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Bluesound Node 2 Streaming music player with Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth® (Black)

Item # 813NODE2B

If you're serious about your music and its sound quality, good news.

If you're serious about your music and its sound quality, good news.

18 questions - 59 answers

Item # 813NODE2B

Shop all Bluesound Wi-Fi Multi-room Audio

About the Bluesound Node 2

Ralph Graves

Wireless music for the audio enthusiast

If you're serious about your music and its sound quality, good news. With the Bluesound system you can play your high-resolution music files and enjoy the convenience of wireless multi-room audio throughout your home. Bluesound was designed by the makers of NAD electronics and PSB speakers, both experts when it comes to delivering high-performance audio.

Wireless music for the audio enthusiast

If you're serious about your music and its sound quality, good news. With the Bluesound system you can play your high-resolution music files and enjoy the convenience of wireless multi-room audio throughout your home. Bluesound was designed by the makers of NAD electronics and PSB speakers, both experts when it comes to delivering high-performance audio.


High-res audio

Get more from your high-performance audio system

The Node 2 turns your audiophile-grade audio system into a network-capable Bluesound player. Connect the Node 2's analog or digital outputs to your existing receiver or amplifier to make it part of your multi-room Bluesound wireless system. Stream music stored on your home network, Internet radio stations, or online music services, and play it all through your home audio system.

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®, Rhapsody, and TIDAL. You can also enjoy downloads from high-res music sites such as HDtracks. The player is compatible with MQA, an up-and-coming high-resolution audio format. The Node 2 also features a USB input for playing files "locally" from a thumb drive or hard drive — ideal when friends come over with their own music.

High-quality Bluetooth

The Node 2 features aptX® audio coding, an advanced form of Bluetooth that allows higher-fidelity sound with compatible Bluetooth devices. The system is backwards-compatible with earlier forms of Bluetooth, too. Bluetooth is a convenient way to play the sound from any app you might be using on your mobile device, including Netflix® and YouTube™. You can even share that Bluetooth source with other Bluesound music players around your house that are connected to the same network.

Bluesound control app

Control the system through Bluesound's free app for your smartphone or tablet.

Create a high-resolution multi-room music system

Combine multiple Bluesound players to enjoy high-end sound throughout your home.

  • Pulse Flex: This ultra-compact can fit just about any place.
  • Pulse Mini: This compact, all-in-one speaker system is ideal for a bookshelf, desk, or nightstand.
  • Powernode 2: This amplified player connects to a pair of speakers. It may be small, but it's powerful enough to drive a pair of floor-standing speakers.
  • Pulse 2: This all-in-one player is perfect for almost any room. It has built-in PSB speakers for great sound in a compact package.
  • Pulse Soundbar: Delivers powerful sound for movies and TV shows while giving you full access to music through your Bluesound network.
  • Vault 2: If you've amassed a large collection of CDs, then the Vault was designed for you. It's a storage drive designed with the audio enthusiast in mind. This drive defaults to bit-perfect recording of your CDs, letting you experience every detail without switching discs every time you want to hear a new track or album.

Control in the palm of your hand

The Bluesound system is easily controlled from your smartphone or tablet. Just download the free app from the Apple® App Store, or Google Play. The app lets you select songs and adjust volume. Choose to play music in one room, all rooms, or different tracks in different spaces around your home.

READ LESS

Product highlights:

