Bluesound Node Network Streamer, Black

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.

The matte satin black finish stays pleasantly in the background on the rack – no chrome, no blinking lights, just a slim enclosure that slides under any amplifier.

Why the Node?

The Node is Bluesound's best-selling streaming source, and the current N132 generation makes it clear why: an ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M converter with a −118 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 0.0007 percent distortion, HDMI eARC for the TV, a THX AAA headphone amplifier at the 6.3 mm jack, and a quad-core processor that doesn't stumble over gapless playback or hi-res material. The RCA output has adjustable volume – so the Node also works as a digital preamp ahead of a power amplifier.

What you get

• ESS Sabre DAC ES9039Q2M: resolves bass, mids and treble cleanly and with very low noise.
• Adjustable RCA output: straight into a power amplifier or active speakers, or switchable to a fixed level.
• HDMI eARC: brings the TV sound onto your hi-fi system, controllable with the TV remote.
• THX AAA headphone amplifier: 6.3 mm jack, 230 mW at 32 ohms – not just a token output.
• 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?

The right choice if you want to bring an existing system up to date and make it more flexible – with TV connectivity, a subwoofer option and serious headphone use. Straight talk: if you absolutely refuse to use an app and would rather press buttons, the app-centric concept won't make you happy. You still need speakers and amplification separately; if you have neither, the Powernode is the shorter route.

Our verdict

A mature all-rounder that turns a good system into a modern one – and brings along an adjustable output plus a THX AAA headphone amplifier, two things that rarely come together at this price point. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we'll work out with you whether the Node is enough or the Icon is the smarter step up.

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: black, 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

Is the Node's output level adjustable?

Yes. The RCA output ships with variable volume, controlled via the BluOS app or the remote. This lets the Node work as a digital preamp straight into a power amplifier or active speakers. If it's connected to an integrated amplifier, you switch to a fixed level in the audio settings.

How good is the Node's headphone output?

Considerably better than a token jack. The 6.3 mm socket houses a genuine THX AAA amplifier delivering 160 mW at 16 ohms and 230 mW at 32 ohms, still 53 mW at 250 ohms. That drives most hi-fi headphones with ease, though very high-impedance models push it to its limits.

Does the Node bring TV sound onto the system?

Yes, via HDMI eARC. You connect the Node to the TV's eARC port, and the TV sound then runs through your hi-fi chain, with the TV remote controlling the volume too. Compared with most TV speakers, that's a significant step up, especially for dialogue and film scores.

Node, Node Icon or Powernode – which one fits?

The Node is the source for an existing system. The Node Icon sits a class above with a dual-mono DAC, XLR output and 5-inch display. The Powernode already has the power amplifier built in – so you just connect speakers. The Node Nano is the smaller, stripped-down variant.

Why buy the Bluesound Node from HD Zürisee?

Because day-to-day experience tells us how the Node fits into different systems – and we'll tell you honestly which variant is really enough. If you like, we'll set it up for you, Dirac Live included. Reach us 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, speakers, headphones, subwoofers and the rest of our streaming range.