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Bluesound NODE 2i Streaming music player with built-in Wi-Fi®, Apple® AirPlay® 2, and Bluetooth® (White)

Item # 813NODE2IW

The NODE 2i turns your existing audio system into a network-capable Bluesound player.

The NODE 2i turns your existing audio system into a network-capable Bluesound player.

Item # 813NODE2IW

About the Bluesound NODE 2i

Ralph Graves

Get more from your high-performance audio system

The NODE 2i turns your existing audio system into a network-capable Bluesound player. Connect its analog or digital outputs to your existing receiver or amplifier to make it part of your multi-room Bluesound wireless system. Stream high-resolution music stored on your home network, internet radio stations, or music service. Bluesound's whole-house wireless music system is designed to complement audiophile-grade gear, so you can make the most of your digital music.

Get more from your high-performance audio system

Bluesound Node 2i

The NODE 2i brings your current audio gear into the Bluesound wireless network (amplifier and speakers not included).

The NODE 2i turns your existing audio system into a network-capable Bluesound player. Connect its analog or digital outputs to your existing receiver or amplifier to make it part of your multi-room Bluesound wireless system. Stream high-resolution music stored on your home network, internet radio stations, or music service. Bluesound's whole-house wireless music system is designed to complement audiophile-grade gear, so you can make the most of your digital music.

Compatible with AirPlay 2*

Built-in Apple AirPlay 2 technology lets you stream audio directly from your iPhone®, iPad®, or Mac® computer through your Bluesound system. That includes soundtracks from YouTube® videos and Netflix movies.

And if you subscribe to Apple Music®, you can do even more. Use Siri on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV 4K to control Apple Music with voice commands. Tell it what selection or playlist to play — and which Bluesound speakers or components you want it to play through.

*Firmware update required.

High-quality two-way Bluetooth streaming

The NODE 2i features aptX® HD Bluetooth streaming for higher-fidelity sound with compatible Bluetooth devices. The system is backward-compatible with earlier forms of Bluetooth, too. You can even share that Bluetooth source with other Bluesound music players around your house that are connected to your network. And for convenient late-night listening, you can also stream wirelessly from the NODE 2i to a paired set of wireless headphones.

A universe of music options

Bluesound is compatible with virtually all digital music formats — including high-resolution files up to 24-bit/192kHz. Access the music stored on your computer or a networked hard drive. Stream from internet radio stations and online services like Spotify®, Deezer, and TIDAL (including their high-res MQA service tier). You can also enjoy downloads from high-res music sites such as HDtracks.

A USB input conveniently lets you play files "locally" from a flash drive or hard drive — ideal when friends come over with their own music.

Control it all with an app

The BlueOS controller app is a free download for both Apple® and Android™ devices. Select songs from your smartphone or tablet. The app displays all of your music services, internet radio stations, and digital music libraries stored on your computer or server. Play music in one room, all rooms, or different tracks in different spaces around your home through BluOS-compatible speakers and players.

READ LESS

Product highlights:

  • communicates with other Bluesound players via your home network (wired or wireless)
  • plays MP3, AAC, WMA, WMA-L, OGG, WMA-L, FLAC, MQA, ALAC, WAV, and AIFF files
    • supported sample rates: 32kHz to 192kHz
    • supported bit depths 16-24
  • works with Amazon Alexa-compatible voice control assistants
BluOS Controller app:
  • free download from Apple App Store and Google Play
  • set up and customize your BluOS speakers and players
  • control multi-room playback with two or more Bluesound speakers or components
  • select Bluetooth as an input, then redistribute the stream to other rooms via Wi-Fi
  • access music stored on smartphone, tablet, computer or network drive
  • stream from-compatible services such as Spotify Premium, TIDAL, Amazon Music, TuneIn, and Deezer (subscriptions may be required)
General features:
  • Bluetooth wireless audio streaming with aptX support for better sound with compatible devices
    • Bluetooth streaming to paired headphones or speakers
  • Apple AirPlay® 2 lets you stream directly from an iPhone® or iPad® and ask Siri to play Apple Music
    • firmware update required
  • top-mounted controls for volume and muting
  • USB Type-A port for connecting a flash drive with music files
  • combination mini-optical/stereo minijack audio input
  • analog RCA stereo audio output (stereo RCA-to-RCA cable included)
  • coaxial digital audio output
  • Toslink optical digital audio output
  • headphone output (stereo RCA-to-3.5mm stereo minijack included)
  • mono RCA subwoofer output
  • built-in dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz)
  • Ethernet port (Ethernet cable included)
  • detachable AC power cord
  • 8-5/8"W x 1-13/16"H x 5-5/8"D
  • weight: 2.45 lbs.
  • warranty: 1 year
  • MFR # Node2iwhite

What's in the box:

  • Network streaming player
  • 6' AC power cord
  • 58" Ethernet cable
  • 5' Stereo RCA cable
  • 5' Stereo minijack-to-RCA cable
  • Optical-to-3.5mm adapter
  • Quick Setup Guide
  • Warranty Information
  • License Agreement

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4.5 out of 5 stars
217 reviews

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More details on the Bluesound NODE 2i

Stacey B.

