Overview

The Bluesound VAULT 2i is a high-performance network streamer, CD ripper, and music library that acts as the digital heart of a modern hi-fi system. It allows you to rapidly rip your entire CD collection in bit-perfect, high-resolution formats—including FLAC, WAV, or space-saving MP3—and store them on an internal, ultra-quiet 2TB hard drive. Equipped with a powerful dual-core ARM Cortex A9 processor and a premium 32-bit/192kHz DAC, the VAULT 2i delivers studio-quality sound while providing instant access to millions of songs via built-in services like TIDAL® and Qobuz®. Because it doubles as a network-attached storage (NAS) drive, your archived collection can be streamed to Bluesound players in every room of your home without ever needing to turn on a computer.

Simcoe Audio Video Insight

In our experience serving clients across Ontario, the VAULT 2i is the "gold standard" for anyone who wants to digitize a massive CD collection without the headache of managing a computer-based server. It solves the clutter problem by relegating physical discs to storage while keeping the music right at your fingertips via the intuitive BluOS app. We find the two-way Bluetooth with aptX HD support to be a game-changer; it doesn't just receive audio from your phone, it can actually transmit studio-quality sound directly to your high-end wireless headphones for private listening. Because it requires a wired Gigabit Ethernet connection, it provides a level of rock-solid network stability that wireless-only streamers simply can't match, ensuring your high-res audio never stutters.

Best for the Bluesound VAULT 2i: connect the unit directly to your router using the included high-quality Ethernet cable rather than relying on powerline adapters. A hardwired Gigabit connection is essential for the VAULT 2i because it acts as a server for your entire home; this dedicated bandwidth ensures that when you are ripping a new CD while simultaneously streaming high-res files to other rooms, the data flow remains fast and uninterrupted.

More Details

Why It Wins

• Lossless CD Ripping: The precision slot-loading drive captures every bit of data from your CDs, allowing you to store them in FLAC or WAV for the highest possible fidelity.
• Massive 2TB Storage: The ultra-quiet "low acoustic emission" drive can hold thousands of high-resolution albums, serving as a central hub for your entire digital library.
• Audiophile-Grade Conversion: An onboard 32-bit/192kHz DAC ensures that even the most complex musical passages are rendered with exceptional clarity and a low 0.005% distortion rate.

What Makes It Different

The VAULT 2i stands out because it is a "headless" server, meaning it manages your music library autonomously without the need for a PC or Mac. While most streamers require you to manually move files to a NAS, the VAULT 2i automates the entire process: just insert a CD, and it rips, tags, and organizes the music into your library automatically. It also features AirPlay 2 integration, making it incredibly easy for Apple users to stream audio from their devices directly to their hi-fi gear. For those with smart homes, it offers deep integration with professional control systems like Control4, Crestron, and Lutron, as well as voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Technical Highlights

• Dual-Core Processor: Uses a 1 GHz ARM Cortex A9 to handle heavy data tasks like simultaneous ripping and multi-room streaming without lag.
• High-Resolution Support: Native support for a vast array of formats including MQA, AIFF, and ALAC with bit depths up to 24-bit.
• Versatile Connectivity: Includes both digital (Optical/Coax) and analog RCA outputs, plus a dedicated subwoofer output and a 12V trigger to wake up your amplifier.
• Two-Way aptX HD Bluetooth: Allows for the transmission of 24-bit audio over Bluetooth, significantly outperforming standard SBC or AAC codecs.

Buyers Guide

Who This Is For

• The CD Collector: For those with hundreds of discs who want a simple, high-fidelity way to archive and access them instantly.
• The High-Res Enthusiast: Listeners who demand bit-perfect playback and support for studio-quality formats like MQA and 24-bit FLAC.
• The Multi-Room Streamer: Ideal for users looking to build a whole-home audio system where the VAULT 2i serves as the primary music source for other Bluesound players.

Ideal Use Case

• Main Hi-Fi Systems: Connect it to your high-end amplifier or receiver using the analog RCA or digital outputs for a premium listening experience.
• Dedicated Media Rooms: Its ultra-quiet drive and 12V trigger output make it perfect for integration into a professional AV rack.
• Desktop Audio: The front-panel 3.5mm headphone jack and compact footprint make it an excellent choice for high-end headphone listening stations.

What To Pair It With

• NAD C 389 Integrated Amplifier: A perfect match that can utilize the VAULT's 12V trigger for a unified power-up experience.
• Bluesound PULSE Speakers: To easily expand your music library into other rooms like the kitchen or bedroom via the BluOS app.
• High-Quality RCA Interconnects: To ensure the 110dBA signal-to-noise ratio is preserved from the VAULT's DAC to your amplifier.

Alternative Options

The VAULT 2i is our premier solution for CD ripping and storage. If you already have your music stored on a computer or NAS and only need a high-end streaming bridge, a dedicated Bluesound NODE would be the more practical choice. For those who want a fully automatic vinyl experience to complement their digital library, the Dual CS 429 is an excellent analog companion. If you are looking for an all-in-one cinematic solution for another room, the Sony BRAVIA Theatre Bar series offers a convenient way to enjoy immersive sound with built-in streaming capabilities.