Bluesound POWERNODE N331
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FedEx Freight Service Comparison
| Feature / Service | Scheduled Curbside Delivery | White Glove Delivery |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled delivery appointment | ✔ | ✔ |
| Delivery location | Ground level only (garage, front door, loading dock) | Room of choice, any floor |
| Delivery team | 1 person | 2 people |
| Placement inside home/business | ✘ | ✔ |
| Upstairs / downstairs delivery | ✘ | ✔ |
| Unpacking | ✘ | ✔ (upon request) |
| Packaging removal | ✘ | ✔ (upon request) |
| Assembly / installation | ✘ | ✘ |
| Old item removal | ✘ | ✘ |
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If an item doesn't meet your expectations, you may return or exchange it in its original condition and packaging within 30 days for a full refund, minus shipping fees. Items shipped back in like new condition through standard shipping carriers will only incur a flat fee of $15 to return. If the items were initially shipped through free scheduled delivery via motor freight (commonly referred to as LTL), returning them will result in return shipping fees starting at $150. These items include but are not limited to, oversized items such as TVs, certain subwoofers, floorstanding speakers, furniture, and most items weighing over 75 pounds. Return fees will also apply for exchanges. We want to treat your system as if it is our own and want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase.
Please see the instructions below. We only accept returns for any product purchased directly from our website. If merchandise is not returned in its original condition or is missing packaging, manuals, accessories or other parts, or the resale value of the product has been impaired, a partial refund will be given and calculated on a case-by-case basis.
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Turntables With a Broken Stylus: All turntables ship out with the stylus intact. If you return a turntable or phono cartridge with a broken or missing stylus you will be subject to a return fee. Please be careful when setting up your turntable and contact us with any questions.
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It usually takes around 7-14 days for the refund to show up on the payment method you used. We do inspect all returns for damage and accuracy of the item inside the box before issuing a refund. Some items may be subject to shipping and restocking fees.
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Sometimes those big speakers just don’t fit in the room or you might have bought a small subwoofer and later found out you’d love a bigger one. If you would like to make an exchange within 30 days of receiving your item, just give us a call at 888.899.8776 or email support@audioadvice.com and we will help work out the details. Additional shipping charges and return costs may apply.
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Overview
If you’ve been searching for the perfect all-in-one streaming amplifier, the Bluesound POWERNODE N331 might be exactly what your setup needs. Building on the success of the N330, which earned a strong reputation for its clean design, excellent app experience, and impressive sound, the N331 adds meaningful upgrades that elevate both performance and versatility. From a completely reworked amplifier to new input options and surround sound capabilities, this model stands out as one of the most flexible and high-performing streaming amps we’ve tested.
A Familiar Design with Upgraded Performance
At first glance, the N331 looks nearly identical to the N330. It’s still compact, sleek, and offered in both matte black and white finishes. The clean, modern look remains with a smooth glass top that lights up with proximity-sensing touch controls. You get five quick-touch presets, volume and playback buttons, and a headphone output right on the front.
Flip it around and you’ll find a clearly labeled rear panel with speaker terminals, HDMI eARC input, subwoofer out, Ethernet, USB-A, USB-C, optical, and analog inputs. Everything is laid out logically, making installation and cable management straightforward.
A Major Upgrade Under the Hood
The biggest changes come in the amplifier design. While the N330 featured Bluesound’s HybridDigital platform with 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the new N331 pushes things further with a DirectDigital amp using Gallium Nitride (GaN) FETs. This upgrade allows for faster switching, reduced heat, and better efficiency—resulting in cleaner, more dynamic sound.
Power output increases to 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms with two channels driven. That gives the N331 more headroom for driving demanding speakers and delivering better performance at higher volumes. Bluesound also improved the specs slightly, with THD+N lowered from 0.008% to 0.005% and SNR improving from -100dBA to -102dBA. The result is a quieter background, more detailed music, and improved dynamics.
New 3-Channel Output Mode for TV & Movies
One of the most exciting additions is a new 3-channel output mode. This allows the N331 to power a left, center, and right (LCR) speaker setup—ideal for media rooms or living rooms where a center channel can dramatically improve voice clarity in movies and TV shows.
In this mode, each of the three channels receives 80 watts of power, letting you enjoy a true front soundstage without needing a bulky AV receiver. You still get HDMI eARC, so your TV remote controls the volume, and Dolby Digital decoding ensures great audio quality from your TV apps or streaming box. Dialogue is much clearer with a dedicated center channel positioned beneath your display. If you want tips on setting this up, check out our Center Channel Best Practices Guide.
