Move over SONOS: Bluesound's Powernode Edge is AFFORDABLE hi-fi streaming for EVERYONE!

[@Keithwithfever]

From what I understand, the subwoofer on/off really is the crossover on/off. Peachtree engineer said Bluesound Node sub out is outputing full range when the setting is set to off.

[@DarkoAudio]

Aha! I did not know that. Very useful info. Thank you.

[@christianarlt2154]

Your review of the 80W Powernode convinced me it was what I was looking for. Highly recommended!

[@anthonymestres8325]

There is the Sonos Amp that seems to be quite uncovered in the audiophile world. I have been using it with some Kef Q150 and Sonos sub and think it’s brilliant. You also have the ability to connect wireless rear speakers such as the inexpensive ikea Symfonisk bookshelf speaker for a 5.1 (4.1 with phantom center channel) surround experience with movies. If you have the time one day maybe! Love your videos, thanks!

[@DrTruffel]

Looks like the Sonos Amp will be reviewed soon here!

[@catire98]

Your approach to Hi-Fi in today's streaming reality - without ditching the other available and valuable formats - is superb.

[@WheeledandWellArmed]

I have embraced the Bluesound ecosystem. The NAD M10, NODE, VAULT and PULSE speakers in smaller rooms for whole house audio.

[@domtomas1178]

I came here for the Edge review and left listening to a great Barry Adamson album - Thank you John!

[@jonasandersson78]

I brought my current setup, a Bluesound power node, Dali Oberon 1, Dali sub e9 and an argon turntable at Hifi Klubben earlier this year after seeing the review on the power node on this channel. Couldn’t be happier with it. I came for the gear but stay for the music recommendations.

[@bobguentner8906]

Thanks for all the great reviews. I am currently using a Powernode Edge with KEF LS50 Meta speakers. This system is in a small room (15' x 12') for music played at low levels. I am surprised at how good it sounds. I use Qobuz for high-resolution streaming - clarity and detail are outstanding. I do notice that at louder levels the bass could be better and perhaps some dynamics are missing compared to a more powerful amp. For everyday background music this is a big step up from my old Sonos One speakers. As you noted, speakers that are easy to drive will be a great fit.

[@Joe-ov6oh]

I’m fascinated by your reviews of “future-fi”. However, across the internet I don’t understand all the silent hate on Sonos without ever seeing an a / b review. I would love to see you really assess the Sonos amp vs Bluesound and more $ options like Naim. Thanks!!

[@DIYtechie]

Agreed!

[@neilshirley]

He has reviewed the five's versus the original KEF LSX if I remember correctly, and he was very complimentary about the five's.

[@halkdc]

It would have been pretty interesting to see it directly compared with the Sonos Amp since you are saying it’s a step up from Sonos. Pretty similar feature set for similar price point. The Sonos doesn’t do Bluetooth, but it’s a streamer, has HDMI and RCA in, and 125 wpc.

[@mikeozz6472]

Some feedback on Bluesound that also ties into John’s often discussed repairability of ‘all in one’ devices: I have an original Pulse speaker purchased in 2015. It recently stopped playing sound. The OS works fine, shows it is playing a song. Just no sound. Long story short, Bluesound support said since it is more than 5 years old they do not offer repairs. They said if I mail the defective unit back to them, they will give me a 20% discount on a future purchase. I can’t believe there is only a 5 year repairability window. For amps too? The cost of shipping would reduce the discount to???? I haven’t done the math but I assume I might break even.

