Hi John , another informative and entertaining review. A new streamer DAC that has been getting fantastic reviews is the Eversolo DMP A6. To me it's looks, functionality and specs offer a more attractive option than both the Node and Fiio, It's priced around $800 US.Twin sabre DACS, high res touch screen , SSD storage to 2TB and all the music server connections. Would love your take on this great looking unit.
If you get the chance, you should take a look at the Eversole DMP-A6, preamp, transport, streamer & DAC from China. For $900 American it would be hard to beat.
Eh, no dirac live, no balanced out, yawn. I'd take a wiim streamer and something like a minidsp flex any day over this. The addition of a thx headphone out seems like a weird use case to me, isn't the whole point of a streamer that you can put far away from you near your hifi rack, who wants to be sitting right next to their speakers to listen to their headphones? Weird product.
I bought the Node X yesterday because I felt the current Node (N130) wasn’t giving me all the details possible and I didn’t want to buy an external DAC. After hours of listening, including A/B testing with my current Node, I was VERY impressed with the Node X: 1) Very high dynamic range with a lovely dark background thanks to a super low noise floor; 2) More grunt in mid and lower bass have woken up my mid bass drivers to the point where I had to turn down my sub quite a bit, as the added bass in the room was muddying the mid range; 3) Detail retrieval, layering, and soundstage width and height are huge and the highs have more sparkle compared to the current Node.
Sounds like what happened when I replaced the power supply with a PD Creative on my N130. Turned it into a totally different machine , being much warmer in sound, wider, deeper, higher sound stage and very detailed low end. I'm thinking about upgrading to the X but how much better could it be than what I'm already listening to? I hated the sound with the onboard, factory supplied power board.
Same here, @@robbiefest. I put the PD Creative board in my Node 2i, and the differences are amazing. And I was not even using the RCA outputs, only the coax output feeding into an external DAC. I'm getting the same results as you describe: warmer, wider, deeper and higher. I wonder what a PD Creative board would do to a Node X.
As primarily a Tidal Connect user, I look forward to replacing my BluSound Node. The fixed volume output is buggy (have to toggle it on/off all the time). BluOS media output integration on Android annoying, asking me if I want to pause playback thru their app, when I'm driving everything thru Tidal. Fingers crossed the new Eversolo is better, otherwise a WiiM and external DAC.
I'm a Bluesound aficionado. I have the two (2) original Nodes, both connected to a SMSL SU 1. Cheap and cheerful. Definitely an improvement over internal DACs. Thanks for your usual smashing reviews. My next decision is should I add the Node X to my system. Danke, JM
I have a Node 2i, and compared to the Node X, I found the only difference was less gain from the Node X. I returned the Node X & stuck with my Node 2i. If there was a difference in quality, my old ears didn't detect it, or maybe my system isn't "resolving" enough to detect a difference.
I have had the Bluesound node X for a couple of weeks now, normally either play it through a Roksan K3 integrated amplifier, though to a pair of Focal K2 Aria 926 speaker. The other way I use it is through the headphone jack to my Shure Srh1840 headphones. I have used the Bluesound Node X, through the Roksan K3 own dac and also using pass-through, and of course connecting through the 1840, you are using the internal dac. Personally, I can't say I am a big fan of the sound from the Node X. It just doesn't impress me, I just find it all over the place. When comparing the Node X to the Roksan K3 both through the headphone jack, the Roksan just blows the Node away, with a wider sound and much more body to the sound. When, using the Node X, pass-through to the K3, again the sound just pales in comparison when I use the K3 internal dac. Now you can say, well the Roksan K3 is a £1000 integrated amplifier, it should sound better, but I bought the Node X to replace my Topping DX3 Pro+, and it hasn't, with the Topping sounding far superior, when playing Tidal through my phone. So where does the Node come into its own. For me, it's the combination of the Node X, K3 and 926, where the dac of the K3, through to the 926, just creates a wonderful sound. But is it worth £699, I am still unconvinced. Certainly using with headphones, I think there are much better options and wouldn't recommend the node X, there are better cheaper options. For someone who wants HD sound maybe but that is about it. What I will give a quick mention to is the remote, which I do find very useful. It is just quicker to reach for the remote, if I need to stop a track or move to the next track. Also it looks and feels nice. The other thing I will give a quick mention to is the Bluesound App. Personally, it took some time to get used to and I don't think it is as practical as Tidal's own app. Once you get used to it is ok, but it is fiddley.
