Tag: #bluesound

Dirac Live Ready Now Available on Select Bluesound Players

Bluesound, creators of award-winning hi-res multi-room streaming players, is thrilled to announce the arrival of Dirac Live readiness, the leading room correction technology, to select Bluesound players. Starting January 14, 2025, owners of the NODE (N132) and NODE ICON (N530) will receive a firmware update enabling compatibility with Dirac Live.

With the added purchase of a Room Calibration Kit and a Dirac Live license, these Bluesound customers will experience enhanced sound quality across any room of the house, regardless of the room’s unique acoustics. Meanwhile, customers of older NODE X (N131), NODE (N130), POWERNODE (N330), and POWERNODE EDGE (N230) players will also receive this feature before the summer of 2025.

Matt Simmonds, Product Manager for Bluesound, explains, “this launch is important to us since Dirac Live has been one of the most requested features from Bluesound customers due to its unique room correction methods that result in more transparent, balanced sound, and tighter bass and enhanced clarity.”

“We have also implemented Dirac filters before the internal DAC, which will allow those who want to bypass to an external DAC the same benefits,” adds Morten Nielsen, Associate Product Manager for Bluesound. “This has also been commonly requested by our customers, and we are happy to be able to deliver the feature in this way.”

Level Up Your Node

Dirac Live Ready means that Bluesound players are compatible with Dirac Live technology, and owners interested in this feature can separately purchase a Dirac Live license and Bluesound’s Room Calibration Kit, designed and approved for Dirac Live calibration. 

The Kit includes a high performance omni-directional microphone sensitive to the full audible frequency range (20 Hz to 20 kHz). It connects to any laptop via a USB-A 2.0 connector and features driverless operation for Windows and MacOS, as well as all Bluesound Dirac Live Ready products. Suggested retail price of the Kit is USD 39/GBP 39/EUR 45/CAD 59 and it can be purchased from authorized Bluesound dealers globally, or from Bluesound.com.

Dirac offers three different licenses for Live: (1) Dirac Live Limited, which corrects audio below 500 Hz (USD 159); (2) Dirac Live Full, which corrects the full frequency range (USD 249); and (3) an upgrade license from Limited to Full (USD 99). Licenses are device-specific and are available from Dirac.com.

Rikard Hellerfelt, Dirac’s VP Consumer and eCommerce says, “we know that Bluesound has very passionate customers who love great sound, and we are pleased to be able to introduce Dirac Live to a new device category—streamers—for the very first time. This allows music lovers to elevate their existing audio setups— even those without built-in Dirac Live—by simply adding a Bluesound streamer.”

Bluesound Announces the POWERNODE EDGE

Bluesound, the original award-winning, hi-res wireless multi-room line of audio players, announces the POWERNODE EDGE. This single-zone, wireless music streaming amplifier is the perfect entry point into “just add speakers” HiFi for the modern age, combining streaming sources, control, and amplification all in one sleek, yet affordable, device. Pre-orders for the POWERNODE EDGE are now being taken on Bluesound.com and participating authorised retailers with shipping starting in early October. Suggested pricing for each unit is USD $649 / EUR €699 / GBP £599 / CAD $849.

Bluesound Powernode Edge

JUST ADD SPEAKERS

Audiophile-grade amplification packed into the POWERNODE EDGE makes it easy to connect a pair of passive speakers to create or extend a HiFi system. Other options include adding the PULSE SUB+ wireless subwoofer for a powerful but compact 2.1 stereo system. Alternatively, the POWERNODE EDGE can power the rear channels of a Bluesound wireless surround sound setup, for the ultimate modern home theater experience.

PUNCHY HI-RES

A conservatively-rated 2 x 40 watts DirectDigital™ amplifier in the POWERNODE EDGE efficiently handles hi-res audio tracks up to 24-bit/192kHz and supports MQA playback, which allows music lovers to listen to the actual studio masters of favourite albums, as they were intended to be heard. Revel in the clarity of playback of everything from densely-layered heavy metal tracks to whisper-quiet dialog in movies and TV shows.

Bluesound Powernode Edge

SLEEK AND VERSATILE

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.

ACCESS IT ALL

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.

MULTI-ROOM CONTROL

Add multiple Bluesound players around the home to create a high-performance, multi-room system using BluOS, the world’s most versatile whole-home, hi-res audio platform. Send music from player to player or sync up multiple players to one stream for parties and gatherings. Easy control is always readily available via the BluOS Controller app for iOS, Android, Mac, or PC, or using the elegant glass touch panel for quick-access controls like Play, Pause, and Volume Up/Down. The POWERNODE EDGE can integrate with the most popular smart home controllers like Crestron, Control4, URC, RTI, ELAN, and others, while hands-free control is possible with voice assistants like Apple’s Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.

