More precise TV sound and online music streaming in a single unit – Bluesound Powernode 2i HDMI

A home entertainment center doesn’t necessarily need many devices. When the picture is taken care of by a television, the responsibility for audio playback can be transferred to a compact but versatile integrated amplifier. Just add some speakers – big or small!

While some manufacturers offer products in a wide range of styles, Bluesound’s catalog is surprisingly simple. The brand’s mission is to offer uncompromising sound quality and advanced technical performance in a compact and easy-to-use package, as well as a stylish aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye.

Bluesound's selection mainly consists of wireless network speakers of various sizes, soundbars and subwoofers, as well as the Node products that have achieved great popularity worldwide and have proven their worth in many contexts. The latest of these is the Powernode 2i, a combination of an integrated amplifier and a network player, to which the manufacturer has just added an HDMI connection.

The Bluesound Powernode 2i HDMI is a compact but versatile integrated amplifier and network player.

HDMI, or High-Definition Multimedia Interface, is a digital display device connection standard designed for transferring video and multi-channel audio. It has become increasingly common in televisions and video projectors in the 21st century. With the new Powernode 2i, the connection is in the ARC (Audio Return Channel) format. This allows audio to be transmitted directly from the TV’s HDMI ARC output to the Powernode 2i’s advanced da converter for processing and efficient playback via the Hybrid Digital amplifier.

In addition to the traditional HDMI ARC, the new Powernode 2i also includes the new eARC, or enhanced The Audio Return Channel version, which, in simple terms, is in many ways more advanced than its predecessor and guarantees the best possible sound transmission from the television (or through the television) to the audio playback device.

The new Powernode 2i is easy to control with the Finnish-language BluOS control app

Another feature familiar from previous Node products is the natural integration of the new Powernode 2i with various online music services. For example, popular streaming services such as Spotify, Tidal, and Deezer are included as built-in features; there is also a web radio with thousands of worldwide channels; AirPlay 2 ensures smooth collaboration with Apple products; the Bluetooth version is a fresh 5.0 with aptX HD codec for better sound quality (the Powernode 2i can not only receive music from a smart device but also send it to wireless headphones), and so on. Everything is controlled via the logical and Finnish-language BluOS control app. The new Powernode 2i can be connected to the network either via cable or wirelessly.

Among the more traditional audio inputs are two 3.5 mm combo jacks that accept both analog and digital signals. On the output side, there is a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a rca-shaped subwoofer output, and threaded connectors for the speakers. The manufacturer’s own Hybrid Digital amplifier provides 2 x 60 watts of power for an eight-speaker load. The Powernode 2i HDMI also works seamlessly as the main hub for a multi-room setup, where you can wirelessly connect speakers throughout the home.

The Powernode 2i HDMI offers connections in both analog and digital formats. The device can be connected to the network either via a wired connection or wirelessly.

Info

Bluesound Powernode 2i HDMI
Price: 899€
Amplifier: HYBRID DIGITAL™, 2 x 60 W (8 Ohm)
DA converter: 32-bit / 384 kHz
Network: Ethernet & WiFi (802.11ac, dual band)
Connections:
– HDMI ARC (ARC & eARC) for TV
– 2x optical digital input (TOSLINK) / 3.5 mm analog input
– USB Type A for memory sticks and hard drives
– Headphone jack 3.5 mm
– Speaker outputs with snap-on screws
– Subwoofer output (RCA)
– Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD (transmission or reception)
Weight: 1.72 kg
Dimensions: 220 x 70 x 190 mm
Color options: Matt bronze or matt white

Importer of Bluesound products in Finland: AH Hifisystems Oy

Manufacturer's website: www.bluesound.com

Watch this video about the operation of the Powernode 2i amplifier: