Bluesound Powernode Edge N230 Wireless Multi-Room Hi-Res Music Streaming Amplifier (Black)

Product Information

Connect with the BluVoice skill to enable voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri to control Players around the home. The Edge is slightly hobbled when decoding hi-res music files, with support for audio files limited to a maximum of 24-bit/192kHz. Although most audio file types are supported – including MQA ­– to play ultra-hi-res music files, you must upgrade to the more expensive BluesoundPowernode. However, the 24-bit/192kHz cap is perfectly adequate for most people.

As previously mentioned, the Bluesound Powernode Edge is a just-add-speakers sound system that supports all relevant streaming services, benefits from the intuitive BluOS App, and employs DigitalDirect amplifier technology with the help of its sister company NAD. Let’s clarify: what exactly is direct digital amplification? In a nutshell, a direct digital amplifier converts the digital Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) signal from a digital source, like a music streamer, to a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) analog signal at the very last stage, the speaker output stage, thereby keeping the audio signal in the digital domain until the very end of the amplification stage, at the speaker terminals. The traditional digital-to-analog converter (DAC), preamplifier volume control, and analog power amplifier are eliminated as a byproduct of direct digital amplification design. Direct digital technology accomplishes all these components’ tasks in one design and the digital domain. Hi-res audio streaming with access to Internet radio stations, cloud music services, and your own local music library to multiple Bluesound Players.The Bluesound Powernode Edge represents a perfect gateway into a setup where all you need is speakers - perfect for the age of streaming and high-resolution digital audio, all within a small but perfectly formed chassis. Add Speakers You can also access music libraries stored on a portable drive connected to the amplifier’s USB port or on a NAS. This is where the desktop version of the BluOS Controller app comes in handy; it’s easier to navigate a complex folder hierarchy on a larger screen. Configuring the Pulse Sub+ subwoofer is also easier with the desktop version.

Wireless multi-room capability with BluOS-powered speakers allows an easy path to whole-home audio. Having found the Powernode Edge so enjoyable in two-channel stereo, I was keen to listen to it with the Pulse Sub+ subwoofer in a 2.1 setup. The BluOS Controller app makes it easy to turn the subwoofer on and off and make adjustments on the fly. You can tweak crossover frequency, fine-tune subwoofer level, and adjust phase so that the sub and main speakers blend seamlessly. After some experimentation, I left the crossover point at the default 80Hz and bumped up the volume trim to around 4dB. This gave me a satisfying sound without overemphasizing the bottom end.Featuring digital, optical and analog input options, wired and wireless headphone and subwoofer outputs. Although the Bluesound Powernode Edge isn't bristling with connections, the basics are there, ... [+] including HDMI eARC, USB A, 3.5mm digital/analog, subwoofer and Ethernet. Bluesound We do provide installation options for built-in appliances providing it is simply a case of fitting the appliance and furniture doors. Any additional work to the kitchen units or carpentry work required will need to be completed at the customer’s expense.