Streamers — Bluesound Node N130

The NODE with model number N130 is the 2021 generation of the network streamer from Bluesound, the Canadian company whose BluOS software links its players into a multi-room system. It replaced the NODE 2i and was launched at GBP 549. The N130 has no power amplifier, so it feeds an amplifier, powered speakers or an external converter, and Bluesound now lists it as an archive product that is no longer for sale.

Key specs that matter

Processing runs on a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 chip clocked at 1.8 GHz per core. The internal converter is a Texas Instruments PCM5242 in a 32-bit, 384 kHz differential output design, and Bluesound quotes THD+N of 0.002% and an SNR of 113 dBA. Native sample rates reach 192 kHz at 16 to 24 bits, DSD256 is accepted, and MQA files are fully decoded and rendered. Inputs are a combined mini TOSLINK and 3.5 mm jack, HDMI eARC, USB Type-A for an external drive and two-way Bluetooth aptX HD. Outputs cover RCA analogue at fixed or variable level, coaxial, optical, USB Audio 2.0, a subwoofer RCA feed, a 3.5 mm headphone jack and Bluetooth transmission. The case measures 220 x 46 x 146 mm and weighs 1.09 kg.

Engineering and use context

The most visible change from the older model is the glass top panel with proximity sensors, about three times larger than before, which adds five preset shortcuts. The HDMI eARC input was new for this generation and lets a TV route its audio through the player. Network access uses Wi-Fi 5 on 2.4 and 5 GHz or gigabit Ethernet, and a universal bi-pin mains input accepts 100 to 240 V AC. The BluOS platform gives access to more than 23 music services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer and Spotify, together with AirPlay 2, and the unit is Roon Ready. Voice control works with Siri, Alexa and Google assistants, and a reboot takes less than 15 seconds, while BluOS itself was carried over unchanged from the previous generation. The housing came in matte satin white or black, and a set of RCA cables was supplied in the box.

Pairing

The variable analogue output allows a direct connection to a power amplifier or powered speakers, while the fixed setting suits an integrated amplifier with its own volume control. The coaxial and optical outputs let a separate converter handle the decoding instead of the internal chip, and the subwoofer output can add a powered sub to a stereo pair.

Alternatives

The Bluesound NODE NANO is the smaller streamer of the brand, a pure source without an amplifier or a display.