Adding multi-room streaming to the list of things legacy audio sources can do, Bluesound has announced the HUB
Bluesound, makers of wireless multi-room audio players, announces the HUB, described as a game-changing network accessory that connects to a variety of analogue and digital audio sources, bringing them into the Bluesound ecosystem for multi-room streaming.
Streaming audio is designed to be more flexible than ever with the HUB. Easily add a Bluesound HUB to any non-BluOS enabled audio source and transmit music to one or many Bluesound players around the home. Audio sources like a turntable or CD player instantly become network-connected and are new sources from which a Bluesound system can play music. The HUB unlocks the problem of geography in letting users stream vinyl wirelessly for the first time.
From TVs to CD players, turntables to the latest gadgets, a host of inputs on the back panel: HDMI eARC, Coaxial, Digital Optical, Stereo Analogue and a moving magnet Phono stage supports the vast majority of music devices. Each HUB can manage one analogue and one digital source simultaneously, and up to four (4) HUBs can be added to a single network.
Equipped with BluOS, the HUB makes adding audio sources simple using the BluOS Controller app setup wizard. A few taps on the familiar BluOS app controls a whole multi-room system from a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Simplicity is also a key part of the offering with the HUB. With a 1U rack height, and 1/3rd rack width, external USB-C connected power supply, the HUB can easily be placed on shelves, behind TVs, or mounted with four different orientation options using its two keyhole mounting slots.
Streaming music fans who also love vinyl will be especially appreciative of the HUB’s built-in audiophile-grade MM phono stage preamp that brings audio from a turntable to any Bluesound player for whole-home turntable streaming. The HUB acts like a networked low noise, wide-bandwidth phono pre-amp, delivering spectacular audio quality for vinyl enjoyment in any or every room of a home at hi-fidelity.
Key Highlights of the Bluesound HUB:
o Network Audio Source-sharing with BluOS
o Low-noise MM Phono Stage
o Stereo Analog Line Input
o HDMI eARC with CEC
o Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs
o ARM CORTEX A53 Processor
o Dual-band Wi-Fi + Gigabit Ethernet
o Powered by USB-C Power Adaptor
o 1U Rack Height, 1/3 Rack Width
o Four-way Keyhole Mounting Slots
o Front Panel Function Button
o Black Finish
Retail availability of the HUB is expected in mid-June and is priced at USD $319 / EUR €349 / GBP £309 / CAD $419.