a better dac, enjoying it very much. If you're not using roon then BluOS is a better option than the third party apps more "hifi" streamers use, obviously in the price range. Anyway thanks for the review, I enjoyed it.
What I wonder is - will there be any SQ differences when I connect them to an external DAC - is there a sound difference between the optical and the HDMI if I connect the Node 2021 to a TV Thanks Simon for the awesome videos!
@@13thnotehifireviews7 great. I'd connect the Node to a Topping D70S via coax which then goes into an Exposure 3010S2D with KEF LS50 Meta as front end. I am hoping to get some more dialogue clarity out of the HDMI when compared to the optical.
My system is a Rotel 1590, RC 1590, BW 702 S2 and a Yamaha WC 50, do you think updating to the Bluesound Node (2021) would make a reasonable difference?
I replaced my Yamaha WXA50 due to the poor mobile app that Yamaha comes with. The BlueOS app with New Node N130 is much better in usage. I really enjoy The New Node with my Rotel RB-1552MKII on Wharfedale D220 speakers in near field setup. Much better than when it was with Yamaha WXA50.
I'd likes to know of its possibile to play through the node music files stored on a hard disk,, and why they can't add a feature of Reading/ripping CD from a 25 dollars USB external CD transport. Another question: does It have a phono preampli inside?
I think you go for their cd ripping streaming transport if you want that - called vault. You can use the node to find music on your network and network drives. But if you want ripping just buy a cheap laptop and ripping cd drive. No phono stage I don’t think.
New subscriber Simon.You deliver the goods and I like the choices for content.Now the question for me is build a Pi with my limited set of skills (the way to go for cost effective Roon use) or and I think you made the case get the Roon and even if you don't use the Blue OS it's there.One thing I think is that more of these boxes should offer a ripping function to and external drive (Project digital pre might do this) but when it comes down to the Vault I would get a Innous Mini Zen/Green Machines Micro Rendu and have to kick out for a $500-1K Dac because even with a somewhat better DAC amd new control top a 2TB drive is not worth two Node's. Best from the New World Chazz
Thanks very much Charles. I can help make recommendations for gear in a more involved discussion. Please Head over to patreon and we can thrash it out, as it’s not possible time wise to do everything on here.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Apologies I'm not the best with idioms haha. So more or less equivalent? By the way thanks for all your reviews, really appreciate your insights!
Great video - thank you! I was wondering if I should upgrade from my Node2? I am not really in the need for the extra utility, and as you suggest the upgrade in sound is not significant (even more so on my modest system).
Thank you….Depends on the rest of gear etc. Please see description , happy to help if you patreon subscribe or donate etc as I have little time to answer these all if I’m going to answer well…many thanks 😀
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Sorry - did not actually mean that as a question to you (more in my head) … but thanks for introducing me to Agnes Obel … brilliant.
I connected the Node 2i via an optical cable to a SMSL D300 DAC. For roughly half the price of a new Node there is a massive improvement in sound quality in a relatively modest 3000 GBP stereo setup.
The Bluesound website claims that their products do not support UPnP, but I have seen two of your videos in which you state the opposite. Are you sure that the node works as a UPnP streamer? Have you tested it?
Ok so I may have stated upnp but for all intents and purposes it’s still able to connect to files on nas drives by file sharing methods. I’ve done it from an nas. So essentially it’s the same thing but not formerly part of the upnp Dlna banner it looks. Was that your concern? Thanks for correcting if we’ve got this right
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I’m considering buying a Node for my bedroom. The USB drive attached to the Auralic Aries in my living room is visible to all DLNA/UPnP renderers, would the Node play music from it?
Plug it into the router maybe if usb slot or use Ethernet nas for both . I doubt any dlna usb drive will work if plugged into another device and then you use for node. But anyway Ethernet based nas drives get over issue and are cheap
I have 1140 amp wouldn’t the dac in there be better than the node 2 and also when i play my apple hi res music can i still use my apple app in my phone ? And will it give me 24bit and 192 ?
@@13thnotehifireviews7 yes can't beat their app and usability. Sort of wish for a transport only node or 'evo' version with screen and better dac chipset
@@willmac5642 I was thinking that I wish they did one to challenge the Cambridge Audio cxn v2 but only my self indulgent reasons, as it’s a cost game and I suspect most people who buy the node will be using the DACs in it, aimed at the relative budget side of audiophile hifi.
![BLUESOUND NODE, WIRELESS MULT-ROOM HI-RES STREAMER ['BUY' LINKS IN THE DESCRIPTION]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/KOkyfJU5AeE/mqdefault.jpg)
I finally took the plunge based on your review. Installed a new node into my system. As an all analog tube and vinyl junkie I resisted this forever. I have the node connected to a Manley stingray 2 via audioquest King Cobra interconnects powering Wilson Watt puppies. I am feeding it Amazon HD files. This has changed my mind not only about streaming but digital audio all together. The convinence it undeniable and the sound quality of the ultra hd files is fantastic! Well recorded all analog records still sound quite a bit better to me on my rig but this exceeded my expectations by a long shot. Super fun to quickly and easily explore new music. Well done!