[@gaza4543]

I have to disagree with john on this front I've always said these sorts of products 9 times out 10 are landfill products, TBH i doubt they would repair it anyhow even if in warranty, they'd just replace it, it's cheaper. I Have a sugden amp (a very different product i know) but they're still repairing amps from the 60's that's what drew me to the brand and they'll stand behind their product for its lifetime, other brands do too, Naim for instance. Brands like bluesound, don't design there units with repairability in mind or at least don't have the infrastructure in place to achieve it. Not to mention it would take a skilled hand to repair those circuit boards, there so fine and parts so small. BUT 20% off your next purchase is better than nothing! and good for them for offering that. I'm sorry to say Kef would be much the same with the Ls50 wireless speakers and many others making similar products. I have yet to come across or hear about one these brands repairing and supporting these units for the long haul like Sugden/Naim Does, albeit for a price. Then you also have to consider these products dont tend to have schematics freely available, nor the parts so even if you wanted to you couldn't get a local guy/girl to do it either. Hopefully, the right-to-repair law will be pushed even further than it is now. In this case you actually might make more money selling for spars and repairs and then putting that money toward a new/preowned one. If it were me even though these units are great in theory, id separate the amp and streamer still. eg Nad 316bee with a blue sound node 2i then you arn't left with nothing and replacing the whole lot.

[@madst7521]

Got Hifi Klubben (they were started in Denmark back in 1980 as Danmarks Hifi Klub by Peter Lyngdorf ) right around the corner and I plan to go have a listen of the Powernode Edge when they get them in stock in early October. I've long been going back and forth between Node and Powernode. I would have grabbed a Powernode a long time ago if it could also function as a regular node without amplification to leave future options open).

[@TheLWebb100]

I might sell my Powernode and grab this newer one. This one looks like a mini PS3 slim and I love it!

[@markpbowen]

Another great video, thank you 🙏🏻 I love my Powernode for its size and functionality, as you say with the edge I only need to add a phono preamp for my records, which i have done also. A brilliant set up for my small room including a TV. Still to get a sub to finish it off.

[@MoRZ47]

A small sub really rounded out my setup :)

[@Nicholas-db5sl]

As a result of having a NAD Masters M50.2 connected up to an Arcam FMJ DAC and integrated Amplifier, I was introduced to the BluOS ecosystem. The software is great and as such I also indulged myself with purchasing the BluOS Vault and Power Node. Beautiful compact units that look great, don’t take up a lot of space, minimising “cable salad”; your terminology- I believe, and is all managed and controlled by my iPad. You have to applaud manufacturers such as these as it simplifies and beautifies the once Elephant Sitting in the corner ( aka the traditional Stereo system), to something that is so minimalist. And this is it. Look no further!

[@koffie123]

Hi, I think the Edge is great, exactly what I’ve been missing. Not in my living room but to power built-in ceiling speakers. You forgot to mention this, but the Edge is 1/2 rack mount and perfect for custom install. I use the Bluesound multiroom system with a Node2i linked to my hifi set and Powernode2i in a secondary zone. But the kitchen etc I have ceiling speakers. When I upgraded from Sonos these were an issue, I hade to make do with lesser power amps and old Nodes using the 5V trigger (awesome Bluesound has these!). The Edge solves this at a more bearable price point than the PowerNode. Good stuff from Bluesound.

[@footagemissing]

I got the POWERNODE earlier this year to drive my in ceiling speakers out on the deck, had I known this was coming I totally would have waited and got this instead. Think I'll still get this to replace the POWERNODE and then use the POWERNODE in my office.

[@alms4dapoor]

An otherwise excellent review, Darko. However, I think it's unfair to lead with the title "Move over Sonos" if you aren't going to compare the Edge with Sonos' primary competitor in this space, the Sonos Amp. It offers a very similar feature set at a very similar price point (through the Sonos Amp offers quite a bit more power). If Sonos needs to "move over" because the Edge is a superior value, tell us why.

[@wizzer2006]

Very, very interesting John. I think the chapter titles are fine thanks mate. 👍😀

[@stevepollard7107]

It would be interesting if you could compare this against a Sonos AMP as I’ve been using one of these with passive speakers for music and tv with a Sonos Sub and Play 1 surrounds for a few years now. I think the set up works really well and is certainly more than powerful enough. I stream to the AMP from a variety of sources and also use the line in to play vinyl records. The only thing it does not readily accommodate is BT headphones but that’s not a major concern for me.

