Bluesound RC1 - Simple IR Remote Control

I'll start (and finish!) with a moan. I actually cannot fathom why this remote is not included as standard with the Bluesound Node..oh wait, yes I can- extra currency for the manufacturer! There was a time not so long ago when every item of hifi that had remote capability came with a remote control.. now it's an optional extra, with the assumption being that the 3rd rate user-experience of using an app will suffice for most.Anyway the reason it's essential in my opinion, is that it saves the soul-crushing, rigmarole of swipe/unlock/press/swipe/swipe/press/swipe/jab/jab/swipe/press, etc, etc required everytime you want to do something basic like switch off the display or change track or source. The app is great for setting things up, but honestly, I look at my phone often enough without having to jab away at it every single time I want to do anything with the Node.So aye, I would say it's pretty much essential and improves the whole experience of using the streamer 100% Can't believe I waited a year of ownership before buying this. Oh wait, £50 more, that's why I waited!The remote itself is fantastic quality- as solid and premium feeling as any remote I've ever used. And the absolute best thing, is the presets. No longer buried under swipes and jabs sub-menus on a phone, but a single, instant change of preset. It's just like changing station on a radio or TV. There's no delay on the sources I've tried- I switch between Radio Paradise and Qobus and a station or two on Tunein, for example. A lovely user experience.But once again and finally, guys at Bluesound, just stop with the ringing every cent from the customer business model- just include the darned thing in with the Node; even if it raises the price by a bit. It really makes the Node far, far more usable- a game changer in daily usage for me.

Very well made and work well.

Works as intended, above standard build quality, and buttons well laid out for one-hand operation.Somewhat overpriced, so only 4/5 for overall rating.

Having read other reviews I was apprehensive about getting this but it works perfectly with my NAD C700.I had to change the IR channel to avoid a conflict with one of my other devices but having done that it works perfectly.

But I find I am using it less and less.

Premium aluminium RC. Recommended.

CONSThe Infrared red remote requires absolute DIRECT LINE OF SIGHT.To make matters worse, it needs to be at level with the Node (expect to be waving the remote around).Constructed from soft plastic, NOT METAL.Uses expensive 2x Li coin batteries.Poorly balanced in the hand.PROSDecent ergonomics and form factor.Nice touch to the buttonsIntuitive layout.Comes with batteries.For £50, it’s an expensive yet only somewhat useful add on, given the awful IR implementation. One would hope for much more. What remote in this day and age costs £50 and isn’t backlit? Yes, you have the choice of buying a 3rd party programmable remote but the minimalist design and presets offered here are worthwhile. BlueSound clearly know this but sadly the quality of this product reflects very poorly on the brand.

This modern trend to fleece consumers by charging extra for remote controls is ridiculous. Historically, the remote was always part of the purchase and while I appreciate that todays hi-fi units can be controlled by your phone, there are times when the remote is better. Rant over - the remote is very good and for me enhances the power node experience.