Features & specs

Connections
Ethernet Port Yes
USB-A Port No
USB-B Port No
3.5mm Input 1
RCA Input
XLR Input No
Phono Input No
Digital Input Optical
HDMI Input No
Headphone Jack No
Subwoofer Output Mono-RCA, Opt. Wireless
Wireless Features
Bluetooth Built-in 5.0
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac
Wi-Fi Bands 2.4, 5GHz
Audio Specs
Max. Digital Audio Bit Depth 24-bit
Max. Digital Audio Sample Rate 192 kHz
High-res Audio Playback
From Network Yes
From USB Thumb Drive (USB-A) No
From Computer (USB-B) No
Ecosystems
Apple AirPlay Yes
Apple AirPlay 2 Yes
DTS Play-Fi No
Chromecast built-in No
Roon Ready
Sonos No
HEOS No
MusicCast No
SoundTouch No
Bose Home Speaker No
WiSA No
BluOS Yes
Klipsch Stream No
KEF Stream No
Music Services
Amazon Music Amazon Music HD
Apple Music No
iHeart Radio Yes
Pandora No
Qobuz Yes
SiriusXM Yes
Spotify Free
Tidal Connect
TuneIn Yes
YouTube Music No
Control
Handheld Remote Optional
Control by app Apple iOS, Android
Amazon Alexa Optional
Google Assistant Optional
Other Specs
Width (Inches) 8.625
Height (Inches) 1.875
Depth (Inches) 7.4375
Parts Warranty 1 Year
Labor Warranty 1 Year
The Bluesound NODE 2i replaces these items:

Product Research

System Features
Variety of Sources
Intuitive Control

System Features

Node 2i: The Bluesound Node 2i network streaming player lets you add BluOS high-resolution multiroom audio to your existing home entertainment system, while giving you access to internet radio and online music services, Bluetooth & USB audio, as well as your computer's music library over a WiFi network. The Node 2i network streaming player employs a 32-bit/192kHz DAC (digital-to-analog converter) to ensure that your high-resolution music playback is flawless with precision and clarity at any volume.

BluOS Wireless High-Resolution Multiroom Audio: The Bluesound Node 2i is part of the BluOS wireless high-resolution multiroom audio eco-system - consisting of powered speakers, soundbar speakers, amplifiers, players, and hard-drives. The BluOS wireless high-resolution multiroom audio ecosystem uses your home's wired or wireless network to connect multiple Bluesound products and play your music in perfect sync, or different music simultaneously, anywhere in your home. Using advanced technologies (like dual-band WiFi and an ARM Cortex9 1GHz Processor), BluOS can wirelessly transmit lossless music up to 24-bit/192kHz at ultra-fast speeds with no lag and zero loss in sound quality.

  • Compatible Multiroom Audio Sources: The following audio sources can be used for multiroom audio playback - internet radio (including TuneIn & iHeart Radio); online music services (including Tidal, Spotify, Amazon, Deezer, Slacker, and Napster); Bluetooth & USB audio, music libraries (from computers and NAS drives); and Aux inputs (analog or digital).
  • Number of BluOS Zones: Up to 16 Bluesound devices can be connected in a strictly wireless environment. Demonstrated practice has shown that you can create up to 8 groups of 8 Bluesound devices or 4 groups of 16 Bluesound devices. If you want to connect more than 16 Bluesound devices, you will need to connect the Bluesound devices to your network using a wired connection. BluOS can then control up to 64 devices in a strictly wired environment.
Note: Gen 2i of Bluesound is compatible with earlier generations of Bluesound products.

Wired or Wireless Network Connection: The Bluesound Node 2i can be connected to your home network and Internet provider via a hardwired Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 jack connector or wireless 2.4/5GHz dual-band WiFi 802.11 b/g/n/ac connection. The 5GHz WiFi band offers a faster and more reliable connection with fewer interruptions and dropouts. Either network/internet connection allows you to stream music libraries from your Windows or Mac computer and NAS drive (such as the Bluesound Vault 2i, sold separately); as well as stream select online music services and internet radio.

  • Wired Ethernet Setup: A wired connection to the network is simple and requires no setup. If you wish to use the wired connection, simply connect the Node 2i directly to your router or home network using an Ethernet cable (sold separately).
  • Wireless WiFi Setup: A wireless connection allows you to place your BluOS Player virtually anywhere inside your home, but does require setup through the BluOS app on your Apple iOS or Android device. If you are on a Windows PC (7/8/10) or Apple Mac, you'll use Bluesound's web browser based application.  You'll be walked you through the set-up process step-by-step.
Note: A wireless network connection will always be required for the BluOS Controller App.

High Resolution Audio: High-resolution audio tracks are either 24-bit/96kHz or 24-bit/192kHz, and contain up to 6.5x more data than standard CDs, letting you hear all the detail of your favorite music in superior quality. With full support for hi-res audio, you can stream WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, WMA-Lossless, MQA music files over your home's WiFi network or directly from a connected USB mass storage class device. The Bluesound system also supports compressed music files such as MP3, AAC, WMA and OGG. Bluesound has been designed to work with today's larger music collections, and has indexed libraries up to 200,000 songs in demonstrated practice (this will depend on the music's metadata & artwork). Bluesound also offers gapless playback by default for all supported file music types.

Compression File Type Sampling Frequency Bit Rate or Bit Depth
Compressed Lossy MP3 16-48kHz 192-320 kbps
WMA
AAC
OGG
Lossless WMA-Lossless up to 96 kHz up to 24-bit
FLAC 192 kHz up to 24-bit
ALAC
MQA
Uncompressed AIFF up 192 kHz up to 24-bit
WAV
Notes: Bluesound cannot index or play AAC files with the extension ".m4p". These files were purchased in iTunes prior to 2009 and are subject to copy protection. Apple Consumers with an iTunes Match subscription can delete and re-download these files free of charge from their iTunes Cloud

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated): Bluesound is the first wireless multiroom audio system to support MQA (Master Quality Authenticated). MQA is a revolutionary end-to-end technology that captures and delivers master quality audio in a file that's small enough to stream or download. Bluesound worked closely with MQA to implement technology inside each Bluesound component to ensure the listener will hear MQA encoded music and streams exactly like the source and the way the artist intended you to hear it when it was approved in the studio.

Outputs: The Bluesound Node 2i provides analog & digital outputs to connect to your existing home entertainment system, plus a sub out for adding a powered sub, a headphone jack for private listening, and a trigger output for remote activation of another component.