  • communicates with other Bluesound players via your home network (wired or wireless)
  • control the system with a free app for your smartphone, tablet, or computer (Android™, iOS®, Kindle Fire, Windows®, and Mac®)
  • plays MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, WMA-L, FLAC, MQA, ALAC, WAV, and AIFF files
    • supported sample rates: 32kHz to 192kHz
    • supported bit depths 16-24
  • high-fidelity Bluetooth aptX® audio coding for greater sonic detail with compatible devices
  • plays Internet radio stations from TuneIn Radio and iHeart Radio
  • Spotify Connect lets you play Spotify's streaming music library through your Bluesound system via your smartphone or tablet (requires Spotify app and a premium subscription; firmware and app version 1.10.0 or higher)
  • includes support for Spotify, Deezer, TIDAL, Qobuz, Amazon Music, Napster and Calm Radio
  • play music in multiple rooms when you add other Bluesound players
  • top-mounted controls for volume and muting
  • USB port for connecting a thumb drive with music files
  • combination mini-optical/stereo minijack audio input
  • audio output:
    • RCA stereo audio (stereo RCA-to-RCA cable included)
    • coaxial RCA
    • optical digital audio (Toslink optical digital-to-stereo mini jack adapter included)
    • headphone stereo minijack
    • subwoofer RCA mono
  • built-in Wi-Fi (2.4GHz only)
  • Ethernet port for a wired connection to a home network (Etherenet cable included)
  • compatible with Windows® (XP or higher operating system)
  • compatible with Mac®
  • operates on AC power (detachable cord included)
  • 8-5/8"W x 1-13/16"H x 7-3/4"D
  • weight: 2.45 lbs.
  • warranty: 1 year
  • requires smartphone or tablet with free Bluesound app for control of system playback
  • requires high-speed Internet connection
  • MFR # Node 2 Black

What's in the box:

  • Network music player
  • 6' AC power cord (120V)
  • 6' AC power cord (240V)
  • 6.5' Ethernet cable
  • 6.5' Stereo RCA cable
  • Optical-to-3.5mm adapter
  • Quick Setup Guide
  • Warranty Sheet
  • "Important" booklet
  • "Spotify Premium" note

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Customer reviews for Bluesound Node 2

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4.5 out of 5 stars
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More details on the Bluesound Node 2

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
Wireless Features
Bluetooth Built-in
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Wi-Fi Bands 2.4 GHz
Audio Specs
Max. Digital Audio Bit Depth up to 24-bit
Max. Digital Audio Sample Rate up to 192 kHz
High-res Audio Playback
From Network Yes
From USB Thumb Drive (USB-A) No
From Computer (USB-B) No
Ecosystems
Apple AirPlay No
Apple AirPlay 2 No
DTS Play-Fi No
Chromecast built-in No
Roon No
Sonos No
HEOS No
MusicCast No
SoundTouch No
Bose Home Speaker No
WiSA No
BluOS No
Klipsch Stream No
KEF Stream No
Music Services
Amazon Music No
Apple Music No
iHeart Radio No
Pandora No
Qobuz No
SiriusXM No
Spotify No
Tidal No
TuneIn TuneIn,iHeart
YouTube Music No
Control
Handheld Remote No
Control by app Apple iOS, Android
Amazon Alexa No
Google Assistant No
Other Specs
Width (Inches) 8.625
Height (Inches) 1.8125
Depth (Inches) 7.75
Parts Warranty 1 Year
Labor Warranty 1 Year
The Bluesound Node 2 replaces these items:

Product Research

Features

Bluesound Wireless High-Resolution Audio Eco-System: The Node 2 zone player is part of Bluesound's wireless high-resolution audio eco-system. The Bluesound wireless high-resolution audio eco-system consists of music players, amplifiers, hard-drives, and wireless speakers to playback your high-res and low-res music files, along with your favorite online music services throughout your home using your home's WiFi network. With an advanced WiFi antenna design and blazing ARM Cortex9 Processors, Bluesound ensures a solid connection in every corner of your home. Play your music in perfect sync or play different music simultaneously to any Bluesound device in any room.

Note: Up to 16 Bluesound devices can be connected in a strictly wireless environment. 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. Bluesound can then control up to 64 devices in a strictly wired environment.

Network Music Player: The Bluesound Node 2 network music player lets you stream digital music files on your network connected Windows or Mac computer, plus stream select online music services and internet radio to your existing home audio system. The Bluesound Node offers a wired or wireless network connection, plus a USB (type-A) input. The Node connects to your home stereo system via analog RCA or digital optical/coax. A free remote app for your Apple iOS or Android device lets you control the Node 2 and your streamed digital music from your mobile device.