[@ednewmy]

I was thinking the same as the comparison to Sonos gets a whole lot closer when you consider the AMP. The Bluesound Edge may potentially be more of a sideways move in that case rather than a step up as John alluded to here.

[@flohmann]

Yes, given all the mentions of Sonos in the video, it would be great to compare to the Sonos Amp at some point.

[@anthonymestres8325]

I have a similar set up and would love to see a comparison with the Sonos amp

[@TonyRoberts]

I have the Sonos Amp with Monitor Audio Silver 50 7Gs and a Sonos Sub. The convenience of having Sonos Ones in my kitchen and bedrooms and be able to group them with the Amp in my smallish flat is worth more to me than a fractional trade off in sound quality. But is it just a fractional trade off? I’d love you to do a side by side comparison please

[@flohmann]

and as of John's last video, it appears he's got one now, presumably for review?

[@carterleynes6380]

You have to understand the reason why Sonos is the number one speaker product in luxury homes - homes owned by people who can afford anything. It's the highly intuitive app that can be operated by anybody - even older customers who normally get freaked out about having to use technology. There are products that could sound marginally better but people really don't care. They just want to be able to play music easily throughout the home. Audiophiles just don't get this. Sonos does - that's why they dominate the multi-room audio market

[@larryh9525]

Great review. This product will be a home run for most people, especially if they use a streaming service.

[@themovementgroup5883]

Hi John, great review and album. Thanks for bringing that album to my attention 🍻😊

[@marcgabor9690]

To me this looks like a much cleaner setup than the active streaming loudspeaker option. if you're using HDMI, the unit can sit much closer to the tv. It's also closer to power outlet and only needs one power cord. Also you have more flexibility in terms of speaker placement and can use flat and/or white speaker cables that are easier to hide.

[@Mladen-Nedic]

Thank you... Thank you, thank you, thank you - for making AD BREAK Zapp quieter :) Great review by the way... The price difference between Powernode N330 and Powernode Edge N230 is low enough for Edge not to be seriously considered. It is better looking, i'll give it that. Other than that, i don't really see what Edge offers other than half the output power for 2/3 of the price of N330. Functionality is almost the same.

[@tinyfatgiant]

My fav audio reviewer on YT, greetings from Singapore!

[@Mark-hb2zy]

In a world where homes are becoming full or more and more electrical equipment, I'm appreciating all in one solutions like the powernode and also active speakers more and more.

[@Sampardhanani]

The pairing with the q acoustic s is so stunning to look at John. What a match ……!

[@vivenreddy]

Thanks for another great video John. At 15:50 you mention the more expensive options of the active KEF and Buchardt. What would your advice be for people considering the Powernode Edge and the SVS Prime wireless pro?

[@donaldduck5731]

I’ve just bought the Powernode N330, it’s great, sounds wonderful but I didn’t know just how much I’d miss a big turny volume knob. BlueSound need to make one to plug in or BlueOS should be able to integrate with the Microsoft Surface Dial maybe, it’s most certainly lacking in the volume control pleasure department.

[@socksforllamas]

I bought one of the new Powernodes to replace a ten-year-old Denon AVR. Had to return it. I liked how tiny it was, and the sub integration, but absolutely hated using BlueOS. Constant crashing and loss of responsiveness of the app, which would lead to the entire amp being unresponsive until unplugging it from the wall. Using a phone to adjust volume is also really imprecise and led to deafening volume levels when switching inputs on multiple occasions. But the last straw for me was the interference it generated that affected my Bluetooth keyboard and mouse- probably related to the Bluetooth transmitter for headphones? I also preferred the sound of the class A/B of the AVR; the mids with the Powernode seemed a bit lifeless, and stereo separation when watching movies or tv seemed artificially increased. I’ve since gotten one of the new Anthem MRX X40 AVRs and have been much happier. Adjusting settings from the amp itself (with an option for IP web access or a somewhat buggy app) is much nicer than being tied to an app that could stop being updated and render the whole device useless.

