Bluesound Node N130 Reviewed and Compared

[@NeilBlanchard]

It would be great if you can try a third party external linear power supply on the Node. There are two companies that do these - one is PD Creative, and the other is Vinshine Audio. I have the interface board from PD Creative, and a 5V 50W linear power supply - and the sound quality improvement is not subtle. I have never used the internal DAC - my reference is a Geshelli Labs J2S with a Sparkos SS2590 discrete op-amp on the singled ended RCA output; and is powered by a 12V 50W linear power supply. A big lack for almost all streamers that I know of - is Bandcamp. I would *really* like it is BlueOS had an app for Bandcamp.

[@martymcfly3837]

I tuned my Node X with an External Lownoise Powersuply... It's really a huge improvement. Now I hear the full potential of this device... Greetings

[@jasperstromy2778]

I added LPS to the node and it improved the sq a lot.

[@mikelanier5617]

Thanks as always! I run usb from my Node N130 to my RME adi-2 dac/headphone amp/eq and love the increase in clarity, separation and dynamics. Tried the Smsl SU9 balanced, but the sound , headphone amp included and parametric eq presets on the RME Dac wins by a wide margin. I use a Gustard R26 R2R Dac with built in Lan streamer using UpNp on my main system and the Node and RME stays on my headphone stack by the chair for easy control access. My Wiim Pro feeds a Schiit Modi3 Dac with Smsl speaker amp on the patio system for TV, music and Xbox. I think I'm gonna stop there as it all sounds and works great now 😊 Very happy with tailoring it all for my needs and can't imagine my savings compared to 3 Auralic, Inuous or others in those higher price ranges that are sometimes rather glitchy. So far I like the sound from Gustard R26 streamer and Dac the best. Enjoy your music 🎉

[@NosEL34]

Very nice 👍

[@tomasbroulik7496]

I didn’t know they implemented USB out? Users were notifying only coax and optical possible?

[@mikelanier5617]

USB out was added through a firmware update months ago. Mine is an N130 model. Works great 👍

[@erics.4113]

​@@tomasbroulik7496USB Audio out was added to Node in 2022. Since it is asynchronous there could be compelling advantages. If you use an external DAC with a superior clock, this connection allows your DAC clock to control the timing of the data.

[@18yearsoldnot]

Great! I just bought a n130. Did you get a chance to compare it on the r26 vs its internal steamer? Sounds like usb is the way to go… I got it for my stereo home theatre setup with eARC getting converted to usb for my Chord Hugo TT

[@vladimirjovanovic2803]

Very detailed and precise review. It was my pleasure Srbo!

[@iiWiReviews]

Thanks again!

[@robbiefest]

Change out the switch mode power supply for a linear one and you'll have a very different experience. I've used PD Creative power supplies in my Node N130 and Eversolo A6 ME and both very much increased in their performance.

[@paulvigor829]

Totally agree 👍

[@LoniGuitarChannelHr]

Hvala ti burazeru, excellent!

[@leo11877]

BlueSound needs to come with a cheap $250 streamer without DAC / headphone / physical controls (but yes on IR remote). It will kill everything else on the market. Just have optical / coax out.

[@Mark-rw3kw]

It would have to cost more than that, at least $400.

[@basilthomas790]

I am sorry but comparing node N130(2021) version against EverSolo DMP-A6(2023) version makes no sense at all since node X has been out for over a month and definitely has a better dac. Please review the node X (2023) version against the EverSolo DMP-A6 as soon as possible as I cannot believe you can get an EverSolo DMP-A6 for review compared to a node X!! And can you also review the Nad C700 as well as this definitely seems this could be a future node product. Thanx and love all of your in-depth hardware reviews!!

[@JustBrowsing777]

It makes sense for people like me who have this Node and wonder if upgrading to the Eversolo is worth considering. But I see your point in terms of a more fair and direct comparison.

