Gold Note CD-1000 MKII DELUXE black
Specifications and features
Overview
A drawer-loading aluminum CD player with a built-in converter, manufactured in Italy near Florence. The DELUXE version stands apart from the standard version through its Burr-Brown PCM1792A converter, superior to the PCM1796, and through greater versatility thanks to its digital inputs. The CD-1000 MKII DELUXE can operate as a CD source, but also as an external DAC for other devices.
A Transport Mechanism Shared with Top-Tier Players
The CD mechanism is a critical component that is often overlooked. Gold Note opted for the JPL-2800 from Austrian manufacturer Stream Unlimited, a fully aluminum transport (drawer included) that equips players costing several times the price of the CD-1000. Rotational stability and low speed fluctuation contribute to disc reading quality. The metal drawer stands in stark contrast to the plastic drawers found on the majority of players, even at this price level.
The Zero-Clock technology developed by Gold Note aims to reduce jitter — those micro-variations in the timing of the digital signal that can affect sound reproduction.
Analog Stage in Dual-Mono Configuration
The Burr-Brown PCM1792A converter operates at 24-bit / 192 kHz. The output stage, fully balanced, uses low-noise Burr-Brown op-amps in a Dual-Mono configuration. The power supply relies on two encapsulated toroidal transformers manufactured in Italy.
The outputs are comprehensive for this type of device: asymmetrical RCA, balanced XLR, and a dedicated output for connecting the optional tube stages TUBE-1006 or TUBE-1012. A coaxial S/PDIF digital output allows the CD-1000 to be used as a pure transport feeding an external DAC.
The digital volume control, which can be disabled, allows a direct connection to a power amplifier or active speakers, without a preamplifier.
Beyond Simple CD Playback
The digital inputs transform the CD-1000 MKII DELUXE into a converter for other sources: television, Blu-ray player, set-top box, or any device equipped with an optical or coaxial output. The coaxial RCA S/PDIF input and the optical TOS input accept signals up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. An AKM receiver handles these inputs.
This versatility makes sense in a system where one wishes to centralize digital-to-analog conversion in a single quality device, rather than multiplying DACs across each source.
Construction and Black Finish
The chassis is entirely made of brushed aluminum with thick panels. The ventilation slots on the top, arranged in geometric patterns, have become a visual signature of Gold Note, inherited from their PH-10 phono preamplifier. The large OLED display clearly shows playback information (track number, elapsed time) and remains readable from a distance.
Weighing 12 kg and measuring 430 x 135 x 375 mm, the CD-1000 occupies a standard footprint in a hi-fi rack. The form factor matches the other devices in the 1000 series, enabling a visually cohesive integration with the IS-1000 integrated amplifier or the P-1000 preamplifier.
Scalability Toward a Multi-Chassis System
Gold Note offers two upgrade paths without replacing the player. The external power supplies PSU-1000 (200W) and PSU-1250 (300W) are Dual-Mono inductive power blocks that connect via a dedicated port on the rear panel. They further isolate the player from mains interference.
The tube output stages TUBE-1006 (6 tubes) and TUBE-1012 (12 tubes), both operating in Class A, add a different sonic character. These modules connect to the dedicated output and have their own power supply. The combination of all three elements (player, external power supply, tube output stage) is what Gold Note calls the “CD-1000 TRIO.”
This modularity allows the investment to be spread over time, but also requires planning ahead for the space needed in the audio cabinet if these additions are being considered.
Documentation
Technical specifications
- Converter: 24bit/192 kHz DAC PCM1792A
- CD Formats: Red Book
- Disc Compatibility: CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3
Measurements
- Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20 kHz @ +/-0.3dB
- THD: 0.001% maximum
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 128dB
- Dynamic Range: 127dB
- Volume Control: Switchable On/Off Digital Control
- Mechanism: Aluminum JPL-2800 Stream-Unlimited
Connectivity
- Digital Inputs
- 1x RCA S/PDIF coaxial
- 1x TOS asynchronous 24bit/192kHz
- Analog Outputs
- 1x RCA unbalanced stereo
- 1x XLR balanced
- 1x TUBE-1012
- Digital Output
- 1x Coax S/PDIF 75Ω
General
- Remote control included
- Power Consumption: 30W
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 135 x 375 mm
- Weight: 12 Kg
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CD-1000 MKII DELUXE play SACDs?
No. The JPL-2800 mechanism is technically capable of reading other formats, but Gold Note chose not to implement SACD support for reasons related to component longevity and licensing. Only the Red Book format is supported.
What is the difference between the standard and DELUXE versions?
The converter is upgraded from the Burr-Brown PCM1796 to the PCM1792A, considered superior within the Texas Instruments lineup. The DELUXE DSD version additionally adds an asynchronous USB-B input with DSD256 and PCM 32-bit / 384 kHz support.
Can the CD-1000 be used without a preamplifier?
Yes, thanks to the built-in digital volume control, which can be enabled in the menus. This feature allows the player to be connected directly to a power amplifier or active speakers. The control can also be disabled for conventional use via a preamplifier.
Are the PSU-1000 and PSU-1250 external power supplies essential?
No. The CD-1000 operates independently with its internal Dual-Mono power supply. The external power supplies are optional upgrades that provide additional mains isolation and increased current reserves.
What file formats are accepted on the digital inputs?
The coaxial and optical inputs accept PCM streams up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. MQA is not decoded. For DSD, the DELUXE DSD version with a USB input is required.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: PF-MILLE-CD-100-B
- GTIN / EAN: 8050054561462