  • Analog & Digital Outputs: The Node 2i contains both analog and digital outputs. There is an analog RCA stereo output, plus one optical (toslink) digital output and one coax (RCA) digital output to connect the player to your home's existing audio system.
  • Sub Output: The Node 2i also features a mono-RCA subwoofer output for adding a powered sub. The sub output is full-range; you will need to use the low-pass crossover in your powered sub.
  • Headphone Output: A 3.5mm headphone jack is located on the front of the Node 2i for private listening with a set of headphones.  The dedicated headphone driver is rated 0.0055% THD @1kHz, 35mW. It is designed for use with most headphones, with a minimum impedance of 14 ohms. The Node 2i's output will be muted when headphones are connected.
  • 12V Trigger Output: The 12V trigger output (3.5mm) can be used to control or activate other external device equipped with a corresponding 12V trigger input.

Optional Wireless Powered Sub: You can add up to two Bluesound Pulse+ wireless powered subwoofers (sold separately; see Accessories Tab) to the Node 2i network player for bigger bass response.

AC Power: The Bluesound Node 2i operates off of standard household current using it's internal power supply and the supplied 6.5' detachable AC power cord.

Mounting Options: The Bluesound Node 2i can simply rest on a table-top, shelf, stand, or other piece of furniture.

Firmware Updates: Firmware and software updates from Bluesound are delivered to the Node 2i via your home network's Internet connection and the BluOS Controller app.

Variety of Sources

Online Music Services: Many popular music streaming services and internet radio apps are built right into BluOS, giving you an all-access pass to millions of songs and the freedom to listen to everything you want to hear. Using the BluOS Controller app, you can instantly discover and enjoy millions of songs from your existing music services, tune in to your favorite internet radio stations and podcasts from around the world, or access and listen to the music collections stored on your smartphone, tablet or laptop on any and Bluesound in your home. Subscription and purchase fees will apply to online music services.

  • Amazon Music: Listen to millions of songs, thousands of playlists, and ad-free personalized stations with Amazon Prime & Unlimited Music. With the addition of Amazon Music HD, you will now be able to play Ultra HD music (24-bit/48kHz to 192kHz) on supported Bluesound devices from the BluOs App when choosing Amazon Music. An Amazon Music (Prime, Unlimited, or HD) subscription will be required
  • Spotify Connect: If you subscribe to a free or paid Spotify subscription and have the Spotify App on your Apple iOS or Android smartphone, you can stream Spotify to the Bluesound system using Spotify Connect. Spotify is a digital music service that gives you on-demand access to one of the largest music libraries in the world (over 15 million tracks and counting). Spotify makes it easier than ever to discover, manage, and share music with your friends. You can browse music by artist, album, track, or most popular; and create your own music library with customized playlists.
  • TIDAL Connect: The integration of Tidal Connect will enable Tidal users to instantly select and wirelessly stream music to the Bluesound device from within the Tidal app (for Apple iOS and Android OS). TIDAL is a global streaming service that offers over 30 million songs in high-fidelity CD sound quality. TIDAL has two pricing tiers; either $9.99 or $19.99 a month. Both pricing levels allow you to access TIDAL's entire music library. The $19.99 tier has the added benefit of high-fidelity sound at CD-level quality.
  • Qobuz: Qobuz offers the biggest catalog of Hi-Fi and Hi-Res albums in the world, both for new releases and specialized genres. For hundreds of thousands of albums, Qobuz includes all the information you need to recreate the appeal of a real CD - the names of musicians, producers, lyrics (everything you need to know to appreciate your favorite albums).  Qobuz offers MP3, CD, and Hi-Res quality subscriptions.
  • SiriusXM: SiriusXM Internet Radio is accessible through the BluOS app and lets you listen to over 120 channels of commercial-free music, talk radio, news, sports, entertainment, and more. Subscription fees will apply.
  • TuneIn: The Bluesound system includes access to more than 70,000 free internet radio streams from all corners of the globe via the TuneIn internet radio service. Just select the TuneIn logo from the main Music menu and browse among the 70,000 stations neatly organized into popular categories and select a station that appeals to your mood.
  • iHeart Radio: iHeart Radio is a free, all-in-one digital radio and music streaming service that lets you listen to thousands of live stations from across the country and allows you to create personalized custom stations featuring songs from the artist you select and similar music.
  • Napster: Napster is a streaming music subscription service (starting a $10 per month) that allows you to play the full-length songs you choose on demand from a collection of over 10 million songs, without ads and without having to purchase or download the music.
  • Slacker: Get the sound quality that you deserve with the new Slacker music library available in high-quality AAC audio on Bluesound. Listen to music streams at a bitrate of 320kbps and enjoy all your favorite Slacker stations in pristine MP3-quality.
  • Deezer: Deezer lets you explore over 53 million tracks (and counting), and discover artists and tracks you'll love with personalized recommendations from the Deezer Editors. Bluesound even supports Deezer HiFi for lossless quality ($19.99 per month).
  • Other Services: Other online music services include HighResAudio, Murfie, JUKE, KKBox, SoundMachine, and more.
Note: Availability of online music services may vary by region. Not all services may be available at time of purchase. Some services may be added or discontinued from time to time based on decisions of the music service providers or others.

Computer Audio: The BluOS wireless multiroom audio system by Bluesound lets you easily connect and share your music collection from a computer or network-attached storage drive and access up to 200,000 tracks for wireless streaming. The BluOS wireless music system will pull music from an existing digital music library across the network on your Windows PC, Mac computer, or NAS drive using Windows or SMB File Sharing (SAMBA) and the BluOS Controller app for Windows (XP-up) & Mac (OS X 10.7-up). However, File Sharing is not enabled by default on Windows or Mac. You will have to manually alter these settings in your computer's menu system.

AirPlay 2: With AirPlay 2, you'll be able to stream just about any sound (including music, books, podcasts and more) from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to the Bluesound system - all in sync. You can even watch movies and videos from Netlfix or YouTube on your Apple device while streaming the audio through to the Bluesound system. AirPlay 2 also gives you more options for control, including using Siri voice assistance.  If you are an Apple Music subscriber and add the Node 2i to the Apple Home App on your iPhone or iPad, you can use your iOS device or HomePod to say things like - "Hey Siri, play jazz in the Living Room" or "Hey Siri, turn up the volume in the Kitchen." You can even group Gen 2i Bluesound products with older Bluesound products in the BluOS App to add AirPlay 2 compatibility to your entire BluOS system.