Thanks and enjoy it Bill
Clearly explained everything, and with good humor to boot! Thanks.
Nice review! You can’t go wrong with NAD/Bluesound. It is probably the best entry level hifi product on the market today.
It’s not entry level as a transport though Brent.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I would argue it is entry level based on its price point. My streamer cost $5k and some can cost upwards of $20k. How much is the Bluesound? Sound performance wise it may be able to compete way above its weight class, but it’s still an entry level product based on its price point. And I am not trying to poo poo this streamer at all, in fact its probably the smartest buying decision you can make because as the price goes up the performance per dollar goes way down. So this product is a tremendous value.
Yeah, $20,000 to send digital data to your dac, really. These niche companies have always - from a marketing standpoint - been able to separate people with a lot of money, from their money. It is from the exact same playbook that created $20,000 cd players / transports. Since when did $600 become entry level? Marketing!
Great review as usual, I have a 2i and upgraded the power supply, for the money it is excellent in this crazy hifi world
Power supply?
@@dennischiu6423 linear power supply upgrades available online.
Finally, a review that answered all of my questions regarding the Node. Thanks Simon, excellent production too! (you are nuts). I love my 2i, but it will soon have to go when I decide on my end game front end. If the USB output through a DDC like the Denafrips Iris is equal to something like a Pi Bridge ...... then I might get to eat my own cake!
Thank you Gregory. You have to be nuts to do hifi reviews. lol. I took out one joke about a beach, Barbados hotel room and sand. Lol 😂
thanks a lot for the very good review, just ordered one to pair it with my Accuphase / Sonus faber system using an Accuphase DAC.
Fantastic as usual, and much appreciated! Thanks for the putting in the effort involved in this!
Thanks very much
Great review Simon, very objective. Have just purchased a NODE and second your findings. I’m very happy with it and it’s flexibility.
Thanks Stu and hope going ok with you in lockdown in oz.
Great review as always Simon.
I purchased the new Powernode to replace my Sonos Amp in my other room. Sounds great.
Thanks Barry ,hope you are enjoying the dcs
Simon.....Looks like I was delivered to you via the youtube algorithm. Cheers to that! I own two of the Node 2i’s hooked up to different integrated amps in the house and I swear by them.1st...I have a lifetime subscription to Roon (back when it was affordable) and they are seamless. 2nd....BluOS is grossly underrated. Best alternative to Roon there is......and 3rd, their versatility is amazing. I will be picking up a new one based on your review. Great review.....and a new subscriber.
Thanks very much , all about high production and buzzing off that. Not trying to do a video every ten minutes…😀
I have an older Node2i in my second system which I thinks performs very well. In my main system I use a Roon Nucelus for streaming and as a Roon core that feeds a Denafrips Aries II. I have tested the Node 2i in my main system and feel the Nucelus does a slightly better job over all. What I would really be interested in is BlueOS Vault for CD ripping and storage. Keep up the great reviews, your the best!
Thank you very much
This is a great review, which I'm going to have to watch through a couple of times. I've been very happy with my Node 2.1, but the revamped touch screen would make it very accessible for my wife. Hmmmmm. Thanks so very much Simon! A lovely, creative film, per usual.
Thanks very much Catherine. Really glad you liked this one. 😀
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thanks! And I'm using the Blusound Node 2.1 for headphone listening. Not optimal, and I'm going to see what happens when I patch it into the Cambridge Dac Magic 200M (when it arrives). Thanks again for your review!
I’ve got an SMSL headphone amp at the moment which a Chinese company sent me to review, so happy to share my thoughts fully on patreon if it helps Catherine.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 That would be lovely!
Great video. As a transport only with a great DAC such as the Denafrips Pontus 2, will an Innuos or Lumin streamer be much better sound quality than the new Node? Or is the Node that good to be achieving 90+% of the other streamers at 1/3 to 1/5 the price?
I've been very impressed with my Bluesound 2i. It's running a pair of Sonus Faber Lumina III's without an issue.
Very good review Simon. Bluesound recently updated the USB-functionality to support connected DAC's. Nice to know how that sounds when using usb external DAC (like Hegel H390). That should improve the sound quality even more...
Thank you . I saw that one re usb. I should give mine a go….😀
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I hope you do, it definitely has a different sound signature compared to coax on my dac.
I’m trying it and I do think it’s a better connection than coax, watch out for a video I’m just about to post, busy editing atm 😀👍
@@13thnotehifireviews7 ...these are interesting news, as I would like to use usb as input for external storage and SPDIF out to DAC. Otherwise using USB output over DDC (digital to digital converter).
