Streamers — Bluesound Node 2024

The NODE (N132), usually called the NODE 2024, is the current generation of the compact BluOS streaming player from the Canadian company Bluesound. This model replaces the earlier NODE with a new DAC and redesigned audio circuitry, and Bluesound lists it at CAD 849. The low profile case is meant to sit on a shelf next to an amplifier or a television.

Key specs that matter

An ESS ES9039Q2M SABRE DAC takes care of conversion, while the processor is a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 running at 1.8 GHz per core. The unit plays 16 to 24 bit PCM at native rates up to 192 kHz and supports DSD256. The maker specifies 118 dB signal-to-noise, with distortion (THD+N) at 0.0007%. The case measures 220 x 46 x 146 mm and weighs 1.09 kg, and power arrives through a universal bi-pin mains cord for 100 to 240 V.

Engineering and use context

Inputs include HDMI eARC, a combined optical and analogue socket using mini Toslink and 3.5 mm stereo, and a USB Type A port that reads external drives or runs a local server mode. Outputs cover analogue RCA stereo with a fixed-level option, USB Audio 2.0, optical Toslink, coaxial RCA and a subwoofer RCA, and the unit can also send bass wirelessly to a PULSE SUB+. The 6.3 mm headphone jack uses THX AAA amplification rated at 160 mW into 16 ohm, 230 mW into 32 ohm, 53 mW into 250 ohm and 22 mW into 600 ohm with THD below 0.1%. Wireless options include Wi-Fi 5, two-way Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive and Apple AirPlay 2, and a Gigabit Ethernet port is fitted for wired networks. File support spans lossless FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MQA and MPEG-4 SLS together with lossy MP3, AAC, OGG, OPUS, WMA and WMA-L, so both ripped libraries and older downloads play without conversion. The top panel has proximity-sensing controls, five programmable presets store favourite stations or playlists, and IR learning lets an existing remote control operate the player.

Pairing

Set to fixed level, the RCA pair suits any preamp or integrated amp with a spare analogue input, and in variable mode the NODE can go straight into powered speakers or a power amp. HDMI eARC brings television sound into the same system, and a Bluesound PULSE SUB+ can be added without a cable. The analogue input lets a record player fitted with a phono preamp, or any other line source, be shared across the network. Within BluOS the player can be grouped with other Bluesound devices in the home.

Alternatives

Bluesound's NODE ICON is the step-up streamer, with dual-mono ES9039Q2M DACs, balanced XLR outputs and a five-inch display.