[@18yearsoldnot]

He borrows this equipment from 3rd party and therefore isn’t corrupt like the others who shill and tread on eggshells about saying if they dislike or like the product so they don’t upset the audience or manufacturers who give them free pre-release samples. Darko used to have something called a Darko index but that’s been censored now

[@steinivarpedersen2316]

Maybe it’s more interesting to compare the new Bluesound Node, version BLUESOUND NODE X (N131) to the Eversolo DMP-A6 Streamer ?

[@ericsahlvall729]

X is not Better

[@JR-ho5qm]

@@ericsahlvall729yes it is, better parts better sound.

[@dovlidor8941]

X is better !!

[@cecilpeter1]

I had the Bluesound node for 1 week (The one prior to Node X), the sound stage wasn't that great and I returned it within a weeks time of purchase. What I missed terribly was the BluOS and the brilliant integration it had with Tidal/Qobuz and my Local media library. It was perfect timing as the Bluesound Node X got launched that boasted a much better DAC so I went in for it and felt the sound stage was way better then the previous model that I had returned. I also added the Teddy Pardo power supply to the Node X that took the sound to whole new level. It is now just mind blowing. Its true that the search for good sound is down a rabbit hole which is never ending off course, so I have now added a SMSL SU-10 to the Node X and must say that the match feels like made in heaven :) .. just my 2 bits.

[@steinivarpedersen2316]

@@cecilpeter1Thanks a lot for your informative response. I’m going to follow your method. I also like (love) the user interface on Bluesound (Node 130 and a Powernode at the moment)

[@stevezeidman7224]

Just sold my Node 2I in favor of WiiM. One reason is the Amazon interface which is my main service. The WiiM interface kills the Bluesound UI. I could not stand the tiny Icons because I don’t see them well. The WiiM has a much more readable interface. As far as sound is concerned, running the WiiM through my Ladder Schumann, it sounds fantastic. So, it was so long Node for me.

[@68surfboy]

Actually Wiim mini PRo is the real giant killer...

[@brooksc900]

Thanks for a complete review of the Bluesound node. I bought Topping's E70 Velvet today and hooked it up to my system with the Bluesound Node as the streamer. It certainly raised the clarity and soundstage for my ears. I replied to you on the E70 Velvet thread so no need to repeat myself here. I listened to a complete album of Madeliene Peyroux (Bare Bones) and found more clarity in her voice with improved instrument separation too. This was only CD quality but sounded great. I daresay the Node is not the best streamer out there but, as you said, BluOs is a first-rate music streaming operating system so you get a lot with the Blusound Node.

[@fletchermunson6225]

I liked mine with the PD Creative LPS. Seemed to raise performance a notch.

[@VinodKumar-gx7wj]

Very useful and informative review! One more Streamer to be compared with the BlueSound is Cambridge Audio MXN10

[@MartinLloyd-w1u]

Node software and user friendly style is spot on

[@danielhomolka9459]

I'm indifferent on your view on the Node 130. However you should be going for the recent Node X with ESS 9038 anyway.

[@Angel-AbC9]

To add what you saying , I also disagree with his review because he made no attempt to use the usb out into a external dac

[@filipviljamaasvensson]

Hi Srboljub! First, you are my favorite audio reviewer on YT, love how you talk about sound. Great work! My question, could you ask Eversolo (if you are in contact with them) to make a dedicated streamer? I have the Node and bought the Z8 two weeks ago. I love it so far and it is definitely at least one tier up from the DAC in the Node. But would like to upgrade the streamer which is still the Node, in the not too distant future. If eversolo makes one in the 500-700€ range I will buy it. Best /Filip from Sweden

[@iiWiReviews]

Thanks! As for the Eversolo, many shared they would like to have a dedicated streamer, no DAC. I can pass the message to the PR person that I'm in contact with but not sure if it will have any impact on their decision-making. But I'll pass it anyway. Best!

[@filipviljamaasvensson]

@@iiWiReviews Super, and thanx for the reply!

