John Darko
Bluesound has announced a ‘2025’ (N331) version of its popular Powernode streaming amplifier. Carried over from the previous model is the BluOS software system that additionally supports Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Readiness, Apple AirPlay 2 and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth 5.2. Alas, no word yet on Qobuz Connect.
The capacitive top touchplate still gives us access to our favourite playlists, Internet radio stations and a volume control slider but the headphone output on the front panel is now a quarter-inch socket backed by a THX AAA headphone amplifier.
Turn the 2025 Powernode around and we still see a software-managed subwoofer output, HDMI eARC and a miniTOSLINK/analogue 3.5mm combo socket on the back panel. But wait: is that a USB-C input sitting above the USB-A socket? And a full-sized TOSLINK socket? And RCA analogue sockets? Yessir.
However, the most obvious change to the new Powernode is a third pair of binding posts designed to (optionally) power a centre channel in addition to left and right loudspeakers. Hello 3.1!
Want 5.1? Surrounds can be added wirelessly via the Powernode’s “BluOS Bonded Speaker Link” that talks to supported speakers – like Bluesound’s Pulse Flex) or a second Powernode – via “Wireless Dolby Digital® surround sound” (that doesn’t rely on your home’s wi-fi).
The amplifier module has also been updated from Bluesound’s Hybrid Digital to a DAC chip-free Direct Digital circuit with GaNFETs working the output stage. This gives us 100wpc into 8 Ohms when only two channels are driven or 80wpc when a centre channel is also in play.
Dirac Live is on the slate for a future firmware update but you’ll need to BYO Dirac license.
Price? US$1199 or €1099. Your choice of black or white.
According to Bluesound’s Instagram page, pre-orders on the Powernode N331 begin August 12th, with shipping starting on September 10th.
Further information: Bluesound
