LHY Audio Bluesound Node/Node2/Node2i Linear Power Supply Kit

[@CharanSingh-yl3lg]

Just installed this exact same Power Supply Module and LPS from Vinshine into my 4 year old Bluesound Node 2i and the improvement in all aspects of the sound/music reproduction was immediately noticeable. Thank you Alvin and team, you have just helped me postpone my decision to upgrade my streamer by a couple of years! I am using my Node 2i purely as a streamer and not using the internal DAC.

[@scottroberts4551]

What external DAC are you using?

[@LeoRousseau]

Mine should be here Friday. Looking forward to it! I'm also using it as a streamer feeding an Aries II.

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank you for the support, Charan. Enjoy the new sound!

[@skyvulture5432]

What external dac u use may I know?

[@CharanSingh-yl3lg]

@@skyvulture5432 rme-adi2 fs

[@RobertT-ym6dw]

Installed the LHY LPS kit into my Node N130, which was a straightforward process, referring to the online instructions and video, and plugged it into Alvin's power supply. Fingers crossed, turned on the power and the impact is immediate: there is more of everything. Bigger sound (louder than before), bigger soundstage, more pronounced bass. Just MORE, all in a very good way. The electronics need time to settle, as they sounded a bit bright from the outset. After a few hours at listening volume it is calming down (after all, it's a long trip from China, halfway around the world). This is a very worthwhile upgrade.

[@tattedsoul1]

Are you using an external DAC?

[@RobertT-ym6dw]

@@tattedsoul1 Yes, using a Gustard X26 PRO. SQ from the Node itself was OK, nothing more. The DAC brought it to the next level. This power supply upgrade went another step further. In hindsight, for +/- similar $$$, a Rose HiFi or Lumin streamer with built-in DAC might have been at least as good if not better, but my first tentative steps into streaming were with the Node, and proceeded from there. Streaming music is not my raison d' etre, and I am very happy where I am. I also invested in very good ethernet and USB cables, which made a big difference.

[@RobertT-ym6dw]

To clarify, had I known where I would end up, an initial investment in a Rose or Lumin might have gotten me to where I am now without the muss and fuss, but I needed to see the incremental improvements and make sure I felt the outlay worthwhile. As I said, streaming is not my end all (I'm a home theatre guy), and I'm in a good place now with the Node and these add-ons.

[@cruzingrsx4484]

Hello Alvin, I hope that all is well? I wanted to share my experience with your PSU for the Node 2i. The installation was very easy and everything went smoothly. I’m using a Sbooster LPS unit I had to power it and this upgrade has woken up my streaming system. I’ve never used the internal Dac of the Node 2i. I first used an Arcam irDac then upgraded to your Denafrips Ares II with your latest software update installed which is awesome. I have the Node 2i with your PSU and Sbooster LPS connected directly into my amp burning everything in and I’m super content with the improvements in tone and soundstage. I also want to commend the company Beatechnik for their service and a special thanks to Weng Fai Hoh for his assistance and quick response to my inquiries. Best Regards

[@CharanSingh-yl3lg]

Alvin, Happy new year to you too! You are one of the few honest people in the HIFi business who offers genuine good advice and value to your customers. Thank you!

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank you Charan, i appreciate your kind words!

[@eddywaller1864]

Hi Alivn, I have also installed the new power supply package, I have to say from the start it sounded very good with a real improvement in every way, after about 50 hours or so of play time it has taken the node2i to a whole new level and to be honest this is a massive improvement on the standard node2i . This is a must buy for anyone on the upgrade train . Using as a streamer to Rmeadi2fs Dac also tried with Topping D70 and D90 .

[@fletchermunson6225]

I use the Node. I added a LPS and I heard a significant improvement. I also use a solid silver Digital COAX cable made by Neotech with 75 ohm WBT silver connectors. The cable is simple to assemble for $200. For a bargain COAX cable the GOTHAM GAC 1 digital cable is hard to beat. A good cable and a linear power supply made a big difference in my streaming enjoyment using the PONTUS II. I used to have trouble getting coax cables with large RCA covers to connect to the Node. If this is an issue for you just peel off the thin metal strip on the back of the node. It is not glued and can be restored easily but you do get more room around the Digital out jack.