Expandable Surround Sound, Made Simple
Want even more immersion? The N331 makes it easy to expand to a full 5.1 system. You can add wireless Bluesound PULSE FLEX speakers as rear surrounds or use a second POWERNODE to drive passive rear speakers. Either way, the N331 uses BluOS Bonded Speaker Link to create a dedicated, low-latency wireless network for perfectly synced multi-channel playback.
This flexibility is a game changer for open-concept homes or media spaces where running rear speaker wires isn’t practical. Everything is managed through the intuitive BluOS app, and once set up, the system is rock solid. Pair this with one of our favorite subwoofers using the sub out or wirelessly with the Bluesound PULSE SUB+ to create a powerful 3.1 or 5.1 system. And if you're looking for tips, our Subwoofer Placement and Subwoofer Calibration guides can help you dial it in.
Enhanced Headphone Listening with THX AAA
Bluesound also upgraded the headphone experience. The N331 includes a full-size 6.3mm headphone output powered by THX AAA technology. Known for ultra-low distortion and high dynamic range, THX AAA ensures clean, detailed sound for headphone users. It’s a noticeable improvement over the previous model’s basic 3.5mm jack and ideal for nighttime or focused listening sessions.
More Input Flexibility, Including USB-C Audio
The N331 adds several new input options that make it even more versatile. A new USB-C audio input lets you connect directly to a computer for hi-res desktop listening. There’s also now a dedicated stereo RCA input for traditional gear like CD players and turntables with built-in phono stages.
For digital sources, you get both a full-size Toslink optical input and a standard 3.5mm analog input. This gives you more freedom to connect multiple sources without needing adapters, a clear improvement over the N330’s dual-purpose combo jacks.
Streaming & App Experience
Like all Bluesound products, the N331 runs on the BluOS platform, offering access to over 20 streaming services, internet radio, and your personal music library. It supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and now adds DSD256 playback. You’ll also find support for AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Roon, making it ideal for audiophiles with diverse libraries and preferences.
Bluetooth is also upgraded to version 5.2 with aptX Adaptive for more stable and higher-quality wireless connections. Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections are robust, and the new Local Server Mode allows direct USB playback from external drives. With NTFS support, larger drives are no problem.
Room Correction and Smart Home Integration
The N331 will support Dirac Live room correction via a future software update. This puts it in the same class as high-end AVRs and helps tailor the sound of your system to your room. When Dirac arrives, you can follow our Dirac Live Setup Guide for step-by-step help.
Custom installers will appreciate the wide integration options—Control4, Crestron, URC, Lutron, RTI, and now Nice. Amazon Alexa voice control, IR learning, and third-party remote compatibility are all still here.
Real-World Sound Performance
We tested the N331 extensively and were seriously impressed. Compared to the N330, music sounded more refined, with tighter bass, cleaner mids, and more open highs. Vocals felt more lifelike and instruments had better separation. With 100 watts per channel, the N331 drove even larger bookshelf and floorstanding speakers effortlessly.
The headphone output delivered excellent clarity and dynamics, and the new center channel option made a huge difference when watching movies. In a 3.1 or 5.1 system, effects panned around the room naturally, and the bass had real punch without overwhelming the mids. We loved how easy it was to set up surround speakers wirelessly and still maintain performance.
Day-to-Day Use and Final Thoughts
The BluOS app continues to be one of the most reliable and user-friendly interfaces in the industry. It works across all platforms—iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS—and now includes improved album art support for a more visually rich experience.
If you’re considering an upgrade from the N330, the N331 is a worthy step forward. The new amp design, headphone output, 3-channel mode, Dirac Live, and input upgrades make it far more flexible and better performing. For first-time buyers, it’s simply one of the best all-in-one streaming amps available today. Compact, powerful, future-proof, and easy to use—the N331 is the heart of a great music or home theater system.
Ready to Learn More?
Have questions or want help designing your system? Chat with an expert or stop by one of our showrooms to hear the N331 in action.