I got chord qutest and I think I'll get the node for streaming using amazon hd music. Great Review, thanks.
The USB Audio out feature is now functional on the new Node (N130)
thanks for saying, covered that in a video after this one 😀👍🎵
Hi Simon, may be you should compare the ifi Zen Stream with this new Node. It would be interesting to hear your thoughts in terms of the sound quality between the two. Cheers
I did try with that one and it was on the radar. I think the node would be hard to beat for its utility and as I said in the review similar sonics as transports, in all probability.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 thanks for the prompt reply. I replaced my ageing Node2 with the Zen Stream and couldn't be happier, the sound quality is one or two leve above, from just streaming Spotify. The sound is much more engaging and better now. This is just my experience. Thanks.
I played with the node 2 and obviously have the node 2i, with the node 2i being a step up to the node and again with this new one, but as I always say….choosing streamers either as transports or with DACs at around this price is a big part down to function and utility. That’s what I’ve found testing lots of streamers.
Great review, subbed!
Great review Paul.
The only thing missing in all the reviews I have seen so far (including yours) is how to set-up the Node with third party speakers (wireless).
Waiting for you to do a vid on that.
Whilst waiting for that review I keep watching your remarkable performance on BGT.
Thanks very much Geoff.
Nice review, I think you covered most of the reasons I upgraded from the 2i to the 2021.
After selling my 2i I was able to purchase the 2021 for a little over C$200 more which in hifi terms is frankly peanuts.
Beyond the sound sounding slightly punchier but otherwise not much different(great!), the functionality upgrade has been much appreciated.
I love the presets as they mean I don’t have to pick up my phone as often and find the app. I like the more direct volume control.
Most of all I love the new HDMI Arc input as my unit sits close to my tv and means I can output tv sound through my speakers easily. It also means I can control the volume of the node with the TV remote, yet another good reason to NOT pick up the phone. Btw I do love changing the volume on my Apple Watch app too, very handy.
Finally I look forward to trying the USB out to DAC feature.
Will you be keeping your 2021 and testing this yourself down the road?
Thanks Kevin.definitely agree with your comments especially in audiophile terms comment. Will have this one for future to be able to do that test, and waiting Hegel to go Roon ready too.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 great!
I had the node 2i going via both coax and optical to a Schitt Modi multibit previously. After buying a switch to enable quick swapping between onboard Dac and the Schitt external Dac I was surprised to find I had a preference for neither, and sold the multibit happily. One thing of note, I was surprised that even when using the node purely as a transport (to the external Dac), I could still control the volume from the Node. This shows that some of the data out contains volume value.
Back to the point lol, I have a decent enough (Tag Mcn), amp and Kef LS50 speakers and at this quality level I couldn’t discern a difference, but this is fine by me for the price and functionality.
Whether the usb out takes it to another level due to reduced jitter etc I guess it depends on many factors but I look forward to hearing your feedback with Dacs at various price points :-)
Cheers!
i would like to see a comparison to the new IFI Zen Stream?
I’m thinking of getting one of those fo do that test before Xmas hopefully.
Hi,can i connect NODE to a Marantz AVR?
Yes!!!
If you have evaluated the USB out Simon, could you let us know how it compares to the other digital out please?
Basically it’s better in a cleaner slightly more forward and balanced way imo
Thanks Simon. Super review!
Thanks very much! Enjoy.
Thanks for another great video!! Does the Bluesound show you the resolution play back bit/frequency rate on the app or device? This might be picky but I do like to know that?
Thanks too. It does do that 😀🎼
@@13thnotehifireviews7 where does it show it? on the app?
@@mden2490 on the app, but don’t worry about it. The quality of audio is largely system and not format dependent, so long as cd quality or above.
Thank you, wonderful review
Thank you too 🙏😀🎵🎶🔊
I have the original Node 2 and run through the DAC of my CD player (Marantz SA-11S3). I contacted Bluesound, they said no upgrade in sound quality if you are using an external DAC.
Opinions differ even within hifi companies.
The 2i and the new Node are excellent products, as you say. Sound is high, clearly not the best, but 75% of best for sensible money. It is the flexibility, features and decent build quality that make it so useful. I know some very high end systems that began with a Node to try out streaming and now find use in a second system. Well presented as always.
Thanks very much - I’d go higher on 75% - more like 90 as what HiFi said ; ‘not out of place in their reference system’
I got a node 2021 and then had a listen to the IFI Zen Stream and returned the Node....there was no comparison!
I’d disagree as the differences between these products tends to be small sound wise at this price, but where the gap can be wider is in functions, use
and utility
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Right. Node is definitely more versatile. I needed a pure streamer for 2 channel listening and found the Zen stream to be much more cleaner. Give it a try if you can mate...
