Absolutely love mine. It has increased my music listening time tenfold. So convenient. I'm running it with a Peachtree integrated and a pair of Focal 716. Cheers
I am currently setting up a Peachtree Nova150/Bluesound Node system. Any thoughts on which DAC is better? I can go around the Node's DAC by using the coax or USB out. I'm not sure if I use the RCA connectors if running both DACs in series is a problem? Thanks!
Thanks for your review. Like the way you explain the use in your system. Thinking about getting one as a streaming preamp for my active speakers and integrating my TV (with an AppleTV box hooked to it).
You and I have very similar setups. I have a Bluesound Node connected to my Schiit Modi 3+ feeding into a Rega IO. Only difference is the speakers. You mention sound quality (or lack of it) using the coax to the Modi. I've used all three connections from the Node to the Modi and by and far the best sounding one is the USB. I think this is because of the Unison USB interface, which is Schiit's proprietary USB interface that according to Jason Stoddard (founder of Schiit) is designed to do one thing really well: make music sound really good. In my testing, he's not lying - the USB interface sounds waaay better than the coax or optical. In my system the sound of the Node to the Modi via USB sounds considerably better (better clarity, punch and weight) than the internal Node DAC.
I can see why you say this, and for two-channel listening it works well. But, the use of the Modi 3+ defeats the Subwoofer Out on the Node. And with a lower powered amp like the IO, I really like having a subwoofer for my music/tv. But I should’ve noted this in the review, because the sound quality out of the USB is great for 2-channel listening!
I love my unit too. Radio paradise, or BBC 6 are always on! I love the hdmi Arc, but hope in the next model they go one step further and allow the hdmi to output video tot the tv, now that companies like Tidal have videos. I love the Arc integration with Samsung tv remote though.
"Best tool in my system", agree 100%! Solid review sir! Listening to mine right now on my setup, so easy to use, never lets me down like others I have owned. I can walk in the house, flip on the phone or computer, click the app, hit favorites and I am listening to music. This has been the case 100% of the time, it has never refused to work properly. But, I cannot say that about the Cambridge, Ifi, and anything and everything that uses PlayFi. And no, the ifi Stream sounds no different than the Node, I had one and sent that buggy POS back to World Wide Stereo. Don't buy that crap folks, a streamer simply streams, there is no discernible sound difference in digital "1's" and "zeros" like you will find in analog old school gear. If you can hear a difference, you have other issues. As far as the Node, plug and play, cannot ask for much more. Side note, I have no clue what the internal DAC sounds like, I have my own outboard DAC.
I just ordered one of these to use with my vintage Sansui receiver. My wife did not like the Topping DAC and needing yet another controller. I also like the subwoofer option
@@LeoRousseau although the DAC specs are better for the node vs the 2i, I have to be honest and confess that I cannot hear the difference. And I listen to mostly streaming hi res
Nice review, I agree that this product is one of the best value purchases for a budget audio system. It is versatile and comes with great software, which is crucial for a streamer. I did not buy one as I already had a DAC I love so went for the iFi stream, which does give a much improved sound. For those who have no existing equipment though ther Node is a perfect choice for ease of use and versatility.
I appreciate the comment. The versatility is pretty remarkable. I was using a Denafrips Ares ii prior to this, but in the effort to simplify, the Node has proven to be remarkable. What DAC are you using? What about it do you love?
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 The versatility is amazing as is the price. My setup before I added the iFi Stream was Microsoft Surface streaming to a Topping D70s MQA Dac, A90 headphone amp which is also used as a pre amp into an Atoll amp powering Revel speakers. I also have a Marantz Sr6013 AV through which I connect two Paradigm Subs and Sony TV. So I already had 2 sub outs an HMDI connection. The stream replaced the Surface. I love the Topping DAC as it has effectively zero noise, is fairly neutral, but especially for the holographic soundstage and great dynamics. Adding that made a huge difference, as did the stream, I was quite shocked at how much. It is not a simple system for sure and the Node would have made the setup easier and done a good job. However, I had the room and budget for separates and the sound was better than when I demoed the Node. That is taking nothing from the Node it did a good job and would have saved a few $$$ too! Like you, for the right setup and budget I would highly recommend it. Enjoy your system.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 I was going to upgrade my DAC. I was trying to decide between the Bluesound and the Denafrips Ares ii. As an owner of both, which one would you recommend? Is the Ares II as good as they say?
