The Denon HEOS Link HS2 is a wireless pre-amplifier designed to add HEOS multi-room audio capability to any existing hi-fi system or AV receiver. Sitting within Denon’s HEOS ecosystem alongside the HEOS Amp HS2 and HEOS Drive HS2, the Link HS2 is the source-only component — it provides line-level and digital outputs to feed an external amplifier rather than driving speakers directly. The “HS2” designation denotes the second-generation hardware, which added dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to the original HEOS Link’s feature set.
Connectivity & Outputs
The rear panel carries a comprehensive set of analogue and digital connections. Outputs include a variable/fixed stereo pre-out on RCA, a dedicated subwoofer pre-out, and both coaxial and optical digital outputs — giving three independent paths to feed an amplifier, AV receiver, or active speakers. A 12 V trigger output enables automatic power-on of a connected amplifier when the HEOS Link begins playback, and an IR emitter output allows the HEOS app to send power and input-select commands to compatible Denon components.
On the input side, the HEOS Link HS2 accepts analogue stereo via RCA line-in, digital audio via optical TOSLINK, and portable sources via a 3.5 mm auxiliary jack. A USB Type-A port provides direct playback from FAT32-formatted storage devices.
Network & Wireless Streaming
Dual-band Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) provides wireless connectivity, with a wired Ethernet port available for more demanding network environments. The unit supports high-resolution audio playback of WAV, FLAC, and ALAC files at up to 24-bit/192 kHz, alongside lossy formats including MP3 (up to 320 kbps), AAC, and WMA. Bluetooth connectivity allows direct streaming from a paired mobile device.
Through the HEOS app (iOS and Android), the HEOS Link HS2 accesses streaming services and internet radio via TuneIn. Music can also be streamed from a networked PC or NAS drive. Up to 32 HEOS devices can be linked on a single network, each playing independently or grouped together with microsecond-precise synchronisation across rooms.
Design & Control
The compact enclosure measures just 155 × 74 × 150 mm and weighs 1.3 kg, finished in gunmetal silver with black side panels. Volume and mute controls are discreetly placed on the top panel. A multicolour status LED on the front indicates network state, playback mode, and error conditions. The HEOS app serves as the primary control interface, providing room selection, source management, equaliser adjustment, and grouping controls.