Great review btw
Thanks v much. Often it just comes down to sonic preference , so you say cleaner and another will say they want a little more tone to prefer a node. Who is right?
Another great review! I upgraded from the Node 2i some 2 months ago to the Innuos Zenith MK3. I now use Roon instead of BlueOS and I think Roon is a bit better. The Zenith is a clear step up from the Node 2i but it should be at 5 times the price. As often said, the staging is wider, the backdrop blacker. I am not entirely convinced the price of Roon is worth it for my usage and I hear good things about the recently released InnuOS 2.0 so I may change after a year. I am VERY glad I made the move to Innuos as I can now rip my CD's easily and store them on an SSD drive also. But back to the bluesound nodes. For the money they are exceptional value!
I just bought hegelh390 I love it. I wonder if I buy bluesound node 2i will you make a better sound for my TIDAL
I don’t think so. They don’t sell the 2i currently but you can buy the new node. I would personally look at Roon or just the functionality you want with streaming so good on the h390
Hello again. Long story short. Node and denafrips ares ii together or cambridge cxn v2?
Excellent review thanks, I purchased one after watching and think it’s a great device. Does using the Nodes volume control degrade the sound quality at all? I’m using fixed volume output at the moment and using my amp to adjust, would be convenient to use the BluOS app if it has no negative effects.
Thank you David. I think you’ll be fine , I have mine set on fixed and never had problems of distortion
Hi great review, how do you think this would pair with the Burson Conductor 3 performance bypassing the node dac,
Thank you although I don’t comment on what I don’t review. It’s the most common response I give on RUclips.
I just bit the bullet, so to speak and bought one of the new nodes, missed out on a sweet deal the store had on a superseded ex demo model. But I have ripped my CD’s and when I pick up my NAS, I will be able to stream it. Also trying out Qobuz. I would say that it is similar Sound compared to an Cambridge Audio Azur 751 Bluray player and the DACs in that. I would have loved the CXN but couldn’t swing the extra $1000 over the node. I would have enjoyed a NAD TA 758 or 778, to replace my Denon 2807 home theatre amp, and getting a streamer in one package but again I couldn’t swing the sort of money.
Fantastic review Simon! My setup is around 10 years old now. B&w cm9, Rotel rb1090 and rc1090 power and pre amp and a rel t7 sub. I stream via a sonos connect going through a musical fidelity m1 dac and have a play 5 in another room. My question to you is, should I upgrade to a bluesound node ( and maybe add a denafrips ares 2 later when budget allows ) or get a cambridge cxn v2? The cambridge route would mean retiring the rotel pre. I would also like to keep the sonos play 5 in service if possible. Would the node and cxn v2 be a significant improvement in sound quality?Please advise when you have the time. Thanks!
Thank you. Please read description.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Hi Simon. Don't want to trouble you too much. Quick question. Node with denafrips ares 11 vs cambridge cxn v2?
@@13thnotehifireviews7 okay got it. 12:56. Cheers
Hi..nice review...can you tell me if would be an upgrade to hook up node via coax out to Marantz hd dac1?..and then from hd dac1 amalog out to amp?
Ty
Thanks but how do you think i would know when I’ve not tried the Marantz.
Would love to hear your thoughts on the marantz model 30/ SACD 30n stack
Thanks a lots for the review. Can I ask you a question ? I recently subscribed on Amazon music HD. I'd like to know if this streamer support it, and if it is easy to use by the app which drive this streamer
Thanks
It’s not listed as a service in their tech lowdown manual on their website but Amazon hd (cd quality) which I’ve never used supports airplay 2 (which is basically at cd quality). I wouldn’t use the ifi’s app as it’s not great. Amazon may have a better app but you’ll know better than me if you use it. I stick to Spotify, tidal and Qobuz as the main services I use.
Hello there! Nice video! I have one question.. Can you set the signal quality out? I have e pair of Meridian DSP 6000's. And they handle mat the max 24/96. So anything above wont make a sound. How do I get around this? An DAC with max said resolution after the output? Or could it be set internally in the node?
Well done Simon ! Hope they come out with a similar update with the Vault2i as I want to rip all my CD's. Bluesound has always presented itself as an amazing value especially compared to some of those $2K to $20K streamers (which I do not understand). And BlueOS is one of very few platforms that support Amazon Music HD natively... Amazon Music HD support seems to be very hard to come by.
Thanks very much. BluOS is my fav platform below Roon speaking totally honestly.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Roon is wonderful as it is almost platform agnostic.. except no Amazon Music HD integration. Ugh...
Cool product at. Great review! The killer for me is no I2S output for my Dac. I would bypass the internal Dac of this and really don’t want to have to buy another $600 for for DDC to get this signal up to I2S.
Thank you. Personally I’d never make i2s a deal breaker on systems I’ve owned
Solid solid review. That’s how it’s done.
