The ‘mono’ setting is also useful for speaker setup. Put the streamer into ‘mono’ mode and adjust speaker placement until the center image is precise and narrow at your primary listening position. You will most likely end up with optimal imaging when using this method.
Don't give away secrets, LoL. If you tell everyone how to get a 95% plus solution without much effort and without an O Scope, how are us nerds going to impress our friends?
My question that I have never heard an adequate answer to, is if I use these devices purely for streaming to an external DAC, then are there any appreciable differences between, say a Bluesound Node, a Wiim Pro Plus and this new Node Nano? I have not seen a decent mutil-device review, where each streamer is reviewed just as a standalone streamer, with the DAC taken out of the equation. How about a test by cheapaudioman, to REALLY figure out whether the streaming side of all these devices sound any different. Attach each streamer to let's say an entry level DAC, a mid-range DAC and just for giggles, a higher-end DAC, and let's see if there are solid differences. Also, try connecting via the optical out, or Coax out, to a pair of good quality powered speakers that have their own built-in DAC and see how that sounds. Cheers!
In that scenario, each device becomes a transport, simply responsible for transporting digital data. Aside from technical measurements, and all other factors being the same, I think it would be nearly impossible to identify a sound difference between pre-dac, digital signals.
@@clchesnutt That has been my thoughts, but if better components are used, do we have differences in noise floor? Do we have similar or identical data streams through the optical or coax? If there are any differences, are they even remotely audible? I just haven't seen any reputable or plausible testing done to answer those questions. Cheers.
@@The80shilling Yes! I think there would certainly be differences between the tech specs of each signal. Technical measurements like this are a specialty of Audio Science Review, which many people rely on. Audible differences though? All other factors the same, I think that would be pretty challenging to identify. Because it’s the DAC we are ultimately hearing. The measurements community is very passionate though, so I’m sure someone will say otherwise and THD me into SINAD oblivion.
@@The80shilling I believe he mentioned this briefly in the Wiim Ultra review that it sounded better going through the SMSL SU1, but a true comparison video would be quite awesome.
I wish these guys, BlueSound, WiiM, Cambridge would make a simple stand alone streamer with Coax, Optical, USB and i2s outputs. No DACs, no screens, just a simple streamer. And allow me to purchase my own external power supply. The caveat, do not use a Pi board, build a quality board, have galvanic isolation with industrial clocking. On the power side, have filtering to further enhance the sound. Volumio makes the Rivo, and I do own one, but I would like to see both BlueSound and WiiM make such a streamer. I would hope WiiM does this, as their software is second to none for basic streaming.
Lots of features basically keeps you in midfi territory - especially parametric eq. Uniformly the number of people who complain that it isn’t snappy enough will just whine and whine away until the product gets smeared until it gets killed. I feel that’s what happened to the zen stream and rivo. There is one product that nails it: magna mano mk3 with farad ps. They basically take away WiFi connectivity and give you one choice of which connection you can order it with (in addition to the i2s port)
@@stijnvanderlooy5311 well that's effectively what this is, you have to understand that most of these companies design products that will appeal to the greatest number of consumers. While a dac less Streamer only is a great product, I've got two of them, if you want to reach the biggest audience with a product you want to make sure that that product is usable by almost everybody. That means including a built-in DAC and features that the average novice is going to want and is going to feel that they want. Just imagine average Joe saying he wants a streamer, he's heard about how great a streamer is from some guy he works with or read about it in an article and he knows he needs one, although he can barely operate his own microwave. Do you think he's going to be capable of getting the streamer and then hooking it up to an external DAC and figuring out sampling rates and whether or not he wants the streamer to up convert to DSD 512 because his DAC supports it?, no he's going to want something he can plug into the wall and then hook the two RCA cables up to the back of his speaker or integrated amp that he bought and that just works, that's what the node nano does and that's what they're going for.
This nano is pretty much what you’re asking for. The dac in it does sound great, but I don’t use it either. It has coax, optical, and usb out. It’s perfect. The sound is GREAT. I’m so happy about choosing this over the ultra. I streamed with the wiim’s as well, and the sound doesn’t compare. I’d recommend this to anyone looking for exactly what you’re suggesting. Because it’s exactly what I was looking for, and it sounded better than I ever expected it would. It’s my favorite piece I’ve added to my system lately. I’ve had a Chromebook sitting around that I got from Verizon last time I got a new phone, and this is the first way I’ve been able to use it for my music. Through the bluOS controller app, it actually lets me play bit perfectly on an android/chromeOS device!
@@khalbrando2990 If I’m reading your comment correctly -you’re saying that used as a streamer into an external DAC the Nano sounds better than the Wiim. Is this via USB or optical and are you using the power bricks that come with the units or a more expensive power supply?
Nice to see Bluesound finally innovating again. They make great products that stand the test of time. The icon will be a sweet piece of kit when it comes out looking forward to that.
Personally, I would choose the regular Wiim pro and then add my own DAC. I already have a Geshelli labs DAC that I could use. That was nearly a $400 DAC so would raise the price well above the nano, but I already have it! They’re certainly are cheaper DCS that one could connect to the pro though. Nice thing about the nano is that it would be a sleek, all in one solution.
Big question Randy! How does is compare to the Cambridge mxn 10 ? I currently have a WiiM pro plus and it sounds thin compared to my audiolab cdt. I’m wondering if an external dac is my best option 🤷♂️
Excellent - one thing that Bluesound offers, that as far as I know is only available with a BlueOS device, and that is in the Radio Paradise app, you can sign into your RP account and this lets you listen to your Favorites on RP. Which is wonderful! Mine is set up so that all songs that I have rated 7 of 10 or higher plays (more or less) randomly! Several thousand songs that I like/love are streamed for my listening pleasure! And yes, a linear power supply makes a substantial improvement, in my opinion. My Node 2i streaming into my Geshelli Labs Dayzee - sounds incredible! Way beyond what I could have imagined - better than my beloved Linn Axis; because many/most digital recordings are better than many/most LPs - which is not something I would have thought was possible just a few years ago.
@@loganrencher5985 yes on both! For a Node, I would recommend the kit that Beatechnik (a sibling company to Denafrips) carries. For Geshelli I would get a 12V rated for between 25W and 50W. Beatechnik also sells these under the LHY Audio brand. The one I am using now, is a custom made dual voltage unit from Pine Tree Audio.
I have a Biuesound Node and really like it. Can you do a more in-depth comparison of the Nano vs. Node? And what can we expect from the forthcoming Icon?
@@ThatAnalogDigitalagreed! I had a guy on the last CAM video who said that a wireless connection is better than a wired connection…. I almost feel out of my chair laughing . Then I realized that he only had a pair of active Edifier speakers….lol 🙄 so many insecure people out there that for go common sense because of their mental issues…
Thank you for all this awesome content. So my question is how does the SMSL SU-1 compare to the DAC in the Nano? Right now I use a WIIM mini and the SU-1 and it sounds great. You mentioned in the WIIM Ultra review that the SU-1 sounded better than the ESS DAC in the Ultra. So is it the same for the ESS in the Nano? Is the SU-1 still the best sounding?
My experience with the SU-1 and these ESS DAC chips is that the SU-1 sounds more like the Denafrips Ares line of DACs, at least to my ears, on my system. The ESS DACs in these less expensive streamers tend to have a bit of sibilance, and can be harsh if not bright sounding. I do know the DAC in the Ultra is much better than what is found in the Mini and Pro streamers, I own them all. And I would assume, having owned a Node N130, that the DAC in the Node Nano will be on par with the Ultra, maybe better, maybe worse. The selling point at this $300 price point to me is the software, mainly the software in the WiiM Ultra, with the EQ, PEQ and Room Correction, along with a much wider choice of streaming services. I like my TuneIn and Amazon Music, neither are available on the Node products.
Thanks for the heads up cheapaudioman! I’m thinking about getting a streamer and love the Wiim and Nano form factor and price points. Question for the group, using AirPlay from my iPad will either of these sound better connected to a stand alone DAC like a Topping Velvet or Denafrips? Thanks in advance!
I think you are paying more for the Nano because of the premium internal DAC. That said, if you already have an external DAC, I'd go for a WiiM Pro and use it only as a transport feeding your DAC.
Edit: So we're clear, I have watched the video where the ZA3 and Yamaha are compared head to head... but you don't really go through the other system elements too much. My idea is more like if you had X dollars to spend and you made the best possible setup of separates vs best possible setup using a few more expensive combo components, how would the overall capabilities of the systems compare? As someone getting into hifi audio I would really appreciate a video that is a head on comparison of approaches to getting started. You have some videos that touch on these topics, like the video giving reasons why you might not want an integrated amp. However, it would be interesting to see head to head Yamaha A-S301 vs a roughly equivalent system of more separated components. Then comparing the price difference and how much of a listening experience difference there is. I'm really torn between spending more to get a more flexible system vs just get something like the A-S301 and save some money, then buy a tier higher of separates later and there are surprisingly few videos that compare these approaches head to head
Just to confirm ...are you saying that the nano as a pure steeamer connected to external dac sounds better than the wiim pro pro plus and ultra or as a source they all are outputing the same sound....