@@marcelod.685 The Ares ii is great. But it’s a DAC. The only reason I got it was to lower the noise floor of my system (with separates). And then, I got the Technics SU-G700 mk1… and I decided that I’m never going to spend money on an expensive DAC again. I just think the integrated amps above 2500 have the ability to be exceptional, and I’d rather have a silent integrated than an amp with an external DAC that only acts like a DAC. Is the Node a DAC? Sure. But it has so many features in addition to it DA conversion. And I can tuck it away and access it from my phone. It’s just so much more functional for my needs while also sounding good. And in that sense, the denafrips can’t touch it. But for sound, I’d say the Ares ii is a 10/10, the Node is a 8/10.
Hmmm it is very interisting to hear your comparison of the two dacs you own. I have arcam a19 amp arcam ird dac and audio technica turntable. Fo 5-6y i was listening to spotify via my tv and from time to time i plug my laptop to play hi res audio to the dac but all the pain to set the laptop near the dac really push me away from that. I am recently thinking about a streamer because i am 100% sure that it night not improve my sound but it will make it so much easier to play hi res music so in the end it will be a better sound. I was reading how bad was the dac in the node and i was considering keeping the irdac and just stream to it but reading your commenta it seems that i will be fine if just sell it....thanks....
How does it work with an eARC enabled TV with all your devices connected? Does eARC always take priority for the TV sound and does it stay on eARC until you stream something? I plan on using it as a small form factor AV receiver with pre-outs for my powered Genelec monitors. Can you control the volume via the TV remote or am I better off with an stereo AV receiver with preouts?
My Roku plays into my headphones. Roku also does screen reading because I'm blind and that lets me go through the selections on the screen and pick radio streaming service movies. I haven't found anything better. I don't chase technology so I don't have earc just arc and I think it sounds great.
I just got hold of the Node and the proximity sensor is acting up on the touch display! I.e. constantly turning off and on. I updated the firmware and its still doing it but it might be due to the plastic protective film. Was yours doing to the same?
I’ve tried Roon, but it didn’t make me want to listen to music any more than I already do. What is it about Roon that adds to your music listening experience? And, I might need to try the Powernode. As far as I can tell, it’s a pretty great product
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 well you learn a lot about the album and artist . The ability to listen to different version of the same DSD vs mQA there is so much to discover you have to see for yourself.
I purchased all of the parts from CSS Audio and had to put together the crossover ($400 option), the cabinets and then wired it together with the woofer, tweeter and binding posts. So, DIY as CSS Audio intended, and they gladly accepted my ~$1250 payment. Thanks for asking!
I'm a bit confused. I thought the latest version was the Bluesound Powernode which I'm thinking of buying and pairing with floor standing speakers like the Monitor Audio 500 Bronze. Listening room is 16ft x 26ft. Any advice welcomed.
I do not have experience with the Bluesound Powernode. The Bluesound Node is the latest streamer with DAC outputs. For all intensive purposes, the Powernode is an integrated amplifier with streaming capabilities and an internal DAC (no RCA/Coaxial/USB outputs). Still good, but fulfills a different role in Hifi. Hope this provides some clarity.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 Hi. Many thanks for this clarification. I was actually reading up on the Node since I last posted and realised it has a different purpose to the Powernode as you have mentioned. So all good now, and I think the Powernode is still the right solution for me. Namely one 'box' feeding a pair of speakers. Many thanks again and great video. 👍
Hi, could you please explain how do you use eArc HDMI? I have stereo receiver from Cambridge audio with volume control and wanna buy this node, so I am curious where I should manage volume control - on TV or on receiver/amplifier or both somehow?
Personally, I set my receiver to the maximum volume I'm ok with (95db in my case). And then adjust the volume via the Bluesound Node. There are other ways to do it, but this is my preference and it works really well. But, I have to remember to turn the amp volume down before I start using my turntable (The TT feeds directly into the phono stage of my integrated amplifier).
I have the Node 2i and the digital out is giving me fits. I am using a Cambridge CXA81 integrated amp with a pretty good DAC unit but it plays for 2 to 3 seconds then stops for 10 seconds then plays again through that same cycle. I am going to try to see if the analog out does the same thing.