Bluesound POWERNODE N331 vs N330: Key Specs Comparison
| Feature | N330 | N331 |
|---|---|---|
| Amplifier Type | HybridDigital | DirectDigital (GaN FET) |
| Power Output (8 ohms) | 80W x 2 | 100W x 2 (or 80W x 3 LCR) |
| THD+N | 0.008% | 0.005% |
| SNR | -100dBA | -102dBA |
| Headphone Output | 3.5mm | 6.3mm THX AAA |
| USB-C Audio Input | No | Yes |
| DSD Support | No | Yes (DSD256) |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with aptX HD | 5.2 with aptX Adaptive |
| Center Channel Support | No | Yes (80W) |
| Dirac Live Room Correction | No | Yes (via update) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the N331 power a full surround sound system?
Yes, it can power a 3-channel LCR setup directly and expand to 5.1 using wireless rears or a second POWERNODE.
Is it worth upgrading from the N330?
If you want better sound, a dedicated headphone amp, LCR support, or Dirac Live, the N331 is a great upgrade. Otherwise, the N330 still performs well for basic stereo systems.
Does it support my streaming services?
The BluOS platform supports over 20 major services, including Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio.
Can I connect it to my TV?
Yes, the N331 supports HDMI eARC and Dolby Digital decoding, making it ideal for TVs.
Can I use it with a turntable?
Yes, as long as your turntable has a built-in phono stage or you use an external one.
Will Dirac Live be free?
Dirac support will be added via software, but licensing and microphone requirements may vary.
What’s the warranty?
Bluesound products typically include a 2-year warranty. Check with your retailer for specifics.
We’re here to help!
If you have further questions, contact our experts via chat, phone, or email. Or simply visit one of our world-class showrooms to experience speakers, projectors, TVs, and everything in between for yourself before you make a purchase!
If you’re planning your home theater or media room, check out our Home Theater Design page, where we have everything Home Theater related, including our FREE Home Theater Design Tool.
When you buy from Audio Advice, you’re buying from a trusted seller since 1978. We offer Free Shipping, Lifetime Expert Support, and our Price Guarantee. We look forward to serving you!
Details & Specs
+ FANTASTIC SOUND
Every detail matters. Every component, every trace, every design decision has its effect on the listening result. But even more important is how these decisions get implemented. With decades of experience in amplification designs, our skilled engineering team has the knowledge to design a powerful, audiophile-grade amplifier, focusing on delivering the most enjoyable listening experience – whether for music listening or AV home entertainment. The POWERNODE features a DirectDigital amplifier technology that ensures ultra-low distortion, and an extreme damping factor, therefore effortlessly driving any loudspeaker with precision. The advanced closed-loop DirectDigital amplifier provides high precision error correction which keeps the signal clean, while state-of-the-art Gallium Nitride FETs in the output stage enable faster, more efficient switching, reducing noise and enhancing detail retrieval. This results in a powerful yet refined amplifier that delivers exceptional dynamics and clarity.
+ MORE THAN JUST AN AMPLIFIER
The POWERNODE is more than just a music streaming amplifier – it’s a complete high-resolution audio hub. At the heart of the POWERNODE is the powerful BluOS platform providing control with the user-friendly and intuitive BluOS Controller App. BluOS gives access to the most popular hi-res music streaming services available alongside Apple AirPlay 2 and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth. On the outside, its sleek, compact design might suggest limited connectivity, but the back panel tells a different story. It features an analog single-ended RCA input, an optical toslink input, a USB-C audio input, a combined 3.5mm AUX/Optical input and HDMI eARC connection with Dolby Digital support. A full set of speaker binding posts takes care of the speaker connection, and a subwoofer output makes it possible to add an active subwoofer. On the front a full-size headphone jack is powered by the highly praised THX AAA headphone amplifier technology, the same found in the NODE and NODE ICON, catering to the growing demand from head-fi enthusiasts. Whether you’re streaming music from the cloud, playing locally stored tracks, or connecting various source components, the POWERNODE is ready to deliver.
+ SIMPLE HOME THEATER
The POWERNODE has long been a favorite among music lovers who also want a simple yet powerful way to enjoy movies and gaming. The new POWERNODE takes Home Theater simplicity to the next level, offering an even more sophisticated multi-channel experience. With BluOS Bonded Speaker Link, the POWERNODE creates its own dedicated wireless network when adding rear speakers, ensuring a stable interference-free connection that doesn’t rely on the home WiFi network. But the real game-changer is the optional third channel, which allows the POWERNODE to go beyond stereo. By activating a Center channel, it transforms from a stereo amplifier into a full Left-Center-Right (LCR) solution. Add another POWERNODE unit for wired speakers or PULSE speakers for wireless rear channels to build a true 5.1 surround sound system. Everything is easily managed from the BluOS Controller app - so when listening to music, the POWERNODE operates as a 100W per channel stereo amplifier. Switch to movies, and it seamlessly becomes an 80W per channel 3.1 system, delivering a truly immersive experience.
