Bluesound Expands NODE Family with Three New Wireless Music Streamers
Canadian audio specialist Bluesound has unveiled a trio of new additions to its popular NODE range of wireless music streamers. The three models, named NODE NANO, NODE and NODE ICON, offer a range of features and price points to cater to diverse audiophile needs.
The flagship NODE ICON is Bluesound's most ambitious wireless streamer yet, featuring a sleek and compact design, a five-inch full-colour display, and a dual-mono DAC. This innovative design pairs together two ESS SABRE DACs for exceptional audio fidelity.
At the entry-level, the NODE NANO is designed for those seeking to introduce streaming capabilities to their existing audio setup. It provides the essential features needed to transform a traditional system into a digital streaming hub.
The NODE, a reimagining of the original NODE, boasts an all-new ESS SABRE DAC for ultra-clean processing and improved performance. It represents a significant upgrade for those seeking a step up from the entry-level offering.
"Since its debut in 2013, the NODE has been our most beloved and popular product," said Matt Simmonds, product manager at Bluesound. "The launch of the NODE family marks the next chapter in our mission to bring high-fidelity sound to everyday life."
He further elaborated, "By creating a family of NODE streamers, we can reach a wider audience of music enthusiasts with high-resolution streaming, offering a fantastic entry point for new listeners and a sophisticated upgrade option for those who are serious about their audio."
Bluesound has meticulously crafted the NODE family to deliver an exceptionally transparent signal path. By optimising circuitry and implementing efficiency and isolation techniques, unwanted noise and distortion are minimised. Each component has been carefully selected and fine-tuned to deliver the most accurate and true-to-source audio experience.
The NODE range seamlessly integrates with popular music streaming services, including Amazon Music, Tidal and Spotify, allowing users to enjoy their favourite music in the highest possible quality. Built-in Apple AirPlay 2 and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth enable direct streaming from smartphones, while the NODE and NODE ICON models also support high-resolution DSD playback.
Both the NODE and NODE ICON models incorporate THX AAA headphone technology, providing a linear response and utilising patented feed-forward error correction for ultra-low noise and distortion. These models feature full-sized 1/4" headphone jacks, with the NODE ICON offering dual left and right jacks for optimised cable management.
The NODE and NODE ICON are also ready for Dirac Live Room Correction, an upgrade available through a separate license purchase. Dirac's technology allows users to measure their listening environment and utilise room correction to eliminate standing waves, reverberations, and other unwanted distortions. A calibration kit with a high-sensitivity mic is required for this feature and can be purchased separately from Bluesound.
All NODE streamers boast wireless connectivity, allowing them to be seamlessly integrated with Bluesound speakers and other stereo components to create a multi-room music system powered by the BluOS platform. The latest dual-band Wi-Fi technology ensures seamless and uninterrupted streaming throughout the home.
Designed to complement existing stereo systems or AV racks, the NODE family offers comprehensive support for popular smart home control systems including Control4, Crestron ELAN, RTI and more. The NODE and NODE ICON feature a suite of digital/analog inputs and outputs, including RCA, Coax, Optical, HDMI eARC, and USB. The NODE NANO is equipped with digital/analog outputs only.
NODE NANO
The NODE NANO is a compact and modern streamer, powered by BluOS, and offering native support for popular streaming services such as Amazon Music, Pandora, Qobuz, SiriusXM, Tidal, and others. It also features Apple AirPlay 2, aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect. The front panel is backlit and includes a couple of programmable presets.
NODE
The Bluesound NODE is a high-performance music streamer that has been redesigned with new components and circuitry for enhanced performance. It now features an ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DAC, a built-in THX AAA headphone amplifier, aptX Adaptive Bluetooth and DSD support. The NODE can seamlessly integrate with a stereo amplifier or a pair of powered speakers.
NODE ICON
The NODE ICON is Bluesound's flagship wireless music streamer, designed for the most discerning audiophiles. Engineered to set a new benchmark in the category, it features a dual-mono DAC design utilising two ESS SABRE DACs. It boasts an aluminium chassis, a 5-inch full-colour display, and all the essential digital/analog inputs and outputs, including HDMI eARC and balanced XLR outputs for premium connectivity.
Pricing & Availability:
The NODE NANO is available now at £299 from bluesound.com and authorised Bluesound dealers. The NODE is available for pre-order at £499 in both Black and White finishes from bluesound.com and Bluesound dealers. Shipping will commence from 24 September 2024. The NODE ICON is available for pre-order at £899 from 17 October 2024. Shipping begins on 15 November 2024.