So if I run a digital out from the wiim ultra it uses the external dac, but if I run the RCA analog out then it uses the wiim dac right ? I plan to use the wiim ultra and SMSL hack and coax out into my 2008 pioneer vsx 1019ahk home theater receiver for powering the speakers. I assume I will no longer get the surround sound effect out of my 4.1 setup but I use it in stereo more anyways.
Really enjoying your channel - I have dipped my toe into the streamer/dac world starting with more budget options. Bought a WIIM Ultra and have been enjoying its functionality (not really needing all the connections) but found the sound from its DAC to be not so great. I ended up liking better the USB-out of the unit to the USB-in to my 20 year old OUTLAW 990 AVR (uses AD1852 24-bit/192kHz chip)/Preamp to Outlaw 770 amp to B&W DM602S3 speakers. Curious how a dedicated DAC would sound, I bought a FIIO K11 R2R DAC hooked it up to the WIIM's USB out and then analog to my 990. Pretty impressed with the sound considering my old equipment. I could stop there at $500 bucks, but now might consider a linear power supply to open up/tighten the sound but then we start to approach $650 which is close to an Eversolo DMP-A6. Would the jump to a dedicated streamer/dac at $800 sound that much better than my WIIM/FIIO setup? Keep up the great work!-Rob
OK, I hope this isn’t too off-topic. So I’m playing Apple Music supposedly lossless, through my iPad into a simple Bluetooth receiver. Into a Marantz pre-/processor. my question is, am I losing and I am looking for a percentage here, quality versus using a dedicated streamer and then using Apple Music lossless?
While it is more convenient to have a 5V power input on the back panel, there is one distict advantage about upgrading the older models with an internally mounted DC interface board that then hooks up to linear supply. Most of the these interface boards have large amount of additional filter capacitance and local regulation that then hooks up to the internal circuits via a very short ( 2 inch?) Cable. So regardless of which external supply you use there is also additional local regulation. It is best to have final regulation as close to its target as possible and the N130 mods allow this.
Timely video! Simplicity and performance RULE; that's coming from an EE and long-time audio guy. I'm buying a streamer to be a streamer, not a mediocre phono preamp, etc. Here's hoping that this Bluesound model has decent WIFI (chipset + antenna) that doesn't require me to be within very close range of my wireless router, unlike the Wiim Mini I recently returned. Having a display is a nice, useful feature. The evolution of streamers continues!
Bluesound is very good at bringing new and improved products to the market, each rendition of the Node has sounded noticeably different. I’m looking forward to seeing the reviews of the new Icon model with the screen. 👍🏻
I've bought one Node so far. Last years special edition, the Node X. It sounds wonderful connected to my CXA81 amplifier in the living room or a pair of PreSonus Eris E 4.5 BT monitor speakers in my Office. Soundwise it's up there with my usual combination of CXN V2 and DacMagic 200M going into my CXA81. I don't have experience with any other Node version.
I don't think the Nano targets the Wiim, it's going after the Cambridge MXN10, which has a similar feature set but is much less expensive. Neither the Nano nor MXN10 will handle UPnP. Why is that important? I'm an Audirvana Studio user and connecting to the Wiim Pro via UPnP works well. From the Wiim, the signal is fed to the SMSL SU-1 via coax. Also, the optical connection is a big plus for input from the TV. Finally, the built-in room correction is a major plus. Wiim's room correction functionality appears to be modeled after Yamaha's YAPO in the RX-V2600. The Wiim has the added benefit that each input can have its own settings.
@cheapaudioman Awesome review. Wiim is doing everyone a favor by pushing the features boundaries. Their innovation is lightyears away from others. But they are still behind on the delivery front, but ascending in output. Good for them, good for us. Best thing about this review? You're not biased on the sound, you gave it to us straight. Killing it! Keep'em coming Mr Randy! 🙃
No streamer has Apple Music. The Bluesound products have Airplay 2, which allows you to cast your Apple Music to the device. If you have a MacBook, supposedly Airplay 2 allows Lossless content , where as an iPhone or iPad will downgrade lossless to 256K - which still sounds pretty good.
No Airplay with WiiM Ultra! Assume WiiM was rushing to get Ultra out before Bluesound Nano and did not have time to fix Airplay problems. Also assume that there has been a huge number of Amazon returns of Ultra from people like me who did not read Amazon description fine print which warned that Ultra was not compatible with Airplay.
Airplay is lossy and I’ve seen people ask about it as it is a convenient wireless connection but not the best for quality. I think it was and is omitted on the ultra ( wiim says it has no plans to add airplay)& and other new streamers because it’s not very popular anymore apple should do a “connect” feature like tidal instead of using proprietary connections like airplay. It’s also because of apple that very few streamers have Apple Music natively. They are not good to their customers that way.
I’ve considered adding an Belkin SoundForm Connect AirPlay 2 Adapter & Airplay 2 Receiver to connect into my WiiM Ulta’s toslink input port. Not sure there is any audio quality loss.
@@stevenwaldstein2249 honestly I don’t. I know it’s a huge pain in the A** but my recommendation would be to ditch apple music for Tidal,or Quobuz. Apple is just to proprietary making it very difficult.
I have the Wiim Pro and the Node 2i. The Coax outputs sound different and the Node 2i is better. Better how? The Node sounds more neutral or normal and the Wiim Pro sounds altered. Wiim Pro coax output sounds weaker than Node, Wiim also sounds rounder and softer with less impact. Wiim also lacks some bass, but all of that improves a little with Direct Connet to your router with a network cable. The Network cable connection gives the Wiim a slightly cleaner sound with more bass reproduction. It is still rounder and softer, and I still prefer the Node 2i for more clarity and more of a neutral/normal sound. But the Wiim with network cable is a better overall experience that has some enticing characteristics.
Bluesound has improved a lot since Gen 2i. I think you’ll find the new stuff better overall. By the way, the digital outputs sound better on the Node because of lower noise. Digital may be digital but it is not immune to noise.
@@davidcarr6831 I only use the SPDIF output, so upgraded DACs with better sound doesn't mean much to me. If the Node Mini sound as good out of the SPDIF, I will buy one, but it is hard to get that information from 'reviews'. I've had 8 DACs through my system, so I understand how digital might be different for different designs.
This node nano is truly special. I’ve tried every wiim besides pro plus, and the nano smokes them all including the ultra. Especially for someone that just wants a streamer, that has a dac and an amp, everything else and just wants a streamer with all the digital outputs, including usb out. It’s just icing on top that its dac actually sounds really good! The BluOS is superior as well. Before you tell me I’m crazy and the ultra has all these better options, do your homework. Is it really what you want? It seems to me, that if you love vinyl, you don’t want your phono pre amp to digitize the signal, run that through the ultras dac for your sound, do you? I know I prefer just using a true phono pre amp. From what I can tell, the “analog” input on wiim also changes it to digital, runs that back through its internal dac and then outputs its sound. I have no interest in a preamp that does that. I guess if you don’t mind that part, and just want a set it and forget one device does all type of component, the ultra is perfect for you. But if you want a streamer purely for streaming, the nano is the very best. Save the $30. It’s way better than the wiim mini, so please don’t hit me with that. It’s no comparison. Try them. Maybe my system just so happens to have perfect synergy, but I really don’t believe that. Sure, it does have great synergy, but I believe this streamer would sound great in any system!
@@davec2939 we are talking about the icon model that hasn’t been released yet…. And yes it has a state of the art preamp. But yes the nano does not have a preamp , it’s the entry level node.
I just replaced my node n130 with the wiim ultra. The wiim ultra easily sounds significantly better than the Node130. Wiim has bulletproof Ui and i think it's easier and more intuitive to navigate than bluOS. My Wiim took an update immediately and room correction works with my Pixel 8 Pro and boy does it make a massive difference in my space.
I use an external DAC and amp so the internal stuff makes no difference to me. I just want a streamer. The nano allows direct streaming of SiriusXM. The WiiM products do not support SiriusXM. For this reason alone, I am going to get a nano.
Would you go for a Wiim Pro with a $200-300 DAC or the Wiim Ultra? I'm setting up an Emotiva XB2, but the lack of AirPlay on the Ultra is a concern for me as a Mac user. What do you think? Maybe a video on complete setup recommendations would be great, especially with all the new products out there!
Buy the ultra if you need / want the features. If you then find the sound isn't to your liking, you can always add a dac later. You can't add extra features to the Pro. But, if you don't need the features of the ultra, then the pro with external dac is likely to sound better. But, would you notice? Would you care?
@@RacingAnt Thanks for the input! Since this will be my first setup, I’m not sure if I’d notice the difference. It is odd that the Ultra doesn’t have AirPlay while other Wiim products do. I’m still new to all of this, so the sound quality will probably suit me just fine. I’m just trying to figure out where to allocate my budget to get the best outcome based on these reviews.