Good sound still I hope
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Yes, you got it down
Nice video. I won’t be upgrading from my 2i anytime soon though.
Very honest review. Interesting comments about the CXN V2, which I own. I can use it in two ways. 1. As a streamer and using its own dac then analogue out. 2. From a laptop using Audirvana Studio and usb into the CXN's dac and analogue out.. I can say that the latter has the edge sound quality wise over the CXN alone though not by a huge amount. To me, this shows that the streamer does influence the end result but not by a huge amount - as you said. I also have an OPPO 205 and can use the ESS dacs in that via usb from the laptop which gives me another nuanced sound. I can also use upnp for either system and to me that just sounds identical to using USB. I prefer laptop based systems for streaming services simply because I prefer a bigger screen and less fiddling about with apps on phones which always seem to be out of charge which is also used up very fast with music apps. The CXN is also used for chromecasting from another laptop and for internet radio (which works better than the Audirvana internet radio options at the moment. (Work in progress I think.)
Thanks very much and for taking the time to feed back which I’m sure is helpful for others as well.
Just wanted keep going strong!
Great work, you speak highly of the Sonore product. I am planning to level soon. I lot of respected reviewers feel that the sotm sms-200 is superior. What do you think? Is it time to compare?
Late to this party! I bought a discounted Node 2i a year or two ago, stuck it on top of the 20-year-old Naim three-box electronics, and off I went. Works well and of course goes loud, loud, loud! Same as it ever was...
I saw the new nodes (2021) are being discounted atm, in the uk at least. The usb out (which the 2i doesn’t have) does sound better than coax by a decent margin. Im running mine into an Aune S9c pro DAC with the Aune SC1 master clock. The clock seems to work better with the usb input from the node too. It is worth trying usb if your dac supports it and is good enough plus rest of system of course.
My mate asked me if I know things about this bluesound box. I sent over this video.
Nice one thanks 😊
Doing one on new chord mojo 2 atm
I just hooked up my Node to my RME DAC via optical and it sounds amazing! MQA tracks via tidal are reading either 88.2 or 96 kHz so what I’m i missing since the RME isn’t a MQA DAC??
I dont think you are missing anything. MQA is slight, if any improvement. It's more about being a great transport and a great DAC then any format, any day of the week, month, or year!
At 9:57 you open the navigation drawer in the app and select an mqa icon that my app does not have. Why is that?
You either have to add it as a ‘service’ I think or it may appear only when there is an MQA live stream like the jazz refreshed concert Bluesound did. Either way this was just to show that it’s a feature all bluos apps can access when the concert is online.
….2/2 I looked in music services and there is no MQA option in there, so what I presume happens is they add it, as something to select for accessing the MQA live broadcast, when they do that again, which I’d think is probably likely.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 good to know. Thanks for checking for me. I was worried I had missed an app update. But that's not the case. Cheers.
@@EricRhodeslives my video clip I used Eric was from last year when they did that jazz MQA concert, so in all likelihood you have a much later update anyway.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 so Bluesound did an MQA live concert? Or another service like Tidal? (Not that I really care as I run the Node into an Ares2 which doesn't do the final unfold and STILL sounds better than the Node DAC directly) Love your channel btw.
What a great review. You keep improving yourself at every video.
Besides the compliments, i’d like to know your opinion about comparing this new blusound as a transport with the ifi zen stream. Thanks!
Thank you , haven’t tried the ifi zen stream tbh
The Zen streamer has only two streaming services preconfigured. The Node is the friendliest in this regard.
You can use your own dac instead of the built in one. MQA with the internal dac can be used for the occasional mqa file.
I’d agree . I think the Node will probably be the better all rounder because sq is often so close in streamers as transports and whilst node another 100 it has so many more features. I know what I’d buy!
Thanks for sharing your opinions. I have to say i’m curious about the Zen Stream sound quality because of it uses some technologies to improve it’s digital outputs: Active Noise Cancellation on USB and iPurifier on SPDIF.
We loved a bit of shipping forecast on the car radio on the way back from Raving back in the day. It used to come on about dawn and always made us all giggle. P.s Ive got a Node 2021 and a SMS-200 on demo at the minute. Im using the USB out on both into my Chord Qutest. Im only on my 2nd day into having both products, so hard to tell properly sound wise but easy of use for apps, qobuz, spotify, tunein etc the Node wins hands down. I dont use Roon but do have a 60 day trial but doubt I will pay for it as well. I was previously using my Audirvana Studio from my laptop in my Qutest. Will report back..............
Great review 👍
Great video and review. Nice camera work. Don't take this the wrong way but a Swiffer duster cloth or a can of compressed air would go a long way when showing off the beautiful details of the hardware.