32-Bit/192kHz DAC: The Bluesound Node 2 zone player employs a 32-bit/192kHz DAC (digital-to-analog converter) to ensure that your lossless high-res music playback is flawless, with precision and clarity - at any volume.

Wired or Wireless Network Connection: The Bluesound Node 2 can be connected to your home network and Internet provider via a hardwired Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45) jack connector or wireless WiFi (802.11 b/g/n) connection. Either network/internet connection allows you to stream music from your Windows or Mac computer and NAS drive (such as the Bluesound Vault, sold separately); as well as stream select online music services.

Note: Bluesound operates only on 2.4GHz WiFi (not 5GHz).

Bluesound Controller App: The free Bluesound Controller App turns your Apple iOS (7.0+) iPod/iPhone/iPad, Android (OS 4.0+) smartphone/tablet, Windows (Vista higher) PC or Mac (OS X 10.7+) computer into a full-featured remote control for the Bluesound wireless music system. The Bluesound 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 Bluesound Controller App.

Supported Music Formats: The Bluesound wireless audio system supports both low-res and high-res audio files; including MP3, AAC, WMA, OGG, FLAC, ALAC, WMA Lossless, MQA, WAV, and AIFF. Bluesound has been designed to work with today's larger music collections, and has indexed libraries up to 100,000 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.

Note: MQA (Master Quality  Authenticated) support will require a firmware update.

Online Music Services: With a network and internet connection, the Node 2 lets you access select online music services & internet radio. The Bluesound Controller app on your Apple iOS or Android device will serve as the controller for these apps and provide song/artist information with Album Art.

  • Amazon Prime: With a Prime Music subscription, you can access over 2 million songs ad-free and on-demand, as well as curated playlists and personalized stations. Upgrade to an Amazon Music Unlimited subscription to access tens of millions of songs.
  • Spotify Connect: If you subscribe to Spotify Premium and have the Spotify App on your Apple iOS or Android smartphone, you can stream Spotify to the Bluesound system. 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: 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
  • TuneIn: The Bluesound system includes access to more than 70,000 free internet radio streams from all corners of the globe via the TuneIn 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: iHeartRadio 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 Radio® 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.
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.

Music Library From Your Mobile Device: From the Bluesound Controller App, you can stream music directly over WiFi from your Apple iOS or Android device to the Bluesound Node 2 and the rest of your Bluesound components around your home. The app gives you complete control of your compatible mobile device's music library with song/artist information and album art.

Computer Audio: The Bluesound wireless music system will pull music from an existing digital music library across the network on your Windows PC or Mac computer using Windows or SMB File Sharing (SAMBA) and the Bluesound Controller App for Windows & Mac.

  • Windows: Music files stored on a Windows desktop or laptop can be accessed by Bluesound using Windows File Sharing. You will need to download the Bluesound Share Utility for Windows - Bluesound Share Utility Windows v1.6.zip. This utility will work on Windows Vista, 7, 8 and 10.
  • Mac: Music files stored on an Apple iMac or MacBook can be accessed by Bluesound using SMB File Sharing. You will need to download the Bluesound Share Utility for OS X - Bluesound Share Utility OSX v1.2.zip.This utility will work on any version of Apple OS X 10.8.x and higher.

Bluetooth w/ aptX: The Bluesound Node 2 features built-in Bluetooth 4.0 with support for wireless music streaming from your Bluetooth-enabled Apple iPod/iPhone/iPad, Android smartphone/tablet, Windows PC/Phone, Mac computer/laptop, and more. You'll be able to stream stored music and music apps on your Bluetooth-enabled device to the Node 2. In addition, the Node 2 offers aptX for CD-quality sound from Android (OS 4.0+) devices. You can even distribute Bluetooth audio to the rest of your Bluesound wireless audio system throughout your home or office over WiFi.

