Bluesound Node versions SQ
For those of you with both the 130 and the 132 versions, have you tested the sound quality of just the streamer/transport section and how they sound compared to each other? I'm still streamer researching and wondering if there is a difference when these two units are connected to an outboard DAC. I was thinking if not, then I might consider the older 130 version as it's discounted and then the savings could be applied to an LPS upgrade kit.
I've also been reading that some owners have had issues using the Node's USB output with the Qutest..Thoughts on either subject is appreciated.
I had 2 Nodes that got hung up and died on updates, both past the warranty period. Dirac is nice but you might investigate shm. They are Hong Kong based and make streamers coupled with Dirac. Or if you have DAC, I really recommend the Wiim Pro, and then add a separate Dirac Unit from shm . That will keep costs low. The Wiim is a great piece of budget kit with a fun app. |
@invalid , I’m sorry to hear about your issues with your bluesound node 2, I’ve not had any issues. I took a look at the stock power board that came out of my N132 for the LPS upgrade and see exactly what you mentioned. |
@ironrick6 what did you decide to do? FWIW, I have a Qutest and Node N130 and both are powered by a Teddy Pardo dual power supply. The Pardo supply improved the Qutest a little and the sound of the Node a lot. This digital front end is affected by what power cord is used on the power supply and really sensitive to quality of coax connecting the Node to the Qutest. IE, this combination is good enough to benefit from better cabling, and investment there rewards. While the streaming function of this system is very good, where it really shines is functioning as a server (SSD and Audioquest carbon USB cable serving MP3/4 to hires PCM files) providing super enjoyable listening on par with my analog setup. I recently bought a Node Nano for my office and although I have not compared it directly to the N130 as a streamer, the price to performance ratio for that device is remarkable. And no surgery required to upgrade the 5V power supply, just plug and play. In this case, fierce competition from Wiim has really benefited the consumer. kn
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