[@scottroberts4551]

Which LPS did you use?

[@fletchermunson6225]

@@scottroberts4551 I used a LPS I fond on Ebay Oddly, the only name attached was "Finished" Nicdely mad and since October has functioned without an issue. I used a PD Creative conversion kit made in Poland. Their external LPS only covers 230V sources. The one I ordered from China had with a 5V output for 115 mains. Total cost was about $85 as I recall.

[@scottroberts4551]

@@fletchermunson6225 I see. I'm considering the Ares2 for my DAC. What made you pick the Pontus II? Do you feel it's worth the extra $1k? I've heard some say the Bluesound with an LPS takes it up tom a level where an external DAC doesn't add all that much... thoughts?

[@fletchermunson6225]

@@scottroberts4551 I tried an Ares and four some reason it didnt work with what I was doing at the time. Probably just associated equipment or the cable. Then I went to a Schiit Gungnir which I liked better at almost twice the cost. I just rolled the dice and tried the Pontus after never universal praise and I really like it. If I could convince myself that the expenditure would be worth it, i'd opt for an Acrylic G1.1 streamer but at $3500. I think the diminishing return would bite me. I think I'll wait until some start showing up used for $2k.

[@fletchermunson6225]

@@scottroberts4551 Just my opinion but I have always liked the Node jut for streaming with an outside DAC better than the provided Bluesound DAC. If I had to chose one improvement, Id say an exterior DAC is preferable to the LPS if you cant do both but to gather it's another level All this is going to depend on the rest of your systems ability to reveal the improvement, but then you cant go wrong with having a nice clean quality source to judge the rest of the equipment. The Pontus is a significant upgrade from the Area and the Gungnir in my opinion. I'm sure the other DACs like the Venus have even more quart but I have set a limit of about $2k on what I'll spend on a piece of gear to keep it from getting out of hand. That's why I buy used if I can find what I want. The Pontus was a new purchase.

[@johnthompson2664]

This appears to be of superior quality (and have way more capacitors) compared to the PD Creative LPSU module that I bought. Can't wait to try this with the LHY external LPSU I got previously.

[@scottroberts4551]

How has the external LPSU performed so far?

[@VinshineAudio]

Hey John, thanks for the feedback. The LHY Audio Bluesound Kit is very well designed. DC Filter circuitry - Three(3) stages of C-L/ C-L / C-L / C, capacitors and inductors filter, designed to improve DC supply transient speed, energy storage, and high current delivery (when needed).

[@pro-ey8bp]

Did u compare PD​ and LHY? May you share please..

[@LeoRousseau]

I just received my linear power supply kit with the LHY power supply for my Node 2i today. So the first thing I do when I get any audio electronics in the winter is put them into a warm area and let them come up to room temperature. I never turn on a piece of audio gear when it's cold. While the power supply was doing that I put the module into the node. Take your time and follow Alvin's video as you go. When you lift the back of the case to open it try to push down on the very front top of it because the clips on the inside front will hinge out easier. It's a bit worrying opening it up but this tip should make it a little easier. Also, when you go to put the little plate on the back for the plug and led's, that whole plastic plate on the back will hinge right out and you can screw that plate on a lot easier. When closing the case back up at the end, you are best turning the node around and have the front facing you that way you can eye it better when lining it up. So lining it up with the back up like when you opened it, it also hinges down while pushing firmly on the front keeping it lined up. So I just finished mine about an hour ago and it was worth it! It brings more clarity and presence. I'm sure that it will only get better as the components on the board and the LHY power supply break in. Just be cautious when installing if the air in your house is dry and static is an issue. Alvin, thanks a lot for your hard work that you do for the audiophile community! Maybe someday I will be able to afford a Pontus II to replace my Ares II! One last thing, smash that like button guys! 🇺🇦🇺🇸👊 Follow up: I noticed that the lps and module really changed a lot for the better over 5 to 6 hrs of use. I'm also one who leaves electronics on constantly. Pretty impressive sound change as it breaks in! Don't hesitate to add this setup to your Bluesound Node 2i! You're welcome! 👊

[@VinshineAudio]

Thanks for sharing, Leo. It’s encouraging to learn you’re happy with the LHY PSU Kit and LPS. Enjoy the music!