[@tony9554]

Node2i user for couple years now and have no issues that were not solved with firmware updates

[@socksforllamas]

@@tony9554 I’m likely in the minority, but my issues persisted despite fully updated app, up-to-date firmware, factory reset, Wi-Fi vs Ethernet, different placements around the room… It’s always possible the issue is with my network, but I’ve had dozens of other devices connected to my network and none have had these sorts of issues. Best to try and see if it works for you though, rather than letting my experience scare you off completely.

[@buffal0bilious]

Those Qs with the Edge and the KEF sub look like they were designed to go together. Very nice looking ensemble. Every time I've integrated a sub into a system with a lower powered main amplifier, I've gotten the impression from listening that offloading those frequencies that require the amp to really push the cone hard has taken a good bit of strain off the main amp.

[@Natan9000]

I’m an ex Sonos “fan” currently owning the Kef sl50w2, but i wonder why other brands don’t adapt the sound correction because it helps so much it makes the Sonos sound better then the others in terms of “price quality”.

[@scottpater]

Great review. I’ve been a Sonos user for 10 years, and your info on Roon and BlueSound is likely going to add them to my kit, starting at the TV with the PowerNode Edge…. Bravo

[@shemsureshot]

I haven’t tested out the Edge but I did own the Powernode and Sonos Amp for a while which I used with my LS50 Meta speakers. The Powernode made the speakers sound dull in comparison to the Sonos Amp which was much more clear and spacious. I ended up returning the Powernode because of this.

[@ednewmy]

Interesting! I've been considering both options for absolutely months now and keep going back and forth. The general consensus is that the Powernode sounds better so it's really interesting to see a differing opinion!

[@shemsureshot]

@@ednewmy It was the same for me where people kept saying the powernode was better. But most people who say that haven’t listened to both products side by side. I concluded the Powernode (bluesound) is more popular with enthusiasts over Sonos which is why it will automatically get more recommendations. But they’re doing a disservice with that kind of advice.

[@ednewmy]

@@shemsureshot Good to hear. Generally what I read about Sonos too is that their customer service and tech support actually exists and is responsive and helpful, whereas with Bluesound it feels like you're a bit on your own. To me that's also an important factor to consider when buying electronics. I can also get 15% off Sonos products through a workplace perks scheme which also makes them more appealing ha!

[@shemsureshot]

@@ednewmy You can’t go too wrong with them and their app is probably one of the best out there for any audio product. Your discount will make it even more worthwhile. You would probably have to spend about a grand more on something like the Arcam SA30 (which I also have) if you want something that sounds noticeably better. But even then the Arcam app is awful so you may not feel that rewarded for spending the extra.

[@petet5401]

I wouldn't have known Barry Adamson if not for the recommendation. Digging "Something Wicked This Way Comes".

[@carlolico29]

Great review, i bought the Edge 2 weeks ago i like the form factor and the sound quality coming out of this small device, i have it hooked it up with the wharfedale denton 85 and this combination is fantastic, i also tried it with Def Tech D7 and B&W 707S2, but to my ears the combination with WD85 is the best sounding

[@srenroedschack6610]

God damn Darko! Here am I about to buy a used Primare i22 Dac amplifier (same price as the edge) and now I'm all in doubt 🙂 You are the my go-to-hifi-guy ... you're the best!

[@justinwalsh5521]

I just paired the sonus faber lumina ii amator speakers with the powernode edge for nearfield listening at my desk and holy crap the edge is a great little unit!

[@JeffHeon]

Another great review. Well worth the few ads! The Powernode Edge is a steal in terms of functionality and form factor in comparison to the Rotel A11 Tribute. It still hurts to have a one or two year warranty versus the five year warranty of the Rotels, though.

[@TCSB29]

This thing is an absolute bargain. I'm definitely considering this over some Topping/SMSL separates + Wiim Mini Streamer for my home office setup.

