Bluesound Node Network Streamer, White

The Bluesound Node is a hi-res network streamer with an ESS Sabre DAC, adjustable analogue output and THX AAA headphone amplifier that extends an existing stereo system with streaming, TV sound and multiroom.

In matte satin white, it's not a device you need to hide: on a light sideboard or an open shelf, it looks more like a piece of furniture than a piece of technology.

Why the Node?

Beneath the light-coloured surface lies the current N132 generation with an ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M converter, −118 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 0.0007 percent distortion. HDMI eARC connects the TV, the 6.3 mm jack houses a THX AAA headphone amplifier, and the quad-core processor keeps gapless playback and hi-res material running smoothly. Because the RCA output has adjustable volume, the Node can also work as a digital preamp straight ahead of a power amplifier.

What you get

• ESS Sabre DAC ES9039Q2M: fine resolution up to 24-bit/192 kHz, very low noise.
• Adjustable RCA output: preamp function included, switchable to fixed level.
• HDMI eARC: TV sound runs through the system, volume via the TV remote.
• THX AAA headphone amplifier: 6.3 mm jack with 230 mW at 32 ohms, low distortion.
• Subwoofer output: via RCA with adjustable crossover, or wirelessly to the Pulse Sub+.
• Full BluOS: AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready, Dirac Live Ready, multiroom.

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

Fits if you have a good system, want to modernise it, and care that the device doesn't stand out as a black block in a bright living room. Honestly: if you want to control everything with buttons on the unit, you'll feel out of place with the app-based operation. And the white surface wants the occasional dusting – dark devices forgive more in that respect. Amplification and speakers remain separate.

Our verdict

The same versatile streamer as in black, just designed for bright living spaces – with TV connectivity, subwoofer option, a genuine headphone amplifier and adjustable output. At HD Zürisee, we'll clarify beforehand how it fits your amplifier and your room.

Technical Data

• Type: Hi-res network streamer with DAC (BluOS), N132 generation
• Converter: ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M (32-bit, Hyperstream IV)
• Resolution: up to 24-bit / 192 kHz, DSD256 (via BluOS update)
• Formats: FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, MQA, MP3, AAC and more
• Signal-to-noise ratio / distortion: −118 dB, THD+N 0.0007%
• Output level: adjustable – RCA output with BluOS volume control, switchable to fixed level in the app
• Headphone output: yes – 6.3 mm jack with THX AAA amplifier (160 mW/16 Ω, 230 mW/32 Ω, 53 mW/250 Ω, 22 mW/600 Ω)
• Analogue outputs: RCA stereo, subwoofer out (RCA, adjustable crossover), wireless to Pulse Sub+
• Digital outputs: coaxial (RCA), optical (TOSLINK)
• Inputs: HDMI eARC, combo input mini-TOSLINK / 3.5 mm analogue, USB-A (storage media), IR input
• Further connections: trigger out, 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, Dirac Live Ready
• Controls: illuminated touch panel with presets, no display
• Finish: white, matte satin lacquer
• Power supply: 100–240 V AC
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 220 × 46 × 146 mm
• Weight: 1.09 kg
• In the box: power cable (120 V and 230 V), RCA cable, Ethernet cable, mini-jack-to-TOSLINK adapter, quick start guide, Dirac Live info card

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect the Node directly to a power amplifier?

Yes. The RCA output ships with adjustable volume, which you control via the BluOS app or the remote. This lets the Node take on the role of a preamp and play directly into a power amplifier or active speakers. For use with an integrated amplifier, you set the output to a fixed level in the audio settings.

Is there a genuine headphone amplifier in the Node?

Yes. Behind the 6.3 mm socket sits a THX AAA amplifier with error correction, not just a tap off the preamp stage. It delivers 230 mW at 32 ohms while staying very low in distortion. That's easily enough for the vast majority of hi-fi headphones; at 600 ohms it gets tight.

How do I bring TV sound onto the system?

Via HDMI eARC. One HDMI cable from the TV's eARC port to the Node is enough, and the sound then runs through your system, with the TV remote controlling it too. Series, concerts and films noticeably gain body, and dialogue in particular becomes clearer. A separate AV receiver isn't needed for this.

Does the Node need a streaming subscription?

No. Internet radio, music from your network storage and files from a USB stick run at no ongoing cost, as do AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth. You can add services like Tidal or Qobuz, but you don't have to – the Node remains a fully-fledged source even without a subscription.

Why buy the Bluesound Node in white from HD Zürisee?

Because the white version stands in the living room, not in a technical cabinet – so it's worth thinking placement, cabling and operation through properly. That's exactly what we do with you, on-site installation included. Reach our team in Wädenswil 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 right companions among the integrated amplifiers, bookshelf speakers, headphones, subwoofers and the rest of our streaming range.