Roon Ready: Roon Ready network devices (such as Bluesound) have Roon's streaming technology built-in, and are certified by Roon Labs to provide the highest level of quality and performance in network streaming. Roon is a feature rich music library and playback application that compiles all the music files available to your network and makes them easily available to play across all other Roon enabled audio devices in your home. Roon manages digital music files (including FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, DSD, and MQA) collected on hard drives and networked storage. It can also watch your iTunes library, and optionally integrate with the Tidal and Qobuz music streaming services. Roon is available for mobile, laptop or desktop devices. When you open the Roon app, it will display your complete audio library together with its metadata and artwork along with all the Roon enabled devices around your house. Simply select the music you wish to play and the Bluesound product or other Roon device in which you want to hear it on.

Note: To use Roon you will need a Roon Core running on the same network as the Bluesound product. The Core is media server software that runs on your computer, NAS, or turnkey appliance (like Nucleus or ROCK - sold separately), located on the network within your home.

Bluetooth Audio Streaming: The Bluesound Node 2i offers built-in Bluetooth 5.0 with two-way wireless communication and support for aptX HD. You'll be able to wirelessly stream high-quality audio from your smartphone, tablet, or computer to the Node 2i. You'll also be able to use the Node 2i as a source and wirelessly stream its audio content to a set of Bluetooth headphones (sold separately).

  • aptX HD: The advanced Qualcomm CSR8675 chip used in the Node 2i supports aptX HD Bluetooth wireless audio. aptX HD is an enhanced codec that supports 24-bit audio over Bluetooth and has been engineered to improve the signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in lower background noise. With the ability to support streams up to 24bit/48kHz, you're able to wirelessly stream from an aptX HD compatible device to the Node 2i without sacrificing sound quality and listen to "better-than-CD" quality audio.
  • Two-Way Communication: The Node 2i offers two-way Bluetooth, featuring both Receive and Transmit functionality. Receive capability allows you to wirelessly stream from your device to the Node 2i. The Transmit capability means you can also use the Pulse Node 2i as a source and what your are listening to via Bluetooth to a pair of wireless Bluetooth headphones (sold separately).
Note: The Node 2i can be paired and connected via Bluetooth without utilizing a network connection or the BluOS Controller app.

USB Port: The Bluesound Node 2i features a USB (type-A) port to directly connect your USB mass storage class (MSC) device; such as a thumbdrive or external HDD. USB hard disk drives that require more than 0.5A of power will require a separate power supply. The unit's USB port supports music playback from these compatible USB devices formatted in FAT 32 or NTFS.  Not only can USB audio be played back on the Node 2i, but can also be wirelessly distributed to the rest of your Bluesound components throughout your home for multiroom playback.

Note: The USB port is not compatible with the direct connection of an Apple iOS or Android device.

Optical/Analog Input: The Node 2i is fitted with a 3.5mm Aux input which can be used as analog or digital connection. As an analog input, simply connect a stereo minijack audio cable from your analog source to the Node 2i's Aux input. As a digital input, use the included 3.5mm-to-Optical adapter along with an optical digital cable (sold separately) to connect your digital source to the Node 2i's Aux input. As an analog or digital input, the unit's Aux input supports 2ch PCM audio (not Dolby Digital or DTS). Audio from the Optical/Analog Aux input can be played back at the Node 2i and wirelessly distributed to other Bluesound components in your home for multiroom playback.

Intuitive Control

BluOS Controller App: The free BluOS Controller app (for Apple iOS 9.3-up, Android OS 4.1-up, Windows PC (XP-up), and Mac OS X 10.7-up) turns your mobile device or computer into a full-featured wireless remote control for the Node 2i and the BluOS wireless multiroom audio system. The BluOS Controller app on your compatible device uses your home's WiFi network to connect with Bluesound devices, so you can play all the music you love anywhere in your home for a wireless multiroom music experience. Get on-demand access to your music libraries on your home network, stream live Internet radio from almost any place in the world, or listen to one of the many music services available on Bluesound, all from the palm of your hand with the easy-to-use BluOS Controller app.

  • Multiroom Audio: Play a different song at the same time in different rooms, or group all your BluOS enabled devices together and listen to your favorite music in perfect sync throughout your home.
  • Now Playing Screen: Control your music and adjust the volume in any room, get rich album artwork and detailed artist info, right from the Now Playing screen. Even check what quality you are streaming at to ensure the best possible listening experience.
  • Individual Songs & Playlists: Tap a song and have it play instantly, or create and edit playlists on the fly by simply adding songs or entire albums to the play queue. Playlists can then be saved inside the app and listened to at any time.

Alexa & Google Assistant Voice Control: Bluesound will support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control through an over-the-network firmware update (now available). Using an Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant enabled device (sold separately - see Accessories Tab), you can use your voice to access your music libraries on your local network, select presets from online music services, control music playback functions such as Play/Pause/Skip, adjust volume levels, play music in different rooms, and even group rooms together. Each Alexa voice command will need to start with the phrase "Alexa or Google, ask Blue Voice to" or "Alexa or Google, tell Blue Voice to". Alexa and Google Skills for BluOS will need to be setup through the Amazon Alexa app (for Apple iOS 11.0+ or Android OS 4.4+) or the Google Home App (for Apple iOS 11.0+ and Android OS 5.0+ ).

  • The Bluesound device does not feature a built-in microphone and requires a separate Alexa or Google Assistant enabled device (sold separately - see Accessories tab) for voice control.
  • Click here for more information regarding Alexa setup and voice commands. Clich here for more information regarding Google Assistant setup and voice commands.

Soft-Touch Controls: The Node 2i offers soft-touch, top-panel controls to operate basic playback functions like Volume Up/Down, Play/Pause, and Previous/Next Track.

