I had a much more expensive streamer that was too quirky. This blows it away and sounds amazing. It looks weird, but cool. Didn't think I'd have much use for the buttons but I use them all the time because the radio stations are great and sound phenomenal. I use android and Amazon music HD. The Bluesound has no compatability issues whatsoever and was super easy (and fun) setting up. I've had it for 2 months now and use it every day because it's so easy and convenient. I may not have audiophile ears, but the dac is incredibly good sounding. It does have a few clunky issues to get used to, but for the money it's amazing.
Pros: small footprint, excellent sound quality, easy compatibility to all known streaming svcs, great free radio stations from all over the world to explore, Radio Paradise is a great built-in feature no commercials and and let's you skip songs. Sound leveling feature ensures all tracks from your playlist and radio are equal volume. Save innumerable presets and assign your favorite 5 to the buttons.
Cons: No power on/off switch, sometimes player can't be found d (have to restart node to connect) Amazon Music app not quite as friendly as the native app. No balanced outputs (RCA only)
I use an integrated stereo amp and excellent quality source units - turntable, FM tuner, CD player. This is the cheapest source in my rig, but gets used the most because it's easy, fun, accessible, and sounds great. Really enjoying it. Oh, and their web site has very good support run by Bluesound people so no rude jerkoffs like in public forums. They're always polite and happy to help inexperienced people like me.
April 2, 2024: 12 month updt.
Still happy with trouble-free usage. bluesound updated the Amazon Music app, works really well. I bought a standalone DAC to improve. It is now slightly more refined, but honestly the built in DAC is really good. The Node is very stable and predictable. I don't see myself having to upgrade anytime soon.
Happy listening.
| Brand Name | Bluesound |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 4.95 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 5.7 x 8.7 x 1.8 inches |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Item model number | N130BLKUNV |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color Name | Black |
| Special Features | Multi-Room |