Key Highlights of the POWERNODE EDGE:

– DirectDigital™ Amplifier Platform
– 40 Watts Per Channel Into 8 Ohms
– Quad-Core 1.8GHz ARM® Cortex™ A53 Processor
– HDMI eARC, Optical & Analog Audio Inputs
– BluOS™ Wireless Multi-Room Music Capability
– App Control with Adjustable Audio Settings
– MQA Music And Hi-Res Audio Streaming
– Airplay 2 Integration
– Works With Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Siri
– Dual-Band Wi-Fi + Gigabit Ethernet
– Two-Way aptX™ HD Bluetooth
– Wireless Headphone Output
– Wired & Wireless Subwoofer Output
– IR Remote Learning Capability
– Front Panel Touch Controls
– Compact 1U Form Factor
– Easy Four-Way Mounting System
– Black Or White Finish

Bluesound Announces the HUB Network Accessory

Bluesound, makers of the award-winning hi-res wireless multi-room line of audio players, announces the HUB, a game-changing network accessory that connects to a variety of analog and digital audio sources, bringing them into the Bluesound ecosystem for multi-room streaming. Retail availability of the HUB is expected in mid-June and is priced at USD $319 / EUR €349 / GBP £309 / CAD $419.

ANY SOURCE, IN ANY ROOM

Streaming audio is more flexible than ever with the HUB. Easily add a Bluesound HUB to any non-BluOS enabled audio source and transmit music to one or many Bluesound players around the home. Audio sources like a turntable or CD player instantly become network-connected and are new sources from which your Bluesound system can play music. The HUB unlocks the problem of geography in letting users stream vinyl wirelessly for the first time.

PLENTY OF CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS

From TVs to CD players, turntables to the latest gadgets, a host of inputs on the back panel: HDMI eARC, Coaxial, Digital Optical, Stereo Analog, and a moving magnet Phono stage supports the vast majority of music devices. Each HUB manages one source, and up to four (4) HUBs can be added to a single network.

EASY SETUP. EASY CONTROL.

Equipped with BluOS, the HUB makes adding audio sources simple using the BluOS Controller app setup wizard. A few taps on the familiar BluOS app controls a whole multi-room system from a smartphone, tablet or computer.

MINIMAL WIRES. NO MESS. NO HASSLE.

Simplicity is guaranteed with the HUB. With a 1U rack height, and 1/3rd rack width, external USB-C connected power supply, the HUB can easily be placed on shelves, behind TVs, or mounted with four different orientation options using its two keyhole mounting slots.

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS.

Streaming music fans who also love vinyl will be especially appreciative of the HUB’s built-in audiophile-grade MM phono stage preamp that brings audio from your turntable to any Bluesound player for whole-home turntable streaming. The HUB acts like a networked low noise, wide-bandwidth phono pre-amp, delivering spectacular audio quality for vinyl enjoyment in any or every room of a home at hi-fidelity.

Bluesound HUB

Key Highlights of the Bluesound HUB:

– Network Audio Source-sharing with BluOS™
– Low-noise MM Phono Stage
– Stereo Analog Line Input
– HDMI eARC with CEC
– Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs
– ARM® CORTEX™ A53 Processor
– Dual-band Wi-Fi + Gigabit Ethernet
– Powered by USB-C Power Adaptor
– 1U Rack Height, 1/3 Rack Width
– Four-way Keyhole Mounting Slots
– Front Panel Function Button
– Black Finish

Bluesound Professional Announces New Distribution Partners and Expands Activities in Asia

Premium streaming commercial audio brand appoints new distributors in the Caribbean and Poland, and adds coverage in Asia

Bluesound Professional, the premium distributed audio ecosystem for commercial spaces, today announced the exciting addition of two new distribution partners, while also adding new Asian markets to the Lenbrook Asia portfolio. The two new distribution partners include BVD International Inc., a regional distributor in the Caribbean, and Linearic, a distributor in Poland. Meanwhile, Lenbrook Asia, a sister company to Bluesound Professional and fellow subsidiary of Lenbrook International, has been laying down operational requirements to extend their distribution of Bluesound Professional products to additional markets in Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Brunei, Laos and Cambodia.