[@ProfessorHamer]

I think the interesting comparison is with the new digital amps from topping in a small stack with dac, since they integrate well in small spaces, otherwise most consumers would just buy a 2 channel receiver from Best Buy if they don’t want a sound bar.

[@kuhenelan]

This is exactly what I was waiting for, a more affordable Powernode!

[@footagemissing]

Great video as always. I use an NAD C 700 in the lounge and I bought a POWERNODE for my in ceiling speakers out on my deck so I can sync them, had I known this cheaper Edge was coming I would have waited for this for the deck speakers for sure.

[@professorcalculus5315]

Darko on a role! Reviews coming thick and fast. Hopefully the algorithm looks after you.

[@tony9554]

Thanks John for mentioning the Barry Adamson album 👍

[@johanposdijk5333]

Yes thanks indeed. I'm a Nick Cave fan but am ashamed to say that I wasn't aware of the solo career of Barry. Man what a great artist he is. So diverse in his musical arrangements and a great voice also.

[@kyrpadelis702]

Nice video! But I was wondering what happened to the Buchardt a700 coverage?!?

[@DarkoAudio]

Soon.

[@Michiganman08]

You do a great job John I really enjoy your content and the whole way you present your reviews.

[@aceofspades6667]

love my blusesound node (2022)... I bypass the internal dac, go usb out to a ddc, and then into my Holo Spring KTE via I2S. It sounds wonderful and the UI is fantastic. i thought about doing a mod where you can use an aftermarket Linear Power supply which is also supposed to help the SQ.

[@michaelgochez7768]

The node has a USB out for external DAC? I've been using coax this time, not sure it would make a noticeable difference but I'm gonna play with it now

[@G-FunkDeluxe]

This looks like it might just be exactly what I’ve been looking for.

[@FabianFP]

Two more cool thing about Bluesound: 1) IR-remote support (original one RC1) and can even learn from any other ir-remote 2) two-way Bluetooth. Great 👍

[@stephenclark8772]

John, thank you for all the great posts, amidst life's non-audiophile-focused adventures. I can't wait to hear about your new digs/listening space(s) in Lisbon and all the awesome content to come. My specific question, as a new Bluesound lover, is whether I'm missing something, or if there is NO ability in the iOS Bluesound App to search the contents of my Playlists (from Tidal)? Is that true? Who at Bluesound do we campaign for enhanced UI navigation and feature sets (like track tagging)? Thank you so much.

[@williamgreer4958]

I am definitely buying this! Perfect solution for me.

[@djconnect1]

Great review as always Blusound are stupidly good easy to use items one of the only digital makes I rate.

[@gusgusnft8231]

I had a PowerNode Gen1 worked okay. I had issues with it since new. It was replaced under warranty. The amp stopped working. I ended up buying a Sono Gen2 combined with with old stereo Onkyo amp, and to my surprised sounded better than the PowerNode. Possibly due to the more powerful external amp.

[@therazmatazz732]

An Onkyo is far better than this Bluesound stuff. And you're not the first one to return one of their products. One of the most unreliable companies. Guess you have to be lucky like with Hifiman. Any decent streamer and a quality amp will beat this introductory setup ten times out of ten. Bluesound is good if it magically, miraculously WORKS PROPERLY.

[@mw4609]

Probably due to: 1) Old class D amp vs class A/B 2) Power output difference

[@jonathanmcvennon4108]

The burning question:- did Louis Balfour become John Darko. Nice. But on a more serious note, Audiophile a journey? Definitely. Synergy a blessing. Finding them, sheer pleasure. My own system is becoming sweeter and much more pleasing. Thanks John your show is cool, well considered and self aware. I gain a lot of insight from watching your show, Thomas, Steve Guttenberg, and listening to other than my own. The worst thing one can do is just relax and enjoy the music. Only joking. Good stuff.