Inputs: The Bluesound Node 2 is fitted with a USB (type-A) port for playback of music files stored on a mass storage class (MSC) device, as well as a 3.5mm Aux input that serves as an analog or digital input.

  • USB Port: The Bluesound Node 2 features a USB (type-A) port to directly connect your USB mass storage class (MSC) device; such as a thumbdrive or external hard-drive. 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 2, but can also be wirelessly distributed to the rest of your Bluesound components throughout your home for multiroom playback. USB mass storage devices that require more than 0.5A of power will require a separate power supply. The USB port is not compatible with the direct connection of an Apple iPod/iPhone/iPad or Android devices.
  • Optical/Analog Input: The Node 2 is fitted with a 3.5mm Aux input which can be used as an analog or digital connection. As an analog input, simply connect a stereo minijack audio cable from your analog source to the Node 2'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 2'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 2 and wirelessly distributed to other Bluesound components in your home for multiroom playback.

Outputs: The Bluesound Node 2 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 2 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 2 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 2 for private listening with a set of headphones. The Node 2'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.

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

AC Power: The Bluesound Node 2 operates off of standard household current using  its internal power supply and the included 6' detachable AC power cord.

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Customer Q&A

18 questions already asked

Q
Is it possible to connect a non-Bluesound, powered, speaker to the Node 2 - for example an Audioengine B2 ?
chris  Jul 22, 2018
4 answers
A
You need to be clear about what you mean by "connect". You can connect using the RCA ananog wired outputs. You can connect using a wireless Bluetooth connection. Buy you cannot connect using a WiFi connection as the Bluesound syetem is proprietary. Hope this helps.
david  Jul 23, 2018
A
Yes. I am using a Marantz amplifier and Dali speakers.
jalal  Jul 23, 2018
A
Yes, this has RCA (red/white) stereo outputs which you can connect to powered speakers. I ran mine into Genelecs with good results.
eric  Jul 22, 2018
A
Afraid not.
david  Jul 22, 2018
Q
Is it possible to connect a non-Bluesound, powered, speaker to the Node 2 - for example an Audioengine B2 ?
chris  Jul 22, 2018
2 answers
A
no
elton  Oct 19, 2019
A
Yes, if that particular speaker had an analog input. The b2 has a 1/4" input. The node 2 has rca outputs.
scott  Jul 22, 2018
Q
Does this item support Sirius XM (Internet) radio?
michael  Jan 14, 2018
3 answers
A
No, sorry, it doesn't at this time
john  Jan 15, 2018
A
It does not. Aside from streaming your own files, the options I see are TuneIn Radio, Groove (the Microsoft music service that is now defunct, though maybe Groove is still there because you can still stream your own files from Groove too), Radio Paradise, and Tidal. There's a thread on a Bluesound support board I just checked, and people have been asking for this since at least 2013. The most recent response--still no--was June 2017.
christopher p  Jan 15, 2018
A
No, it does not.
keith  Jan 15, 2018
Q
Does the volume control on the blusound app control the signal to my pre-amp, or do I use the pre-amp's volume control?
jo  Sep 22, 2017
5 answers
A
You can use it either way. The app lets you control volume with a slider or you can fix the output and control volume with your pre-amp. And there are volume buttons on the top of the device. Lots of options! I will say the digital volume control built into the Node 2 is one of the best ones ever put in a device. It's nearly perfect.
mark  Sep 23, 2017
A
Depending on your settings volume can be controlled both ways. In the Audio section of the settings you have the option of fixed or variable audio output. With fixed, the volume is only controlled by your amp. Variable allows volume control thru the app and on the Node 2 box as well as your amp.
douggera  Sep 23, 2017
A
If you are using a pre-amp there is a setting where you can control the volume though the pre-amp.
michael  Sep 22, 2017
A
You can choose between both. Fixed or variable volume. It is easy and in the menu options.
steve  Sep 22, 2017
A