Thank you John. Very informative. I want to wholeheartedly praise the positively excellent use of animated graphics. When the iPhone spiraled in from right to left and displayed the playlist, I was in marketing hog heaven. 😁
At one time the Bluesound had earned its place for the software/hardware all-in-one. Bluesound XX is like a car's idiot lights for ease of use. But to those who know, a separate DAC and Streamer is the way to go.
My main problem with blueos node is it drops my signal. Ill be listening or straiming for awhile and it stops streaming on the node and picks up on my phone. I have to stop, wake it back up then pick up where i left off.
I replaced a Sonos Port with a Node 2021. I ran them side by side for 2 weeks and the Node was just better. The Port was somehow easier to listen to but the Node was more involving .
By the way, John, how is the hifi market in Portugal ? Do you have some interesting high end shops in, say, Lisbon ? And what about making a video of your visit in the coolest ones ?
Thanks for this video, fomo-fi made me giggle :) I’d like to add one more thing the Sonos Port won’t give you: proper support for local streaming from a NAS (that stores for your flac CD-rips). And to my ears, the Node2i beats the Port in sound quality (and yes I owned both and after comparing decided to sell all my Sonos gear and switch).
John do you think it's worth "upgrading" to this from the original NAD M10, if I'm not using the internal amp in the M10? Trying to figure out what the highest quality method is to get ARC/eARC audio (with CEC volume control) from a TV, combined with good support for music streaming services like Tidal, connected to a good external power amp. So few streaming capable DAC/preamps have ARC, it's frustrating.
It's a decent streamer for feeding a DAC. But one annoying UI thing is that the remote control / top button presets do not have an option to add a playlist with shuffle. So each time you hit a preset, your playlist starts from the beginning. Truly stupid design.
Love the connectivity and feature set, but I can't bring myself to spend $750 on a piece of PLASTIC. anyone who's serious about their setup is gonna run everything hard-wired anyways, so PLEASE can we get one in a metal case that actually looks the part as well?
Hello Darko, great coverage of bluesound node x. Been using bluesound products since 2018. Always stable and easy to use. By the way what is the brand of that yellow rca cables ?
Why doesn’t anyone ever talk about the USB output on the Node? I utilize the USB out to my Marantz SACD 30n (with Marantz Model 30) and the sound is divine. Qobuz and Tidal are my fav sources via ethernet.
I personally find LCD screens to be gimmicky. Firstly, any text on screen would be unreadable from my listening position across the room. Secondly, I already interact with my device and music library using a 12.9-inch tablet screen at my fingertips. Different strokes for different folks, I guess. 🤷♂
For those who haven't been keeping up with all of John's videos or other coverage beyond RU-vid: "Red Hot Chili Peppers button" refers to a special volume-up button that some hifi feature, which allows you to skip all intermediate loudness steps and go straight to MAX VOLUME. John has said he especially uses this every time his favorite RHCP song comes on, *Give It Away* 😆
Try connecting your headphones to the pre amp outlet (just set the pre amp output to variable and turn the volume down first) the difference is amazing.
How well does the BluOS app handle local files on a network? The majority of my listening is from my ripped CD collection and I’m currently using the WiiM mini with decent results, though it’s app doesn’t do local files very well from a Plex server.
After years of being told the Bluesound was the best streamer at its price point I borrowed one with the option to buy. The setup was easy, but I found the output underwhelming. I ended up with a Wiim Mini and an SMSL DAC, at about a third of the price! I am more than happy with it! You really need to listen to things to decide if you like them, rarher than solely basing choices from reviews and awards.
