Gold Note PH-1000 silver

The Gold Note PH-1000 represents the pinnacle of Italian expertise in phono preamplification. Designed and handcrafted in Italy, this high-end phono preamplifier stands out for its exceptional versatility, capable of adapting to all existing phono cartridges and faithfully reproducing vinyl records from any era thanks to its multiple equalization curves. With its discrete Class A components, comprehensive connectivity, and distinctive design, the PH-1000 establishes itself as an essential reference for the most demanding audiophiles.

Exceptional versatility for all cartridges

The main strength of the PH-1000 lies in its ability to perfectly adapt to all existing phono cartridges, whether moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) models. This adaptability is based on several parameters adjustable with surgical precision:

For MM and MC cartridges, the PH-1000 offers 7 different gain levels, ranging from 40 dB (for MM) to 65 dB (for MC) on the standard and Line versions, and 60 dB on the Lite version. Each base level can be fine-tuned with 7 additional options (-9 dB, -6 dB, -3 dB, 0 dB, +3 dB, +6 dB, +9 dB), allowing you to achieve the exact optimal gain level for each cartridge.

The load impedance is also adjustable with 12 options for RCA inputs (from 10 Ω to 100 kΩ) and 8 options for the XLR input (from 10 Ω to 4.7 kΩ). For MM cartridges, 7 capacitance options are available (OFF, 100 pF, 150 pF, 220 pF, 330 pF, 470 pF, 1000 pF).

This unprecedented flexibility allows you to extract the best from each phono cartridge, providing it with the ideal operating conditions recommended by its manufacturer. Gone are the days when you had to change your phono preamp to switch cartridges!

Equalization curves: the key to rediscovering your vinyl

One of the most remarkable features of the PH-1000 is its ability to faithfully reproduce vinyl records from any era thanks to its multiple equalization curves. Before the RIAA standardization in 1954, each record label used its own equalization curve when pressing records. The PH-1000 offers 18 predefined equalization curves covering all historical standards: RIAA (current standard), as well as Capitol, Columbia LP, NAB, AES, London LP, Deutsche Grammophon, Decca London USA, Decca London UK, RCA 45, Old RCA, Telefunken, CCIR 78, Old Orthophonic, Philips, and several specific curves for 78 RPM records.

This wealth of options allows each record to be reproduced exactly as it was originally intended, revealing sound nuances previously inaccessible in your collection. For each curve, Gold Note also offers an “Enhanced” version that can revitalize recordings that might sound dull with standard equalization.

The PH-1000 and PH-1000 Line versions go even further by allowing the creation of 4 custom equalization curves, offering infinite flexibility for the most meticulous collectors.

The PH-1000 also features an infrasonic filter (10 Hz/36 dB per octave) that can be activated to eliminate very low-frequency disturbances that could damage your speakers, as well as various mono modes for optimal playback of mono and 78 RPM records.

Comprehensive connectivity for all configurations

The PH-1000 stands out for its exceptionally comprehensive connectivity, allowing it to integrate into any audiophile setup, even the most complex.

On the input side, it features three independent phono inputs: two unbalanced RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input. This variety allows you to connect up to three different turntables simultaneously, each equipped with its own cartridge. The standard and Line versions also include inputs with external loading for even more precise control.

For outputs, the PH-1000 offers an unbalanced RCA output and a balanced XLR output, both benefiting from Class A amplification. A front headphone output (6.35 mm jack), also in Class A, allows you to listen to your vinyl records with exceptional quality.

A dedicated output is also provided to connect optional tube modules TUBE-1006 or TUBE-1012, adding the characteristic warmth of tubes to your audio system.

Finally, a specific input allows the connection of optional external power supplies PSU-1000 or PSU-1250 to further enhance the device’s performance.

Reference-level sound performance

In terms of sound, the PH-1000 stands out with exceptional performance that justifies its high-end positioning. Its design, based on selected discrete components and Class A amplification, provides remarkable transparency and musicality.

The signal-to-noise ratio of 100 dB and the dynamic range of 110 dB ensure extremely quiet and detailed reproduction, allowing you to perceive the subtlest nuances of recordings. The total harmonic distortion of less than 0.01% ensures faithful reproduction without artificial coloration.