[@tattedsoul1]

So you're using an external DAC?

[@LeoRousseau]

@@tattedsoul1 sorry, but I'm just seeing this now. Yes, I'm using a Denafrips Ares II...

[@Egofileo1]

Happy New Year also to you Alvin, and thanks for your usual kindness. Great video as usual

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank you Alberto! Happy New Year to you and yours!

[@ilandvash6746]

Thank you Alvin. You are the king! Happy new year!

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank you Ilan. Likewise, Happy New Year to you and yours!

[@carlitomelon4610]

Great idea Alvin! Last month my Bluesound Vault2 "red light bricked". It took a month of emails to BS to get it replaced with a NODE for $350. I decided to use my library SSD backup from the Vault2 with my two nodes instead of replacing the Vault2 for $700 One of the reasons for the decision was that I was aware that other node owners had fixed them after they bricked by replacing/repairing the PSU. (I have a Node2i and a NODE now that I can get the DENAFRIPS upgrades for;-) *Question:* Since I still have the broken Vault2, can you help me fix the PSU? I took it apart. (BS let me keep it) The 12v part has no output.... Thanks Alvin Looking forward to updating my Ares 2 firmware this week. You guys are great! 🎶😃🎶 PS I will email in this question.

[@speeding_botak]

Great video. Happy New Year!

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank you Mr Lim, Happy CNY!

[@stevethetoolman2435]

The design has changed and new capacitors and values. It’s the same superior multi row tuned capacitor bank. 35 capacitors for smooth DC power. I’ll update after break in. So far it sound fantastic. I’m totally happy!

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank you, Steve. Do give it sometime to sound best :)

[@TripleE76]

Pro tip having just done this, connect the cable between both boards before securing the replacement module, much easier to do.

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank for the suggestion!

[@deadline7610]

Nicely Done

[@aussie8114]

I have the current model. I was going to upgrade the power supply with an external power supply but it was going to cost about $750. Decided not to because I’m using USB out and my understanding is an upgraded power supply makes little difference unless using the Nodes onboard DAC. I hope you sell lots of them but unless I’m mistaken it’s those using the onboard DAC that should consider this upgrade.

[@MidFiMan]

So, if I'm going OUT of the BSN to a Schiit Modius, I can do that BSN USB --> Schiit USB Unison and that'll mean I don't need a optical or coax?

[@thehawk05]

I upgraded my Node N130 power supply with another company’s kit (FAR less expensive than $750) and I can confirm it made a noticeable difference in sound quality even though I’m using an external DAC (which was an improvement in itself over the internal DAC) Highs were smoother and bass was punchier and tighter with more extension and the soundstage was wider with more easily discernible placement.

[@aussie8114]

@@thehawk05 Good to know. But I don’t think I would bother doing it myself. I’m happy with it as is, using an external DAC. Best way to get good sound is to play well recorded albums. I’ve put together some individual playlists on Tidal of nicely recorded tracks amounting to about 15 hours of play time. I think no matter the audio tweaks you make, if you play poorly recorded albums you will get sub standard results.

[@aussie8114]

@@MidFiMan Sorry, I don’t understand your question.

[@ohadschwartz4798]

Good point- Alvin can you please refer to this? From a Node-, Pontus II happy user

[@robcaputo9708]

Great video I am really thinking about this upgrade.

[@VinshineAudio]

Glad you like the video! Do consider sir! Several customers bought the kit and installed it, i shall invite them to comment on the sound quality differences :)

[@robcaputo9708]

@@VinshineAudio I really would love to hear how much better the sound is.

[@ericho1539]

Hello Alvin. If I connect the node (n130) to an external dac via the optical output, will there be any benefit of using this LPS supply? I am assuming the optical output is not as affected by the power supply as say, the usb/coaxial output. Thanks for making the videos, really enjoy watching them.

[@TheReal_iLPrincipe]

Since the optical input of the ares II provides - at least for my ears - better sound (cleaner) compared to coax input, this question is really interesting.