[@jameswhite1692]

Great review John. Bluesound / Lenbrook taking it to Sonos - Nice :)

[@Bennyplays]

Hi John. Thanks for a great review. The Powernode Edge (and the larger Powernode) have caught my eye as a music fan in a small flat without the space (or budget) for a stack of conventional separates. Currently running a turntable through a vintage receiver with the TV optical output going through a budget RCA converter. Looking to upgrade and streaming, eARC and some remote control capability are on the wishlist. I listen to a lot of jazz vinyl and understand that the Powernodes convert the analog inputs to digital. Are you able to comment on their handling of vinyl vs some of the analog units like the Rotel you mention? Thanks!

[@chawonytube]

Mighty little thing. Nice review.

[@Robert.Dickson]

I've currently got 2x Sonos Play One's and am considering this Powernode with perhaps a pair of Klipsch R-50M's because of their efficiency. Struggling to get a listen of them. I was wondering if anyone thought this would be a noticeable upgrade. I fear you may have just answered my question on this John, but I would gladly listen to anyone else's opinion.

[@andreskyle5223]

Did you get a powernode and the r-50m's? I am also consider a powernode and a pair of r-50m and would love to hear your take aways...

[@uw4ntsum342]

I don't know whether you have the Soul 6s still in house or not, but I wonder what your thoughts are on those speaker paired with a Direct-Digital amplifier like the Edge/Lyngdorf are?

[@KayAhnung]

I startet with a pair of kef lsx(after having a pair of sonos play 1) And rally loved it. But it gives me a look on what's possible, so I decided to listen on different kind of speakers. So I bought a powernode n330 as an beginner Amp together with an pair of Q 3030i, and loved it!! Since 3 Weeks I use it together with an pair of concept 30's.😉 I think, that's what it is, a perfect beginner Amp. I really like your Videos, and that cool "discreet" showing what comes next 😉

[@Z-u-m-a]

Good review. A feature I like about my Node 2i is being able to link it to a physical/normal remote control. Sometimes nice not to have to use the phone for basic functions once something is playing. Includes volume option. Presume this is the same?

[@bitterandjaded_]

At some point the decision becomes: Do I sell all the older, hand me down, leftover, mismatched separates that I’ve cobbled into workable 2nd or 3rd systems that are colossal overkill for the type, quality, and quantity of listening they’re used for, and just buy something like this, or do I continue to accumulate audio components at a similar rate to spare connectors and cables?

[@pmrribeiro]

The lack of a phono preamp doesn't really bother me in this kind of product. If it had one, besides driving up the price, it would most likely be a low-end one, and you would do better getting a separate one anyway. Lack of DSD support however, is more critical to me. So is the lack of digital outputs. That would allow you to upgrade the amp/DAC while keeping the reference streamer.

[@MrMrpony]

Yep… digital outs shouldn’t add much if anything to price and certainly essential. Plus anyone who buys one of these but decided to add a dac later would remain in their ecosystem. Doesn’t make a whole lot of sense

[@pmrribeiro]

@@razisn sure. But this is for someone who's looking to build a system on it. Also, 40Watts into 8 ohms might be good enough for the time being, but you may want to upgrade the DAC/Amp at a later date.

[@khuti007]

Great vid, finally something I can afford

[@CI_4C]

I like watching John’s vids for the music recommendations ☺️…how good is that Barry Adamson album 👌🏻👌🏻

[@kevinweber5129]

The next product I would like to see Sonos make is a Atmos Receiver with LcR front speaker out but then supporting 2 rears, 2 height , and two subs wirelessly. Don’t mind speaker wire that just stays upfront .

[@mikecees2230]

I really like all these Bluesound devices. Nice design, room correction, etc. I'm sure I could live with a Node 2 feeding a good DAC for a long long time, maybe even end game. Except for one thing: I'm a die hard LMS user for the simple reason that it has random multiple genre playing capability, and it's FREE. So, for now, I'll be sticking with my humble Allo DigiOne signature with linear PSU.

