I have noticed there is a pair of B&W 805 Matrix speakers for about $1,100. How would you rate that speaker as compared to the 606 or PS50 with modest power (about 60 watts?)
Good Match for BlueSound PowerNode 2i
A couple of weeks ago, I started a discussion around an office system with a minimal budget. At the time, I was considering a set of SONOS ($400) speakers or a Yamaha 301BL ($300) paired with Polk speakers ($339).
Since then I have uppded the budget and am leaning toward an BlueSound PowerNode 2i with either KREF LS50s or B&W 606s.
I thought about the KREF LS50W and the KREF LSX (nice price of $1000). However, I have shied away from those options because of zero upgrade options.f
I am fairly settled on the PowerNode, but would consider a different setup. My requirements are that it should be able to power the aforementioned speakers, and the amp should be ROON ready. I like the PowerNode form factor, but I do have room for a larger box. Budget does need to stay at around $2000. I would consider used gear. Time frame to pull the trigger is about 2 weeks (or around 4/9/2020).
Given that listening to the components from disparate manufacturers can be difficult in the best of times, and with social distancing, these are not the best of times for that activity, my purchase would need to be made somewhere where returns are accepted.
It would be great if someone had experience with the above systems or something else that meets the criteria and doesn't blow the budget.
Since then I have uppded the budget and am leaning toward an BlueSound PowerNode 2i with either KREF LS50s or B&W 606s.
I thought about the KREF LS50W and the KREF LSX (nice price of $1000). However, I have shied away from those options because of zero upgrade options.f
I am fairly settled on the PowerNode, but would consider a different setup. My requirements are that it should be able to power the aforementioned speakers, and the amp should be ROON ready. I like the PowerNode form factor, but I do have room for a larger box. Budget does need to stay at around $2000. I would consider used gear. Time frame to pull the trigger is about 2 weeks (or around 4/9/2020).
Given that listening to the components from disparate manufacturers can be difficult in the best of times, and with social distancing, these are not the best of times for that activity, my purchase would need to be made somewhere where returns are accepted.
It would be great if someone had experience with the above systems or something else that meets the criteria and doesn't blow the budget.
8 responses Add your response
I use the PowerNode 2 for my A/V system, driving a pair of Tannoy Fusion 4 (89db sensitivity). It does a very good job, but I think it could be even better if the speakers were around 91/92 db. The sub brings in the LFE's and bass punch and the image is exceptional The PowerNode2 responds very positively to a good power cable. A friend has a pair of Klipsch RP-600's that might be a good match https://f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/product-specsheets... OR - You could try a couple of Bluesound Pulse Mini's and set them up to work as a stereo pair - it would solve your speaker problem as well, but I think the RP-600 would sound better Hope that helps |
Waking up an old thread. I’m looking at the PowerNode 2i and am familiar with BluOS from my last NAD receiver. For speakers, I’m looking at the LS 50 meta or something in that price range. My question is the amp on the PowerNode. I had the first gen NAD D3020 years ago and found it to be too harsh, I prefer the warmer NAD analog sound. I know that digital amps have come a long way, how does the PowerNode sound? Thanks |
I've got a Powernode 2 (same amp section as the 2i, I believe) mated to Elac Debut Reference DBR62 speakers via Anti-cable 2.1. Not harsh at all, and I am very averse to "forward" or "aggressive" sounding audio gear. This is in a smaller system in the man-cave, but my main system consists of Meridian source components and Classe electronics. That system was carefully put together, working with a local shop, to replace a system that, while very good at checking all the hi-fi boxes, was fatiguing to listen to for any length of time. The Powernode, while not in the price or performance class as my main system, still provides a similarly warm, detailed and musical experience. I actually do most of my listening to the Powernode system because its on the lower level and I won't bother others in the house. I have no desire to upgrade this system because I feel I would need to spend an inordinate amount of money to get any meaningful improvement. John Darko does a video review of the Powernode 2i, which was paired with the LS 50. Also check his written follow up on his web page. |