This comment has nothing to do with this video other than you do mention the Icon. Your review of the WiiM Ultra had one in my Amazon basket and I deliberated, because I was really waiting to see if Bluesound was going to react and there was that cryptic message out there and lo and behold the very next day here we are. Your review of the Node way back just asking for a screen to be added really was what I was looking for. That's what I wanted. Now the Icon is arriving soon and it has more than that, including cost. But it's thrown a wrench into my audio plan. I like the big screen, like the overall size, don't need XLR, and the dual DAC....the plan was to get a Dayzee. For that cost maybe I don't do an external DAC? Maybe the Icon will sound "good enough" and I don't do a Dayzee. I await to see what both you and Darko say to be further flummoxed by indecision. A node with a screen.... that's what I wanted Bluesound. Maybe one day there will be an Icon Lite? And I can wait forever for that.
Ya I’m with you there! Bluesound is a better quality product. The wiim fan boys will jump all over that because they think those cheap streamers are the best there is lol
I've sat within the Sonos ecosystem for some time but recently tried a Wiim Pro in the office, I was surprised with the lack of Apple Music support (I sent it back and now have a Sonos Port). Why is it seemingly the fact that only Sonos has Apple Music streaming capabilities? Is it the Sonos architecture? Puzzling. Or can the other streamer manufacturer just not be bothered with Apple integration. I'd be interested to know.
@@DaveElby I’m sure that the dearth of native Apple Music support has something to do with to do with Apple wanting it that way. It’s also worth noting that the Sonos Apple Music streaming is supposed to be capped at 256kbps AAC, so not the hi resolution that they sell so hard. Still nice that anyone offers native Apple Music support though.
Thanks for this comparison. However, I am thinking quitting the Bluesound/NAD ecosystem, mostly because playlist management is ridiculously poor. Possibly moving to Wiim + Plex.
BluOS is ok-ish. Not as great as Cambridge's StreamMagic in my opinion. And definitely far inferior to Roon. Roon being my daily driver when it comes to playing music.
Liking my WiiM Ultra but I still prefer my Schiit Mani 2 as my phono pre instead of running through the Ultra. Mani brings out the highs a tad better, for my liking. The Ultra wasn't terrible by any means just sounded a hair flatter than the Mani 2. Of course, the Mani has a bit more customization when it comes to setting up your preferred sound, through its settings. I also noticed I had to increase the volume about 20% when running through the Ultra as it played at a lower level than the Mani 2.
This couldn’t possibly arrive at a better time! I needed one AirPlay 2 compatible. Now i need to find something i can connect my SACD, Cassette player, Turntable and headphones DAC/AMP to my SVS Soundbase
No there isn't, however most audio enthusiasts believe that a linear power supply powering a product creates a better sound than does a switching power supply. Me personally I feel that it does sometimes although that said I have heard products with really high quality switching power supplies that sound freaking awesome. I think a lot of it has to do with the high frequency noise that's generated in a switching power supply that filters down into the audible band, that's sort of the theory anyway. Whether or not that actually degrades the sound quality is really up For debate, although I have heard the node with the s booster linear power supply and in my opinion it did sound better.
@@Norman-bone13 You're welcome, happy to always help with advice or information. You'll find that a lot of audio products when you really get into the nuts and bolts of what makes a product good versus not so good, is power supply. Whether that be an amplifier or a preamp or a CD player or a DAC, the better The power supply the better the sound quality.
Is the Blusound Nano a certified Roon endpoint? I own a BluSound Node but got several WiiM Pros and Pro plus because ther was no lower cost BluSound device until now. Love to learn more. Thank you and take care.
Since the Nano doesn’t have any inputs, wouldn’t it compare more with the Wiim Mini? In that arena, the biggest advantage is the Nano’s ESS9039Q2M chip. But is it worth 2x the price?
Love your video. Thank you so much for that update. Would also love to see very cheap solutions, like a Raspberry Pi with Volumio for example. Also usable as a streamer and the possibility to upgrade the used DAC :)
I thought I wanted a Node (not the Nano since it has no HDMI ARC port) to use with my NAD C272 power amp and Dynaudio speakers. However... I'm discovering Plex. And that works (or is going to work) with Wiim products, but no such plans are known for Bluesound (and software-wise it might be competition actually). But Plex basically means that I have my own Spotify service from my own library. Even when I'm out and about, and the Wiim can function as an endpoint. But if it doesn't sound as good... that's another thing to think about. I could use an external DAC but it's not something I prefer.
If you have a new puppy I HIGHLY recommend the books and videos by Dr. Ian Dunbar. Because of many friends recommendation I bought his 'Sirius Puppy Training' video back in '89 when I got my Samoyed, Rocky, and it made the following 14 1/2 years much more enjoyable. Rocky picked up everything pretty quickly. Anyway, with high energy dogs it's especially important to train them early and be consistent with how everyone treats the dog. I'm also a convert to positive reinforcement when it comes to discipline. Never had to hit or spank Rocky. He was housetrained really fast. Anyway, that video made a huge difference having Rocky.
I sent my Wiim Ultra back. Streamer/app Loaded with Malware as far as I could tell. I now have a new computer, and router. Turned out to be a very expensive streamer. Thank you Wiim. I’ve heard other people have had similar experiences. I’ll stream from my computer, and use an external DAC.
I do not like the eq in the blue sound node app. But I prefer the sound much better out of the blue sound node over the Wiim. That is blue sound node sounds great in fixed volume output mode, not so great with bass and treble control enabled. Wiim need to use eq to bump up bass, and eq does great on Wiim…but still, blue sound node dac sounds better. That is second generation blue sound node compared to Wiim pro.
I have a CXN V2 in the living room. And to be honest when sitting in the couch it is unreadable. Album art is nice, but otherwise its a quite useless feature.
Been playing with one of these the last couple days in my headphone setup. I was trying to replace an Oppo UDP-205 I use for playing local files on a 1TB USB drive. last week I did the same with the Wiim Ultra which I promptly returned (but that's another story). Both the Oppo and Nano were plugged into my headphone amp via RCA inputs. The Oppo has this beat in every aspect possible for sound quality. So much so that I thought it just must be louder than the Nano ? I played some test tones and measured the outputs and surprise, the Nano was actually .1dB louder so basically the same. Was really noticeable on Hi-res and MQA files (night & day). The nano does not do DSD so no comparison there. If I had to sum it up the bass was weak & flat and was kind of Midrange forward. Why the hell do they not give you some sort of simple power Off (same gripe on Wiim which burns about 5w all the time) ? Stupid to have a trigger out btw way when the thing is always On. The USB port does not seat all the way in (probably some 10 cent cheap ass connector). I did try and use the USB port to the USB DAC input on the Oppo. This does work contrary to what reviewers are saying. You do have to select the DAC (Identified correctly as Oppo BDP-205) in the Audio setup. This kills the analog & digital outputs when you select the USB DAC output and since this is the only USB port you loose local files. Comparing the app to other streamers I have used, Eversolo and Volumio, this one is not that great but workable. So I decided to crack this thing open and take a look at what $299 gets you. Hmm, The DAC circuit is about the size of 2/3 of my little pinky. Kind of what you may find in some cheap USB dongle etc. (I'm guessing about $10-12 of parts here). OK, whats next. They have 2 steel plates screwed & glued to the top cover. Removed both of them and got 10dB higher Wi-Fi strength since they shield the little antenna inside (dumb). Why stop there so I removed the Blu Tooth antenna and circuit card since I will never use those. lastly I removed the silly front panel assy since everything I need to do has to be done in the app. Now I just have it connected to the Oppo via toslink for when I want to stream Spotify or Radio Paradise. Would have liked to have replaced the Oppo but sound wise its a No Go. If you like the Blue Os landscape and will use this in some low res system like a bedroom or multi room system this is OK but it's really only worth about $199 (or less) IMHO. Your Mileage may vary !!
I am not alone who would like wiim or bluesound to come up with a “streaming only” compact device, which has to be connected via USB to an external DAC and external 5v power source and would cost around 100eur, not higher. I have RME ADI-2 DAC already and don’t want to pay extra 200-300e for a built-in dubious quality DAC based on a new hi-end chipset. I just returned Bluesound Nano back to a store. When playing Tidal the inbuilt DAC audio quality is about the same to wiim pro plus a bit worse comparing to ifi zen dac 2, and not significantly better comparing to Tidal streaming on denon avc3700x av receiver. But everything changes when RME ADI-2 is connected as an external DAC. All those budget inbuilt DACs fail with LF and especially drums playback, drums do never sound natural.
@Randy. Given the comparison to the Wiim Ultra, the Nano just seems so stripped down. For $30 more you get WAY more. Granted, you say that the Nano sounds better than the Ultra. Using the same comparison in the Ultra video, how does it compare to the SMSL SU-1. Does the Nano sound better than that or no?
If you don’t need the additional connectivity then the Nano is a great choice. If you do need the connectivity and you want the sound quality the upcoming Node N132 is the answer.