[@cecilpeter1]

Hi Alvin, I have got the "Bluesound Node X" delivered yesterday and would like to upgrade the power supply for it. Would it be possible to use the "LPS25VA" bundle for it?

[@xstensl8823]

hi Alvin . Pontus arrived today and its awesome with the Pontus. thinking of trading my Node 2i in for a Node with USB so that i can use it with the IRIS? happy new year. 2i stock sounds great with the Pontus. wish Denafrips would build a dedicated streamer in the future.

[@VinshineAudio]

Glad you like the Pontus II 12th Anniversary Ed! I would suggest you to continue using the system for awhile before the next upgrade. This make the audio hobby much more fun and fruitful where you can enjoy the ‘upgrade’ and sound differences bit by bit :)

[@larsstecken]

@@VinshineAudio Dear Alvin, I am currently watching all your videos and I am intrigued by them and your authenticity. It has been said before by others and it is absolutely true. One day I will be able to afford an Ares or better Pontus - I would be honoured to be one of your customers. The biggest stopper, as with most of high end audio equipment is, that you can't try before you buy - just not enough dealers around for exotic hifi stuff. Thanks for the tutorial and keep up the great work. Remember, content is king, presentation is always second. 🙌

[@slowestrider4918]

Happy New Year! Thank you for demonstrating how to install the kit. What is the benefit of choosing the LPS25VA bundle compares to just the PSU module only? Thank you.

[@VinshineAudio]

Happy New Year! You’re very kind sir. The LPS25VA bundle package includes a LPS25VA 5VDC Power Supply Unit. Whereas the PSU Kit Module only option does not. If you did not opt for the LPS25VA bundle, you will need to use your own 5VDC power supply with the PSU Kit. Hope this clarifies things for you sir!

[@slowestrider4918]

Hi Alvin, the bundle comes with two cables, but the PSU kit side only has one hole. Do I use only one cable? if so, should I plug the one cable to the negative or positive side? Thanks.

[@slowestrider4918]

Never mind, I just saw you replied to a similar question posted by Hang2Trees. "It does not matter, either side can be use". Is that means the power supply can power two 5V units at the same time? Thx

[@HHTTRRNN]

I noticed you removed 2 cables off the switch-mode power supply but only used one for the linear power supply board. Please Explain....

[@Nick-sk1qp]

Alvin, wonderful detailed video explaining the installation. I have a couple of questions, I hope you don’t mind providing a reply. Do the power cords come with the linear supply unit. One connecting to the linear unit to the wall power and one for the Bluesound unit to the linear unit? When I look at the Node 2i package it doesn’t show them. Thank you in advance.

[@giltayag2543]

Hi Alvin, love your videos. My question is which bluesound streamer including the new bluesound X is better to use with my Pontus II dac? Thanks

[@robcaputo9708]

Will the upgrade was as easy as shown. The sound clearly improved. Was it worth the cost of the upgrade. For me yes.

[@VinshineAudio]

Thank you for the support and kind positive feedback, sir!

[@СтепанБаринов]

@Vinshine Audio, please tell me for Bluesound Node N130 which power supply to choose: LPS25VA or LPS50VA? To improve the sound, which one should I choose?

[@paulvigor829]

I would also like to know which one?

[@calaf_725]

I am using N130 with PD Creative module and Sbooster LPS. For the price it is hard to beat but i like the Lumin app a little better.

[@VinshineAudio]

Thanks for the feedback sir. Enjoy the music!

[@NemoPropaganda]

I watched the whole video but didn't see the part where you talk about why you also bought the older 2i version (i own this one). Was it because of the protection or did I miss something?

[@VinshineAudio]

Totally my bad sir! I mean to say we bought the Node2i so that we can study its power supply module and develop a LPS kit for it :)

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@VinshineAudio oh okay cool, my unit should be arriving soon, can't wait to try it!!!! Thank you.

[@2ridiculous41]

Happy New Year to all at Vinshine. I use the Vault, basically a Node with a 2Tb hard drive built in. That way I don't have to use my wifi to play stored music. I believe you might be able to plug a hard drive into the Node, in which case that would make it a brilliant piece. Would the power supply fit the Vault?