+ BUILDING THE FUTURE ON A HIFI HERITAGE
Bluesound is built on the foundations set by leading HiFi brands such as NAD Electronics and PSB Speakers. Using design principles cultivated by renowned engineers over several decades, Bluesound develops modern products based on deep expertise and knowledge. From circuit construction and digital-signal processing to the acoustic measurement and arrangement of loudspeakers, every Bluesound product is designed to be the ultimate performer. The POWERNODE is no exception, in fact it continues to push the limit for what’s possible to achieve in the smart-amplifier category.
+ BLUOS HI-RES MULTI-ROOM STREAMING
The BluOS multi-room music streaming platform, the world’s leading ecosystem for hi-res streaming audio, is the backbone of Bluesound product performance. BluOS delivers the content, integration, control, and feature updates that make Bluesound products the most complete solution for hi-res music lovers. With BluOS, the POWERNODE has music services built right in, so listening to your favorite artist or playlist is simple. Connect the POWERNODE to any new or old passive loudspeakers and enjoy the powerful yet compact design. Using the BluOS Controller App, group your POWERNODE with other Bluesound players for a whole home listening experience, or simply let it do all the work itself to add hi-res streaming to your daily life.
| Model | Bluesound Powernode N331 |
|---|---|
| AUDIO | |
| Supported Audio File Formats | MP3, AAC, WMA, WMA-L, OGG, OPUS |
| Supported High-Quality Audio File Formats | FLAC, MQA, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MPEG-4 SLS |
| DSD Support | DSD256 |
| Supported Multi-Channel Audio Formats | Dolby Digital |
| Native Sampling Rates | up to 192 KHz |
| Bit Depths | 16-24 |
| Audio Controls & EQ | BluOS Control App |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | -102dBA |
| Distortion | THD+N, 0.005% |
| Amplification | DirectDigital |
| Rated Power Output (8 Ohms) | 100W x 2 80W x 3 |
| IHF Dynamic Power | 265W (4 Ohms) 140W (8 Ohms) |
| SOFTWARE & INTEGRATIONS | |
| Operating System | BluOS |
| App Controller Operating System | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS |
| Processor | ARM Cortex -A53, Quad-Core, 1.8GHz per core |
| Supported Network File Sharing | Server Messsage Block (SMB) up to 200,000 files |
| Album Art Supported | JPG, PNG |
| Music Services & Internet Radio | 23+ |
| 3rd-Party Integrations | AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready, Dirac Live Ready (available via future software update) |
| Control System Integrations | Creston, Control4, RTI, Nice, URC, Lutron |
| Voice Control Integrations | Amazon Alexa Skills |
| CONNECTIONS | |
| Power Supply | Universal 3-pin AC cord input (100-240AC) |
| Ethernet/LAN | Ethernet RJ45, Gigabit 1000 Mbps |
| Wi-Fi Built In | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), dual-band |
| Bluetooth Quality | Bluetooth 5.2 aptX Adaptive |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Two-Way (transmit & receive) |
| IR Optical Built In | IR Sensor Built In - front panel with IR Remote Learning |
| IR Input | 3.5mm Jack |
| Optical/Analog Input | Toslink Optical, RCA Analog, 3.5mm Optical/Analog Combo |
| HDMI Input | HDMI eARC |
| USB IN | Type A (Fat32, NTFS Formatted) - External Storage Only Local Server Mode |
| USB (other) | USB Type C (PC input) |
| Headphone Output | 1/4" (6.3mm) Stereo, Bluetooth |
| Subwoofer Output | RCA x 1; Wireless to PULSE SUB+ |
| Speaker Terminals | 5-Way Binding Post |
| GENERAL | |
| Product Dimensions (W x H x D) | 8.7 x 2.75 x 7.5 in.* (220 x 70 x 190 mm) |
| Weight | 4.07 lbs* (1.85 kg) |
| *Non-metric measurements are approximate. | |
| Finish | Black or White Matte Satin Paint |
| Storage Environment | -10°C to 50°C, 20% to 80% relative humidity |
| Operating Environment | 0°C to 40°C |
| Included Accessories | 120V AC Power Cord 230V AC Power Cord Ethernet Cable Mini Jack to Toslink Adaptor Safety/Warranty Guide Quick Setup Guide Dirac Live Ready Info Card |
