Bluesound, a leading name in wireless multiroom audio, is making a bold move in the audiophile market. The company, known for its direct competition with Sonos, has unveiled three new network music streamers: the Node Nano, Node, and Node Icon. These additions represent a significant expansion of Bluesound’s product line, offering a wider range of choices for audio enthusiasts seeking hi-res streaming capabilities.
The Node Nano, launching on August 20th, is the smallest and most affordable option in the lineup. Priced at $299, it focuses solely on digital music sources, delivering high-quality audio to existing hi-fi systems or powered speakers. The Nano boasts a powerful DAC (digital-to-analog converter) from ESS, the ES9039Q2M chip, which ensures a rich and detailed audio experience. It also features a USB port for sharing local music libraries, two-way Bluetooth with aptX Adaptive for seamless hi-res streaming from phones or wireless headphones, and a front panel with touch controls for easy access to favorites, playback, and volume.
For those seeking a more comprehensive streamer experience, the new Node arrives on September 24th, priced at $549. This updated model incorporates features borrowed from the limited-edition Node X, including a THX AAA-powered headphone output, making it ideal for driving demanding wired headphones. It also features the same powerful ES9039Q2M DAC as the Nano and a revised internal circuitry for enhanced performance. The Node maintains its sleek design with proximity-sensing top-mounted touch controls and offers an expanded set of analog and digital inputs and outputs, including an HDMI ARC/eARC input for capturing digital TV sound.
The flagship of Bluesound’s new streamer lineup is the Node Icon, priced at $999. This premium device goes above and beyond with several high-end features tailored for discerning audiophiles. It features twin ESS ES9039Q2M DACs operating in mono mode, one for each channel, resulting in exceptionally clear and precise sound reproduction. Further enhancing the audio fidelity is MQA Labs’ QRONO d2a technology, which corrects any timing errors in the digital-to-analogue conversion process. This, combined with the inclusion of balanced XLR outputs, makes the Node Icon a serious contender for professional and audiophile-grade systems.
Another notable feature of the Node and Node Icon is the option to upgrade with Dirac Live Room Correction, available with a separate license purchase. This allows for personalized audio optimization, tailoring the sound to the unique acoustics of your listening space. Bluesound’s parent company, Lenbrook, acquired MQA Labs in 2023, and the Node Icon’s adoption of QRONO d2a technology underscores the company’s commitment to high-fidelity audio.
All three new Bluesound streamers seamlessly integrate with popular streaming services like Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Apple AirPlay 2, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of music libraries. They are also Roon Ready, making them compatible with Roon’s powerful music management software. For those interested in smart home integration, they support protocols like Crestron, Control4, RTI, ELAN, URC, and Lutron.
Bluesound’s latest streamers offer a compelling alternative to Sonos, particularly for those who value high-fidelity audio and appreciate the flexibility of multiple connection options. Whether you are seeking a budget-friendly entry point into hi-res audio with the Node Nano or aiming for the ultimate audiophile experience with the Node Icon, Bluesound has a streamer that caters to your needs and elevates your listening experience.