You’ve done it. You make me search for the original 12” Grace Jones Slave to the rythm blooded version record that is somewhere at my house but I could not find it yet!🤣 Now I will have upgrade and buy that Rega P2 with Orthofon blue too🥴 (nice excuse for it)
I had the Bluesound Node 2, it was my first, used, I changed it for a Node 2i open box from Ebay in 2021 and in the beginning of 2023 I changed it again for a Node model 2021. Since 2021 I use an external DAC, same way followed by many users, like Darko himself, I chose the Cambridge 200M, which even uses the ESS 9028 chip. I was happy and surprised with the launch of Node X, I could see that I made the right choice with the DacMagic 200M, which uses the same chip of the updated Node X. I use the digital coaxial output through an Audioquest Carbon, and an Audioquest RCA Sydney to the Marantz PM8005. From Marantz to MA Silver, I use Rocket 33. My setup is Node N130 + DacMagic 200M + Marantz PM8005 + Monitor Audio Silver 50. Big hug from Brazil
Blue sound node 2021 USB out has cracks and pops with Roon and so far they got away with it, and blame Roon. Please let us know if it works or not. Thanks
Hi John! Thanks for making this review! I bought the Node X about a month ago, thinking perhaps I should've gone with the Eversolo but nothing to do now. I'm quite happy with the X, though :) Quick questions: 1. I noticed you're using the AudioQuest power cable, did you find it improved the sound quality without having to upgrade the entire power module as with the previous Node 3 version? 2. For some reason, I have noticed that when using Roon Ready, the sound is a bit more congested and flat than listening through TIDAL connect (device's internal software); what could that be? 3. I guess this is for the future, would love to see your comparison of the Fiio R7 and Eversolo DMP A6 since those look like the best thing on the market now! :D Cheers!!
I tried some all-in-one systems during the Munich High End. The node X performs on a high level. There is clarity , bass and warmth. There is a lot of support for formats and tracks without any hesitation - even on Wifi connection to my NAS. Sounds a lot better then my M1dac + SPL auditor. I use Mediamonkey on my acer laptop - optical output - to edit tracks and fool around with my 250 K item database. The BLUOS is simple and very performant. I can group my N330 and the N131 to play the same tracks in different rooms. My wife only has to push one of the five preselect buttons to enjoy music. Happy days 🙂
If you’re using the node just as a streamer, then the ifi zen stream kicks the node into the long grass in term of sound quality, but the ifi software is so bad it practically renders the zen unusable sometimes.
I sent the Zen back for that very reason, crap software, went with the Node n130 and now am using the Pi2 Mercury V2 streamer with RoPieeeXL software. Much better than the Node and Zen, and works with everything I throw at it.
As an owner of a NAD M10 (living room) and Bluesound Powernode (bedroom) - both purchases confirmed by watching your reviews 😂 - I like how these products continue to be supported, developed, and improved. The esthetics, functionality, usability, and sound quality suit me down to the ground, easily recommended. Unfortunately, I don't feel the need to upgrade, as you get older hearing naturally degrades, so probably I wouldn't detect the nuances 😢 - oh, to be young again 😂. Keep up the good work.
Paid $1,000 here for my 2021 Node, I’m not about to buy a new one when this does the job. I’m not using the onboard DAC anyway. My external DAC always sounded better. It’s good if the new Node has a better DAC because the older one is only decent.
Yes, I bought BS PowerNode after John's great review than. I am happy with, as I had shance to employ some older B&O passive set speakers and Boston Acoustic bass speaker. It sounds great to my almost 70 year old ears. Will be interesting to know about the comparison or if BS is thinking of upgrading its components to some limited edition. I like to say that only problem I am experiencing is occasional very loud "sharp" like electric scrach or short circuit. I am unable to identify from which channel is coming (High speed high storage Oscilloscope will be able tu catch that spike). It's still in warranty. I contacted the dealer in Bratislava who is willing to send me a replacement. Thanks for great videos, John. Very appreciated. Ex Ausee George
Thanks a lot for the very informative video, John. I bought the original Node some years ago and was thrilled with it, especially for the price. After a while, I paired it with a Chord Qutest DAC and the improvement was obvious. Now I’m thinking of trading my Node/Qutest for a Naim Uniti Atom headphone edition on which you did a review. Do you think this will be an improvement in terms of streaming? Regards from Brussels, Ignacio
The Small Form Factor of the Node Species variants is commendable in many ways. I have the node hooked up the their respective Vaults and I’m happy with the performance. It’s neat, petite, and plays back a beat! What more could you want?