I’ve heard the 2i has some glitches. On my node, I think the analog out is the better output (at least to my ears), and I haven’t experienced any cutouts to date. Thanks for the watching!
I think your general opinions are sufficient enough. There is enough information available on the internet to satisfy anyone's want to know how to use it. You did a great review and I'm glad you using it with the IO
With the A11 Tribute, I just use the aux 1 input. But with the Arcam Radia A25, I use the Node as a streaming transport via the A25’s Coaxial input, and then label the input as ‘streamer.’
Yes. If you have a pre-out or a subwoofer out that allows you to. For my setup, I need something that completely filters the bass (under 120hz) out of my monitors, and allows the subwoofer to be responsible for all output under 120hz. With most integrated amplifiers, the speakers receive the full signal, and the sub (no matter what the sub’s crossover is set to) is a complement to the full signal that the speakers receive. That just wouldn’t work for me. The bass gets too boomy if the speakers receive the full signal. The Node provides a solution. The Node just works wonders for me in my room because of its subwoofer integration with the Rega IO.
I know on the Google Home Max, you could use the Aux In via RCA-3.5mm adapter cable. But other than that, I'm not familiar with the current google speaker options. Wish I could be more helpful.
I sure wish someone would go through the process of setting up the Bluesound Node’s ability to stream from a Mac and/or using the USB in to play FLAC, MP3 files etc. Thanks
The BluOS Controller app on my MacBook Pro isn't as feature-rich as my iPhone's BlueOS app. They both work well, but I prefer using the iPhone app. Regarding the USB on the Node, it is only an output USB. If you want to connect your MacBook directly to the node, I assume you'd need an adapter between your Mac and the Node to feed into the Node's optical/analog in, or the HDMI input. But I've never tried it. In my experience, I've only streamed from my MacBook Pro via the BlueOS Controller app or Apple Airplay 2.
I use speaker stands… sometimes. But, I have young kids, and the lovely, adorable, beautiful children are responsible for knocking off (and destroying) two pairs of speakers from my stands. #RIPELAC #RIPDynaudio
I don't know why I get the stupid thing. I can already do streaming from both my televisions and my phone. I usually listen to sports radio or a game. I use a CD player for my music. CD song way better Dan vinyl who's kidding who. All streaming music gets compressed. I don't need this thing although someday I'll probably have one.
I wouldn't buy another Bluesound product. I have purchased 4 Bluenode 2i in the past 3 years. To date 2 out of the 4 have locked up during one of the forced updates to the units. I say forced because the only options they give you is "Get it now" or "Delay 24 Hours". Sometimes when they lock up during the upgrade process they can be revived with various convoluted procedures. The 2 failed players I have cannot be revived after multiple lock-ups during several forced updates. It's a very unreliable product. Also they cannot be repaired so they become junk when they lock up!
That’s awful. Sorry to hear about the bricking of your 2i. I can understand why you wouldn’t buy another one. I haven’t experienced this with the latest Node. My Node has been reliable and continues to update without any issues.
@@Mrpaulgs I haven't had that experience with the newest generation. And the 1st generation of the Node received (still receives?) updates over 10 years after its introduction.. Yet, I think that's a concern with any product at some point. I have a MacBook Pro that bricked a couple years ago, and it's really frustrating.I think it is possible for any updateable electronic device to eventually falter, and that's a concern I have (but also an expectation I have) with all electronics. But, if the 1st generation Node is any indication, I expect my Bluesound Node to last for many years to come. If I get 10+ year out of it, I'll be more than happy.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 Yes 2 out of the 4 I have are still processing updates. I have to say it's not the failure to update that really bothers me it's the inability to get it repaired (our throw way mentality) and the lack of concern from the manufacturer. Why don't they give you the option to opt out of updates? It's not a security issue as I have looked at the update notes and it's mostly about adding additional streamers. My guess is they get paid to force additional streaming suppliers.
@@Mrpaulgs Yeah, that sucks. I have never had that experience with a Node, but I know that I'd be extremely frustrated if that was happening to my Node. Wish I knew a solution. I'd definitely reach out to Bluesound to get some support. I'd assume they'd help a loyal customer.
I disagree. But it does require bass management. Thats why I use a B&W subwoofer with room correction and a higher crossover at 120hz. I’ve played the LOTS game. I’ve had a dedicated listening room with panels, stands… the works. And then I had a kid, and it became a bedroom. My system is great (90% of what I used to have), and it is more inline with what most listeners will experience. That being said, I do appreciate the comment. And the respectful way you’re bringing it to my attention.