Optional Remote Control: The Bluesound BLS RC1 (sold separately) is an IR remote control for Bluesound Gen 2 and Gen 2i speakers, streamers, and amplifiers running BluOS 3.6.2 or later. The BLS RC1 remote gives you convenient control over your Bluesound component with simple setup. Its streamlined button layout and dedicated controls let you easily control playback without having to use the BluOS Controller app on your smartphone or tablet. Plus, with the Bluesound BLS RC1 remote control, you can set-up and program up to 10 presets inside the BluOS Controller app and enjoy your favorite albums, playlists, and radio stations with a single touch of the remote.

IR Input: An infrared extender (sold separately) can be connected the Nodes 2i's IR input (3.5mm) to allow for programmable learning remotes to control volume and source selection when the Node 2i is stored in a way that the front-panel IR sensor is not visible.

Custom Integration: Bluesound offers seamless integration with some of today's most innovative 3rd-party smart-home control systems such as Control4, Crestron, Lutron, ELAN, RTI, and more.

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Customer Q&A

23 questions already asked

Q
Does the BluOS controller for the Node 2i allow for multiple people to contribute to the music queue (e.g. in an office setting)?
kyrie  Jun 25, 2021
1 answer
A
All the BluOS controllers on the same wifi network can access the what's playing queue and can update it. So, if you use multiple phones with BluOS controller on them they will all be able to edit the play list.
ramchand k  Jun 25, 2021
Q
I see thereâ??s a USB port, can I plug a portable drive into that and if so what file system does it need to be formatted for and is there a drive size limit?
daniel  Apr 30, 2021
2 answers
A
I use a 2T drive for hi res flac files without any issues. I would take a look at the manual for acceptable formats and drive size limits.
edward  Jun 27, 2021
A
According to the Bluesound website info for the Node 2i, the USB port will accept FAT32 and NTSF sticks and other external drives formatted FAT32 and NTFS. I believe FAT32 is practically limited to 32GB. While there are some disk hacks you can use to get around the partition limit, who knows if it will still be accessible via the Node 2i. NTFS is TBs, so large sizes not a problem. NTFS is also more efficient in disk space usage.
timothy  Apr 30, 2021
Q
I am currently streaming through a Logitech Squeeze Box which I like very much due to the actual digital display, optical out. Unfortunately there is no blue tooth connect. I am considering either the Node i or the CXN v2. Can I have some advice on which might be a suitable replacement? I am sometimes controlling things via the Bluetooth device and sometimes ideally just walking by to tap a few buttons. Thank you for your advice
ian  Apr 26, 2021
2 answers
A
If I understand your question correctly, there is very little you can control on the Node itself other than play/pause and track advance (forward/backward). There are also buttons labeled "+" and "-" but I don't know what they do. Just about everything else is done from the app on a computer or mobile device. And of course the unit itself has no display.
craig  Apr 27, 2021
A
I have no experience with the CXN, but the Node 2I has two way bluetooth. This way the Node 2I can send sound to bt headphones.
edward  Apr 26, 2021
Q
Can I stream FROM the Node 2i TO an AirPlay 2 enabled device such as a Apple HomePod speaker or an AppleTV?
william  Jan 11, 2021
3 answers
A
I don't think so, but that is a very odd use case. I'm not sure why you would want to unless a HomePod and AppleTV are your only sources of speaker output. Airplay integration is intended to allow streaming to the Node2i allowing it to be grouped with other Airplay devices for convenient playback with the streaming device (iphone ipad, etc) providing control, not the Node2i.
kevin  Apr 23, 2021
A
Device must have a analog (usually RCA) or digital input. If digital input, the device must be able to play a digital signal.
ted  Jan 26, 2021
A
Sorry, I didn't keep the Node 2i, and purchased the marantz streamer instead. If the Bluesound doesn't do Airplay2 look elsewhere. Most others do.
don  Jan 11, 2021
Q
I am currently streaming Tidal, Primephonic and some others using an IPhone 8 Plus as digital source, the DAC in A Sony CDS300 CD player and a Woo WA-7 headphone Amp, playing through Senneheiser HD800S headphones. Is there an advantage to getting the Node 2i to use to stream and as DAC over the set up that I currently have. In particular will the Node sound better with the lossless sources than what I already have?
thomas  Oct 25, 2020
4 answers
A
I think dac in node 2i is a good dac . Probably better than Sony cd dac.
george  Oct 28, 2020
A
Depends what you use for Tidal. The Node 2i supports MQA and I wouldn't think your CD player does. The Node 2i also goes up to 24 bits and 192 kHZ. Again, I wouldn't think the DAC in your CD would but I don't know it well. That all said, I wouldn't buy it just for the DAC.
samuel  Oct 25, 2020
A
I love the Node 2 only way listen to music.
curt  Oct 25, 2020
A
I believe there would be 2 benefits to going with the Node 2i. First, if you could "cut the cord" so to speak and use your iphone to control what is playing without the need to be connected with a USB cable. Secondly, if you are using the DAC in the CD Player, and it isn't MQA compliant, then you probably aren't getting the full quality out of that Tidal audio. The Node 2i will allow the full quality from Tidal masters audio.
jason  Oct 25, 2020
Q
Pandora support? I use Pandora and Amazon Music, so I need to be able to stream both, I see that Amazon Music is listed, but where is Pandora? If no Pandora then I can not get this unit. Thanks, Rick
rick r.  Oct 11, 2020
2 answers
A
The Node 2i uses the Bluesound system. Bluesound and Pandora are not compatible. A workaround might be to stream Pandora through a different device (such as your phone) and then output that into the Node 2i (via Bluetooth or USB, etc.) to play via your stereo or Bluesound speakers (depending on your setup).
jeffrey  Oct 30, 2020
A
No, it does not support Pandora, which is odd. It supports pretty much every other streaming service known to mankind!
mark  Oct 30, 2020
Q
Is this compatible with Bose Soundtouch speakers?
amos  Sep 23, 2020
1 answer
A
