Bluesound
Bluesound POWERNODE Gen3
Best streaming amplifier for audiophiles building a modern multi-room system.
The Bluesound POWERNODE Gen3 is a "just add speakers" hi-res sound system designed for the streaming age. It combines audiophile-grade componentry with multi-room music capabilities, featuring an 80-watt per channel amplifier and a high-grade DAC supporting up to 24-bit/192kHz. Connectivity includes HDMI eARC, dual-band Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, and aptX HD Bluetooth. Access music from numerous streaming services, local libraries, or external devices. Its BluOS platform enables easy multi-room audio setups and integrates with voice assistants for hands-free control. This amplifier is recognized for its clarity, soundstaging, and impressive power output.
$1099.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
186
/ 704
#186 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
-58%
Below average
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking studio-quality detail and high-resolution clarity
- Homeowners building a synchronized multi-room audio system
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level audio solutions
- Traditionalists who prefer tactile physical controls over app-based interfaces
- Vinyl collectors needing multiple analog inputs for legacy equipment
Performance breakdown
Amplification Power
Delivers robust, clean energy that drives most bookshelf and floorstanding speakers.
Streaming Versatility
BluOS platform offers unmatched access to virtually every major streaming service.
Hi-Res Fidelity
Premium DAC architecture ensures studio-grade clarity for high-resolution audio files.
Connectivity Options
Comprehensive input suite handles everything from HDMI eARC to legacy analog.
Multi-room Integration
Seamlessly syncs with other BluOS devices for effortless whole-home audio.
User Interface
Intuitive app control makes managing complex audio setups feel remarkably simple.
Key Specs
HybridDigital™ amplifier platform powering 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms
Quad-core 1.8GHz ARM® Cortex™ A53 processor
32-bit/384kHz premium DAC design
HDMI eARC, optical & analog inputs
BluOS™ wireless multi-room music capability
Wireless Dolby® surround sound
MQA music and hi-res audio streaming
Hi-Res playback up to 24-bit/192 kHz on BluOS Devices (with update)
Features
- Audiophile-grade amplifier with 80 watts per channel of zero-distortion power.
- High-grade DAC delivers up to 24-bit/192kHz hi-res, studio-quality music.
- Supports a wide range of popular file formats including FLAC and MQA.
- Equipped with HDMI eARC, dual-band Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, and aptX HD Bluetooth.
- Connects to dozens of internet radio and streaming services, and local storage.
- Built-in BluOS enables easy DIY multi-room hi-res audio systems.
- Hands-free control available through voice assistants like Siri, Google Voice, or Alexa.
- Ready for future technologies with a powerful ARM Cortex A53 Quad-Core chipset.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Bluesound POWERNODE Gen3 for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable ease of use. The integrated BluOS streaming platform receives high marks for its intuitive operation and seamless multiroom capabilities, making high resolution audio accessible. Many reviewers highlight its compact, all in one design as a significant advantage, delivering powerful performance without complexity. While a premium product, the consensus suggests it offers outstanding value, combining a robust amplifier with advanced streaming features in a single, well built unit.
Know before you buy
It means the unit has a built-in amplifier, so you don't need a separate receiver or amp. You simply connect your favorite pair of passive speakers to the terminals on the back, and you are ready to stream music.
Yes, the POWERNODE features an HDMI eARC port, allowing you to connect your TV directly. This lets you route your TV's audio through your high-quality speakers for a much better listening experience than built-in TV speakers.
Yes, it uses the BluOS platform, which allows you to group multiple Bluesound players together. You can play the same music in every room or different tracks in different zones using the BluOS app.
Yes, it supports aptX HD Bluetooth. It functions as both a receiver, so you can stream music from your phone to the POWERNODE, and a transmitter, allowing you to send audio to wireless headphones.
The POWERNODE handles a wide range of formats, including FLAC and MQA. It features a high-grade 32-bit/384kHz DAC that supports hi-res playback up to 24-bit/192kHz, ensuring studio-quality sound.
Yes, the system is compatible with Siri, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. Once set up, you can use voice commands to control playback, volume, and room grouping.
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$1099