BlueSound VAULT 2i white

Bluesound VAULT 2i: music server, CD ripper and network streamer

Successor to the VAULT 2 launched in 2015, the VAULT 2i combines CD ripping, 2 TB hard drive music file storage and network player functions in a compact enclosure. The main additions compared with the previous model are support for AirPlay 2 and bidirectional Bluetooth with aptX HD, whereas the VAULT 2 was limited to Bluetooth reception. Audio performance remains identical between the two generations.

A three-in-one device that centralizes an entire collection

The VAULT 2i preserves your CD collection on its 2 TB hard drive while modernizing your audio system thanks to its ripping and streaming capabilities. The logic is simple: insert a disc into the front slot, choose the ripping format via the BluOS app, and a few minutes later the album joins the internal library. The device can rip simultaneously in FLAC for lossless quality and in MP3 to save space, a handy option for those who want to keep both versions.

The low-power hard drive is designed to limit noise. The internal drive is still audible at times, and you should allow for a short wake-up delay after a long period of inactivity. This is the trade-off of mechanical storage in an audio device.

The USB Type A ports allow you to connect external storage media to import an iTunes library, downloaded files or the contents of a NAS. The VAULT 2i can also act as a NAS on the local network: from a PC or Mac, the internal storage appears as a network drive accessible via drag-and-drop using the SMB protocol.

Comprehensive connectivity to integrate into any system

The rear panel offers an uncommon level of integration flexibility. On the output side, there is a pair of stereo analog RCA, an optical and a coaxial output to feed an external converter, a subwoofer output with low-pass filter, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack on the front. The subwoofer output is full range: it is the low-pass filter of the active subwoofer that handles the crossover work.

The combined 3.5 mm input accepts a stereo analog source or an optical digital signal via the supplied mini-Toslink adapter. Bidirectional Bluetooth with aptX HD allows both receiving the signal from a smartphone and transmitting to a compatible wireless headphone. The Gigabit Ethernet connection remains mandatory: the VAULT 2i does not offer built-in Wi‑Fi, which can complicate installation in certain setups.

A 12 V trigger output and an IR input complete the equipment for home automation integration. The device supports Crestron, Control4, RTI, ELAN, URC and Lutron protocols.

The built-in DAC and the question of an external converter

The VAULT 2i features a 32-bit / 192 kHz DAC with a quoted distortion of 0.005% THD+N. It supports PCM formats up to 24-bit / 192 kHz and MQA, with software decoding of the first MQA stage (core decoding). Bluesound products perform this MQA decoding internally, which allows you to benefit from part of the format’s advantages even without an external MQA converter.

The quality of the built-in DAC is suitable for most home setups. For those who own an MQA-certified external converter, the VAULT 2i can delegate full MQA unfolding to it, provided fixed output mode is enabled. The optical and coaxial digital outputs allow this use.

BluOS: the software ecosystem at the heart of the experience

BluOS is a multiroom system that uses the home network to connect several compatible players and stream lossless music up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. The control app, available on iOS, Android, Windows and macOS, centralizes access to the local library, streaming services and internet radio.

More than twenty streaming services are integrated natively, including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Deezer and Amazon Music. Tidal Connect and Spotify Connect integration is also present. BluOS does not support DSD files directly, a limitation to keep in mind for fans of this format.

The VAULT 2i can operate as a Roon endpoint (but not as a Roon Core). For those who already use Roon, this is an interesting point: the library stored on the VAULT 2i becomes accessible via Roon, while retaining the option to use BluOS in parallel.

Chromecast remains the main notable omission from the list of supported protocols.

Voice control and Apple integration

Voice control works with Amazon Alexa after activating the Bluesound skill. AirPlay 2 allows streaming from an iPhone, iPad or Mac, and using Siri to control Apple Music. Music can be sent to several AirPlay 2 speakers simultaneously, in sync.

The VAULT 2i does not support UPnP or DLNA, which means its internal library is not visible to third-party network players. To work around this limitation, you must install a UPnP server on a computer on the network and point it to the VAULT 2i file share.

Network player and built-in 2TB hard drive

• Dual-core ARM processor
• 32-bit/192kHz DAC
• Ultra-quiet 2TB hard drive
• Slot-loading CD drive
• Built-in Airplay 2
• Ethernet (Gigabit)
• Built-in Bluetooth QUALCOMM aPtX HD
• Bluetooth receiver and transmitter
• Formats: MP3, AAC, WMA, WMA-L, OGG, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MQA
• AirPlay 2, Apple Wireless Accessory Configuration (WAC)
• Supports Amazon Alexa
• Crestron, Control 4, RTI, ELAN, URC, Push, Lutron, iPort

Measurements

• Native sampling rate: 32-192 kHz
• Distortion: THD+N, 0.005%
• Rip format: FLAC, MP3 (320kbps), WAV

Connectivity

• 2 USB Type A inputs
• Analog and digital input
• Headphone output and subwoofer output
• Optical and coaxial digital outputs
• Analog stereo output
• IR input
• IR learning capability
• TRIGGER output

General

• Power consumption: 9W
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 220 x 90 x 192 mm
• Weight: 1.84 kg

Included accessories:

• 120V AC power cable
• 230V AC power cable
• Ethernet cable
• Stereo RCA to RCA cable
• 3.5mm stereo mini to RCA cable
• Mini Toslink optical adapter to 3.5 mm
• Warranty certificate
• Installation guide