PDN (Japan distributor) has announced that Canadian brand BLUESOUND will release the “POWERNODE” (N331), a network player with built-in 3-channel amplification and HDMI eARC, in January 2026. While pricing is open, street price is expected around JPY 220,000 (incl. tax). Available in White and Black.
A New Stereo-Plus-Center Proposition
The previous “POWERNODE” (N330) featured stereo (2ch) amplification only. The new N331 adds a center channel for 3ch configuration. Equipped with GaN transistors and BLUESOUND’s proprietary Direct Digital amplifier technology, it delivers 100W×2 in stereo mode or 80W×3 in 3-channel mode.
Physical dimensions remain identical to the predecessor. The THX-certified headphone amplifier is retained, though the front jack has been upgraded from 3.5mm to 6.3mm. A new USB Type-C port has been added, enabling use as a USB DAC.
Comprehensive Streaming Support
As with previous models, it runs BluOS and supports various streaming services including Qobuz and Amazon Music. AirPlay 2 is supported, and it’s also Roon Ready. Dirac Live room correction will be available via future firmware update.
Surround System Expansion
Using the “grouping” feature between BLUESOUND products, 5.1ch and other surround configurations are possible. A “Stereo Surround” mode is also included, enabling upmixing of standard stereo sources for surround playback. This feature incorporates technology from sister brand NAD.
Center Channel Brings Dialogue Clarity
At the product launch event, demonstration comparisons were conducted using Paradigm speakers in 2ch, 3ch, and 5ch configurations. When streaming YouTube and Amazon Prime content via TV, the 3ch setup delivered noticeably clearer dialogue than stereo alone, conveying dramatic tension more effectively.
Representatives noted that even in situations where heating noise in winter makes it difficult to hear TV announcers, adding a center channel improves voice localization and clarity.
Product Lineup
Since the model name “POWERNODE” is shared, the previous N330 and new N331 are distinguished by the number following “N”. The stereo-only N330 remains available.
Key Specifications
- Price: Open (expected street price ~JPY 220,000 incl. tax)
- Colors: White, Black
- Release: January 2026
- Output: Stereo mode 100W×2, 3ch mode 80W×3
- Amplifier technology: GaN transistors, Direct Digital amplifier
- Headphone output: THX headphone amplifier (6.3mm jack)
- Digital inputs: HDMI eARC, USB Type-C (USB DAC capable)
- Streaming: BluOS, Qobuz, Amazon Music, AirPlay 2, Roon Ready
- Room correction: Dirac Live (via future update)
Reference Links / Sources
- PHILE WEB: https://www.phileweb.com/news/audio/202512/08/27168.html
- BLUESOUND Official: https://www.bluesound.com/