Bluesound Powernode 2i (with HDMI): Bodacious sound from a micro-sized box

This self-amplified multiroom music streamer delivers high-res audio experiences that Sonos won’t, but Bluesound’s user experience isn’t nearly as polished.

- JONATHAN TAKIFF

Don’t let the petite dimensions and minimalist design of the $899 Bluesound Powernode 2i deceive you. This self-amplified, multiroom streaming music player is packed with audio goodness and will deliver blissful sonic experiences from nearly any source: local or network storage, a disc player, your mobile device, or your streaming service of choice—including their high-restiers. You can use a turntable, too, but you’ll need to plug it into a preamp first. Just be prepared for a user experience that’s, shall we say, a wee bit rough around the edges.

In my book, the Powernode 2i’s features, capabilities, and performance are worth dealing with a few operational quirks that must be mastered, tolerated, or fixed (more on that in a bit). Its pluses far outweigh its negatives, just like that abiding love of your life whose eccentricities you learn to ignore. I mean, what’s not to love here? You get whistleclean amplification (60 watts per channel), high-resolution audio support (up to 24-bit resolution with sampling rates as high as 192kHz), support for every important file format (including FLAC, Apple Lossless, and MQA), robust connectivity options (USB, gigabit ethernet, dual-band 802.11ac, Airplay 2, two-way Bluetooth 5.0), diverse inputs and outputs (Toslink, combo Toslink/3.5mm in; 3.5mm headphone, subwoofer out), and even HDMI ARC support. Just add your own loudspeakers.