You have the option of setting the output on your BlueSound player to fixed or variable. If you are connecting to a pre-amp the setting would normally be fixed and the volume control on the BlueSound app is disabled. In this case if you have an app available for your pre-amp you would use it or the volume control on the pre-amp or remote.. The Variable setting on the BlueSound player is for when you are connecting directly to an amp or powered speakers or maybe through an out board dac that doesn't have volume control.
john  Sep 22, 2017
Q
Can playlists be created and modified using the Bluesound controller application?
barry  Jul 02, 2017
4 answers
A
Yes, it is very easy to do.
matthew  Jul 03, 2017
A
Yes, absolutely. I use the built-in play lists functionality which lets me combine music from my personal collection and from my streaming service (tidal or groove music in my case) into single playlist. It also les me play existing m3u play lists from my storage device.. I have heard that you can edit those in bluesound controller, but i have never tried it. The internal play lists cannot be exported or otherwise used outside of the bluesound software, but they are available across devices if you happen to have more than one bluesound player.
reeves  Jul 02, 2017
A
Hi, I am probably the worst person to ask. However, I believe it can be done. I am very happy just using the playlists I have in Tidal HiFi. Good luck.
john  Jul 02, 2017
A
Yes. It's one of the easiest and most intuitive things you can do with the app.
richard  Jul 02, 2017
Q
Can the Node 2 connect with and use any wireless speakers to provide whole home audio, or must you use only Bluesound-branded wireless speakers?
john  Jun 26, 2017
2 answers
A
bluesound only
elton  Oct 19, 2019
A
No. Gotta use Bluesound speakers--which are more than just speakers. They have the full functionality of the Node 2 built into them (Dac and processors) plus the drivers and an amp. You could actually use the speakers without the Node 2 and control via the app. There are less inputs/outputs on the speakers vs Node 2 so if you want to connect to a high end audio system get the Node 2. If you could find an old 900mhz or 2.4 ghz wireless system you could run that off the Node2 outputs but the sound quality will not be as good as Bluesound speakers. AR used to make them, have not seen these in years sold new.
mark  Jun 26, 2017
Q
I would to know if this unit support streaming audio files from a pc but the audio list controlled from a tablet. Similar to iTunes in a Mac OS and controlled from an iPad?
jalal  Apr 30, 2017
6 answers
A
My answer is Yes...but my setup is not exactly as yours. My Node 2 is 'wired' to the home network and feeds my Media Room Onkyo Receiver. Songs are stored on a Networked Attached Storage Device. I access my music by using the PC app, or my iphone Bluesound app without any issues at all. I would assume it would work with your configuration as well.
thomas r  May 01, 2017
A
Yes. You can store your music on your PC. You install Bluesound controller for whichever device you have. I control mine from my iPhone, iPad and PC desktop.
steven  May 01, 2017
A
Yes. The process is seamless if the PC and Node2 are on the same network.
marcus  Apr 30, 2017
A
Hello, you made a wise decision looking at the node 2. I am using Thiel 3.6 speakers, classe CA 400 amp CP 45 preamp and the node 2. I use a PC or HTC 1 from my listening chair and able to make all streaming decisions I have available. I would recommend downloading app on ipad if wanting to use it as well. I have heard nothing better in my system and have been at this a long time. Bluesound customer support were very helpful and if you have further issues I would contact them. Regards Keith
melissa  Apr 30, 2017
A
Yes, just install the Bluesound app and you're ready to go. Best investment I have made in a long time, money well spent. Great sound and very versatile. Enjoy.
william h.  Apr 30, 2017
A
Yes. I have my songs on a hard drive attached to my router. I control the Bluesound on my Kindle Fire tablet, through their Android App. I also control my Marantz preamp through its Android App.
craig  Apr 30, 2017
Q
Can I use wireless headphones such as Beats Studio with the Bluesound Node 2, if so do I need to hook up a transmitter?
ronda  Oct 13, 2016
4 answers
A
This unit does not have a built in amplifier so I do not see how it would work unless you routed the output through a headphone amplifier, and then to the transmitter.
thomas r  Oct 14, 2016
A
