Bluesound has earned a reputation for offering high-quality audio gear, and its Node series includes a new range of music streamers for 2024. The Node Icon is the premium option, followed by the more affordable Node (2024), and the entry-level Node Nano. The Nano, being the smallest and least expensive of the group, promises excellent performance despite its compact size.
Build & Design
The name “Nano” immediately suggests a compact form, and when reviewers unboxed the product, they were struck by how small it is—small enough to hold in one hand comfortably. It isn’t quite as tiny as a deck of cards or a bar of soap, but its size is certainly on the small side, akin to a squarish paperback book.
Despite its size, the Bluesound Node Nano looks attractive, featuring a simple yet stylish control panel with touch-sensitive buttons for play/pause, volume, and presets on a slanted front. The rest of the unit is straightforward, without unnecessary embellishments, but it feels durable and practical. It doesn’t stand out excessively, but it looks sleek and functions well. The Nano lacks a remote, but like its sibling Node (2024), you’ll use the BluOS app on your smartphone for control.
Features
The Nano is designed as an entry-level option for music streaming, but Bluesound has ensured that it doesn’t compromise on essential components. The music streamer uses the same high-quality ESS ES9039Q2M Sabre DAC found in its more expensive siblings, ensuring solid audio quality.
At the back of the unit, you’ll find RCA, coaxial, and optical outputs, as well as an IR input, USB-A, Ethernet, and a USB-C power port. However, features like HDMI ARC or a headphone output are absent, which are available on the larger Node (2024).
In terms of streaming services, the Nano supports Amazon Music, Deezer, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive. It connects to your home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and can handle high-resolution PCM files up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD256 files. However, there’s no built-in Chromecast support, which some competitors at this price point offer.
The BluOS platform powers the Node Nano, providing reliable and user-friendly software. The BluOS app serves as your central hub for accessing and managing your music library, streaming services, and customization options like creating preset playlists and adjusting settings.
Sound
To test the sound, the Nano was paired with a Naim Nait XS 3 amplifier and Epos ES-7N standmount speakers. While it’s designed for more budget-conscious setups, the reference system helped assess its performance clearly. For a more price-appropriate match, the Rotel A8 amp and Dali Oberon 1 or Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 speakers would be ideal.
The sound signature of the Node Nano is similar to the Node (2024), with an emphasis on solidity and smoothness. The audio delivers a weighty, grand sound, particularly evident with Lana Del Rey’s “Born To Die.” The Nano brings out the strength in her vocals, as well as the strings and percussion, resulting in a powerful yet smooth presentation. It provides a wide soundstage, ensuring that even large or fast-paced tracks feel expansive.
Despite its solid performance, the Nano doesn’t have the same dynamic impact as more expensive systems. It can smooth over dramatic crescendos and emotional moments, which limits its ability to create truly intense emotional experiences. The lack of punch is noticeable when listening to certain tracks, as the Nano doesn’t convey rhythmic patterns as sharply as competitors like the WiiM Pro Plus. For instance, the distinctive drum pattern in “Born To Die” requires extra attention to hear clearly.
Verdict
For its size and price, the Bluesound Node Nano is an excellent entry-level music streamer. While it might not offer the same sharpness and rhythmic precision as some competitors, it excels in delivering a smooth, solid, and detailed sound. For those starting in the world of hi-fi separates, the Nano offers a compact and affordable solution that performs well across a wide range of music genres.
Rating:
Sound: 4/5
Build: 4/5
Features: 5/5