Good feedback. Thanks. I realised that after but it’s not a duster or air , I was dusting all the time in these shots but particles still stick. Trick of the trade is anti static spray apparently. I’ll do that next time and all learning curve. 😀
Did you notice any SQ improvement using the USB output into an external DAC, compared to the 2i and/or with COAX?
I did notice a decent difference absolutely with usb out.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thank you for your reply that is most-appreciated. In that regards (using USB) it sounds likely the Node(gen3) is a worthwhile upgrade over the 2i?
@@13thnotehifireviews7 So you noticed a difference between internal and external DAC on the current (2021) Node?
@@mark_nz I don’t have the time. Sorry. You can sign up to patreon if you like.
bluesound node 2i vs topping d90 which one is better?
I keep looking at these then the cxn v2 but I’m more towards the cxn again.. I don’t want to buy until I find out if a v3 is out anytime soon…
It depends if you need to use the dac. The version 2 is very good though
@@13thnotehifireviews7 i don’t have external dac so would be using it connected to marantz 8006 with living voice auditorium speakers.. Cambridge audio tell me there is no plans for a v3 anytime soon
What's the intro music? Love it!
It’s called Anthony earls, enter the circuit. (Epidemic sound) 👍
@@13thnotehifireviews7 thank you!👍
Thanks for that. I’m of the mind the node might be not up to par with my 10k system as a transport but it’s very possible I’m wrong on that. Maybe I should not pass judgement based on price and give this a go. It certainly seems to match my lack of connectivity knowledge. It seems simple enough to get going.
Thank you for your review. did have one question. I keep seeing your video showing BluOS app on the MacOS desktop instead of an Ipad but I don't think its really available for the mac. If it is can you provide a link to it. It does not appear to be in the MacOS app store.
Thanks, is very available on mac . Check out bluesound literature on web
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thank you. Found the MacOS version on BlueSounds Website as you said. Have gotten so used to the App stores I didn't think to look there since the IOS and IpodOS App stores had it for those platforms.
Glad you found out. Is Great app on all devices
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I think I will go get the new Node and add it to my existing 2i (move some things around). Just wondering how you rate it's DAC when compared to some of the Schitt Audio ones. I will have to compare. I use my current 2i with the Emotiva DAC available in my preamp/controller. Also have a Schitt DAC and Cambridge DacMagic Plus.
Send your Patreon info.
Hello Simon, thanks for your reviews! I have recently purchased a Node and I’m still trying to figure out why I like it much better as transport and dac rather than transport with Rme Adi2 doing the dac as sound in the latter case becomes way too forward and analytical while the Node is simply musical. Would be nice to hear your opinion ! Thanks
You probably need to tweak the settings on the rme as it’s way more adjustable.
Have you tried the node connected to a power amp? Does it sound good as a preamp?
I’m not sure if I did or didn’t as part of that review but I have in the past and it is normally alright
What are your thoughts vs the Cambridge CXN v2 on an Anthem MRX720 with Kef R5s ?
Pls see Description
Can I connect my iphone apple music to the node wifi for high res audio?
Couple things.
Did u try the wifi? It's supposed to be more reliable in the new version.
Lastly,
How was ur experience with paring it with another node so both play at the same time?
Works fine
Yes, great review, many thanks👍👍👍. New sub✌️
Thank you
Would be great if you could do a comparison to the ifi zen stream from a transport sq perspective.
Thanks hopefully on radar
Great, informative review. Tempted to upgrade but not sure if I’d notice any improvement from my Allo USBridge Signature / Shanti combo.
I did a video on the USBridge signature against the old 2i called ‘streamer shoot out’ if you haven’t seen it.
I´m using the first USB Bridge made by Allo ( with Sparkyboard SBC) and Linear PSU and can tell that the external Harddisc connected sounds much spacious with darker backround than same Audio files streamed via Quobuz over USB Bridge. Unfortunatly in most product videos about Allo USB /DigiOne SBC with there hatboards these signal output difference are not mentioned/pointed out.
Great review Simon. As this new node has the hdmi socket, could I technically use my TV as the nodes screen, when playing music on Spotify? . I actually have the Spotify app on my TV and I'm hopping that the new hifi service will support this app.
Hi Steve, Thanks very much. I don’t think you can tbh. It’s more an audio return channel feature , hence ARC, and I didn’t try it with my tv. I do have a long hdmi cable so will give it a whirl but you know you can use Spotify connect with the node?. Bw simon
@@13thnotehifireviews7 so the HDMI input is used just to connect the TV to my hifi via the node, so the TV's sound comes out the hifi speaker's? I have it connected to the hifi via optical at the minute, but I'm guessing the sound would be improved via HDMI?
@@steverees1936 There is no video information sent to/from the Node when connecting your TV via HDMI eArc (enhanced Audio Return Channel), but it will allow you to control the volume with your TV remote, provide picture to sound synchronisation and it supports higher audio quality than the original HDMI, such as Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. etc
Very nice review, my question is can you recommend me how can i improve my system? i am currently using Powernode2 with triangle borea br02, inakustik silver excellence speaker cable between.