@@davidcarr6831 Well, one thing I was looking for was a good hub or preamp. Not so much the streamer as the system I am putting together is for my desktop and I have a computer right next to it. So having something to bring together a CD player (digital output), phono, a DAC and tone controls with a subwoofer output together, would be great. The Nano just seems too stripped down and even though it might sound better, I just find it hard to justify the cost when the Wiim Ultra offers so much more. The N132 sounds promising, BUT at what cost?
Bluesound is really cool (high quality, good sound, easy interface, etc.). But there is a huge problem. Bluesound does not support TH-cam Music. Only Bluesound knows why. But they don't disclose the reason or explain whether and when this problem will change. For years now.... :-(
Bluesound what were you thinking? No digital inputs on the nano? Improved dac that you cannot connect to a tv or computer. New node has no coax in and a shared analog/optical? I saw these release and was so excited until I saw the back. Wiim pro plus for the 💯 percent win.
I don't know if it's a miss. If you want preamp features, get the Wiim. If you can get by the fact that the Nano is really a transport it should make no difference as you can either hit the source select on the Wiim or on your amplifier. They're the same thing in my mind.
Streamers…. Ugh. It feels like the industry is stepping over dollars to pick up dimes. Will this Zitt ever pop? I very much enjoy all the content you put. Do you feel that this slice of tech is getting a touch over battled for? It feels to me that we are just watching undercard after undercard fights. It’s not anyone’s fault. It’s just what is what’s out there to comment on. Ya just get bored of the fly weights.
@cheapaudioman I have seen a few of your videos and love the cost effective solution you share. Now I have some investment plans ongoing so cannot invest in a new audio setup. So, I was thinking about building one from whatever is available with me. 1. An old LED FHD TV (not smart TV) for Display 2. Old Dell Studio laptop, with 5.1 channel support & Realtek HD Audio ALC888 onboard. 3. Creative 2.1 speakers with decent bass for front speakers. 4. BPL Double cassette player with line--in option, stereo support with surround sound setup (2 speakers per channel). Very crisp & clear sound. Planning to use these as back surround speakers. Problem: As soon as I set the sound card to 5.1 the base is very much reduced in the 2.1 speaker and I don't have any center speaker & separate subwoofer. I do have a few bluetooth speakers with aux-in but that woofer is the major missing part. Is there any other way to configure the above setup? If not, can you recommend a product for missing speakers (only subwoofer or may be both subwoofer & center speaker) that I can also use with any other home theater setup that I may purchase in future.
with a future bluos update, the new blueasound streamer will be dsd enablred, this is a great new. well, wiim is an amazing streamer for streaming services, but for local files bluesound is much better
@@michaelcampbell9459 nice question: i use a minipc with DaphileOS: nothing better IMHO (someone prefears Volumio, and by an aesthetic point ov view is better, but as sound quality i prefear Daphile). The answer is: you have DSD files? If not grab a WiiM, otherwhise Bluesound
Suggestion. Love the channel. Please stop adding the 5 second music clips every minute or so it's incredibly annoying. I bet I'm not alone here. Ask the audience. Yes, I'm a real fan of your channel, keep the videos coming.
Apple is very proprietary and that’s why there is little native support for Apple Music. They are not good to their customers that way. Only offer air play which is lossy and a lot of streamers don’t even support that either. If apple want to keep its streaming customers they better start being more cooperative or risk losing subscribers. I see many people with the same issues with apple. I’ve used Tidal for over 5 years and it’s compatible on everything and lossless as well.
Apple Music - Sonos Port at 256AAC, Eversolo DMP-A6 with hi res, Fiio R7 with hi res. Apple Music Dolby Atmos? Probably Apple TV into a surround receiver.
Almost none. You can put the apple music app on some android based streamers but multichannel Atmos is a no go. The Apple TV 4k does Atmos but high res support tops out at 48k and all other sample rates(44.1k Redbook CD standard)are resampled to 48k. iOS devices output bitperfect audio but are stereo only as far as I can tell. Information on the Atmos support for iOS is mostly about the two channel spatial stuff they do over Bluetooth. Right now if you want bit perfect, high res, and full multi-channel Atmos support, there really isn't a one box option. I use my phone or an old iPad for Apple music streaming and use a Raspberry Pi based Volumio Streamer for other services. Not ideal but Apple music is still one of the better options for lossless streaming right now.
@@davidcarr6831 yes via airplay which is lossy. There isn’t any native support like Tidal connect for example. Apple should made a dedicated streamer for its music service. I see so many people use it and have a hard time for finding gear to support it properly. They’d make a fortune if they did . They could make it average like a little better then a wiim and charge 500 bucks because of the name and people would buy it I use Tidal My self but I get why people with Apple Music are frustrated, you’d have to be happy if a device has air play which can’t do anything above AAC. It’s a bummer for their customers.
![Best Music Streamer [2025] - Top 5 Best Music Streamers To Consider Buying!](/img/n.gif)
The ‘mono’ setting is also useful for speaker setup. Put the streamer into ‘mono’ mode and adjust speaker placement until the center image is precise and narrow at your primary listening position. You will most likely end up with optimal imaging when using this method.
Don't give away secrets, LoL. If you tell everyone how to get a 95% plus solution without much effort and without an O Scope, how are us nerds going to impress our friends?
My question that I have never heard an adequate answer to, is if I use these devices purely for streaming to an external DAC, then are there any appreciable differences between, say a Bluesound Node, a Wiim Pro Plus and this new Node Nano? I have not seen a decent mutil-device review, where each streamer is reviewed just as a standalone streamer, with the DAC taken out of the equation. How about a test by cheapaudioman, to REALLY figure out whether the streaming side of all these devices sound any different. Attach each streamer to let's say an entry level DAC, a mid-range DAC and just for giggles, a higher-end DAC, and let's see if there are solid differences.
Also, try connecting via the optical out, or Coax out, to a pair of good quality powered speakers that have their own built-in DAC and see how that sounds.
Cheers!
MUCH NEEDED!
In that scenario, each device becomes a transport, simply responsible for transporting digital data.
Aside from technical measurements, and all other factors being the same, I think it would be nearly impossible to identify a sound difference between pre-dac, digital signals.
@@clchesnutt That has been my thoughts, but if better components are used, do we have differences in noise floor? Do we have similar or identical data streams through the optical or coax? If there are any differences, are they even remotely audible? I just haven't seen any reputable or plausible testing done to answer those questions.
Cheers.
@@The80shilling Yes! I think there would certainly be differences between the tech specs of each signal. Technical measurements like this are a specialty of Audio Science Review, which many people rely on.
Audible differences though? All other factors the same, I think that would be pretty challenging to identify. Because it’s the DAC we are ultimately hearing.
The measurements community is very passionate though, so I’m sure someone will say otherwise and THD me into SINAD oblivion.
@@The80shilling I believe he mentioned this briefly in the Wiim Ultra review that it sounded better going through the SMSL SU1, but a true comparison video would be quite awesome.
I'm glad to hear Bluesound keeping up with the competitive market. The Bluesound icon is what I'm curious about.
I wish these guys, BlueSound, WiiM, Cambridge would make a simple stand alone streamer with Coax, Optical, USB and i2s outputs. No DACs, no screens, just a simple streamer. And allow me to purchase my own external power supply. The caveat, do not use a Pi board, build a quality board, have galvanic isolation with industrial clocking. On the power side, have filtering to further enhance the sound. Volumio makes the Rivo, and I do own one, but I would like to see both BlueSound and WiiM make such a streamer. I would hope WiiM does this, as their software is second to none for basic streaming.
Ditto. Such a waste of money to buy a DAC with streamer when you don't need the streamer and visa versa.
Lots of features basically keeps you in midfi territory - especially parametric eq. Uniformly the number of people who complain that it isn’t snappy enough will just whine and whine away until the product gets smeared until it gets killed. I feel that’s what happened to the zen stream and rivo. There is one product that nails it: magna mano mk3 with farad ps. They basically take away WiFi connectivity and give you one choice of which connection you can order it with (in addition to the i2s port)
I do hope Bluesound comes with Husky puppy to help with unpacking. Should be a standard.
Yes, Pleass 🐶
It's a Husky?!? Well, that's the end of Randy's audiophile career. Give a Husky a bath and your ears will be shot!
Bluesound should come with a streamer only reference piece. I would buy that!
@@stijnvanderlooy5311 well that's effectively what this is, you have to understand that most of these companies design products that will appeal to the greatest number of consumers. While a dac less Streamer only is a great product, I've got two of them, if you want to reach the biggest audience with a product you want to make sure that that product is usable by almost everybody. That means including a built-in DAC and features that the average novice is going to want and is going to feel that they want.
Just imagine average Joe saying he wants a streamer, he's heard about how great a streamer is from some guy he works with or read about it in an article and he knows he needs one, although he can barely operate his own microwave. Do you think he's going to be capable of getting the streamer and then hooking it up to an external DAC and figuring out sampling rates and whether or not he wants the streamer to up convert to DSD 512 because his DAC supports it?, no he's going to want something he can plug into the wall and then hook the two RCA cables up to the back of his speaker or integrated amp that he bought and that just works, that's what the node nano does and that's what they're going for.