[@LencoTB]

Peter Lyngdorf is the owner of the Hifi Klubben stores here in Denmark 🇩🇰 But I don’t think the Lyngdorf AMPs are that popular here. The stores are pretty nice actually and many times they have events with listening session where you can learn more about HiFi concepts.

[@mpp9964]

This is an excellent product for people who want great sound and flexibility with minimal intrusiveness in their living environment. I think you captured this perfectly in your review.

[@dxwell99]

UPDATE!! The new OS BlueOS 4 came out on 17th October and has transformed the Bluesound amps. I tried the Powernode with B&W 607 S2 and they did not work at all. So went with the Powernode Edge and they paired beautifully. Post the OS upgrade I tried the Powernode again. Amazing difference, night and day. I would pay double the Edge cost for the Powernode. The difference was that substantial. Now gotta work out what to do with the Edge….

[@Robottorobots]

This is fine, but what I really want to see is a Node Lite type of thing. I’m almost ready to buy a Wiim Mini (I’m waiting to see if the Wiim Mini Pro in Q4 rumour is real) and a Schiit Modi 3E for about half the cost of a Node, and if I do I don’t think I’ll be waiting around for an affordable Bluesound device anymore.

[@xstensl8823]

i think Bluesound designed this with generation Z in mind, us older guys still love our cables and components.

[@MH-rl9ep]

I’m liking this a lot, John. Would be great to replace my ancient Harmon/Kardon avr which only has about 30wpc and be simple enough for the whole family to use. I imagine it would work well with PSB’s Alpha P5’s and a PSB sub for a nice relatively low cost system. Was thinking about Sonos but unless you buy one of their sound bars, there’s no way to connect your tv.

[@vkvedam]

Thanks for the review John. Would have really liked if you touched upon the two way Bluetooth for late night TV watching :-)

[@edelweisskoenig]

thank you for another interesting video and your approach to FutureFi. Didn’t think the Bluesound PowerNode Edge would make such an informative video. I wasn’t too happy with those do-it-all speakers, the wiring can easily get out of hand. I feel one central hub would better serve my needs, as I not only want to unite streaming and phono, but I also want to listen over speakers as well as wired headphones. So right now I’m more into the node (without power or edge) and some active speaker. It seems more fit for building a work-around for wired headphones. By the way, have you tried listening to BT-headphones over the PowerNode Edge? Does ist turn off the speakers then?

[@matthewfrazee3352]

You are lucky it's just the chilly peppers. I had Fun Boy Three infection on Roon Radio this afternoon. First the Eagles and now this.

[@marcstevens8797]

Great review, John. Will Apple Music ever be integrated into the Blue OS app? That would open the option of hi res streaming from Apple Music, rather than the current option of using Airplay 2, which cannot stream above CD quality.

[@josiahburndstkiar3774]

More desk size reviews please! Need good solutions for my office.

[@daveconroy6859]

Really great review with everything I need to know as a prospective buyer

[@mwcarde]

One aspect of these types of devices I am always interested in is the USB port and its capabilities, but it is rarely talked about. I have a Samsung 4TB SSD with over 100,000 uncompressed songs. It is very difficult to discern if these types of devices can support an SSD of that size and what the performance is (reading/playing) with a Bluesound Powernode Edge, the NAD C 700, or the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2). Is this something you would consider checking/testing in future reviews?

[@gaza4543]

I would love to see bluesound make a headphone-only product like Naim has with the atom.

[@darrenhaken]

I want to pair this with a pair of monitor audio silver 100s. Would it be better to go for this or the bigger Powernode?

[@wvansluisveld3011]

Can't speak for this device but my 390DD with digital drive amplification from the same parent company has been highly unreliable. In 3 years 4 times sent it in for repairs, setting me back around 600 euros. Now on Arcam class G so far so good. Sounds beautifully as well, I didn' t know some of my music sounded this good.