As a Canadian I have tried to stay positive about Bluesound/NAD. I just returned the Node x after ordering it minutes after it was available. The customer service is so condescending and lean on blaming the end user rather then finding a solution. I’ve been a Sonos user for 15 years. There has been high and lows but they make a point of finding the cause of an issue rather then blame the end user. I can acknowledge the sound difference but I struggle with the brands. My nad m10 replaced twice. Both with defects that were eventually proved but took years to get them to listen to me. I’ve never had a company make me feel so bad about my self.
This is a great observation. I have 2 Bluesound products, purchased on the basis of reviews about sound quality. I too have found their customer service to be lacking. A quick look on their forums will give you an insight into the way they respond to queries. The company seems to have a very arrogant attitude towards its customers. I regret buying into the Bluesound ecosystem.
So many network streamers nowadays and leaving the specifications aside, I'm more inclined to see whether there is an affordable product, focusing on *usability*, by giving us a screen, to tell which recording it is playing, what artist or album. This makes a huge difference of experience of usability.
I think for competition the Node X has to become the normal Node - for 600 bucks. Currently I would either go for the Wiim Pro and put the saved money into a Chord Mojo (maybe used one) or go with one of the two *Powernoedes* and put the saved money for the Amp into the mojo or speakers. The pricing of Bluesound Node doenst make sense to me.
Great review. Would you use the headphone socket on the Node X or on a higher end integrated amp the Node X is connected to(Naim XS3)? Thanks again for your amazing content.
Yes just do it. The total experience is better as well as the sound. Your pc is filled with noisy electronic components. Do not do it if you intend to use wifi. You must be hardwired too your router
I had the node 2i, enjoyed it and was happy upon purchase. After a while I ended up using it as a transport and connecting my external DACs, one via Coaxial - Oppo 205 , the other via Toslink - Denafrips AresII I then bought N130 (2021) node as it had one major benefit to me, that is, the USB input on the back of it can be used as an output to connect to your external DAC and run HiRes and MQA (if you care). This could not be done on the 2i. So, essentially I feel that the N130 is all I'll need simply due to the fact I have little interest in the built in DAC of the BlueSound and now run from the N130 the USB to my Oppo 205, the Coaxial to a Fiio K5 and the Optical to my Denafrips AresII. This allows my streaming requirements from 16/44 to 24/192 on all options and including MQA on the USB using the BluOs app which I think is great flexibility, plus, its all selectable from the app which input I want to use. The Node X may offer a subjectively a better one box solution but if you're looking to work with external DAC or DACs the N130 IMO is great.
I just connected my NODE N130 to my OPPO 205 using USB connections. Did A/B comparisons and I like the OPPO DAC sound better. Sound was not as forward and bright as the NODE DAC. Now I wonder how the NODE X would sound with it's updated DAC compared to the OPPO DAC. I would love to have the same sound of the OPPO from the NODE X.I like the idea of the one box solution.
I just can’t wait to plug it in my Chord Qutest. Picking up the X come November. I believe the DAC in both the N130 and the X are mainly for the headphone amp. If u want superb audio performance I believe a Chord Hugo, Mojo2 or Qutest will get the job done.
When you're in the mood, you might consider a PD Creative power supply upgrade to lift the sound quality of the Node X even higher. (Yes, even with an external DAC.) And when you're buying SBoosters, consider buying one for your DAC as well...
Great review! Thanks for sharing, John. I’m currently on the hunt for a more polished network streamer/endpoint than my raspberry pi setup, and this looks like a solid choice.
I was in the same position. Bought the previous version of the Node a couple of weeks ago to upgrade my Pi/Volumio. Take a look at the problems people are having with the new BluOS 4 software before you make your decision. At the moment it is unstable to the point of being unusable and there is a huge backlog on the support tickets. I'm sure it'll get sorted eventually, but it's pretty frustrating.