[@soumyajitdeb3943]

The USB port in the n130 can actually output digital to a dac with USB input. I like the node's sound the most via USB to my AMR DP777. Had it on demo for a while. The software was great but hardware was underwhelming to be honest.

[@olbucky9413]

I think WIIM mini and su01 will satisfy most people for less.

[@hunndre]

Running WiiM pro -> SMSL Su-1 and believe I will not have to look back anytime soon :)

[@robertdavis1976]

I bought a WiiM Pro, ditched the supplied (crappy) Walwart and power it with a good Linear Power Supply. IMHO, it SLAUGHTERS the Bluesound for half the price (using the S/Dif output). And the WiiMs user interface is excellent. Now it can't compete with my 3k + streamer, but for less than 1k, buying the Node is leaving way too much on the table.

[@azar3006]

@@robertdavis1976Node can also be upgraded with a linear power supply ! Sounds good after that !

[@jasonemanuel9070]

I'm makingcthe nice to streaming,does the power supply really make that much difference to the sound,I keep hearing this so it must be true​@@azar3006

[@jamesminotto8036]

I use the SMSL SU1 with my Gen 3. Very big improvement, especially in the soundstage.

[@fletchermunson6225]

I'v had trouble getting RCA connectors with large covers to fit the space allowed around the jack. The back plate can be easily taken off allowing more room for your connectors. It's flexible thin metal and goes on and off easily.

[@iiWiReviews]

You're right, I also had trouble fitting some RCAs but they went in eventually. I wanted to mention that in the video but it slipped my mind.

[@somboonvorapanyasakul417]

I am using both Node and Eversolo A6. I like the Eversolo A6 interface for the streaming apps which has the same features as in the mobile devices. I can play Apple Music directly from the streamer without having to Airplay to it from a device.

[@danielhomolka9459]

How is this new (?) Apple technic called please.

[@robertv.d.woning5352]

And soundwise? Eversolo too bright? I read this everywhere.

[@bobgodd]

You should share some of your favorite playlists. Lots of us always looking for new music.

[@iiWiReviews]

Tidal playlist: tidal.com/playlist/56f10eac-6946-45f8-86d6-326d1be86177 Qobuz playlist: open.qobuz.com/playlist/7010949 You should be able to open them and see the song list even if you don't use these services.

[@felipencl]

@@iiWiReviews Thanks!! 👍👍

[@bdmcn]

I can tell you that by adding an external LPS to Node substantially improves the sound. I also use Roon on my network feeding the Node. It sounds good. But wondering if jumping up to an entry-level Lumin or Aurender would result in better sound? I’m having a difficult time justifying a quarter turn improvement for the additional cost.

[@fletchermunson6225]

This probably won't help you but I stepped up from a N130 with LPS to an Auralic Aires G1.1. While you can get a Node/LPS or an A6 going for under $1000, the 1.1 is $3200. I really struggled with this and of course I went for it in the end. While to many that seems like an outrageous expenditure and it was for me, what you get for your money is a a significant improvement in sound. I didn't direct compare the change but the Auralic is very natural and pleasant sounding. In the end I have no regrets. You can also us the Auralic as a CD player adding a cd drive to it. I used a LG Blu-ray player drive and the sound is very good. No need for an expensive CD player or transport. The Auralic like the A6 will accept external hard drives for an auxiliary music source add on. While the Auralic can rip a CD, it only does it in real time so the process is tedious. I also found their error correction software to be exceedingly stringent. Unless a CD is flawless, It may refuse to rip up to 70% of the music. I cant find a way to make it less selective so I rip elsewhere to a portable hard drive. That is not to say the Auralic is flawless, The screen is small and the print size is very small. If Eversolo can put a great screen on their unit for under a grand so could Auralic.

[@bdmcn]

@@fletchermunson6225 So the Auralic was a big jump is SQ? I think I will end up going this route eventually. Thanks

[@johntan7405]

I recall Bluesound has a Node model with storage facility. That should be the correct model to compare price-wise with the Eversolo.