Bought mine to run Kef q950
Can I use the native Qobuz app when I use my Node 2i other than through Airplay?
Node 2i or Node 3 better en sound?
Node ‘3’
Hello: I’m in the market on getting on buying new up to date music equipment. I’m in the dark on what to buy and part of that is the fact that there is so much to choose from. I’ve been returning to a awesome Hifi shop in my area and they are very helpful with help me with learning before I buy. This is important to me because I feel it’s a new step and a big one on going from a normal basic stereo receiver to a Hifi unit. The Node is one unit I’m interested on buying and the other is the NAD C 388. Again i am new to this and I’m trusting the fellows on leading me in the right direction. I’m looking for something that is good for streaming, awesome sound clarity, and decent power.
Please message me on what your thoughts are. Thanks
Sign up to patreon and I can help you out
Please sign up to patreon where I can help. Bw
As a preamp and dac will I benefit hook it up to my HK 3490 (yes it stills run). Now using Chromecast digital to the Dac in the HK 3490 and frankly it sounds really good.
Please see the description as I can’t answer that. Sorry
Great stuff...tnx!
Would this go well with a marantz pm8005 and a pair of wharfedale evo 4.2 speakers
Sorry thought was different product. Answer is yes
The Shipping Forecast, it is! :-) Nice reference, Simon.
I bought a Node 2i a year or so ago. I do like it but the only main issue I had was breakup on Bluetooth. Whenever I listened to music via my Bluetooth headphones I get almost constant static and break up. Sent Bluesound an email and yes they were helpful but they suggested switching off all WiFi and other Bluetooth products as they can interfere with hi-res Bluetooth streaming. I wonder if the newer model has managed to get rid of this problem. If I was sitting within 1.5m of the unit the problem almost disappeared but sometimes you’d still get loud crackling. My only other issue is the app needs some work. It looks great but sometimes the simplest function requires five or six touches. Otherwise a great piece of kit.
I used it with my Sony’s I showed in the vid and never any problems - 2i and new one. It sounds more like a problem with the headphones. I’ve got some infra red ones I watch tv in bed with, not so much about sound quality there, and they get break up. Which headphones do you use.
Ps I’ve always found bluos to be one of the best apps below roon , and tbh I think you won’t get away from finger taps from most apps. Things like remotes help and being able to operate on the unit. I especially like units where you can operate them ‘old school’ in situ without an app because of passcodes etc.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Hiya. No I don’t think so. They are B&W PX7’s so a good make. I think the issue (and this was kind of confirmed via bluesound) is my Hi-Res FLAC streams require huge amounts of data to reach the headphones, I guess the slightest issue with connection causes breakup. Oddly it sometimes does it when I turn so maybe it’s a bit of both. Headphones and transmitter. I’ve used the headphones with both APTX HD mobile phones but mainly my A&K player with no problems. So there’s something that the Node doesn’t like. I just recently treated myself to a pair of Sony in-ears, I may try those to see if I have the same issue but those use LDAC not APTX HD so I assume it will default to a standard resolution Bluetooth connection and bit rate. On that sort of connection the 2i seems to be fine. I guess that’s the issue, lots of people say they have no problem but there are so many file formats, then you have hi-res, normal, etc. all are different bit rates, file sizes, connection types. Is what it is I guess. Bluesound did confirm that they had received other reports of this issue but were unfortunately unable to provide me with a solution. Apart from shutting down WiFi, etc.
Thanks for clarifying. I’m a bit of a traditionalist as I tend to use a dac - the rme mainly, and headphone amp at a desk - currently reviewing smsl h0200, with my Mac book, all wired, so nothing goes wrong. Then use the Sony’s mainly for walk abouts and trains for noise cancelling.
I have replaced a Sonos Port with this and it is a definate improvement, paricularly now I can play Amazon Ultra Hi-Res.
In what way do you say an improvement sound wise for you?
How do you connect the Node via cables to a pair of Klipsch The Fives?
Analogue or digital it looks like
how does the Lumin MINI compare?
See description
Will this stream from RUclips Music?
Not sure tbh as I don’t really use it, the Bluesound community forum is really good for that kind of thing.
BluOS and the node input into a better dac, enjoying it very much. If you're not using roon then BluOS is a better option than the third party apps more "hifi" streamers use, obviously in the price range.
Anyway thanks for the review, I enjoyed it.
What I wonder is
- will there be any SQ differences when I connect them to an external DAC
- is there a sound difference between the optical and the HDMI if I connect the Node 2021 to a TV
Thanks Simon for the awesome videos!