As far as I know, the Node 2 does not have the native capability to stream *from* that device *to* bluetooth enabled devices like headphones. I'm stating that based on a Bluesound support forum question answered in January 2016 plus my own understanding of the device. It does permit transmitting from an external device *to* the Node 2, and then of course out through whatever receiver/speaker system it's connected to. I've done this with my smartphone when playing a Groove Music playlist. There is a workaround: The Node 2 has a headphone jack on the front--visible right below the Bluesound logo as shown here on Crutchfield--and there are headphone-jack bluetooth devices that can transmit as well as receive. It wouldn't be the prettiest or most convenient solution, but I can't think of any reason why it wouldn't work. Google bluetooth headphone jack transmitter and you'll find plenty of options.
christopher p  Oct 14, 2016
A
Yes, you hook them up exactly the same way you would a normal pair of headphones, but instead of hooking up the headphone cable you would hook up the headphone output of the Node 2 to the wireless transmitter. Enjoy the Node 2 it is a great piece of electronics.
william h.  Oct 14, 2016
A
It has a headphone stereo minijack.
dennis  Oct 14, 2016
Q
How does this compare to the Yamaha WXC-50 sound quality, functionality and overall value? I'm undecided between which two units to purchase.
matthew  Oct 04, 2016
1 answer
A
Thanks for your question. For information on comparing two or more models I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to help determine the differences and help you make the best choice for your system and your budget.
kenneth  Oct 04, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Is the Node 2 compatible with the Harmony remote? Is there a Bluesound remote? There is an IR sensor and input on the device.
matthew  Sep 25, 2016
4 answers
A
There is no Bluesound remote as of this writing. On Harmony remotes you'll have to check on their app/site if they have coded a particular remote for Bluesound. If Bluesound is not a choice under streaming devices your Harmony remote won't control it. There is a lot of variability in the Harmony line. You can program the Node 2 to recognize basic commands from any IR remote. Play, pause, volume+-, mute, and presets. It's under settings in the BluOS app. They also recommend that you connect your TV optical out to the Node 2 optical in as a method of control. So even if your Harmony remote does not have a Bluesound set of codes, you should be able to make it work for basic control.
mark  Sep 26, 2016
A
Check your Harmony device compatibility lists. Personally I use it with the smartphone app which is likely to be more useful than the Harmony.
michael  Sep 26, 2016
A
Does it matter? The Node2 is controlled by the BluOS app for Apple and Android mobile phone platforms. I love my unit. You don't need to adjust volume or things like that (set and forget). Selecting music, creating playlists, etc. is all done via the BluOS app on your phone or tablet. It is a great experience. The most important thing is to buy an upgraded C7 Power Cord (e.g. Pangea). That will make the sound significantly better than with the base power cord.
steve  Sep 26, 2016
A
Not sure if it works with Harmony remote. The Node 2 works with any smartphone, tablet on Apple or Android operating system thru an app that is downloaded for the device. It is controlled by the app thru the wireless home network. It can also be controlled using a windows computer based app.
zachary  Sep 26, 2016
Q
How good is this when compared to Pioneer N-70A? I know there is price gap between these two, but since these 2 are the last candidates to purchase, I'd love to know.
dongjin  Aug 15, 2016
1 answer
A
Thanks for your question. For information on comparing two or more models I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to help determine the differences and help you make the best choice for your system and your budget.
kristina  Aug 16, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Does this device work without internet?
paul  Jul 18, 2016
4 answers
A
It has limited functionality without an internet connection. You really have to control and configure it via the internet or at least a local network connection within your house. It does have an optical input and can receive content via Bluetooth but I think you would have to set all that up while on an internet connection and without internet connection the operating system may just not be workable. It does require frequent updates from the web to the app from Bluesound.