[@jakobgooijer]

After more than a year using the N130+ PDcreative linear external psu and connected via USB to a Denafrips Hermes DDC , I'm very curious about the N132. Curious if upcoming Dirac Live works through USB and waiting for PD creative telling us if the N130 upgrade is interchangeable with the N132.

[@flashnc]

I have a CD-NT670S ..... a NODE GEN3 gona be a great update for me i think... ( i like very well the sound of NT670 )

[@MartinLloyd-w1u]

I prefer the node, because of the use ability which external dac would you suggest I demo

[@xstensl8823]

the IfI was a nightmare

[@elthamlad468]

It wasn't long ago every reviewer was singing the praises of Bluesound Node, people with high-end systems swore by them, yet now they are being compared sound quality-wise to less than £100 DACs. Were the original reviewers all REALLY wrong and jumping on the bandwagon or has DAC technology and costs come down so much in just a few short years that what was the realm of ultra high-end DACs are now simply getting more and more affordable? I am selling my Node 2i and will be ordering an Eversolo DMP-A6. I would love to know how an Eversolo DMP-A6 compares soundwise (as I know functionality wise the Eversolo will win hands down) against an older high-end DAC streamer like the Cambridge Audio Azur 851N? They can be bought used for the same price as a new Eversolo......

[@nickbdy]

I’ve jumped on the bandwagon and bought an A6. AB’d against my N130 Node, level matched and using RCA outputs into Musical Fidelity M6Si and Kef Reference 3’s and the difference was…. Barely noticeable! Perhaps a bit more airy and texture in the bass. I was was expecting a bigger gulf given the DAC chip in the node was slated by ASR, but to my ears, in my room, it is tiny!

[@elthamlad468]

@@nickbdy thank you, that is helpful to know. I don't have Golden ears, though I'd like to, so I wonder if I'd notice a significant difference?

[@nickbdy]

@@elthamlad468 I’m starting to think my ears are a tarnished copper, at best, as I simply cannot discern the differences. Even what I think I’m hearing I could easily argue is my own bias, wanting the Eversolo to be better somehow.

[@edverbeek6292]

Great comparisons, again.

[@infn]

@iwi - I would love to see you do a comparison between PC based streaming and these dedicated streamers. Personally, I use a PC with a Matrix Element X USB card and a Supra USB cable to feed my DAC, which is a significant improvement in clarity and resolution over the standard USB ports. It has been working great but I'd like to use Tidal Connect and Tidal on PC will probably never get it.

[@nealcaffrey1251]

If you get a chance, I'd love to see a review of the Primare NP5 MKII, I think you'll be surprised :)

[@miquifaye]

I wish you would’ve tried the Node’s USB output . I only use the USB connected to a DDC out to my DAC via I2S . Sound is noticeably better and more refined. The software and user experience is quite excellent compared to other streamers .

[@sloboat55]

Excellent

[@bluespl]

Hello from Poland. Can you guys help - with so many opinions, it is hard for me to choose. If it were you, for Bluesound Node 2i, what would be the best (reasonably priced) DAC to choose? Qutest, Drnafrips Ares, or a cheap SMSL d6s? Or maybe the internal is good enough? I have a very good tube/hybrid preamp, very good power Amp, good speakers. Don't know if I should stick with internal DAC on Node 2i, or pursue upgrade via external one. If so, which one you recommend? Thank you.

[@18yearsoldnot]

Thank you so much for this. This still seems like the only “decent” eARC to coax spdif transport/converter for my home theatre system. I don’t trust the cheap eARC converters on Amazon to do a good job for my external dacs which are mojo2, chord Hugo tt, or am I being superstitious?

[@ivanjeremic]

In my experience Node needs better power supply. With power conditioner or linear supply it gets to another new level. BlueOS is the best UI I have ever used. I really like it but with better PS. Analogue is not to be used IMHO.