“We are delighted to be able to welcome two new distributors to the Bluesound Professional team, as they are key leaders in the industry and in their respective markets,” says Graeme Harrison, Vice-President and General Manager of Bluesound Professional. “These new relationships and Lenbrook Asia’s expanded remit will bring our products into additional markets and help us to build popularity for our ground-breaking streaming audio solutions for commercial spaces.” 

Bluesound Professional is continuing to expand its distribution network. Since its launch at the Integrated Systems Europe show in February 2019, the company has expanded to over 25 international markets. As a growing commercial audio technology brand, Bluesound Professional encourages interested and qualified parties to submit an inquiry to the BluesoundProfessional.com website.

BLUESOUND Introduces New PULSE SOUNDBAR+ To Lineup of Wireless Home Theatre Products.

Bluesound, makers of the award-winning hi-res wireless multi-room line of audio players, announced the PULSE SOUNDBAR+, an all-new soundbar addition to the brand’s high-performance ecosystem. The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is the ultimate audiophile-grade soundbar that will satisfy any home entertainment need. The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ (£799, €999, $899 in black, £899 €1099, $999 in White, U.S. MSRP) is offered in a choice of Black or White finish and is configurable to a range of home entertainment applications. For ease of installation, it comes supplied with a wall mount bracket as well as two kickstand feet. Available for pre-order now, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ will begin shipping in April 2021.

The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is a system solution that replaces the need for bulky AVRs. Designed to fit perfectly under HD TVs, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ offers a fully immersive sonic experience thanks to its range of features, including support for Dolby Atmos, 24-bit high resolution audio, 120 watts of full frequency multi-room and multi-channel audio, and a wide array of connectivity options.

DOLBY ATMOS SUPPORT
A full audio-chain redesign with advanced DSP processing now supports 3D audio from Dolby Atmos, meaning a wider, higher, and more enveloping soundstage from the PULSE SOUNDBAR+.

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH SOUND
Featuring 24-bit audio processing, 8 audiophile-quality drivers, and 120 watts of total power, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is to audio what the 8K TV is to video. Capable of deep and crisp bass on its own, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ can also be paired with the PULSE SUB+ to create dramatic soundscapes for music, movies, concerts and games. Simply add a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i speakers as rear channels for a complete wireless Dolby Surround Sound experience.

FLEXIBILITY FOR ANY ENTERTAINMENT SETUP
Connect nearly any audio source to the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ via its array of wired and wireless, digital and analog connectivity options. TVs, gaming consoles, music streaming services, laptops, and music libraries can be accessed through HDMI eARC, Apple AirPlay 2, two-way aptX HD Bluetooth, TOSLINK, RCA, USB, and our proprietary BluOS music streaming system.

MORE POWERFUL, MORE EFFICIENT
Designed for end-to-end efficiency, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ features a powerful custom-specified ARM Cortex A53 Quad-Core chipset that processes audio 8 times faster than previous generations of Bluesound architecture. Combined with two WiFi chips to prevent network latency, this flagship board design offers rock solid and zero-lag audio performance, even for demanding gaming applications.

PRECISION APP CONTROL
The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ offers a spectrum of control options, making it easy to weave home entertainment into everyday life. Newly added simple touch controls on the front panel now offer quick access to play, pause and volume. With just a smartphone or tablet, the built-in BluOS wireless multi-room streaming technology can connect and sync audio to, from, and around any room in the home. Hands-free control of your home entertainment is made possible with popular voice assistants from Google, Amazon, and Apple, while professional smart home integrators can get access to drivers for popular control systems like Lutron, Crestron, RTI, Elan, and others.

Like all Bluesound PULSE speaker models, the acoustic design and speaker voicing was performed at Canada’s National Research Council by Lenbrook’s renowned speaker design and engineering team.
“In 2016, Bluesound launched the world’s first Hi-Res soundbar, setting the bar for audio excellence in the category that continues to this day,” says Matt Simmonds, Bluesound Product Manager. “With the PULSE SOUNDBAR+, we continue to innovate and refine, making good on our commitment to bring hi-res, HiFi listening to everyday life, even in product categories that traditionally overlook the importance of audio quality.”

Highlights of the Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+:

  • Future Forward. Bluesound’s next generation quad-core processor boasts all the power and speed required for the latest and greatest audio and DSP processing, with built-in headroom for whatever technologies the future may hold.
  • Audio First. The PULSE SOUNDBAR+ stays true to its hi-res audio foundations and its HiFi roots. The tried and tested amplifier platform packs a punch, allowing you to play loud and dig deep, with tight, musical control.
  • BluOS. The world’s leading hi-res multi-room system connects the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ to any other Bluesound Player with precise control in the BluOS app.

