Bluesound Powernode N331 + Argon Forus 55 Set, White (Set)

The Hi-Fi set made of the Bluesound Powernode N331 and Argon Audio Forus 55 in White is a complete streaming stereo system: an all-in-one streaming integrated amplifier with BluOS and a pair of 2.5-way floorstanding speakers, matched to each other in color and sound.

Bright rooms don't tolerate black blocks – this set disappears between the sofa and the window front instead of pushing itself into the foreground. 17 centimeters of cabinet width, an amplifier the size of a book, and in between, music that fills the room. Hand on heart: when did you last simply listen, instead of having music play in the background?

Why this Hi-Fi set?

Because the amplifier and speakers actually match here, not just happen to share a box. The third-generation Powernode N331 provides 2 × 100 watts at 8 ohms, generated in a DirectDigital power stage with gallium nitride transistors; Argon states a range of 50 to 120 watts for the Forus 55, and the 4-ohm impedance wants an amplifier that likes low-impedance loads. That's exactly the N331. The Forus 55 works on the 2.5-way principle: two 5.25-inch paper cones in the bass, but only one running all the way up to the 3000 Hz crossover – double cone area at the bottom, clean mids up top.

What you get

A system that can do everything asked of it today, without needing you to fill a rack. Via BluOS you access more than 20 music services, internet radio and your own files on the network, plus AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready and Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX HD. The TV joins in via HDMI eARC, a subwoofer can be added later via RCA or wirelessly, and headphones plug into a 6.35 mm jack up front with THX-AAA amplification. And because BluOS is multiroom-capable, the system grows with you once the kitchen radio has served its time.

Who is this set for – and who isn't it for?

Right for anyone who wants a fully-fledged streaming stereo system in one go, with a bright interior and room for two floorstanding speakers. Honestly: the Forus 55's bass reflex port sits at the back, it needs 20 to 30 centimeters of clearance to the rear wall – squeeze it into a niche and you get thick bass instead of deep bass. There's no phono input, so a turntable needs a separate preamp. And this set isn't intended for five- or seven-channel surround.

Our verdict

Unfussy, fully grown, and suited to a living room in white: the set turns two boxes into a system you'll still like years later – and if a different amplifier comes along at some point, the speakers stay put regardless. Tell us about your room, and we'll tell you whether the layout works: HD Zürisee, Wädenswil, +41 44 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Technical data

Bluesound Powernode N331

• Type: streaming integrated amplifier with BluOS
• Power stage: DirectDigital (Class D) with gallium nitride transistors
• Output power: 2 × 100 W at 8 Ω; 3 × 80 W at 8 Ω in three-channel mode
• Dynamic power (IHF): 265 W at 4 Ω, 140 W at 8 Ω (peak power, not continuous)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 102 dBA
• Total harmonic distortion (THD+N): 0.005%
• Resolution: 16–24 bit, up to 192 kHz, DSD256
• Formats: FLAC, MQA, WAV, AIFF, MPEG-4 SLS, MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, ALAC, OPUS
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), dual-band
• Bluetooth: 5.2 with aptX HD, bidirectional
• Services: AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready, BluOS with over 20 music services
• HDMI: 1 × eARC
• Analog and digital inputs: 1 × RCA analog, 1 × Toslink optical, 1 × 3.5 mm combo
• USB: 1 × Type A for storage, 1 × Type C as PC input
• Subwoofer output: 1 × RCA, alternatively wireless to the Pulse Sub+
• Output level: adjustable, volume is controlled on the device; no separate line or preamp output is available
• Headphone output: yes, 6.35 mm stereo with THX-AAA amplification
• Phono input: not available
• Room correction: Dirac Live Ready, software license and measurement kit optional
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 220 × 70 × 190 mm
• Weight: 1.9 kg
• Finish: White, matte

Argon Audio Forus 55 (pair)

• Design: passive 2.5-way floorstanding speaker, bass reflex with rear port
• Tweeter: 1″ soft dome with neodymium magnet
• Woofer/midrange: 2 × 5.25″ paper cone
• Frequency range: 45–20,000 Hz (± 3 dB)
• Crossover frequencies: 1500 Hz / 3000 Hz
• Impedance: 4 Ω
• Sensitivity: 88 dB
• Recommended amplifier power: 50–120 W (manufacturer specification)
• Connection: single-wire, gold-plated terminals
• Enclosure: MDF, magnetic front baffle
• Finish: White
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 17 × 86 × 26.6 cm
• Weight: 12.2 kg per speaker
• Included: Bluesound Powernode N331, 2 × Argon Audio Forus 55, power cable, Ethernet cable, Toslink adapter, magnetic front covers, documentation; speaker cable not included

Frequently asked questions

Does the set include the Powernode N331 or the Powernode EDGE?

Included is the third-generation Powernode N331 with 2 × 100 watts at 8 ohms, HDMI eARC, RCA and Toslink input, USB-C and a 6.35 mm headphone output. The more compact Powernode EDGE is not part of it; we carry that one separately, in case less power and fewer connections suit you.

How far do the Forus 55 need to be from the wall?

Plan on 20 to 30 centimeters of clearance to the rear wall. The bass reflex port sits at the back – too close to the wall and the upper bass builds up, making the sound feel thick. A bit of distance and slight toe-in toward the seating position bring contour, depth and a clearly defined center.

Is the set good for TV sound too?

Yes, that's what HDMI eARC is for. One cable from the TV to the Powernode N331 is enough, volume stays on the TV remote. If you later want more punch for movies, add a subwoofer via the RCA output or wirelessly with the Bluesound Pulse Sub+.

Does the set run without a paid subscription?

Yes. Internet radio, your own files on the network, USB storage, Bluetooth and TV sound all work without a subscription. Streaming services like Qobuz or Tidal can be added if you want to listen in high resolution – they're an option, not a requirement for operation.

Why order the set in white from HD Zürisee?

Because years of experience tell us which combinations actually work in a living room. In Wädenswil we work out placement, cable lengths and multiroom with you, set up BluOS, and take care of warranty, installation and service as an authorized dealer.

Goes well with

Without speaker cable it stays silent, so that's the first stop. For movie nights a subwoofer is worthwhile, small parts for setup sit under Accessories. Alternatives are shown by the Streaming Amplifiers and the Floorstanding Speakers, more combinations under Hi-Fi Sets.