Bluesound and Soundtouch would be competing technologies so I do not believe they would be compatible straight-away.
samuel  Sep 23, 2020
Q
Anyone have good luck connecting to wifi? I do not have access to an ethernet cable, but have a strong wifi signal (RSSI -55dBm). I am concerned about audio quality, with my stereo system being mid-level pricing.
david  Sep 09, 2020
3 answers
A
I returned the Bluesound. It connected to my WiFi just fine.
don  Sep 14, 2020
A
I have had the Node 2i since March connected solely to my network via wifi and have not experienced any problems. I utilize the Netgear Orbi system to boost the wifi signal in our home and the Node 2i is always connected. Mine is connected to a new Yamaha RX-A880 receiver purchased from Crutchfield this summer and listened using NHT speakers as a part of my smaller home theater system. I believe the audio quality from the Node 2i is better than that from other sources and can hear the difference. I am looking at purchasing a second Node 2i for my main home theater system in the future as well.
randall  Sep 14, 2020
A
I have mine connected to wifi, and stream hi res files from a hard drive on my router. Works great, have not had any issues at all.
jason  Sep 14, 2020
Q
Will I be able to play my music library from my computer via Wi-Fi wireless to this Node 2i? Mostly MP3. Will the app work with my large music library via wireless Wi-Fi, meaning will I be able to see and search through and play my mp3 collection this way within my music files in the Node 2i app on my Android phone?
rick r.  Sep 09, 2020
3 answers
A
If your library is on the computer's internal drive, you should be able to access it via the Node. I do that with my hi-res downloaded files, which I keep separate from my iTunes library. But my iTunes library is too large to fit on my computer's internal drive, so it's on a USB-attached external drive. The Node and its software cannot "see" external drives when they're attached to whatever computer is used as the server. To play those files I have to use the iTunes Remote app on my mobile device to retrieve the data via WiFi, and push it via AirPlay to the Node. It works well enough, and the AirPlay limit on resolution doesn't hurt since the iTunes library is limited to redbook specs anyway. The only downside is that it's just one more interface to have to switch to when playing music.
craig  Apr 27, 2021
A
The app has a Music Library option that can be used thru the Network. I haven't use it, because I have Tidal and the audio quality that I get from there is much better than my MP3. Also, my MP3 collection is not extensive and its very commercial music. Hope this helps!
enrique  Sep 09, 2020
A
works with Mac not sure about a pc. Best to check with Bluesound support
aimee  Sep 09, 2020
Q
using an android tablet, would I be able to stream any music app, i.e. Amazon Music or sirus XM, through the Node 2i connected to an existing stereo via RCA cables?
ronald t  Jul 07, 2020
6 answers
A
Yes, and I'll explain. Digital sources, like Amazon Music, Tidal or XM gets streamed and converted in the Node 2i as analog, and then you can pass that to a stereo system via analog rca cables.
rolando  Jul 16, 2020
A
No, one can't stream from any music app, just a select few. For example, unless things have changed, one can't stream Pandora. Also voice control is extremely limited. It's too bad nothing else in this price range sounds as good as this unit. That being said, the android app works very well.
grant  Jul 16, 2020
A
Amazon music is natively supported by BluOS so it will stream directly on the Node 2i. Sirius XM is not supported yet and neither is chromecast so you would need to use Bluetooth from your tablet.
maxime  Jul 16, 2020
A
Yes, the streamer has a good DAC onboard. Just connect the right and left RCA analog outputs to your stereo.
william  Jul 16, 2020
A
Yes. It should be fine.
phuong  Jul 16, 2020
A
Idem returned
stephen  Jul 16, 2020
Q
Is this product Roon-ready? I've seen conflicting information
brad  Jun 17, 2020
6 answers
A
Roon-ready? If you mean room ready, yes it is. Works well with my iphone and apple watch. Nice unit and appreciate the quality of sound of streaming music from the Node 2i.
joel m  Jun 19, 2020
A
yes it is roon ready first of all i love my blue sound at this price point -- it is in my converted garage to an exercise room -- it pulls from my library on my WD NAS server and TIDAL as well as other streaming services from my ipad or iphone -- It is roon ready but being so distant from my core computer in the second floor of my house it sometimes isnt as stable as i would like so i mainly pull from my music library and tidal and create playlists and queues -- if it is close to your core -- it will work perfectly i think
samuel  Jun 18, 2020
A
Hi Brad, I bought this unit after reading a ton of reviews. You need to download the Bluesound app. on a device like a tablet. The app. will walk you through the setup procedure. It is very easy to setup. The trickiest part for me was setting up my mp3 files on my pc, so the node has the correct path to play them. Make sure the WiFi network settings on your tablet match the network settings on the Bluesound app. I use the Tunein feature daily, to access my favorite radio stations It is a good device. No regrets.
leo  Jun 17, 2020
A
I used it wirelessly with ROON for a while, and it worked well. I was less successful with a wireless connection to a NAD receiver because it kept losing the network connection. I believe ROON's proprietary network protocol was part of the reason, but whether that was true or I just didn't know what I was doing, even after following the suggestions of three different support techs, I will never know. I love ROON functionality, but finally gave up. Maybe I'll try again, with roughly 3000 CDs, but it's awfully easy to just use Spotify with less terrific sound, for all its frustrating lack of any reasonable tools for adding tags and cataloging. What's badly needed for classical music and jazz are vastly improved industry tagging standards. I don't understand why music mags like Gramophone and Downbeat haven't pushed for them. Sorry for the digression!
ron  Jun 17, 2020
A
Yes according to Roon. I have it installed on the vault2i
aimee  Jun 17, 2020
A
Yes
aimee  Jun 17, 2020
Q
I want to use the Node 2i internal dac and analog outputs for full Tidal MQA playback and the digital coax output to my external dac to play hi-res files stored on my usb stick attached to the back of the Node. Would I need to go into the settings every time and switch between these modes? In other words, if I select a Tidal MQA file will it automatically output to the analog outs? Or do I have to tell it to not output to the digital output?
gen  Feb 25, 2020
1 answer
A
I am almost 100% that it would do both at the same time: the on board DAC would decode the MQA and output to analog outputs and simultaneously output the digital stream to your other dac. Same for the usb stick, it would get converted with the onboard DAC, and would also be passed through to the other dac.
jason  Sep 14, 2020
Q
I want to connect my iPad Air 2019 to the Node 2i and connect the Bluesound to my SET tube amp in order to stream Tidal Masters. Is this a viable option, and what cables will I need? Thanks.
philip  Nov 21, 2019
4 answers
A
Hi Philip, thank you for your question. You will be able to connect your iPad to the Node 2i for streaming services, you will control the device via the BlueOS controller app. As long as your SET amp has analog connection, you will use a set of RCA stereo interconnects, like the AudioQuest Evergreen, to make the connection between your amp and the Node 2i. I hope this helps, and feel free to chat with us online or by phone at 1-800-324-9695, if you would like to discuss this further, our Advisors will be happy to help.
jessica  Dec 15, 2019 (Staff)
A
Your iPad would connect via Bluetooth to the Node 2I, which is then connected to your SET by analogue/RCA. No connection needed between iPad and Node. You would download the BluSound app on your iPad, which would then allow you to login to Tidal. Once you have Tidal running through the BluSound app on your iPad, you can control which Tidal Masters are played from your physical Node 2i which connected to your amp.
justin  Dec 12, 2019
A
Yes! I'm doing the same thing but using an iphone in place of your ipad and solid state mono blocks in place of your tube amp. So while this could vary you will most likely do it like this: Node 2i connected to your tube amp via RCA cables to one of it's inputs (typically AUX input or Input 1). The iPad would connect to the Node 2i via the BlueOS app and that it! You could technically use airplay and the regular Tidal app but i am unsure if you will have MQA via airplay with ipad. I prefer to use the BluOS app. This may go without saying but the Node 2i will need to be connected to the internet via ethernet cable or wifi.
nima  Dec 12, 2019
A
There is a Bluesound app available in the App Store. Using the App you can link your Node2 to your Tidal account and use the Tidal interface within the app for music control. The node2i streams directly from the internet.
samuel  Dec 12, 2019
Q
connect audio out LR to sound processor input on preamp and then coax out to my dac ??
veintiunico53  Mar 07, 2019
3 answers
A
I run an external DAC as well. Just run the coax output to your DAC. I'd also bypass the internal volume control in the Node 2i.
todd  Mar 08, 2019
A
Do not forget, when you add a separate DAC to go into the BluOS app and open the apps main menu(3 horizontal bars), then select; Settings, Player, Audio, then toggle on MQA external DAC.
charles  Mar 07, 2019
A
No, if you have a separate DAC only connect your DAC to the single coaxial output female jack on the Node 2i. Do not connect the LR RCA outputs from the Node 2i to your preamp's input. When you connect using the LR RCA outputs from the Node 2i, the Node 2i's built in DAC is used. In your case you want to bypass the Node 2i's DAC because you're using a separate DAC.
charles  Mar 07, 2019
Q
Bluesound Node 2i is Qobuz ready?
paula p.  Feb 20, 2019
13 answers
A
Yes along with Tidal and Spotify
scott  Feb 23, 2019
A
Yes...works fine.
don  Feb 21, 2019
A
Qobuz is listed in the Menu under Music Services, although I have not activated the service.
david  Feb 21, 2019
A
Hi. I am using Tidal HiFi level streaming since their family plan gives you 5 extra people. But I am pretty sure Qobuz works with their premium level plan. Both services are basically streaming CD level and higher rates. Thanks Jeff
jeff  Feb 21, 2019
A
Yes. Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, Spotify, Roon etc.
john  Feb 21, 2019
A
Yes it does
elton  Feb 21, 2019
A
Yes it is.
william  Feb 21, 2019
A
Yes
phuong  Feb 21, 2019
A
Yes, but I've only used Tidal.
william  Feb 21, 2019
A
Although I'm a Tidal subscriber and did not try the Qobuz, It is Qobuz ready and is available to add from the Music Services menu options.
rolando  Feb 21, 2019
A
Qobuz is listed as an available service in the "Music Services" section of the BluOS app along with various streaming options up to 24/192. I have not activated a trial account, however.
darin  Feb 21, 2019
A
Not ready for deezer hifi. Did not have time ti test qobuz
stephen  Feb 21, 2019
A
Yes. I am listening to Qobuz right now. Hi rez. Very nice.
harry  Feb 21, 2019
Q
How do you get Bluesound to fix their buggy bluetooth transmit issues?
james  Feb 12, 2019
5 answers
A
I found using the WIFI option (within the Node 2 I) worked for me. But I have switched to Roon and the Node 2 I is a simple endpoint which feeds an external DAC. Three benefits: no need to use Bluetooth, the sound is much improved and Roon Remote is flawless. I also discovered Bluesound support is very slow returning calls/emails. Hope this helps.
william  Feb 13, 2019
A
If you own a Bluesound Node 2i, It may not be the BluOs. Better WIFI performance is possible by using a dual band router. Older routers transmit at 2.5gHz. The latest routers can operate at 5ghz which has less traffic for the Node 2i.
james  Feb 12, 2019
A
Hi Jim, I have only used the WIFI connectivity. The WIFI works pretty good, depending on the quality of your WIFI router. I connected to my stereo receiver and which is pretty far from my router. Occasionally, I lose the connection. I just restart on the Bluesound app. You might try WIFI. I've heard Bluetooth is buggy.
leo  Feb 12, 2019
A
Try contacting blusound using their website or crutchfield support. I personally use airplay flawlessly on the Node 2i and the few times i've used bluetooth it's also been flawless.
nima  Feb 12, 2019
A
I'm sorry but I don't use it in that way. I've integrated it with my Control4 home automation system and control is over IP via a driver.
raymond  Feb 12, 2019
Q
Would this streamer performance be sufficient for a high end audio system (McIntosh c2600 and MC 452)?