Thanks too. It depends on the hifi really but if good enough then yes. I don’t use hdmi much but I think you’ll be ok.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 great. I'd connect the Node to a Topping D70S via coax which then goes into an Exposure 3010S2D with KEF LS50 Meta as front end.
I am hoping to get some more dialogue clarity out of the HDMI when compared to the optical.
My system is a Rotel 1590, RC 1590, BW 702 S2 and a Yamaha WC 50, do you think updating to the Bluesound Node (2021) would make a reasonable difference?
Please watch the end of the video.
I replaced my Yamaha WXA50 due to the poor mobile app that Yamaha comes with. The BlueOS app with New Node N130 is much better in usage. I really enjoy The New Node with my Rotel RB-1552MKII on Wharfedale D220 speakers in near field setup. Much better than when it was with Yamaha WXA50.
@@SurajKumar-AskMe Thanks for the advice.
I'd likes to know of its possibile to play through the node music files stored on a hard disk,, and why they can't add a feature of Reading/ripping CD from a 25 dollars USB external CD transport.
Another question: does It have a phono preampli inside?
I think you go for their cd ripping streaming transport if you want that - called vault. You can use the node to find music on your network and network drives. But if you want ripping just buy a cheap laptop and ripping cd drive. No phono stage I don’t think.
👍👍👍👍👍👍/👍👍👍👍👍
New subscriber Simon.You deliver the goods and I like the choices for content.Now the question for me is build a Pi with my limited set of skills (the way to go for cost effective Roon use) or and I think you made the case get the Roon and even if you don't use the Blue OS it's there.One thing I think is that more of these boxes should offer a ripping function to and external drive (Project digital pre might do this) but when it comes down to the Vault I would get a Innous Mini Zen/Green Machines Micro Rendu and have to kick out for a $500-1K Dac because even with a somewhat better DAC amd new control top a 2TB drive is not worth two Node's.
Best from the New World
Chazz
Thanks very much Charles. I can help make recommendations for gear in a more involved discussion. Please Head over to patreon and we can thrash it out, as it’s not possible time wise to do everything on here.
As a transport how would you compare the sound quality to Raspberry Pi/DigiOne Signature?
Please watch end of video.
Also I have the digione signature I should say.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Apologies I'm not the best with idioms haha. So more or less equivalent? By the way thanks for all your reviews, really appreciate your insights!
Great video - thank you! I was wondering if I should upgrade from my Node2? I am not really in the need for the extra utility, and as you suggest the upgrade in sound is not significant (even more so on my modest system).
Thank you….Depends on the rest of gear etc. Please see description , happy to help if you patreon subscribe or donate etc as I have little time to answer these all if I’m going to answer well…many thanks 😀
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Sorry - did not actually mean that as a question to you (more in my head) … but thanks for introducing me to Agnes Obel … brilliant.
I connected the Node 2i via an optical cable to a SMSL D300 DAC. For roughly half the price of a new Node there is a massive improvement in sound quality in a relatively modest 3000 GBP stereo setup.
Hi, can I tie my Apple Music Account to this Node like Tidal?
Airplay 2 in the Apple app
Bravo , Simon !
I’m starting to like you ! Lol
The Bluesound website claims that their products do not support UPnP, but I have seen two of your videos in which you state the opposite. Are you sure that the node works as a UPnP streamer? Have you tested it?
Please can you send a link and state where it says that?
Ok so I may have stated upnp but for all intents and purposes it’s still able to connect to files on nas drives by file sharing methods. I’ve done it from an nas. So essentially it’s the same thing but not formerly part of the upnp Dlna banner it looks. Was that your concern? Thanks for correcting if we’ve got this right
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I’m considering buying a Node for my bedroom. The USB drive attached to the Auralic Aries in my living room is visible to all DLNA/UPnP renderers, would the Node play music from it?
Plug it into the router maybe if usb slot or use Ethernet nas for both . I doubt any dlna usb drive will work if plugged into another device and then you use for node. But anyway Ethernet based nas drives get over issue and are cheap
I have 1140 amp wouldn’t the dac in there be better than the node 2 and also when i play my apple hi res music can i still use my apple app in my phone ? And will it give me 24bit and 192 ?
The Arm chip in a humble pi4 is higher spec. 'updated' chips in new Node have been around a few yrs, but implementation is key
Interesting, I suspect it’s much more to do with implementation, noise, rather than all out latest. Also doing things within budget.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 yes can't beat their app and usability. Sort of wish for a transport only node or 'evo' version with screen and better dac chipset
@@willmac5642 I was thinking that I wish they did one to challenge the Cambridge Audio cxn v2 but only my self indulgent reasons, as it’s a cost game and I suspect most people who buy the node will be using the DACs in it, aimed at the relative budget side of audiophile hifi.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 have you seen the modwright tubed cxn v2
Haven’t tbh
very nice and detailed reviews. shame i didnt seen your channel earlier. but subbed none the less.