Bluesound Node Nano Network Streamer

The Bluesound Node Nano is a compact network streamer with ESS Sabre DAC and variable analog output that makes an existing system streaming-ready in high resolution.

It's the space-saving entry point into the BluOS world: the complete streaming package in the smallest Node housing, without extras nobody ends up using. Roughly fourteen centimetres square – it disappears behind almost any device.

Why the Node Nano?

Small doesn't mean stripped down here, at least not when it comes to sound: the Nano runs the same ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M converter as the significantly larger Node, plus a quad-core processor that handles hi-res material up to 24 bit/192 kHz and DSD256 without stumbling. The savings are in the connections, not the conversion. You connect it to your amplifier via RCA, optical or coaxial – and the modern source is ready to go.

What you get

• Full-fledged Hi-Res DAC: ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M, up to 24 bit/192 kHz and DSD256.
• Variable RCA output: plays directly into active speakers or a power amp, switchable to a fixed level.
• Flexible digital outputs: optical, coaxial and USB Audio Out for an external DAC.
• Complete BluOS: AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready, multiroom.
• Bidirectional Bluetooth 5.2 (aptX Adaptive): stream in and send to wireless headphones.
• Illuminated touch panel: programmable presets, usable even in the dark.

Who is the Node Nano for – and who isn't it for?

Ideal if you want to bring an existing system into the streaming age without much effort and without free shelf space – or if a second room should be added. Honestly: the Nano doesn't bring an amplifier or speakers along, it has no audio inputs at all, HDMI eARC is missing for TV sound, headphones work only wirelessly, and Dirac Live is off the table. If you need any of that, the larger Node or the Node Icon is the right choice.

Our verdict

A small streamer with a grown-up converter – the most uncomplicated path to BluOS and Hi-Res, and thanks to the variable output it can even be used directly in front of a power amp. At HD Zürisee we'll help you sort out with you whether the Nano, Node or Icon fits your system and your plans.

Technical data

• Type: compact network streamer with DAC (BluOS)
• Converter: ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M (Hyperstream IV)
• Resolution: up to 24 bit / 192 kHz, DSD256
• Formats: FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, MQA, MP3, AAC and more
• Output level: variable – RCA output with BluOS volume control, switchable to a fixed level in the app
• Headphone output: not present – headphones only wirelessly via Bluetooth
• Analog output: RCA stereo
• Digital outputs: coaxial (RCA), optical (TOSLINK), USB Audio Out (type A) for external DACs
• Inputs: no audio inputs; USB-A for storage media
• Subwoofer: wireless to the Pulse Sub+
• Other connections: trigger out (12 V, 3.5 mm), Gigabit LAN
• Network: Gigabit LAN, Wi-Fi 5 (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.2 (aptX Adaptive, bidirectional)
• Streaming: BluOS, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready
• Controls: illuminated touch panel with presets, no display
• Power supply: USB-C (5 V / 2 A)
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 143 × 36 × 143 mm
• Weight: 0.57 kg
• What's included: USB power adapter, 4 plug adapters, USB-C cable, RCA cable, Ethernet cable, quick start guide

Frequently asked questions

Is the output level of the Node Nano variable?

Yes. The RCA output ships with a variable level, and you control the volume in the BluOS app. That means the Nano can also play directly into active speakers or a power amp. On an integrated amplifier, it's better to switch the output to a fixed level in the app.

Does the Node Nano have a headphone output?

No. The Nano has no jack output for headphones – there simply isn't room for one. Wireless still works, though: Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive works in both directions and sends to wireless headphones. If you want to listen wired, go for the Node with its THX-AAA headphone amplifier.

What sets the Node Nano apart from the Node?

The Nano is smaller and reduced purely to streaming: no HDMI eARC, no audio inputs, no headphone output and no Dirac Live. The Node brings all of that along, plus a subwoofer output. Both use the same ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M converter – sonically they're closer together than the price difference suggests.

Does streaming work without a paid subscription?

Yes. Internet radio, files from your network storage and music from a USB stick run without a subscription. Paid services like Tidal or Qobuz are an option, not a requirement. AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth also work at no extra cost – you decide where the music comes from and what it's allowed to cost.

Why buy the Bluesound Node Nano at HD Zürisee?

Because we tell you honestly which Node fits your system – and when the small Nano is entirely enough. Our specialist shop in Wädenswil has worked with hi-fi since the nineties, and Mauri handles setup and service. Get in touch at 044 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Goes well with

You'll find the matching environment among our integrated amplifiers, active speakers, cables, our other streaming preamps and the rest of our streaming range.