Bluesound Icon, it will be there soon :)
@@fabianpresslaber9576but icon has a dac though?
This nano is pretty much what you’re asking for. The dac in it does sound great, but I don’t use it either. It has coax, optical, and usb out. It’s perfect. The sound is GREAT. I’m so happy about choosing this over the ultra. I streamed with the wiim’s as well, and the sound doesn’t compare. I’d recommend this to anyone looking for exactly what you’re suggesting. Because it’s exactly what I was looking for, and it sounded better than I ever expected it would. It’s my favorite piece I’ve added to my system lately. I’ve had a Chromebook sitting around that I got from Verizon last time I got a new phone, and this is the first way I’ve been able to use it for my music. Through the bluOS controller app, it actually lets me play bit perfectly on an android/chromeOS device!
@@khalbrando2990 If I’m reading your comment correctly -you’re saying that used as a streamer into an external DAC the Nano sounds better than the Wiim. Is this via USB or optical and are you using the power bricks that come with the units or a more expensive power supply?
Nice to see Bluesound finally innovating again. They make great products that stand the test of time. The icon will be a sweet piece of kit when it comes out looking forward to that.
In term of sound quality only, how does it compare to the Cambridge mxn10 you also reviewed? Thanks 😇
Personally, I would choose the regular Wiim pro and then add my own DAC. I already have a Geshelli labs DAC that I could use. That was nearly a $400 DAC so would raise the price well above the nano, but I already have it! They’re certainly are cheaper DCS that one could connect to the pro though. Nice thing about the nano is that it would be a sleek, all in one solution.
Try the DMP-A6, giant difference
your own DAC is more superior than the Wiim's?
@@toai2 depends on the DAC.
@ruger6049 dMp is something else , sounds stage is much bigger
Big question Randy! How does is compare to the Cambridge mxn 10 ? I currently have a WiiM pro plus and it sounds thin compared to my audiolab cdt.
I’m wondering if an external dac is my best option 🤷♂️
Always talking about linear power supplies. You should do a video on them. Where you get them, how you set them up, ect.
A question Do you use tone controls on a preamp or all setting from the wiim Ultra App? and leave the preamp Flat. Thank you
Excellent - one thing that Bluesound offers, that as far as I know is only available with a BlueOS device, and that is in the Radio Paradise app, you can sign into your RP account and this lets you listen to your Favorites on RP. Which is wonderful! Mine is set up so that all songs that I have rated 7 of 10 or higher plays (more or less) randomly! Several thousand songs that I like/love are streamed for my listening pleasure!
And yes, a linear power supply makes a substantial improvement, in my opinion. My Node 2i streaming into my Geshelli Labs Dayzee - sounds incredible! Way beyond what I could have imagined - better than my beloved Linn Axis; because many/most digital recordings are better than many/most LPs - which is not something I would have thought was possible just a few years ago.
I have an Eversolo DMP-A6 Master and Radio Paradise is available.
Neil, is the power supply worth it for the streamer or the Geshelli DAC or both? AND which power supply ?
Radio Paradise is available on WiiM as well.
@@loganrencher5985 yes on both! For a Node, I would recommend the kit that Beatechnik (a sibling company to Denafrips) carries. For Geshelli I would get a 12V rated for between 25W and 50W. Beatechnik also sells these under the LHY Audio brand. The one I am using now, is a custom made dual voltage unit from Pine Tree Audio.
@@ThatAnalogDigital the 4 main channels of RP, for sure - but do you know if you can sign into your account to have access to your Favorites?
I have a Biuesound Node and really like it. Can you do a more in-depth comparison of the Nano vs. Node? And what can we expect from the forthcoming Icon?
The Nano also supports Airplay 2. Which WiiM couldn't be bothered to include in the Ultra.
Which is probably why the Nano cost almost as much as the Ultra with about 1/3 of the Ultra's features and connections.
@@garrickhanson I don't think so. Airplay 2 is in the $89 WiiM Mini, so it can't cost that much to implement.
Nobody who takes music seriously is using ANY wireless protocol to listen to music. Unless you are cutting the grass.
@@ThatAnalogDigitalagreed!
I had a guy on the last CAM video who said that a wireless connection is better than a wired connection….
I almost feel out of my chair laughing .
Then I realized that he only had a pair of active Edifier speakers….lol
🙄 so many insecure people out there that for go common sense because of their mental issues…
Airplay 2 AND bluetooth aptX. And yes, you can ask who is using bluetooth on a streamer but that addition adds value that others don't offer.
is it possible to stick a USB/SSD drive in the back of the Nano / wiim ultra and play when the device is not connected to the network?
Hey, you got a new free range Husky. Best unboxing to date!
And very helpful with unpacking stuff 😅😇
Thank you for all this awesome content. So my question is how does the SMSL SU-1 compare to the DAC in the Nano? Right now I use a WIIM mini and the SU-1 and it sounds great. You mentioned in the WIIM Ultra review that the SU-1 sounded better than the ESS DAC in the Ultra. So is it the same for the ESS in the Nano? Is the SU-1 still the best sounding?
My experience with the SU-1 and these ESS DAC chips is that the SU-1 sounds more like the Denafrips Ares line of DACs, at least to my ears, on my system. The ESS DACs in these less expensive streamers tend to have a bit of sibilance, and can be harsh if not bright sounding. I do know the DAC in the Ultra is much better than what is found in the Mini and Pro streamers, I own them all. And I would assume, having owned a Node N130, that the DAC in the Node Nano will be on par with the Ultra, maybe better, maybe worse. The selling point at this $300 price point to me is the software, mainly the software in the WiiM Ultra, with the EQ, PEQ and Room Correction, along with a much wider choice of streaming services. I like my TuneIn and Amazon Music, neither are available on the Node products.
Thanks as always for your perspectives and sharing them with us all. A competitive space indeed with exciting developments coming.
Thanks for the heads up cheapaudioman! I’m thinking about getting a streamer and love the Wiim and Nano form factor and price points. Question for the group, using AirPlay from my iPad will either of these sound better connected to a stand alone DAC like a Topping Velvet or Denafrips? Thanks in advance!
I think you are paying more for the Nano because of the premium internal DAC. That said, if you already have an external DAC, I'd go for a WiiM Pro and use it only as a transport feeding your DAC.
Edit: So we're clear, I have watched the video where the ZA3 and Yamaha are compared head to head... but you don't really go through the other system elements too much. My idea is more like if you had X dollars to spend and you made the best possible setup of separates vs best possible setup using a few more expensive combo components, how would the overall capabilities of the systems compare?
As someone getting into hifi audio I would really appreciate a video that is a head on comparison of approaches to getting started. You have some videos that touch on these topics, like the video giving reasons why you might not want an integrated amp. However, it would be interesting to see head to head Yamaha A-S301 vs a roughly equivalent system of more separated components. Then comparing the price difference and how much of a listening experience difference there is. I'm really torn between spending more to get a more flexible system vs just get something like the A-S301 and save some money, then buy a tier higher of separates later and there are surprisingly few videos that compare these approaches head to head
Just to confirm ...are you saying that the nano as a pure steeamer connected to external dac sounds better than the wiim pro pro plus and ultra or as a source they all are outputing the same sound....
Is it possible to run this for a business continuously or set it on a timer maybe thrown a USB stick in there with some MP3 playlist
So if I run a digital out from the wiim ultra it uses the external dac, but if I run the RCA analog out then it uses the wiim dac right ? I plan to use the wiim ultra and SMSL hack and coax out into my 2008 pioneer vsx 1019ahk home theater receiver for powering the speakers. I assume I will no longer get the surround sound effect out of my 4.1 setup but I use it in stereo more anyways.
Really enjoying your channel - I have dipped my toe into the streamer/dac world starting with more budget options. Bought a WIIM Ultra and have been enjoying its functionality (not really needing all the connections) but found the sound from its DAC to be not so great. I ended up liking better the USB-out of the unit to the USB-in to my 20 year old OUTLAW 990 AVR (uses AD1852 24-bit/192kHz chip)/Preamp to Outlaw 770 amp to B&W DM602S3 speakers. Curious how a dedicated DAC would sound, I bought a FIIO K11 R2R DAC hooked it up to the WIIM's USB out and then analog to my 990. Pretty impressed with the sound considering my old equipment. I could stop there at $500 bucks, but now might consider a linear power supply to open up/tighten the sound but then we start to approach $650 which is close to an Eversolo DMP-A6. Would the jump to a dedicated streamer/dac at $800 sound that much better than my WIIM/FIIO setup?
Keep up the great work!-Rob
I like that the Nano doesn’t have a screen. Can’t see 3” from the couch anyway. And if the sound is better…
Yup, I'll never understand the fascination for a tiny flip-phone screen. The masses love it though and that's where the money is.
OK, I hope this isn’t too off-topic. So I’m playing Apple Music supposedly lossless, through my iPad into a simple Bluetooth receiver. Into a Marantz pre-/processor. my question is, am I losing and I am looking for a percentage here, quality versus using a dedicated streamer and then using Apple Music lossless?