Noob here trying to figure out the point of a network streamer? Are they for people who don't have any other source to play music from (TV/appleTV/computer ect.)? What would the difference be if I played Spotify from the app on my TV : digital out to DAC then Amp, rather than Node to amp? Thanks in advance!
Probably no difference when streaming Spotify. However, I stream Tidal, and there is a noticeable difference in sound quality when I stream through Roku vs a Wiim mini and external dac, even going through the same external dac. Don’t ask me why though.
I suspect this was for the purpose of comparing the same headphones on both units. Since they have different headphone sockets an adaptor would be required for one if using the same headphones.
So how is this better than a Raspberry Pi 4B running RoPieee, feeding the DAC of your choice? Pi prices have come down and availability is back up. You can even splurge and get the 7" touch screen display and still stay around $200. If the Bluesound needs an external DAC, you've paid $750 vs $200 and are still having to shell out for a DAC. The $550 difference in price would pay for a pretty good DAC.$1000 would get you the Pi AND a Chord Mojo.
I have the Wiim Mini and the Node X and I feel it's night and day. The built-in DAC in the Node X imho is much better and the Wiim devices do not have HDMI which is something that's very convenient for me. Good luck!
I've listened to the Node N130 via a NAD power amp before in a shop (similarly to how I'd run it) and from what I remember, it sounded good, but it didn't leave that much of an impression on me either. My speakers are Dynaudio Focus 140s, which sound slightly polite, and I'm wondering if the Node X would be a better match than the N130. Not specifically looking for layer separation, but maybe a bit more... "oomph", to to say. Having said all that, I know a lot of that depends on acoustics as well.
Well, with the addition of the new circuits you...have me, pun intended, all A Twitter. As this may just be the answer for my Vintage Receivers and need for Sub Output. The question is does it have air and a Tad byte of Darkness...headed to Holographic...Also it's functionality in terms of the E-Arc input. True several independent units have that, just not all wrapped in a single solution. I am more than happy with CD quality as outside my cans my hearing is 😂 Left Ear Treble Right Ear Bass oriented due to age and a hereditary bone obstruction in the canal. And 😂 always love the Reviews John...it's that British Thing.
It would be great if you could get in the Denon DNP 2000 as a comparison. At US$1600 it is in a different price class, but still relatively affordable. It seems like you are getting a lot of extra bang for the buck. And at 12kg you probably won’t be waving it around as much on camera.
An important feature of the 2021 Node is USB digital output to an external DAC (which, to me, sounds more airy, engaging and enjoyable than coax digital output). Presumably the Node X retains that?
Wish it WAS made our of metal. But I live in a room in London and although I have my speakers here, my power amp (a NAD C 272) is still in The Netherlands. Not sure if I'll stay here either. So all in all, not sure I'll buy this - even though I've been tempted by the Bluesound system before.
I found you comment on the Bluesound N2 interesting. I have two sound systems, one with a 20 year old Yamaha receiver, nice but hardly a class hi fi powering Tatum bookcases speakers - the N2 sounds great here. I have an other system with a Hegel h190😅 powering PMCs 20.23s- holy does it sound like crap on this one. Maybe bluesound should put a warning on the N2 “don’t play on a system costing more then $2k”
I have tested quite a few entry level streamers with an external DAC including Node 2, Microrendu, Sotm sms200, Project S2 and Ifi Zen stream and the Node on sound quality was the worse of the bunch. It did not sound any better than my Mcbook computer as a source. And if you ask me the Sotm and especially Ifi Zen strem ( which is my current source) are great sources. So the Node 2 is a super convenient device but it really sounds no good. I can see people pairing them with expensive dacs and I feel for them because the source is almost as important as the dac in my book. Of course, may be the new Node x is very different and great sounding...
Just a technical question here John. This is a very similar system as you used with the Peachtree "power dac" recently. In this case is the Node X being used solely as a source or are you adjusting volume with it? I remember Srajan mentioned in your podcast that he treats the Enleum as an amp, turns the gain all the way up, and uses his DAC for volume. Side note, did the Enleum "blow away" the NAD m10? wink, wink. Thanks for the videos. I'm learning a lot from them.
