Bluesound Announces the POWERNODE EDGE

Bluesound, has announced the launch of the POWERNODE EDGE, a lower amplification and lower priced, powered streamer to the existing POWERNODE. This single-zone, wireless music streaming amplifier is designed as a “just add speakers” HiFi for the modern age, combining streaming sources, control, and amplification all in one device. Pre-orders for the POWERNODE EDGE are now being taken on Bluesound.com and participating authorized retailers with shipping starting in early October. Suggested pricing for each unit is USD $649 / CAD $849.

Bluesound has spec’d audiophile-grade amplification into the POWERNODE EDGE making it easy to connect a pair of passive speakers to create or extend a HiFi system. Other options include adding other Bluesound products such as the PULSE SUB+ wireless subwoofer for a compact 2.1 stereo system. Alternatively, the POWERNODE EDGE can power the rear channels of a Bluesound wireless surround sound setup, for a modern home theater experience. A 2 x 40 watts DirectDigital amplifier in the POWERNODE EDGE handles hi-res audio tracks up to 24-bit/192kHz and supports MQA playback.

The POWERNODE EDGE is designed with a compact form factor to suit any décor. An included multi-orientation wall bracket allows it to be hidden in closets or behind sofas. Easy to spec and simple to stack, smart home installers will appreciate its 1U rack height and half-rack width, along with an easy-access touch control panel for everyday playback functions and configuration.

Over 20 natively integrated music services and thousands of internet radio stations are accessible directly on the POWERNODE EDGE, and controlled from the BluOS Controller app. To play from a personal music library, connection via Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet or playback from an external USB drive is available. Built-in AirPlay 2 makes for easy integration into the Apple ecosystem, while users of other devices can take advantage of the high quality aptX HD Bluetooth connection to stream audio directly to the POWERNODE EDGE. More traditional wired sources, such as a TV or preamp’d turntable, can be connected using the HDMI eARC input or the combo analog/digital input.

By adding multiple Bluesound players around the home, the POWERNODE EDGE can also become part of amulti-room whole-home audio system controlled using BluOS allowing music to stream from player to player or sync up multiple players. BluOS Controller app is compatible for iOS, Android, Mac, or PC. The POWERNODE EDGE can also integrate with the most popular smart home controllers like Crestron, Control4, URC, RTI, ELAN, while hands-free control is possible with voice assistants like Apple’s Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.