Bluesound, the trailblazing hi-res multiroom streaming audio ecosystem, is marking a decade of innovation and success in the industry. To commemorate this milestone, the company has unveiled a special limited-run product called the NODE X. Alongside the launch, Bluesound is launching a digital campaign to express gratitude to its valued partners who have played a pivotal role in its achievements as an award-winning audiophile brand.
Reflecting on the state of the audio industry prior to 2013, it became evident that computer companies and TV manufacturers had started producing audio equipment. While these products appealed to younger consumers due to their sleek design, they typically prioritized playing highly compressed audio files, neglecting higher resolution formats. Meanwhile, traditional hi-fi brands struggled to capture the attention of younger audiences and faced the looming threat of obsolescence.
Recognizing the need to adapt and revitalize the hi-fi industry, John Banks, Chief Strategy Officer for Lenbrook International, the parent company of Bluesound, explained the pivotal moment. "We knew we had to adapt to the new ways that people were accessing music if we were going to give the hi-fi industry new life," Banks said. Discussions arose regarding whether the products should bear the NAD Electronics name, an established brand in hi-fi circles.
In 2013, Bluesound made its grand entrance onto the hi-fi scene at a launch event in Munich, Germany. It captivated Lenbrook's global distribution network, introducing them to the products that would bring audiophile values to wireless multi-room audio. Later that year, Bluesound was unveiled to a select group of press in New York City, followed by a public announcement at the Consumer Electronics Show in January 2014.
Unlike traditional hi-fi hardware, Bluesound emphasized the significance of software, now known as BluOS. Though BluOS initially had limited functionality, it has since matured and is now integrated into various high-end audio brands. It has garnered a reputation as the most comprehensive hi-res multiroom streaming platform available.
Matthew Simmonds, Product Manager at Bluesound, joined the company in 2015 and played a pivotal role in building on its early momentum. Overseeing the expansion of the product portfolio, Simmonds has now focused his efforts on the launch of the NODE X. This limited-edition anniversary product takes the fan-favorite NODE to new heights, featuring a sleek silver finish and upgraded components. Equipped with an ESS Sabre DAC, the NODE X flawlessly delivers high-resolution audio up to 24/192 to amplifiers or powered speakers, effortlessly handling formats like FLAC, MQA, and ALAC. Furthermore, headphone enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated headphone amplifier with THX AAA™ technology and a full-sized ¼” jack. The NODE X is priced at USD $749 / EUR €799 / GBP £699 / CAD $999 and will be available from May 11, 2023.
"The NODE has been our top-selling product, serving as the gateway for audiophiles to discover the Bluesound brand. Creating an anniversary product based on the NODE seemed like the perfect way to celebrate," Simmonds added.
In addition to the NODE X launch, Bluesound has collaborated closely with its strategic partners on a digital campaign to commemorate this milestone achievement.
"We recognize that building a new brand is a team sport and requires a lot of people, vendors, and partners to be aligned and to trust each other all the way," said Gordon Simmonds, CEO of the Lenbrook Group of Companies. "We are so grateful that in the early days, our status as a nascent brand didn't deter people from working with us, and some of those early relationships have turned out to be some of our most valued partnerships today."
The campaign will feature a series of videos premiering at the end of May, highlighting key partners who have played an integral role in the Bluesound story. These partners include esteemed streaming platforms like Neil Young Archives, Qobuz, Radio Paradise, and SoundMachine, as well as technology partners such as MQA, Axign, and Hypex. Experts from CE Pro and retail partners like HiFi Klubben, SevenOaks Sound and Vision, SoriShop, and the ProSource buying group will also provide their insights on Bluesound's first ten years from various global perspectives.
"Our partners enrich the Bluesound experience for audiophile consumers in numerous ways, offering music content, particularly in hi-res, which our customers desire. Our streaming partners provide that content, while our technology partners ensure the music reaches our consumers' ears in its purest form. Meanwhile, our smarthome and retail partners play a pivotal role in introducing the Bluesound brand to end consumers," explained Matthew Simmonds.
As a token of appreciation, each participating partner will hold consumer contests, giving enthusiasts the opportunity to win a special metallic blue NODE X. These unique limited-edition NODE X units will not be available for sale, making them highly coveted collector's items.
June Ip, Vice President of Marketing for Lenbrook International, emphasized the importance of involving partners in the anniversary celebration. "We really didn't feel comfortable celebrating our anniversary without involving our partners and drawing attention to the work they do and the leadership they provide in their own domains. Consumers can only get their hands on one of these metallic blue NODE X units by visiting the digital platforms of our partners to learn more," Ip explained.
As Bluesound celebrates its first decade of reshaping the audio industry, the limited-edition NODE X represents a testament to its dedication to delivering uncompromising sound quality and pushing the boundaries of audio technology. To explore the world of Bluesound and the NODE X, visit their website and experience the future of wireless hi-res audio.