[@cecilpeter1]

Couldn't agree more , I have added the Teddy Pardo Linear supply to my Node X that has now taken the sound to a whole new level for me. I am genuinely intrigued in knowing how much clean power itself can do to sound!

[@ivanjeremic]

@@cecilpeter1 There are limitations of components used but one will not hit it unless power supply is upgraded. PD Creative has great power supply which apart from external part also replaces internal part of Nodes power supply and I have it on my Node 2i but it has similar SQ as Node connected to Isotek Aquarius which is very expensive device... Power supply on any digital device is very relevant no doubt.

[@edverbeek6292]

I have a RPi with Pi2AES HAT (and seperate linear power supplies), but was really surprised by the sound quality AND software (incl 10 band good equalizer) of the WiiM mini streamer with a Apple power adapter (long burn in time!, optical output)

[@rosswarren436]

Seems like the Node is getting long in the tooth. Originally when it came out, it had an "Apple TV" look to it, at least the white one. Today others have caught up and maybe passed it by for the price, especially for those who will be using an external DAC anyway. Even NAD's own CS1 Endpoint Network Streamer at $349 might be a better buy (but oddly, NAD has not included Blue OS in it. They should). In the $500 range, the new MXN10 streamer/DAC from Cambridge Audio might also be a contender. The big question is whether those sound any better connected to an external DAC than the WiiM Pro or the Node? Nice, balanced review of where the Node is today in 2023. Thanks!

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

Did you try usb out? I guess it might be better than both spdif or coaxial. Usually in not so expensive dacs, usb input is the one with better filtering, etc. By the way, now you have to throw fiio r7 in the mix (also in this price range) 😀

[@pedrodeabreufreire1920]

I would like to see the node or eversolo used direct to a power amp or powered speakers, it would be a really simple stereo system.

[@Angel-AbC9]

Anyone sees this review , i will say the truth its awesom and the best at its price range , but you must use the usb out for that best sound , obviously the hist did not get the upgrade to enable the usb to output use, so optical and coax sounds not good at all.

[@PaulClay46masonWV]

Well, I disagree on the node n130. I wish it had been reviewed with an external dac in mind. Number of streaming services is enough

[@josephstark4944]

I’m looking for a DAC for my Node. I have it connected to a Rotel RB1582-MKII and Polk R700’s. I would say the amp is pretty neutral and the R700’s are pretty neutral/warm. Any recommendations on a DAC that would be a good complement? I think the system could use a little more detail and clarity and soundstage depth. We use this for music (rock, electronic, hip hop) and Netflix etc. I’m guessing something in the $500-$1000 range would be appropriate for my system. Although the Gustard R26/A26 is tempting based on all the good reviews.

[@iiWiReviews]

Take a look at my Topping D70 pro review. Best clarity I've heard so far in an up to $1000 DAC.

[@abhisub]

Great reviews as always! I loved your REL T/5x, and eventually got myself a pair. Have you listened to wiim pro or plus? I am hoping to see your review before purchasing that

[@blue_soundcave]

Nice review, but I doubt that you hear a signifikant difference if you use the Node as a streaming bridge only.

[@ericsahlvall729]

You say there is More streamingservice with node than there is with eversolo?? KZbin can use all service with an android app as Apple Music with eversolo direkt Music and Hi-res You van not with node

[@boubakane]

Hi there Anybody knows if youtube music ( not regular KZbin) is in the list of streaming services of the node? Thx

[@bengleason508]

What about the Wiim Mini & Wiim Pro? Or the Holo Red?

[@aussie8114]

USB digital out is plenty good for me.

[@raffaelesirica2361]

especially with upgraded PSU.

[@kennethmayne584]

Will Benchmark dac 1 help this plater

[@mehmetcamat4458]

Did you try WiiM Pro?