mark  Jul 22, 2016
A
Without internet, yes, but you need a source for music (NAS, Drive, computer) and usually wifi to transmit. Call the guys at Crutchfield....they help me set mine up and were terrific. Bluesound's own help center is good too....look up their discussion forum on the net (if you can)
john  Jul 19, 2016
A
Yes, but you must connect it to your local network. Either wired or through Wi-fi. Be advised though that you will not be able to stream any of the online radio stations or services such as Spotify.
steven  Jul 19, 2016
A
possibly, but you must have a local area network. I would contact Bluesound support directly with questions. They are very helpful.
thomas  Jul 19, 2016
Q
Will the Bluesound Node 2 recognize/import/play iTunes playlists (like Sonos Connect and Squeezebox do)?
john  Feb 07, 2016
5 answers
A
I've not tried this but I believe you can "map" the Bluesound to your playlist folders in Itunes. Mapping it to find my music on a MAC was quite challenging and I needed assistance from Bluesound technical support to do this. It is not as easy as the app for Squeezebox which can map to stuff on its own. You will need to be given a cheat sheet to get through the MAC operating system, which is so secure it makes it difficult to map to these files. Windows might be easier. In any case, contact Bluesound customer support from the website or from within the app. They are great and have lots of documentation they can share with you on how to do this stuff. My biggest issue with Bluesound is lack of documentation, they make up for that with responsive and helpful customer service. Sound quality is better than Sonos or Squeezebox and the processor is much better than the one in Squeezebox.
mark  Feb 09, 2016
A
It will import .m3u playlists created by exporting an iTunes playlist. It does not appear to be able to read them directly from the iTunes library. Just export a playlist from iTunes in the .m3u format to someplace within the same folder structure as your music files, and re-index.
bryan  Feb 09, 2016
A
Yes, I also have a squeezebox Duo. The only thing the BlueSound won't do that the squeezebox will is stream Pandora content. The sound of the BlueSound Node 2 puts the Squeezebox to shame and is at least as good as the Cambridge Audio streamer I also have that cost 3X the BlueSound. The performance of the app which I use exclusively versus a remote is lightning fast compared to the Squeezebox or iPeng app or the CA Connect app.. I also use ITunes for importing content into a NAS storage devise. If my NAS ever quits I plan on replacing it with a BlueSound node. You didn't ask but if you use Spotify the Spotify connect app works perfectly with the BlueSound Node 2 as well. The BlueSound app will find your library, Idevices and you can setup any Streaming Service (except the aforementioned Pandora.) you may have to have easy access from the app. I like it when things work and this device way exceeded my expectations.
john  Feb 08, 2016
A
It only recognizes and imports .m3u playlists as far as I know.
dave  Feb 08, 2016
A
Suggest you reach out to Bluesound. Their tech support is great. I believe the answer is yes but you can quickly ask them. I own two Node 2 and the streaming from my desktop Mac works very well.
tracy l  Feb 08, 2016
Q
What are the differences between the 2nd gen Node from the 1st gen version?
michael  Sep 22, 2015
2 answers
A
Mike -- I'm still learning my way around the Node 2 and the accompanying Vault 2. I also never owned the previous generation (I am the previous owner of an Olive music system). So I can't be helpful. In fact, I'm going to send a bunch of questions your way soon about the Node 2 and the Vault 2, since the documentation is thin. Thanks.
r jeffrey  Sep 22, 2015
A
Thanks for your question. For information on comparing two or more models I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to help determine the differences and help you make the best choice for your system and your budget.
kristina  Sep 22, 2015 (Staff)
Q
Can it play from music files on an external hard drive connected to the USB or mini-USB port on the back of the Node 2?
ayjay  Apr 18, 2017
2 answers
A
Yes. I used it with both a flash drive and a USB hard drive. However Bluesound encourages people to use wifi to stream music rather than an attached drive.
herb  Apr 20, 2017
A