Additionally, I have about 1/3 a meter of clearance behind the speakers. And I do pull the speaker stands out once in a while to position the speakers more appropriately. It gives me more of that last 10%
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 , the TV goes into the Node and out to my Integrated Amp. I also have Qobuz on my phone. Like you, I’d love to watch TV on my wireless headphones. Our open floor plan house has a lot of ambient noise.
![BLUESOUND NODE, WIRELESS MULT-ROOM HI-RES STREAMER ['BUY' LINKS IN THE DESCRIPTION]](/img/n.gif)
Absolutely love mine.
It has increased my music listening time tenfold.
So convenient.
I'm running it with a Peachtree integrated and a pair of Focal 716.
Cheers
I bet that’s a great combination! I’d love to hear some floorstanding Focals someday!
I am currently setting up a Peachtree Nova150/Bluesound Node system. Any thoughts on which DAC is better? I can go around the Node's DAC by using the coax or USB out. I'm not sure if I use the RCA connectors if running both DACs in series is a problem? Thanks!
Very practical stereo solution. Great setup and sensible price point. All the best!
Thanks for your review. Like the way you explain the use in your system.
Thinking about getting one as a streaming preamp for my active speakers and integrating my TV (with an AppleTV box hooked to it).
That will be a great setup. There is a notable improvement in my system when streaming via the node, rather than streaming through the tv.
Great hands on review. Thank you.
You’re welcome! Thanks for the kind words!
Love your setup
Thanks!
The Bluetooth thing is so good for Apple TV users who want aptxHD that Apple denies its users.
Excellent budget gear setup!
I think so too! It took some time to get here, but I'm thankful I get to enjoy the music through this system. Thanks for watching!
I’ve have enjoyed the Node 2 for the last 5 yrs…, excellent sounds for $
I have moved to Altair G1… huge step up.., but 5 times $
Great review. Thank you.
Thank you! Appreciate that you took the time to watch!
You and I have very similar setups. I have a Bluesound Node connected to my Schiit Modi 3+ feeding into a Rega IO. Only difference is the speakers.
You mention sound quality (or lack of it) using the coax to the Modi. I've used all three connections from the Node to the Modi and by and far the best sounding one is the USB. I think this is because of the Unison USB interface, which is Schiit's proprietary USB interface that according to Jason Stoddard (founder of Schiit) is designed to do one thing really well: make music sound really good. In my testing, he's not lying - the USB interface sounds waaay better than the coax or optical. In my system the sound of the Node to the Modi via USB sounds considerably better (better clarity, punch and weight) than the internal Node DAC.
I can see why you say this, and for two-channel listening it works well. But, the use of the Modi 3+ defeats the Subwoofer Out on the Node. And with a lower powered amp like the IO, I really like having a subwoofer for my music/tv.
But I should’ve noted this in the review, because the sound quality out of the USB is great for 2-channel listening!
I love my unit too. Radio paradise, or BBC 6 are always on!
I love the hdmi Arc, but hope in the next model they go one step further and allow the hdmi to output video tot the tv, now that companies like Tidal have videos. I love the Arc integration with Samsung tv remote though.
I like that idea!
"Best tool in my system", agree 100%! Solid review sir!
Listening to mine right now on my setup, so easy to use, never lets me down like others I have owned. I can walk in the house, flip on the phone or computer, click the app, hit favorites and I am listening to music. This has been the case 100% of the time, it has never refused to work properly.
But, I cannot say that about the Cambridge, Ifi, and anything and everything that uses PlayFi. And no, the ifi Stream sounds no different than the Node, I had one and sent that buggy POS back to World Wide Stereo. Don't buy that crap folks, a streamer simply streams, there is no discernible sound difference in digital "1's" and "zeros" like you will find in analog old school gear. If you can hear a difference, you have other issues.
As far as the Node, plug and play, cannot ask for much more.
Side note, I have no clue what the internal DAC sounds like, I have my own outboard DAC.
Yep. I use my Node all the time. It works and it sounds good. Bluesound/NAD knocked it out of the park with this latest iteration.
I just ordered one of these to use with my vintage Sansui receiver. My wife did not like the Topping DAC and needing yet another controller. I also like the subwoofer option
Enjoy! Let me know what you think when you get it!