About Bluesound

An alliance of audiophiles. We are the designers, engineers and individuals who have spent our lives in the music industry. Our founders helped pioneer HiFi in the 70s – innovation and the pursuit of perfection in audio runs deep in our collective DNA. Bluesound’s sole mission is to create innovative wireless audio products and technologies that allow for the most true-to-live performance music reproduction possible, utilizing the most advanced, state-of-the-art digital technology.

Give the The Gift Of Sound This Fathers Day. #FathersDay #Tech #Audio

Some more fathers day tech ideas just in case you have no ideas this is our second pick of what might be a good idea to pick up on the special day coming very soon. Unexpected and unique, these are the excellent gadgets fit for any father figure who loves music. Whether it’s an award winning music streamer, speakers or true wireless earbuds,here is a great selection.

NAD M10 Streaming Amplifier

 

The audio world has shifted. Where once available solely on discs, the best quality of music is now delivered over the internet. Not only does it sound better, but entire catalogues of recorded music are more accessible than ever before. Curated playlists make music selection and discovery easy and fun, while multi-room wireless audio multiplies the possibilities. With the NAD Masters M10 it will combine all of this goodness with state-of-the-art amplification to make it an all-in-one solution that will transport you to your favourite musical destination.

CLCKR: The Handy Tool for Dads

Whether your Dad is a DIY king or not, this CLCKR phone stand and universal grip is the handy tool that all Dads need. CLCKR handily holds your device in different viewing positions so you can use your phone to stay in touch with family and friends, binge watch your favourite tv series or videos or teach Dad how to take a selfie! SEE OUR REVIEW 

Bluesound Flex 2i Hi-Res Music Speaker

The Bluesound Pulse Flex 2i is an Award Winning, portable wireless multi-room music streaming speaker. Pair them together for stereo sound. Simply plug it in and connect it to your WiFi and control from anywhere in your home. Connect to your Amazon Echo or via AirPlay 2, letting you play music direct from your voice/device. Compatible with all your favourite streaming services including; Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music, Deezer – all in 24-bit, high resolution.

For the Keep Fit Dads Urbanista Athens

Whilst your Dad might not be able to go to the gym this Father’s Day, he may like to enjoy running, cycling or some entertainment on his daily walk. Urbanista Athens true wireless sports headphones are the perfect workout companion. They have a IP67 fully waterproof rating so you can sweat, swim or shower with these headphones and they have 8 hours of charging time and a total of 32 hours charge from the case, that means Dad won’t need to look around for his charger for a while. SEE OUR REVIEW

Get savings from Bluesound and 3 months of Tidal for Free. #Bluesound #Tidal #Hometheater

Bluesound, the leader in wireless, high-res, multi-room music systems, announced a limited-time promotion on several Bluesound Home Theater Bundles. Turn your music, movies, sports, and video games into a fully immersive sonic experience with Bluesound’s wireless home theater players. There are three options appealing to different home theater system preferences and to both new and existing Bluesound customers. The promotion is in effect from April 14 – May 31, 2020. Purchase online at Bluesound.com or through participating Bluesound dealers worldwide.

Buy an award-winning POWERNODE 2i with HDMI and save 25% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i

This is the perfect bundle for movie lovers who enjoy their music with equal enthusiasm. With the launch of the BluOS 3.8 software upgrade last month, the POWERNODE 2i can now become part of a home theater grouping, in addition to its “day job” as a high-performance integrated amplifier and hi-res DAC and streamer. Just add speakers and the POWERNODE 2i takes your music listening to new levels, or add a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i as rear channels and make it the center of your Dolby Digital surround sound experience. Now, for a limited time, get 25% off a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i when you purchase a POWERNODE 2i at full price.

Buy a PULSE SOUNDBAR 2i and save 25% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i

Designed to fit perfectly under your HD or 4K TV, the PULSE SOUNDBAR 2i is the world’s first multi-room, high-res, wireless home theater soundbar to feature crystal clear, 24-bit resolution sound and audiophile-grade bass response—without a subwoofer. Add a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i as rear channels—now 25% off when you purchase a PULSE SOUNDBAR 2i — and enjoy a Dolby Digital home theater experience.

Save 10% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i

Whether adding two PULSE FLEX 2i to create the dedicated rear channels of a wireless home theater system, or hi-res music streaming zones in your home, save 10% on a stereo pair of PULSE FLEX 2i during this limited time promotion.

For more details on all the Bluesound Home Theater configurations, visit: bluesound.com/home-theater.