[@dwayne4260]

KZbin music is not available

[@1999zrx1100]

I wish Bluesound just made a model or two better, with such a great platform why not, something under $2,000 and no bells and whistles like front displays etc. I’m sure it would sell incredible well. I’d be first to grab one. 🤓

[@CarlVanDoren61]

Modded BS Node N130 😊 LHY Audio filter board DC5v ifi ipower elite 5v power supply Aardvark Classic Ethernet Isolator DH Labs Toslink Glass Master

[@dusantomic9983]

So, hook up a WiiM Mini Audio Streamer to an S.M.S.L SU1 and save yourself a 3/4 of your hard earned cash!

[@Angel-AbC9]

I had the mini and the wiim pro had to return both because it was buggy meaning at times it won't play my music at 192 kHz and I have hires 24/192 music with a good setup so won't let this cheaper wiim be the down fall of my system.

[@dusantomic9983]

@@Angel-AbC9 I mainly listen to the Internet Radio, but not exclusively, and after six months of using Wiim Mini, never had a single issue.

[@Angel-AbC9]

@dusantomic9983 if just listening to radio it's find , I'm a audiophile person and listen to hires only

[@carlbaastrup]

Now compare it with a AUDIOPHONICS EVO-SABRE PACK DIY Balanced DAC

[@robcaputo9708]

I have owned the bluesound n2 since it first came out. I have it in my second system. My main system has a much better DAC and streamer set up. I purchased the linear power adapter ket for the same folks that sell Denafrips. Installed it in 10 minutes and I power it with the Allo Shanty. I have A,B ed it on my better system with the EverSolo. The bluesound as a dac streamer with the linear power set up was the clear winner for me and my two fellow audiophiles. The cost is more then the Eversolo but I have gotten decent service from the bluesound and the up grade for me cost less then the Eversolo less what I could expect to get selling the bluesound used. The sound is richer fuller with better tone. Not by a little.

[@dovlidor8941]

You are not up to speed check the blusound x

[@iiWiReviews]

I know X is the latest one but I had a chance to try this one on a loan and took it. It's still being sold, and at a lower price then X so some might find it useful.

[@generalbystander1631]

BlueOS app (iPadOS) sucks! Off the top it doesn’t have integrated search -so 1999!- poor messaging all around ( when an item is not found distressing vaguely danger icons appear. It’s just awful. no KZbin music integration and the interface is overly complicated for example, 3 ‘home’ buttons on one screen! For Fock sakes it’s 2023! I’m no fanboy of Sonos, for example, but in comparison it’s app is leagues ahead. Anyway thanks for the vid I enjoyed it

[@Angel-AbC9]

The best connection for this streamer is hands down via USB unison connect to a good external dac. Optical or coax does not compare to using the USB out to a good dac , my dac is the bitfrost 2/64 connected to jotuneim 2 amp via xlr connection , your bluesound node n130 will sound awesome. This review did not use the usb connection and that's why he gave it a subpar review and that is not good .

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

🙋‍♂️SRBJ 👍💚💚💚

[@Angel-AbC9]

1st of all how can you not know that you can use the usb connection to a external dac ? I have bitfrost 2/64 and using USB connection sounds better than coax and optical . Plus I saw you mention usb but not for external , so do your homework before reviewing .

[@Angel-AbC9]

Iiwi you need to redue your review on this streamer , what a joke as you didn't know to use the usb unison as output to external dac lol , abluesound company should be upset at your review..

[@robertmarshall7712]

Bluesound Node 2021 is just so mediocre it almost defines that word. No sparkle, no life, no energy just matter of fact sound. However, quite a lot of people must enjoy this kind of performance judging by the sales. 🙄

[@ronlysons6750]

Absolute rubbish.

[@Truthtalks-if2br]

I purchased the smsl su-1 based on your strong and firm recommendation, but it had a problem with a crackling noise every time I changed the other interface switch with the desktop mouse, so I returned it. subsequent searches showed that this problem had already occurred several times. Would you still recommend it despite SMSL SU-1? Thanks !^^