I own a 2i and a Node and I love them. 😎
Do you find that one sounds better than the other?
@@LeoRousseau although the DAC specs are better for the node vs the 2i, I have to be honest and confess that I cannot hear the difference. And I listen to mostly streaming hi res
Cool audio shelf.
Thanks!
Nice review, I agree that this product is one of the best value purchases for a budget audio system. It is versatile and comes with great software, which is crucial for a streamer. I did not buy one as I already had a DAC I love so went for the iFi stream, which does give a much improved sound. For those who have no existing equipment though ther Node is a perfect choice for ease of use and versatility.
I appreciate the comment. The versatility is pretty remarkable. I was using a Denafrips Ares ii prior to this, but in the effort to simplify, the Node has proven to be remarkable.
What DAC are you using? What about it do you love?
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 The versatility is amazing as is the price. My setup before I added the iFi Stream was Microsoft Surface streaming to a Topping D70s MQA Dac, A90 headphone amp which is also used as a pre amp into an Atoll amp powering Revel speakers. I also have a Marantz Sr6013 AV through which I connect two Paradigm Subs and Sony TV. So I already had 2 sub outs an HMDI connection. The stream replaced the Surface.
I love the Topping DAC as it has effectively zero noise, is fairly neutral, but especially for the holographic soundstage and great dynamics. Adding that made a huge difference, as did the stream, I was quite shocked at how much. It is not a simple system for sure and the Node would have made the setup easier and done a good job. However, I had the room and budget for separates and the sound was better than when I demoed the Node. That is taking nothing from the Node it did a good job and would have saved a few $$$ too! Like you, for the right setup and budget I would highly recommend it. Enjoy your system.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 I was going to upgrade my DAC. I was trying to decide between the Bluesound and the Denafrips Ares ii. As an owner of both, which one would you recommend? Is the Ares II as good as they say?
@@marcelod.685 The Ares ii is great. But it’s a DAC. The only reason I got it was to lower the noise floor of my system (with separates). And then, I got the Technics SU-G700 mk1… and I decided that I’m never going to spend money on an expensive DAC again. I just think the integrated amps above 2500 have the ability to be exceptional, and I’d rather have a silent integrated than an amp with an external DAC that only acts like a DAC.
Is the Node a DAC? Sure. But it has so many features in addition to it DA conversion. And I can tuck it away and access it from my phone.
It’s just so much more functional for my needs while also sounding good. And in that sense, the denafrips can’t touch it.
But for sound, I’d say the Ares ii is a 10/10, the Node is a 8/10.
Hmmm it is very interisting to hear your comparison of the two dacs you own. I have arcam a19 amp arcam ird dac and audio technica turntable. Fo 5-6y i was listening to spotify via my tv and from time to time i plug my laptop to play hi res audio to the dac but all the pain to set the laptop near the dac really push me away from that. I am recently thinking about a streamer because i am 100% sure that it night not improve my sound but it will make it so much easier to play hi res music so in the end it will be a better sound. I was reading how bad was the dac in the node and i was considering keeping the irdac and just stream to it but reading your commenta it seems that i will be fine if just sell it....thanks....
How does it work with an eARC enabled TV with all your devices connected? Does eARC always take priority for the TV sound and does it stay on eARC until you stream something? I plan on using it as a small form factor AV receiver with pre-outs for my powered Genelec monitors. Can you control the volume via the TV remote or am I better off with an stereo AV receiver with preouts?
My Roku plays into my headphones. Roku also does screen reading because I'm blind and that lets me go through the selections on the screen and pick radio streaming service movies. I haven't found anything better.
I don't chase technology so I don't have earc just arc and I think it sounds great.
I just got hold of the Node and the proximity sensor is acting up on the touch display! I.e. constantly turning off and on. I updated the firmware and its still doing it but it might be due to the plastic protective film. Was yours doing to the same?
I love Roon on these powernodes
I’ve tried Roon, but it didn’t make me want to listen to music any more than I already do. What is it about Roon that adds to your music listening experience?
And, I might need to try the Powernode. As far as I can tell, it’s a pretty great product
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 well you learn a lot about the album and artist . The ability to listen to different version of the same DSD vs mQA there is so much to discover you have to see for yourself.