[@mcjonner]

That looks like an amazing product

[@CJL36]

While I don't have any particular use for this, I think it might be one of the greatest HiFi devices ever created. If marketed correctly, this really could bridge the gap to get a more mainstream audience interested in HiFi gear.

[@MartinBischof]

Thanks for the nice Video and the interesting podcast

[@kwilj]

Who chose the "cello busker" image for the Schiit ad? Brilliant!

[@JogieGlenMait16]

wow. this can work for me actually. very tempting indeed. i've been looking on the ifi zen stream but this one...the features are for me.

[@JanStraube]

Any word about a Bluesound Node Edge - without the power? Would make a nice streamer/dac combo! *coming from a die-hard-audiophile with separated modules

[@mw4609]

Node Edge without the power = Node (current version is N130).

[@JanStraube]

@@mw4609 yeah…. So I totally missed that the Node also has an HDMI eArc input - didn‘t have that before, did it? Still hoping that a Node Edge would be a little cheaper. The Node is close in price to the Power Node Edge.

[@n815e]

What an amazing time to be alive

[@bryanherr1093]

I believe the edge is also wall mountable which is a nice option for putting the unit out of site. The IR remote learning is also an excellent feature.

[@marcoboursier1958]

Perfect for a second hifi system in your second home/residence for a hifi die hard! (thkx )

[@sonicmainliner]

I have a powernode and it is a brilliant piece of hardware, got it paired with Neat IOTAs and a Rel t zero, brilliant sound, if the edge sounds similar, I concur with the assessment.

[@johnpischedda6951]

Another informative and entertaining video JD! Does just adding a powered sub and adjusting the crossover on the back of it, alleviate burden on the main amp, or must the main amp have the high/low pass filter software to do so? Many thanks

[@davids2214]

The main amp needs a high pass filter to alleviate the burden. Emotiva actually sells subs with high pass filters and pre amp outs, though, so you can connect your source directly to the sub, it takes the bass and only sends the kids and highs to the amp, so that’s an alternative if your amp lacks bass management.

[@johnpischedda6951]

@@davids2214 Thanks for the reply David I was never quite sure what was the case with this issue. I'll check out the Emotiva !

[@mcjonner]

What dollar value speakers do you think this can play with without being a limiting factor? I'd like to build the criton 1tdx which is compared to the buchardt s400 mk2 which I think is $2500 USD, would you be satisfied playing those off this amp?

[@jmpersic]

John you have me thinking hard about "Future-Fi" and I may be willing to forgo my traditional taste for big metal hardware. I think I might pull the trigger on this Edge. Nice review, thanks.

[@eshimko1]

The subwoofer "bug" you mentioned is actually a feature. The same behavior on my 2021 Node.

[@mw4609]

Subwoofer out has been there since Node2 version. Original N100 didn't have sub out, but every Node since then (Node2, Node2i, NodeN130) has had this feature.

[@trevekneebone369]

Yes. I was confused by this when I bought my Gen 2 Powernode. The Subwoofer option in the BluOS app should be relabelled as "Bass Management", as it simply switches the high and low pass filters on and off. As Jon noticed, the sub out is always active.

[@pedromcgeary6239]

I can’t thank you enough for the video. I have been looking for an streamer and Amp that I could pair with my B&W 602 S2, Since moving and having a 10 square meter room, I have had to box up my McIntosh MC2105, until I can find the right space.

[@briang530]

BluSound (probably unitentionally) built the perfect little streaming DAC amp for the person who had some decent smallish* legacy speakers that they wanted to use in a secondary set-up for a garage or office etc. On a recommendation (and after a demo), I now have one of these powering a secondary set-up with my old Dali O1s. I still don't understand (haven't bothered to dive into) the difference between direct digital and class D, but at 40w per channel at this cost, this thing behaves better than class D has right to. Apart from the O1s, I've tried it with somewhat hard to drive (well) AE2s, as well as Klipsch RP500s, some old missions, some old KEFs and some 4 ohm Telefunken 3way monitors. It drove almost everything surprisingly well.