While it is more convenient to have a 5V power input on the back panel, there is one distict advantage about upgrading the older models with an internally mounted DC interface board that then hooks up to linear supply.
Most of the these interface boards have large amount of additional filter capacitance and local regulation that then hooks up to the internal circuits via a very short ( 2 inch?) Cable.
So regardless of which external supply you use there is also additional local regulation. It is best to have final regulation as close to its target as possible and the N130 mods allow this.
Timely video! Simplicity and performance RULE; that's coming from an EE and long-time audio guy. I'm buying a streamer to be a streamer, not a mediocre phono preamp, etc. Here's hoping that this Bluesound model has decent WIFI (chipset + antenna) that doesn't require me to be within very close range of my wireless router, unlike the Wiim Mini I recently returned. Having a display is a nice, useful feature. The evolution of streamers continues!
Great Wi-Fi in the Nano. You will be impressed.
if you are connecting to an external DAC which would you recommend the BS nano, the WiiM Pro, or the WiiM Pro Plus?
Can I cast my music to the nano directly from my Amazon Music app and can I group it with my other Google Home audio devices?
Bluesound is very good at bringing new and improved products to the market, each rendition of the Node has sounded noticeably different. I’m looking forward to seeing the reviews of the new Icon model with the screen. 👍🏻
I've bought one Node so far. Last years special edition, the Node X.
It sounds wonderful connected to my CXA81 amplifier in the living room or a pair of PreSonus Eris E 4.5 BT monitor speakers in my Office. Soundwise it's up there with my usual combination of CXN V2 and DacMagic 200M going into my CXA81. I don't have experience with any other Node version.
Love your content. Do you know the best way of powering my WiiM from my Advance Paris A10? I can't figure it out.
I have a Wiim mini connected to an Smsl Su-1, both powered by a Topping P50 linear power supply. Would the nano be worth trying out?
I don't think the Nano targets the Wiim, it's going after the Cambridge MXN10, which has a similar feature set but is much less expensive. Neither the Nano nor MXN10 will handle UPnP. Why is that important? I'm an Audirvana Studio user and connecting to the Wiim Pro via UPnP works well. From the Wiim, the signal is fed to the SMSL SU-1 via coax. Also, the optical connection is a big plus for input from the TV. Finally, the built-in room correction is a major plus. Wiim's room correction functionality appears to be modeled after Yamaha's YAPO in the RX-V2600. The Wiim has the added benefit that each input can have its own settings.
@cheapaudioman Awesome review. Wiim is doing everyone a favor by pushing the features boundaries. Their innovation is lightyears away from others. But they are still behind on the delivery front, but ascending in output. Good for them, good for us. Best thing about this review? You're not biased on the sound, you gave it to us straight. Killing it! Keep'em coming Mr Randy! 🙃
No streamer has Apple Music. The Bluesound products have Airplay 2, which allows you to cast your Apple Music to the device. If you have a MacBook, supposedly Airplay 2 allows Lossless content , where as an iPhone or iPad will downgrade lossless to 256K - which still sounds pretty good.
hope for an updated Powernode... but it starts to compete with the C700v2 I guess
No Airplay with WiiM Ultra! Assume WiiM was rushing to get Ultra out before Bluesound Nano and did not have time to fix Airplay problems. Also assume that there has been a huge number of Amazon returns of Ultra from people like me who did not read Amazon description fine print which warned that Ultra was not compatible with Airplay.
Airplay is lossy and I’ve seen people ask about it as it is a convenient wireless connection but not the best for quality.
I think it was and is omitted on the ultra ( wiim says it has no plans to add airplay)& and other new streamers because it’s not very popular anymore apple should do a “connect” feature like tidal instead of using proprietary connections like airplay. It’s also because of apple that very few streamers have Apple Music natively.
They are not good to their customers that way.
I’ve considered adding an Belkin SoundForm Connect AirPlay 2 Adapter & Airplay 2 Receiver to connect into my WiiM Ulta’s toslink input port. Not sure there is any audio quality loss.
@@stevenwaldstein2249 air play is aac format which is lossy to begin with
@@Audiodreamer192-24So a viable option it seems. Don’t know if there are any other AitPlay receivers like this available. Are you aware of any?
@@stevenwaldstein2249 honestly I don’t. I know it’s a huge pain in the A** but my recommendation would be to ditch apple music for Tidal,or Quobuz. Apple is just to proprietary making it very difficult.
Is it possible to connect these devices to studio monitors ( amplified speakers)? Sorry, I just can’t find the right answer.
I have the Wiim Pro and the Node 2i. The Coax outputs sound different and the Node 2i is better. Better how? The Node sounds more neutral or normal and the Wiim Pro sounds altered. Wiim Pro coax output sounds weaker than Node, Wiim also sounds rounder and softer with less impact. Wiim also lacks some bass, but all of that improves a little with Direct Connet to your router with a network cable. The Network cable connection gives the Wiim a slightly cleaner sound with more bass reproduction. It is still rounder and softer, and I still prefer the Node 2i for more clarity and more of a neutral/normal sound. But the Wiim with network cable is a better overall experience that has some enticing characteristics.
Bluesound has improved a lot since Gen 2i. I think you’ll find the new stuff better overall. By the way, the digital outputs sound better on the Node because of lower noise. Digital may be digital but it is not immune to noise.
@@davidcarr6831 I only use the SPDIF output, so upgraded DACs with better sound doesn't mean much to me. If the Node Mini sound as good out of the SPDIF, I will buy one, but it is hard to get that information from 'reviews'. I've had 8 DACs through my system, so I understand how digital might be different for different designs.
Does the Node allow you to control it from your music player app on your phone like other smart home devices do?
This node nano is truly special. I’ve tried every wiim besides pro plus, and the nano smokes them all including the ultra. Especially for someone that just wants a streamer, that has a dac and an amp, everything else and just wants a streamer with all the digital outputs, including usb out. It’s just icing on top that its dac actually sounds really good! The BluOS is superior as well. Before you tell me I’m crazy and the ultra has all these better options, do your homework. Is it really what you want? It seems to me, that if you love vinyl, you don’t want your phono pre amp to digitize the signal, run that through the ultras dac for your sound, do you? I know I prefer just using a true phono pre amp. From what I can tell, the “analog” input on wiim also changes it to digital, runs that back through its internal dac and then outputs its sound. I have no interest in a preamp that does that. I guess if you don’t mind that part, and just want a set it and forget one device does all type of component, the ultra is perfect for you. But if you want a streamer purely for streaming, the nano is the very best. Save the $30. It’s way better than the wiim mini, so please don’t hit me with that. It’s no comparison. Try them. Maybe my system just so happens to have perfect synergy, but I really don’t believe that. Sure, it does have great synergy, but I believe this streamer would sound great in any system!
I can not wait to demo the Node Icon. Maybe my new Preamp
Same here
With no inputs, I would not see this as a preamp.
@@davec2939 we are talking about the icon model that hasn’t been released yet….
And yes it has a state of the art preamp. But yes the nano does not have a preamp , it’s the entry level node.
@@Audiodreamer192-24 Yes, I see where I made my mistake. The standard Node would also make a great preamp.
@@davec2939 check out the upcoming icon, there are videos on it from audio advice and gramophone also some info on google. It’s a sweet piece
I just replaced my node n130 with the wiim ultra. The wiim ultra easily sounds significantly better than the Node130. Wiim has bulletproof Ui and i think it's easier and more intuitive to navigate than bluOS. My Wiim took an update immediately and room correction works with my Pixel 8 Pro and boy does it make a massive difference in my space.
Were you using the internal DACs to compare both units? Great to hear the Ultra sounded better. Thanks!
That is helpful to hear. Waiting on my Ultra now (to replace a Pro and mid range external SMSL DAC).
and know there is a better new BSNode :)
@@kiangdv which one?
@@ramondelgado6778 yes, internal DAC on both
I use an external DAC and amp so the internal stuff makes no difference to me. I just want a streamer.
The nano allows direct streaming of SiriusXM. The WiiM products do not support SiriusXM. For this reason alone, I am going to get a nano.
I have WiiM Mini running into the SMSL SU-1 in my office. Less than $200. Wondering how the Bluesound Nano sounds in comparison.
Better.
Luv your channel but your puppy steals the show 😊
We’re I can find information about
Mass storage
I want ad HDD via usb port but how big can be 1 tb
Would you go for a Wiim Pro with a $200-300 DAC or the Wiim Ultra? I'm setting up an Emotiva XB2, but the lack of AirPlay on the Ultra is a concern for me as a Mac user. What do you think? Maybe a video on complete setup recommendations would be great, especially with all the new products out there!
Buy the ultra if you need / want the features. If you then find the sound isn't to your liking, you can always add a dac later. You can't add extra features to the Pro. But, if you don't need the features of the ultra, then the pro with external dac is likely to sound better. But, would you notice? Would you care?
@@RacingAnt Thanks for the input! Since this will be my first setup, I’m not sure if I’d notice the difference. It is odd that the Ultra doesn’t have AirPlay while other Wiim products do. I’m still new to all of this, so the sound quality will probably suit me just fine. I’m just trying to figure out where to allocate my budget to get the best outcome based on these reviews.