With the CSS speakers, you mentioned “with upgrades”. Is this a DIY project or did you purchase them that way?
I purchased all of the parts from CSS Audio and had to put together the crossover ($400 option), the cabinets and then wired it together with the woofer, tweeter and binding posts. So, DIY as CSS Audio intended, and they gladly accepted my ~$1250 payment.
Thanks for asking!
Very cute ☺️ system
It is though, isn’t it? Down right adorable. Lol
I'm a bit confused. I thought the latest version was the Bluesound Powernode which I'm thinking of buying and pairing with floor standing speakers like the Monitor Audio 500 Bronze. Listening room is 16ft x 26ft. Any advice welcomed.
I do not have experience with the Bluesound Powernode. The Bluesound Node is the latest streamer with DAC outputs. For all intensive purposes, the Powernode is an integrated amplifier with streaming capabilities and an internal DAC (no RCA/Coaxial/USB outputs).
Still good, but fulfills a different role in Hifi.
Hope this provides some clarity.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 Hi. Many thanks for this clarification. I was actually reading up on the Node since I last posted and realised it has a different purpose to the Powernode as you have mentioned. So all good now, and I think the Powernode is still the right solution for me. Namely one 'box' feeding a pair of speakers.
Many thanks again and great video.
👍
Hi, could you please explain how do you use eArc HDMI?
I have stereo receiver from Cambridge audio with volume control and wanna buy this node, so I am curious where I should manage volume control - on TV or on receiver/amplifier or both somehow?
Personally, I set my receiver to the maximum volume I'm ok with (95db in my case). And then adjust the volume via the Bluesound Node. There are other ways to do it, but this is my preference and it works really well. But, I have to remember to turn the amp volume down before I start using my turntable (The TT feeds directly into the phono stage of my integrated amplifier).
I have the Node 2i and the digital out is giving me fits. I am using a Cambridge CXA81 integrated amp with a pretty good DAC unit but it plays for 2 to 3 seconds then stops for 10 seconds then plays again through that same cycle. I am going to try to see if the analog out does the same thing.
I’ve heard the 2i has some glitches. On my node, I think the analog out is the better output (at least to my ears), and I haven’t experienced any cutouts to date.
Thanks for the watching!
i have the 2i feeding the Denafrips via coax. no problems. however the new Node has a USB output to DAC.
Hey, I think if you showed how to connect it to the rest of your system and how to use it’s features would be very informative. Thanks
That’s a great idea! I might do that in combination of reviewing my subwoofer!
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 absolutely, I’ll stay tuned !
I think your general opinions are sufficient enough. There is enough information available on the internet to satisfy anyone's want to know how to use it. You did a great review and I'm glad you using it with the IO
What input do you use on your integrated amp? Would it be a standard CD/DVD input? Or do you plug into a phono?
With the A11 Tribute, I just use the aux 1 input. But with the Arcam Radia A25, I use the Node as a streaming transport via the A25’s Coaxial input, and then label the input as ‘streamer.’
Utilize with HT (default) & 2 channel. External usb to bus usb W4S DAC2V2SE. XLR's to Ampzilla
Good to know! Thanks for watching!
for the crossover you can do this from your sub? o not?
Yes. If you have a pre-out or a subwoofer out that allows you to.
For my setup, I need something that completely filters the bass (under 120hz) out of my monitors, and allows the subwoofer to be responsible for all output under 120hz.
With most integrated amplifiers, the speakers receive the full signal, and the sub (no matter what the sub’s crossover is set to) is a complement to the full signal that the speakers receive.
That just wouldn’t work for me. The bass gets too boomy if the speakers receive the full signal. The Node provides a solution.
The Node just works wonders for me in my room because of its subwoofer integration with the Rega IO.
Hi,can I connect and listen with my google home speaker group and node 2021?
I know on the Google Home Max, you could use the Aux In via RCA-3.5mm adapter cable. But other than that, I'm not familiar with the current google speaker options. Wish I could be more helpful.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 okay,thanks dear
I sure wish someone would go through the process of setting up the Bluesound Node’s ability to stream from a Mac and/or using the USB in to play FLAC, MP3 files etc. Thanks
The BluOS Controller app on my MacBook Pro isn't as feature-rich as my iPhone's BlueOS app. They both work well, but I prefer using the iPhone app.
