Bluesound Node ICON review exploring its high-resolution streaming and multi-room audio capabilities

Description

An Audiophile’s Experience with the Bluesound Node ICON Reference Multi-Room High Resolution Wireless Music Streamer

Testing the Bluesound Node ICON Reference Multi-Room High Resolution Wireless Music Streamer felt like stepping into another dimension of audio quality. This sleek, industrial-designed music streamer had me intrigued from the moment I unboxed it. As someone who’s used streaming devices of various brands over the years, I couldn’t wait to see how this one performed. Spoiler: It didn’t disappoint, but there are a few quirks worth discussing.

Design and Build Quality: A Feast for the Eyes and Hands

The high-quality aluminum chassis is not just aesthetically pleasing but also feels incredibly robust. Its gloss black finish screams modernity, blending effortlessly into my living room setup. The 5-inch HD color display isn’t just there for show—it’s genuinely useful for navigation and adds a touch of luxury. I noticed that the balanced XLR outputs and other audiophile-grade connections are thoughtfully placed, making setup straightforward and clutter-free.

While I appreciated its compact dimensions—8.7 x 7.6 x 3.3 inches—the device is slightly heavier than expected at 6.61 pounds. This weight lends a premium feel, but it might not be ideal for people who plan to move it around frequently.

Key Benefits

• Dual-Mono DAC design delivers exceptional clarity and dynamic range.
• Sleek, modern aesthetic with a premium aluminum build.
• 5-inch HD screen enhances usability and visual appeal.
• Balanced XLR outputs ensure top-notch audio signal quality.

Performance: A Symphony of Sound

From the moment I hit play, the Dual-Mono DAC design featuring ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DACs showcased its magic. The audio output is nothing short of breathtaking, with ultra-low distortion and an exceptional resolution that made every track feel alive. Whether I was streaming lossless tracks from TIDAL or diving into my personal FLAC collection, the MQA Labs QRONO d2a technology ensured precise timing and an authentic listening experience.

Testing the THX AAA headphone amplifier was another highlight. With my trusty pair of Sennheiser HD800s, I could experience a remarkably low noise floor, revealing details in my favorite tracks that I hadn’t noticed before. The feed-forward error correction technology truly shines here, making headphone listening a dream for audiophiles.

Streaming and Connectivity: Music Everywhere, Effortlessly

Thanks to BluOS Controller, I could stream music not just from popular services but also from my personal library. The AirPlay 2 and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth support were game-changers for seamless connectivity with my existing devices. I even tested the HDMI eARC, which allowed me to connect the device to my TV with ease. Let me just say, watching movies with hi-res audio elevated movie nights to an entirely new level.

One of the most impressive features was its multi-room capability. Pairing it with my Bluesound speakers was as easy as tapping a few buttons on my phone. The dual-band Wi-Fi ensured there were no annoying dropouts, even when streaming in different zones simultaneously.

Positives

• Flawless music streaming from both popular services and personal libraries.
• Multi-room functionality enhances versatility across different spaces.
• HDMI eARC simplifies integration with home entertainment systems.
• Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a stable connection without interruptions.

Negatives

• The Dirac Live upgrade requires an additional purchase, which might deter some users.
• Its weight and size, while giving a premium feel, could be cumbersome for certain setups.
• The calibration kit for Dirac Live is sold separately, which adds to the overall cost.

Room Calibration with Dirac Live: Better Sound for Any Space

Room acoustics can make or break audio quality, and the Dirac Live upgrade is a lifesaver in this regard. Using the app, I measured my room’s acoustics and was impressed by how it eliminated standing waves and reverberations. After calibration, the sound was noticeably clearer and more balanced. However, the additional cost of the high-sensitivity microphone required for this process might be a drawback for some users.

Competing Products: Where the Node ICON Stands

Comparing this device to competitors like the Sonos Port and Cambridge Audio CXN (V2), I found the Bluesound Node ICON excels in audiophile-level sound quality and connectivity options. The dual-mono DACs and THX AAA headphone amp are features that competitors in this price range often lack. However, the Dirac Live calibration option, while impressive, adds extra cost compared to Sonos’ more budget-friendly approach. Meanwhile, the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) offers a slightly more intuitive interface, but its lack of HDMI eARC support makes it less versatile for home theater setups.

Value for Money

Evaluating the price to quality ratio, I’d say this device is worth every cent for audiophiles or anyone serious about sound quality. While it may feel like an investment, especially with additional costs for Dirac Live and the calibration kit, the performance it delivers is unmatched in many aspects. For someone like me, who prioritizes dynamic range, clarity, and multi-room integration, it’s hard to find a better option.

In summary, the Bluesound Node ICON is a game-changing device that brings studio-quality sound into your home. It’s not without its minor flaws, but for those who crave high-fidelity audio and versatile connectivity, this music streamer is a solid choice.

Additional information