Still took the leap to a streaming device..
Informed me as well as possible in advance.. I wanted Bluetooth, Airplay, WiFi, USB, Multiple inputs and outputs, DAC, many streaming services, including Spotify (Connect) and Tidal, No nonsense operation and installation .. And an above-average good sound. And all that for not too much money.
I kept coming back to the BlueSound Node 2i..
As always, ordered without problems from CoolBlue and can pick it up the next morning at the store in Groningen..
I could only drink the offered coffee afterwards, I was helped again so quickly :-)
Unpacking and connecting at home..
All cables already included, although the Ethernet cable is a bit short..
After downloading the BuOs app, I was able to set the Node2i to the same WiFi channel as my iPad without any problems.
Both the Node2i and your control device (telephone or tablet) must be on the same WiFi/Ethernet channel otherwise they will not see each other,.. a logical, but easily overlooked thing.. if you have multiple WiFi signals or modems/ have routers in use..
As soon as the app and the Node2i see each other, installation is automatic. Just follow the instructions.
You can fine-tune via the settings in the app.
The settings window of the BluOs app does not leave much to be desired and offers quite a few options. A real manual is not really necessary, this is included, is brief but to the point.
Through the app you can even go to online help and FAQ for more info.. Very handy!
You can have the Node2i play via WiFi as well as wired via an Ethernet connection.. I prefer the latter because it gives the fastest and most stable signal.. and I like to use the HiFi streaming service Tidal.
Playing over WiFi works fine for me as well.
I could effortlessly connect my CD player via the optical input, to use the internal DAC and loop through to my amplifier.
There is still room for two USB devices and an analog input.
I connected the (Analog RCA) output to my tube amplifier.
For people with a subwoofer, there is even a subwoofer output.
Also a COAX output and an optical output.
At the front is a 3.5mm mini-jack connection for headphones. For Bluetooth headphone owners, you can also connect to this device via Bluetooth. How handy! No more headphone cord!
The operation of the App is easy, many options, many streaming services, network internet radio stations and search options.
Linking to your Spotify or Tidal account, for example, is easy..
The sound settings and volume can all be controlled via the app.
For those who already own a good external DAC, that has also been thought of.
Cosmetically, the Bluesound Node2i looks just like its older brother the 2.
Sleek black (or white) design with minimalistic touch buttons on top, that's all.
Those touch-sensitive buttons serve for skipping music tracks, volume, standby and on or off.. Of which I only use the last one.. the rest goes from my easy listening chair via the app..
Then the sound..
Would we almost forget, .. the most important thing!
What strikes me is that the music seems more present, shows more detail and seems 'acuter'.. faster.. Voices and instruments are more and more clear in the space, more open, with just a little more definition and placement.. Everything remains, however. sound very natural..
There is no mega sound system here, but certainly no dredging equipment either.
A PrimaLuna tube amplifier, connected to two Acapella Monostatos loudspeakers..
The small Bluesound Node 2i fits effortlessly between this violence and adds a lot to the music experience . Exactly what I wanted!
I got everything and was exceeded in my expectations.
Very happy with this little powerhouse and definitely recommended for anyone who wants a lot of ease of use, a lot of musicality and does not want to pay the top price.