Regarding the USB on the Node, it is only an output USB. If you want to connect your MacBook directly to the node, I assume you'd need an adapter between your Mac and the Node to feed into the Node's optical/analog in, or the HDMI input. But I've never tried it.
In my experience, I've only streamed from my MacBook Pro via the BlueOS Controller app or Apple Airplay 2.
Why don't you use speaker stands ?
I use speaker stands… sometimes. But, I have young kids, and the lovely, adorable, beautiful children are responsible for knocking off (and destroying) two pairs of speakers from my stands. #RIPELAC #RIPDynaudio
I don't know why I get the stupid thing. I can already do streaming from both my televisions and my phone. I usually listen to sports radio or a game. I use a CD player for my music. CD song way better Dan vinyl who's kidding who. All streaming music gets compressed. I don't need this thing although someday I'll probably have one.
You shouldn’t get it. If it didn’t have bass management, I’d heavily think about just streaming from my TV.
does the remote control have volume controls?
It doesn’t come with a remote, but the app has volume control
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 It appears that there IS an optional remote control.
Read video buddy thank you
Thank you!
N130 usb not functional w/XMOS 2.0
Are you using the XMOS into the Node’s USB? If I understand you correctly, I think the USB on the Node is output only.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 Correct, output only.
I wouldn't buy another Bluesound product. I have purchased 4 Bluenode 2i in the past 3 years. To date 2 out of the 4 have locked up during one of the forced updates to the units. I say forced because the only options they give you is "Get it now" or "Delay 24 Hours". Sometimes when they lock up during the upgrade process they can be revived with various convoluted procedures. The 2 failed players I have cannot be revived after multiple lock-ups during several forced updates. It's a very unreliable product. Also they cannot be repaired so they become junk when they lock up!
That’s awful. Sorry to hear about the bricking of your 2i. I can understand why you wouldn’t buy another one.
I haven’t experienced this with the latest Node. My Node has been reliable and continues to update without any issues.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 Do you think it is a concern that they force updates that can potentially brick out of warranty products?
@@Mrpaulgs I haven't had that experience with the newest generation. And the 1st generation of the Node received (still receives?) updates over 10 years after its introduction..
Yet, I think that's a concern with any product at some point. I have a MacBook Pro that bricked a couple years ago, and it's really frustrating.I think it is possible for any updateable electronic device to eventually falter, and that's a concern I have (but also an expectation I have) with all electronics.
But, if the 1st generation Node is any indication, I expect my Bluesound Node to last for many years to come. If I get 10+ year out of it, I'll be more than happy.
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 Yes 2 out of the 4 I have are still processing updates. I have to say it's not the failure to update that really bothers me it's the inability to get it repaired (our throw way mentality) and the lack of concern from the manufacturer. Why don't they give you the option to opt out of updates? It's not a security issue as I have looked at the update notes and it's mostly about adding additional streamers. My guess is they get paid to force additional streaming suppliers.
@@Mrpaulgs Yeah, that sucks. I have never had that experience with a Node, but I know that I'd be extremely frustrated if that was happening to my Node.
Wish I knew a solution. I'd definitely reach out to Bluesound to get some support. I'd assume they'd help a loyal customer.
I bought it but didn't like the sound at all....
Sorry to hear that. What amp/speakers were you using it with?
Reviews of anything with speakers against the wall… are of zero value.
Check new record day’s video L.o.t.s of speaker placement
I disagree. But it does require bass management. Thats why I use a B&W subwoofer with room correction and a higher crossover at 120hz.
I’ve played the LOTS game. I’ve had a dedicated listening room with panels, stands… the works. And then I had a kid, and it became a bedroom.
My system is great (90% of what I used to have), and it is more inline with what most listeners will experience.
That being said, I do appreciate the comment. And the respectful way you’re bringing it to my attention.
Additionally, I have about 1/3 a meter of clearance behind the speakers. And I do pull the speaker stands out once in a while to position the speakers more appropriately. It gives me more of that last 10%
I can’t figure out how to pair this with my Bowers and Wilkins Bluetooth headphones. It doesn’t play through them. 🥲
What device/app are you using to stream with the Node?
@@twistyflorahifiaudio8741 , the TV goes into the Node and out to my Integrated Amp. I also have Qobuz on my phone. Like you, I’d love to watch TV on my wireless headphones. Our open floor plan house has a lot of ambient noise.