This is what the Nano is for.
I always watch your videos (on the TV) with my phone in text mode. 😄
... this time I noticed excellent editing.
This comment has nothing to do with this video other than you do mention the Icon. Your review of the WiiM Ultra had one in my Amazon basket and I deliberated, because I was really waiting to see if Bluesound was going to react and there was that cryptic message out there and lo and behold the very next day here we are. Your review of the Node way back just asking for a screen to be added really was what I was looking for. That's what I wanted. Now the Icon is arriving soon and it has more than that, including cost. But it's thrown a wrench into my audio plan. I like the big screen, like the overall size, don't need XLR, and the dual DAC....the plan was to get a Dayzee. For that cost maybe I don't do an external DAC? Maybe the Icon will sound "good enough" and I don't do a Dayzee. I await to see what both you and Darko say to be further flummoxed by indecision. A node with a screen.... that's what I wanted Bluesound. Maybe one day there will be an Icon Lite? And I can wait forever for that.
Ya I’m with you there!
Bluesound is a better quality product. The wiim fan boys will jump all over that because they think those cheap streamers are the best there is lol
The sound quality that Icon will offer negates the need for an external DAC. Clean, elegant, simple, high performance.
Still waiting for pure streamer transport. Good internal power supply and good output to the external DAC is all I need.
I've sat within the Sonos ecosystem for some time but recently tried a Wiim Pro in the office, I was surprised with the lack of Apple Music support (I sent it back and now have a Sonos Port). Why is it seemingly the fact that only Sonos has Apple Music streaming capabilities? Is it the Sonos architecture? Puzzling. Or can the other streamer manufacturer just not be bothered with Apple integration. I'd be interested to know.
@@DaveElby I’m sure that the dearth of native Apple Music support has something to do with to do with Apple wanting it that way. It’s also worth noting that the Sonos Apple Music streaming is supposed to be capped at 256kbps AAC, so not the hi resolution that they sell so hard. Still nice that anyone offers native Apple Music support though.
Thanks for this comparison.
However, I am thinking quitting the Bluesound/NAD ecosystem, mostly because playlist management is ridiculously poor.
Possibly moving to Wiim + Plex.
BluOS is ok-ish. Not as great as Cambridge's StreamMagic in my opinion. And definitely far inferior to Roon. Roon being my daily driver when it comes to playing music.
Liking my WiiM Ultra but I still prefer my Schiit Mani 2 as my phono pre instead of running through the Ultra. Mani brings out the highs a tad better, for my liking. The Ultra wasn't terrible by any means just sounded a hair flatter than the Mani 2. Of course, the Mani has a bit more customization when it comes to setting up your preferred sound, through its settings. I also noticed I had to increase the volume about 20% when running through the Ultra as it played at a lower level than the Mani 2.
This couldn’t possibly arrive at a better time! I needed one AirPlay 2 compatible.
Now i need to find something i can connect my SACD, Cassette player, Turntable and headphones DAC/AMP to my SVS Soundbase
With AirPlay 2 will it pick up the full high res audio Apple can do now? I heard Apple still doesn’t let you stream in the hi def
Off topic. Got Fosi Audio BT20A.
Rolled and stuck on GENUINE OPA2134 from a reputable.
Touch of DSP and EQ...
128kbps MP3 over bluetooth; superb amp.
What's the deal with linear power supplies? is there something wrong with small energy saving switchers that come with almost every product?
No there isn't, however most audio enthusiasts believe that a linear power supply powering a product creates a better sound than does a switching power supply. Me personally I feel that it does sometimes although that said I have heard products with really high quality switching power supplies that sound freaking awesome.
I think a lot of it has to do with the high frequency noise that's generated in a switching power supply that filters down into the audible band, that's sort of the theory anyway. Whether or not that actually degrades the sound quality is really up For debate, although I have heard the node with the s booster linear power supply and in my opinion it did sound better.
@@AudiorevueThank you for that reply. Well-stated answer. It clarified that question to me.?
@@Norman-bone13 You're welcome, happy to always help with advice or information.
You'll find that a lot of audio products when you really get into the nuts and bolts of what makes a product good versus not so good, is power supply. Whether that be an amplifier or a preamp or a CD player or a DAC, the better The power supply the better the sound quality.
can you connect an echo to the whim ultra
What’s the best streamer I should buy if TH-cam Music is my music subscription of choice?
" The Streaming Wars" continue they do.. Thanks for the video Randy 🙂
This is the perfect product for me
Thank you for this comprehensive review of this component
Is the Blusound Nano a certified Roon endpoint? I own a BluSound Node but got several WiiM Pros and Pro plus because ther was no lower cost BluSound device until now. Love to learn more. Thank you and take care.
It will be. Roon certification takes time.
@@davidcarr6831 Thank you. Have had to wait for it before and can wait again if the new Node products are worth it.
Since the Nano doesn’t have any inputs, wouldn’t it compare more with the Wiim Mini? In that arena, the biggest advantage is the Nano’s ESS9039Q2M chip. But is it worth 2x the price?
The sound quality is clearly better. If that’s what’s important than the question answers itself.
Love your video. Thank you so much for that update. Would also love to see very cheap solutions, like a Raspberry Pi with Volumio for example. Also usable as a streamer and the possibility to upgrade the used DAC :)
Is there anything less expensive than a WiiM Mini + SMSL SU-1 (less than $200 for both streamer and the DAC), that sounds even HALF as good?
I thought I wanted a Node (not the Nano since it has no HDMI ARC port) to use with my NAD C272 power amp and Dynaudio speakers. However... I'm discovering Plex. And that works (or is going to work) with Wiim products, but no such plans are known for Bluesound (and software-wise it might be competition actually). But Plex basically means that I have my own Spotify service from my own library. Even when I'm out and about, and the Wiim can function as an endpoint.
But if it doesn't sound as good... that's another thing to think about. I could use an external DAC but it's not something I prefer.
If you have a new puppy I HIGHLY recommend the books and videos by Dr. Ian Dunbar. Because of many friends recommendation I bought his 'Sirius Puppy Training' video back in '89 when I got my Samoyed, Rocky, and it made the following 14 1/2 years much more enjoyable. Rocky picked up everything pretty quickly. Anyway, with high energy dogs it's especially important to train them early and be consistent with how everyone treats the dog. I'm also a convert to positive reinforcement when it comes to discipline. Never had to hit or spank Rocky. He was housetrained really fast. Anyway, that video made a huge difference having Rocky.
It’s a great product for sure , wish the price lower a bit
I sent my Wiim Ultra back. Streamer/app Loaded with Malware as far as I could tell. I now have a new computer, and router. Turned out to be a very expensive streamer. Thank you Wiim. I’ve heard other people have had similar experiences. I’ll stream from my computer, and use an external DAC.
Anyone have a recommended Linear Power Supply for the Bluesound?
Waiting for the new BlueSound Icon review
Ya that one will be exciting
Now you are into Advance you forget to test the WTX Stream tubes 🤔
I do not like the eq in the blue sound node app. But I prefer the sound much better out of the blue sound node over the Wiim. That is blue sound node sounds great in fixed volume output mode, not so great with bass and treble control enabled. Wiim need to use eq to bump up bass, and eq does great on Wiim…but still, blue sound node dac sounds better. That is second generation blue sound node compared to Wiim pro.
No LED screen with album art. I feel like LED screens are important as Power Meters were in the 70’s. Got to have that album art ❤
The new Node Icon has the screen
In a desktop setup the screen may be a nice addition. With me, sitting nine feet away, it has little value.
I have a CXN V2 in the living room. And to be honest when sitting in the couch it is unreadable. Album art is nice, but otherwise its a quite useless feature.
@@SandsOfArrakis I suppose, but so were power meters 🫣
Can it output to an external DAC via USB?
I have the Sony AZ 7000 ES receiver. What advantage, if any would I have going to one of these streamers?
Sound quality for streaming music will be better with the Bluesound Nano.
How about the app to control it?
Been playing with one of these the last couple days in my headphone setup.
I was trying to replace an Oppo UDP-205 I use for playing local files on a 1TB USB drive.
last week I did the same with the Wiim Ultra which I promptly returned (but that's another story).
Both the Oppo and Nano were plugged into my headphone amp via RCA inputs.
The Oppo has this beat in every aspect possible for sound quality. So much so that I thought it just must be louder than the Nano ?
I played some test tones and measured the outputs and surprise, the Nano was actually .1dB louder so basically the same.
Was really noticeable on Hi-res and MQA files (night & day). The nano does not do DSD so no comparison there.
If I had to sum it up the bass was weak & flat and was kind of Midrange forward.
Why the hell do they not give you some sort of simple power Off (same gripe on Wiim which burns about 5w all the time) ?
Stupid to have a trigger out btw way when the thing is always On.