Specialized reviews unanimously highlight the exceptional clarity, immense detail richness, impressive dynamics, and the PH-1000’s ability to create a particularly realistic three-dimensional soundstage. The reproduction of timbres is natural and precise, while the bass definition is outstanding.

Upgrade possibilities with external modules

One of the strengths of the PH-1000 is its ability to evolve through optional external modules:

The external power supplies PSU-1000 and PSU-1250 further enhance performance by providing a more stable and purer power supply than the already excellent internal power supply. These modules connect via a dedicated socket and take over from the internal power supply.

The TUBE-1006 and TUBE-1012 tube modules add a tube output stage that brings the warmth and harmonic richness characteristic of this technology. They connect via the dedicated “Tube Amp” output and allow further customization of the system’s sound signature.

This modularity allows for gradual investment in your audio system and adaptation to your evolving tastes and budget.

Intuitive user interface

Despite its technical complexity, the PH-1000 stands out with a remarkably intuitive user interface. The SKC (Single Knob Control) system allows you to navigate all menus and adjust all parameters using a single rotary knob.

The color TFT display clearly shows all current settings and makes it easy to navigate through the various options. The settings specific to each input are memorized, allowing you to instantly switch from one configuration to another when multiple turntables are connected.

A multifunction remote control is also provided, allowing you to adjust all parameters remotely for optimal ease of use.

Technical Specifications

Audio Specifications

• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Equalization curves
  • 18 equalization curves with Enhanced option (± 0.3 dB)
  • Infinite equalization curves with 4 manually adjustable presets (only on PH-1000 / PH-1000 LINE)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0.01% max.
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB
• Dynamic range: 110 dB
• Infrasonic filter: 10 Hz / 36 dB octave (ON / OFF)
• Mono/stereo modes: Stereo, Stereo 180°, Mono, Mono 180°, Mono L
• Channel inversion: R/L, L/R
• Infrared receiver for multifunction remote control

Inputs and Outputs

• Audio inputs
  • 2x unbalanced RCA (0.1 mV MC up to 8.0 mV MM)
  • 1x balanced XLR (0.1 mV up to 1.0 mV MC)
• Load impedance
  • 12 options for RCA [100 kΩ, 75 kΩ, 47 kΩ, 33 kΩ, 22 kΩ, 1 kΩ, 470 Ω, 220 Ω, 100 Ω, 47 Ω, 22 Ω, 10 Ω]
  • 8 options for XLR [4k7 Ω, 1 kΩ, 470 Ω, 220 Ω, 100 Ω, 47 Ω, 22 Ω, 10 Ω]
  • External load compatible with RCA and XLR connectors (only on PH-1000 / PH-1000 LINE)
• Capacitance: OFF, 100 pF, 150 pF, 220 pF, 330 pF, 470 pF, 1000 pF
• PH-1000 gain: 40 dB MM to 65 dB MC with 7 options [0 dB, ± 3 dB, ± 6 dB, ± 9 dB]
• Line input level: 2 Vrms (standard) up to 2.5 Vrms (max)
• Audio outputs
  • 1x unbalanced RCA (up to 2.5 Vrms max)
  • 1x balanced XLR (up to 2.5 Vrms max)
  • 1x stereo output for tube (balanced GN) for optional TUBE-1012 & TUBE-1006
• Output impedance
  • Unbalanced: 100 Ω
  • Balanced: 300 Ω

Power Supply

• Power consumption: 430 W
• Input for external power supply Gold Note PSU-1250 & PSU-1000
• Power supply: Dual-Mono linear power supply 100-240 V with automatic detection, 50-60 Hz
• Fuse: 2A T

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 135 x 375 mm
• Dimensions with packaging (W x H x D): 630 x 350 x 600 mm
• Weight: 12 kg net, 17 kg with packaging

Main Features

• Infrasonic filter
• Mono/stereo control
• 2 RCA phono inputs and 1 XLR input
• RCA and XLR outputs (Class A)
• Headphone output
• Fine adjustments for capacitance and load impedance
• Gain from 40 dB (MM) to 65 dB (MC) with fine adjustments
• 18 equalization curves with Enhanced option
• Infinite equalization curves (4 manually adjustable presets)
• External load (RCA and XLR connectors)
• L/R inversion