vishtasp  Dec 24, 2018
16 answers
A
GREAT QUESTION!! it was because we heard this Bluesound Node i at a high-fi audio store and were astounded by the play-back quality that made us buy the Node; and, guess what: in the 3 rooms, 2 were rooms for McIntoch amps! The playback quality still has both myself and my husband really stunned as we listen to our Hi-Rez audio files! (24b / 192k) Hope this helps you~. :)
lisa  Jan 06, 2019
A
Not sure, I plan on upgrading my Tidal account to stream MQA and will have a better sense. Just adding a basic Cambridge DAC improved my Audio Research system.
robert  Dec 27, 2018
A
Absolutely. The sound is excellent.
michael  Dec 26, 2018
A
Very good sound, very close to CD quality. I'm running it through a C29 MC2120 and MC2150. You will be amazed by the sound quality
kevin  Dec 26, 2018
A
For the price, sure, it plays in MQA from Tidal, so great device for the money. Otherwise you will need to put down close to 1K. I have the MA5300 and love this.
enrique  Dec 26, 2018
A
No. Nice streamer but wouldn't pair with McIntosh
glenn  Dec 26, 2018
A
Hard to answer. Let me explain. How are you playing music now? CD's? Vinyl? Let's assume it's cds. You are going to have to rip those cds into digital audio files. If you rip them with a lossless format such as FLAC they are going to sound virtually the same streamed through the Node 2. Does your Mac have a DAC (digital analog converter)? If it does then you probably should disable the DAC in the Node (easily done with the app). The files stream from source to Node and are passed digitally through the Mac, which converts them to analog for the amp. If the Mac does not have a DAC (which I suspect it doesn't) them leave the Nodes DAC running and the Node passes the file in analog format to the amp. The short answer is yes. As long as your digital files are in FLAC format and not mp3 the Node will sound great. Hope this long answer helps.
kem  Dec 24, 2018
A
Very subjective... I'm using it primarily for Tidal HiFi and Internet Radio with MC2300 and pretty high end setup (JBL M2 or Levinson/Revel Salons) and think its fine. You can always add external DAC which i plan to do. I actually tried using it with a Dragon Fly Red but for some reason couldn't get it to work and i haven't been bothered to troubleshoot as its sounds pretty good using built in converters..
tom  Dec 24, 2018
A
Sure, It's capable of streaming HI-Rez audio 96 24. It is also capable of streaming Tidal and other CD quality or better music streaming services.
duschan  Dec 24, 2018
A
That can only be determined by your ears, in your system, but in my opinion...yes. For me, the Node 2i sounds great with my Conrad Johnson and easily replaced a CAL Delta / Sigma II transport and tubed DAC combo.
edward  Dec 24, 2018
A
Yes, it has surprisingly good performance for the money.
marc  Dec 24, 2018
A
it will be sufficient but there are much better streamers out there if you have a "McIntosh" budget.
jimmy  Dec 24, 2018
A
I absolutely think that it is. I am using the Bluesound Node 2i in a secondary system in my home office. It is connected to a mid-priced Denon AVR driving a pair of Definitive Technology Monitor 55 speakers. However, I would gladly place the Bluesound in my mid-level home theater separates setup, if I thought I could squeeze more sound fidelity out of my digital audio there. I use it only for streaming my personal digital music library (AIFF & HDTracks) and Tidal, all through my Roon Server. I believe the digital streaming performance of the Bluesound Node 2i will not disappoint someone with a McIntosh system or similar. I don't even use the Bluesound App, since my Roon App provides all the control. I hope this helps.
robert  Dec 24, 2018
A
Also make sure you have compatible ports on back of your McIntosh devices and are using high quality cables.
aimee  Dec 24, 2018
A
Yes if set up correctly and if you have excellent WiFi connectivity. Do it use with a Netgear switch.
aimee  Dec 24, 2018
A
I have a yba passion 1000 with magico s5 and it is ok. But if you are a serious listener, which seems to be the case with what you have, you probably want spend more. If you are streaming occasionally, this is a good first streamer
jean-sebastien  Dec 24, 2018
Q
I have no access to the wifi router I use to install an ethernet cable. Will the node 2i work without an ethernet connection?
lenny  Oct 28, 2020
4 answers
A
I don't understand your question For update firmware you can use Ethernet cable from router.
apiruk  Oct 28, 2020
A
Yes, you'll need to connect using wifi. Make sure you have a strong signal at your location. You can also use a WiFi repeater at your location to boost the signal.
khashayar shawn  Oct 28, 2020
A
Sorry, but ask them experts at Crutchfield.
edgardo  Oct 28, 2020
A
Yes it will just connect wirelessly via 2 or 5g.
edward  Oct 28, 2020
Q
What problems have you encountered with the Android version of BlueOS 3.0 when playing files from your music library from either a direct-connect USB flash drive, lan-based NAS drives or PC-based music folders?
mark  Feb 08, 2019
4 answers
A
regarding the directly connected USB drives, the Node 2i will play from thumb drives but not all types of USB external hard drives. Bluesound states that the player is designed to interface wirelessly with NAS drives but not directly attached external hard drives. In my own experience, some types of external hard drives will work, others not.
douglas  Feb 09, 2019
A
Mine stopped working. It happened shortly after a firmware update. It knocked out the handshaking ability through my home network with the software in my receiver. Most high-end receivers are music players themselves and there is really no need to double down on a purchase that could go so wrong. It's a beautiful little box,but the sound wasn't any better when it did work. This is because the DSP on your high end separate receiver is usually superior.
sanjeeb paul  Feb 09, 2019
A
I use Apple products. I only have used the Bluesound app to update my device or to setup WiFi.
robert  Feb 09, 2019
A
I play my own flac files stored on a Synolgy 916+ NAS using Roon and have had no problems at all. I control using Samsung Galaxy phone and Nvidia Shield Tablet. I also have an iPad for control and no issues. BlueSound is hardwired using ethernet cable.
michael  Feb 09, 2019
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