No. The USB ports do not supply enough power for most spinning hard drives. They will power a memory stick. This is a streaming box not a USB player--connect your hard drive to a computer or router on your network and Node 2 will index and stream the music just fine from there.
mark  Apr 20, 2017
Q
If I want to do use in out board MQA capable dac Will the Node 2 pass through and MQA files to the dac?
david  Feb 15, 2017
3 answers
A
Bluesound's Generation 2 streaming products are all MQA compatible. Not sure what you would gain by passing stream through to an external DAC
gregory  Feb 16, 2017
A
I've no idea...you need to ask one of the tech support guys on the Bluesound Discussion Board....they're great, knowledgeable, and answer you quickly.....good luck
john  Feb 15, 2017
A
Go to the Bluesound Support Forum - there is a fair amount being discussed on this topic. I believe the answer is "kind of". Connecting an outboard DAC to the digital outs on the node will cause the Node's internal DAC to be bypassed. But the Node 2 does do some type of decoding of the MQA file in accordance with the MQA spec. Your MQA DAC should be able to then fully decode and play the file although I hear there are some issues with the Mytek DAC in this regard. However, the Node 2 DAC supports MQA on it's own so you might want to try that as well and see if you like the sound. I would contact Bluesound on all this just to be sure but I think I have it correct.
ian  Feb 15, 2017
Q
My music files are in itunes, it easily integrated into my Logitech Squeezebox Classics. Is it as easy as with the Squeezeboxes?
rudolph  Aug 23, 2016
1 answer
A
iTunes does not integrate into Bluesound as easily as it did in the Squeezeboxes. It can be done but most people have to get support from Bluesound. They are very helpful and prompt. But that is not the point! ITunes streams at a lower bit rate than Bluesound and Squeezebox are capable of streaming at. So you are not optimizing either player by using iTunes. If your music in iTunes is from Apple Music it can only be played on Apple devices so you would have to Bluetooth it to the Bluesound. Between the poor streaming rates and copywrite protection in the Apple world, I would recommend getting your music on a hard drive in Flac. This will allow the highest bit rate/optimal sound quality and easiest method of access from Bluesound.
mark  Aug 23, 2016
Q
Can this be connected to a pair of active monitors with their volume controlled via the Bluesound from a phone or tablet?
mrpetemd  May 20, 2016
6 answers
A
Yes this is possible. Under settings in the BluOS you can choose whether the player runs in fixed or variable output volume mode. When you choose variable, a slider activates on the apps that lets you control the volume from the app. You can also limit the volume range in the BluOS settings which might be useful in this scenario. The volume slider is on the lower right of my iOS app on my iPad. I think you will need to adjust the volume on your powered speakers to get them to a happy medium but once you do that the BlueOS will allow you to make volume adjustments. You should also be able to adjust the volume from the buttons on the top of the Node2. These are backlighted and you can control their brightness or turn the backlights totally off from the BlueOS app. So in this scenario the Node 2 can function as a preamp and your powered speakers are the amp and both could control the volume. Use the RCA analog out jacks to connect the Node 2 into your speakers.
mark  May 21, 2016
A
Yes, you can control the volume thru the apps.
mark  May 21, 2016
A
the node 2 supports Bluetooth and the app has volume control so assuming your speakers support Bluetooth it should work.
john  May 20, 2016
A
There should be no problem doing this. Take the audio outputs from the Node2 into the active monitors. The Bluesound app does control the output volume, and hence your monitor volume. Start with the monitor volume pretty soft and increase that end manually. Then the Bluesound will control volume.
thomas  May 20, 2016
A
I Believe so. I use mine connected to a preamp so in my settings mode I choose Audio output level "Fixed". There is a choice for Audio output level "Variable" which when set the player to this mode will give a volume adjustment bar on your player app.
donald  May 20, 2016
A
As long as the active monitors have a standard right+left RCA input jack, that should work because the Bluesound app will let you adjust the volume (there is a setting to select either fixed volume or variable volume.)
dave  May 20, 2016
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