The USB port does not seat all the way in (probably some 10 cent cheap ass connector). I did try and use the USB port to the USB DAC input on the Oppo. This does work contrary to what reviewers are saying. You do have to select the DAC (Identified correctly as Oppo BDP-205) in the Audio setup. This kills the analog & digital outputs when you select the USB DAC output and since this is the only USB port you loose local files.
Comparing the app to other streamers I have used, Eversolo and Volumio, this one is not that great but workable.
So I decided to crack this thing open and take a look at what $299 gets you.
Hmm, The DAC circuit is about the size of 2/3 of my little pinky.
Kind of what you may find in some cheap USB dongle etc. (I'm guessing about $10-12 of parts here).
OK, whats next. They have 2 steel plates screwed & glued to the top cover.
Removed both of them and got 10dB higher Wi-Fi strength since they shield the little antenna inside (dumb).
Why stop there so I removed the Blu Tooth antenna and circuit card since I will never use those.
lastly I removed the silly front panel assy since everything I need to do has to be done in the app.
Now I just have it connected to the Oppo via toslink for when I want to stream Spotify or Radio Paradise.
Would have liked to have replaced the Oppo but sound wise its a No Go.
If you like the Blue Os landscape and will use this in some low res system like a bedroom or multi room system this is OK but it's really only worth about $199 (or less) IMHO.
Your Mileage may vary !!
Interesting, so this new Nano sounds like a dead copy internally of what is found in the WiiM Pro? Good to know.
Wondering what Cambridge is going to do with their MXN10. Why would anyone pay $500 for that streamer when you can buy the Nano for $200 less?
Forgive my naivete, but in what way are android based streamers not just an app as well?
I am not alone who would like wiim or bluesound to come up with a “streaming only” compact device, which has to be connected via USB to an external DAC and external 5v power source and would cost around 100eur, not higher. I have RME ADI-2 DAC already and don’t want to pay extra 200-300e for a built-in dubious quality DAC based on a new hi-end chipset. I just returned Bluesound Nano back to a store. When playing Tidal the inbuilt DAC audio quality is about the same to wiim pro plus a bit worse comparing to ifi zen dac 2, and not significantly better comparing to Tidal streaming on denon avc3700x av receiver. But everything changes when RME ADI-2 is connected as an external DAC. All those budget inbuilt DACs fail with LF and especially drums playback, drums do never sound natural.
@Randy. Given the comparison to the Wiim Ultra, the Nano just seems so stripped down. For $30 more you get WAY more. Granted, you say that the Nano sounds better than the Ultra. Using the same comparison in the Ultra video, how does it compare to the SMSL SU-1. Does the Nano sound better than that or no?
Anyone please? If you have tested both the Blue sound Nano and the SMSL SU-1, which sounds better?
If you don’t need the additional connectivity then the Nano is a great choice. If you do need the connectivity and you want the sound quality the upcoming Node N132 is the answer.
@@davidcarr6831 Well, one thing I was looking for was a good hub or preamp. Not so much the streamer as the system I am putting together is for my desktop and I have a computer right next to it. So having something to bring together a CD player (digital output), phono, a DAC and tone controls with a subwoofer output together, would be great. The Nano just seems too stripped down and even though it might sound better, I just find it hard to justify the cost when the Wiim Ultra offers so much more. The N132 sounds promising, BUT at what cost?
@@jukingeo $549
I am waiting for the WIIM Pico streamer.
Is this a Wiim Ultra but with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro?! If yes, buying one
As a swede I am waiting WIIM Angstrom streamer.
@@peterkarlsson1825 I am waiting for a German who is waiting for a WIIM Planck streamer now
Wow , cheapaudioman answered the question before I asked , " What about bluesound ? " .
I'm not surprised... wiim ultra is the new ice cream for summer. Hence the price drop already.
Bluesound is really cool (high quality, good sound, easy interface, etc.). But there is a huge problem. Bluesound does not support TH-cam Music. Only Bluesound knows why. But they don't disclose the reason or explain whether and when this problem will change. For years now.... :-(
Bluesound what were you thinking? No digital inputs on the nano? Improved dac that you cannot connect to a tv or computer. New node has no coax in and a shared analog/optical? I saw these release and was so excited until I saw the back. Wiim pro plus for the 💯 percent win.
🤦🏻♂️ total miss
I don't know if it's a miss. If you want preamp features, get the Wiim. If you can get by the fact that the Nano is really a transport it should make no difference as you can either hit the source select on the Wiim or on your amplifier. They're the same thing in my mind.
If you want the connectivity and the sound quality get the new Bluesound Node N132 when it comes out in a month. Problem solved ❤
But is it also a preamp? this Nano device, I mean
Yes. It can be set to fixed or variable output.
@@davidcarr6831 I know it’s also a DAC. For the Wiim, it’s both a DAC/preamp
Streamers…. Ugh. It feels like the industry is stepping over dollars to pick up dimes.
Will this Zitt ever pop?
I very much enjoy all the content you put.
Do you feel that this slice of tech is getting a touch over battled for? It feels to me that we are just watching undercard after undercard fights.
It’s not anyone’s fault. It’s just what is what’s out there to comment on. Ya just get bored of the fly weights.
Puppy Approved Streamer!!!
Cool thanks Randy!
@cheapaudioman I have seen a few of your videos and love the cost effective solution you share.
Now I have some investment plans ongoing so cannot invest in a new audio setup. So, I was thinking about building one from whatever is available with me.
1. An old LED FHD TV (not smart TV) for Display
2. Old Dell Studio laptop, with 5.1 channel support & Realtek HD Audio ALC888 onboard.
3. Creative 2.1 speakers with decent bass for front speakers.
4. BPL Double cassette player with line--in option, stereo support with surround sound setup (2 speakers per channel). Very crisp & clear sound. Planning to use these as back surround speakers.
Problem: As soon as I set the sound card to 5.1 the base is very much reduced in the 2.1 speaker and I don't have any center speaker & separate subwoofer.
I do have a few bluetooth speakers with aux-in but that woofer is the major missing part.
Is there any other way to configure the above setup?
If not, can you recommend a product for missing speakers (only subwoofer or may be both subwoofer & center speaker) that I can also use with any other home theater setup that I may purchase in future.
Your into is the exact time to the second it takes to get myself a cup of coffee ☕🤔
with a future bluos update, the new blueasound streamer will be dsd enablred, this is a great new.
well, wiim is an amazing streamer for streaming services, but for local files bluesound is much better
How is it better for local files and then to an ext dac?
@@michaelcampbell9459 for local files? fiio, imho, if you have dsd files; if you have only pcm wiim (about dac: yours ears, yours choice :D )
@@michaelcampbell9459 nice question: i use a minipc with DaphileOS: nothing better IMHO (someone prefears Volumio, and by an aesthetic point ov view is better, but as sound quality i prefear Daphile). The answer is: you have DSD files? If not grab a WiiM, otherwhise Bluesound
But the library off the music streaming services is far from being perfect so I'll keep buying Cd's that I love so much!
Thank you
lol cute puppy, more puppy we see the better 🐶
32 vs 24bit that's a big sound different
But no screen.
Suggestion. Love the channel. Please stop adding the 5 second music clips every minute or so it's incredibly annoying. I bet I'm not alone here. Ask the audience. Yes, I'm a real fan of your channel, keep the videos coming.
False.
Doesn’t bother me
The music breaks rock! Don't change that please
Which streamers support Apple Music and Apple Music Dolby Atmos natively?
Apple is very proprietary and that’s why there is little native support for Apple Music. They are not good to their customers that way. Only offer air play which is lossy and a lot of streamers don’t even support that either. If apple want to keep its streaming customers they better start being more cooperative or risk losing subscribers. I see many people with the same issues with apple. I’ve used Tidal for over 5 years and it’s compatible on everything and lossless as well.
Apple Music - Sonos Port at 256AAC, Eversolo DMP-A6 with hi res, Fiio R7 with hi res. Apple Music Dolby Atmos? Probably Apple TV into a surround receiver.
Almost none. You can put the apple music app on some android based streamers but multichannel Atmos is a no go. The Apple TV 4k does Atmos but high res support tops out at 48k and all other sample rates(44.1k Redbook CD standard)are resampled to 48k. iOS devices output bitperfect audio but are stereo only as far as I can tell. Information on the Atmos support for iOS is mostly about the two channel spatial stuff they do over Bluetooth. Right now if you want bit perfect, high res, and full multi-channel Atmos support, there really isn't a one box option. I use my phone or an old iPad for Apple music streaming and use a Raspberry Pi based Volumio Streamer for other services. Not ideal but Apple music is still one of the better options for lossless streaming right now.
All current BluOS devices (which means all Bluesound, and most NAD) support AirPlay 2.
@@davidcarr6831 yes via airplay which is lossy.
There isn’t any native support like Tidal connect for example.
Apple should made a dedicated streamer for its music service. I see so many people use it and have a hard time for finding gear to support it properly.
They’d make a fortune if they did . They could make it average like a little better then a wiim and charge 500 bucks because of the name and people would buy it
I use Tidal My self but I get why people with Apple Music are frustrated, you’d have to be happy if a device has air play which can’t do anything above AAC. It’s a bummer for their customers.