[@thehawk05]

You can connect a hard drive to the Node in 3 ways: 1) Directly plugged into the USB port of the Node 2) Setup your hard drive as a NAS by connecting it via USB to your router and then stream it via WiFi 3) Setup your hard drive as a NAS by connecting it via USB to your router and then stream it via a direct LAN cable connection from your router to your Node And no, this upgrade will not fit the Vault.

[@VinshineAudio]

Happy New Year! Thank you for the wishes. Unfortunately, the Node PSU Kit will not work with Vault.

[@2ridiculous41]

@@VinshineAudio thank you. I didn't think it did but always better to ask.

[@daveyurkovich9459]

I’m contemplating purchasing another transport streamer only. Problem I have is no other device offers XM Radio natively other than BSN. I realize XM doesn’t play in CD quality but it’s programming is what I like when it comes to music other than physical Vinyl and CD. Is this power supply upgrade money well spent?

[@VinshineAudio]

It's highly recommended. Do consider sir! www.beatechnik.com/product-page/lhy-bluesound-psu-kit

[@mw12387]

Nice....would be combo node 130 via coax out to marantz hd dac1 via analog out on musical fidelity m5si be ok? Ty

[@noelgenota4638]

I have a Node 2. I'm in the US , we are using 110V here . I want to know which power supply will i get LPS25VA or LPS50VA. Please let me know ASAP so I can order the power supply, Thanks

[@tattedsoul1]

Is it best to get the bundle with the lps or are there lps you can buy separately that work just as well?

[@LeoRousseau]

You can get just the module if you want to or buy the two together. There's an option for what you put in your cart. I chose to get the two together. Whatever you decide as long as you get a 5 volt lps. Smash that like button!👊

[@tattedsoul1]

@@LeoRousseau do you have to go thru the whole initial setup and stuff after the power supply is changed?

[@LeoRousseau]

Absolutely not.

[@LeoRousseau]

It fires right back up as if you shut it down.

[@VinshineAudio]

I’d recommend the LHY Audio LPS25VA 5V :)

[@TripleE76]

Hello, silly question probably, there are 2 plug in points on the rear of the power supply, does it matter which one I use?

[@TripleE76]

Reading the unit description, I think it does not matter.

[@VinshineAudio]

You may use either socket of the LPS25VA

[@bkteo7524]

hi Alvin, there is this Teddy power supply mentioned 7v for Node21, whereas yours is 5v, could you please explain why it is so?

[@bryfar6178]

The TP lps needs to be used with its own board. Totally different. Not to dis TP, but it didnt work with my Node 2i after 3 boards. TP did give me full refund.

[@bkteo7524]

thank you for sharing😀@@bryfar6178

[@VinshineAudio]

indeed, different manufacturers may have different designs. for LHY Audio PSU kit, it accepts 5VDC. More information here: www.beatechnik.com/product-page/lhy-bluesound-psu-kit

[@robcaputo9708]

Hi the mode that goes in the bluesound that just makes it ready to take an external power supply. It doesn’t have to be linear Is that correct?

[@VinshineAudio]

I'd recommend a good quality 5VDC/2A (min) power supply to go with the PSU Kit. Naturally, I'd recommend the LHY Audio LPS25VA :)

[@robcaputo9708]

@@VinshineAudio but we could do the internal up grade and go with a switching power supply then get the linear supply you recommended later ?

[@-OEG]

Can i use the modded psu alone? Or do i need the big power Box as well?

[@JR-ho5qm]

The upgrade is done in order for you to be able to use the big power box, they work together 👍🏻

[@VinshineAudio]

Spots on answer!

[@TripleE76]

Another question, leave the PSU on 24/7, or turn off after use?

[@VinshineAudio]

You may leave it on 24/7 if you listen to the music daily :)

[@777galamian]

You mean 5 volts, right? You keep saying 5 watts. LHY doesn't make a 5 watt version.

[@daveyurkovich9459]

I’m scart! No one talking how much denaro?

[@VinshineAudio]

Here you go sir: www.beatechnik.com/product-page/lhy-bluesound-psu-kit