Gold Note IS-1000 MKII LINE silver

The Gold Note IS-1000 MKII LINE brings together in a single chassis a Class AB integrated amplifier, a digital-to-analog converter, and a high-resolution network player. This all-in-one approach developed by the Tuscan manufacturer leverages twenty years of applied research to offer a complete solution that frees itself from traditional multi-box setups while preserving the sonic qualities specific to each integrated component.

Meticulous electronic design in the service of musicality

At the heart of the IS-1000 MKII LINE lies a Class AB amplification stage built around MOSFET transistors in a parallel configuration. This architecture, powered by a triple-shielded 600 VA toroidal transformer made in Italy, delivers 125 watts per channel into 8 ohms. The transformer, specially treated to eliminate mechanical vibrations, features a high-damping core and an insulating metal plate that minimizes electromagnetic interference. Four 4700 µF Konek capacitors provide power supply filtering, while the ultra-thick printed circuit boards benefit from gold plating and doubled copper traces to preserve signal purity.

The steel and aluminum chassis employs a “tank-like” construction that increases the unit’s mass and rigidity. This mechanical approach helps isolate sensitive circuits while aiding heat dissipation. Vent cutouts on the top and sides of the unit create a natural airflow, complemented by an active cooling system. A 32-bit Cortex-M4 microcontroller continuously monitors internal temperatures and, when necessary, activates a fan designed to remain inaudible even in operation. This thermal management allows the amplifier to maintain optimal performance under any usage conditions.

A BurrBrown converter at the heart of the digital architecture

The digital section of the IS-1000 MKII LINE is built around a BurrBrown PCM1796 converter, capable of handling PCM signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz as well as DSD64 streams. This DAC, controlled by the Cortex-M4 microcontroller, ensures precise conversion of digital sources while maintaining a signal-to-noise ratio above 100 dB. Complete isolation between the power supplies of the analog and digital sections guarantees no cross-contamination between the different circuits.

Digital connectivity includes one RCA coaxial input and three Toslink optical inputs, all compatible with PCM signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The front USB-A port accepts flash drives and hard drives formatted in FAT32 or NTFS (up to 32 GB), enabling direct playback of high-resolution files. This versatility in supported formats—FLAC, WAV, AIFF, WMA, MP3, DSD—offers broad compatibility with existing music libraries.

Network integration and streaming services

Network connectivity, provided by built-in Ethernet and Wi‑Fi interfaces, turns the IS-1000 MKII LINE into a true connected music hub. The unit natively supports UPnP and DLNA protocols, allowing access to libraries stored on NAS servers or computers on the local network. Roon Ready certification ensures seamless integration with this music management ecosystem, while compatibility with MinimServer and Bubble UPnP servers expands options for organizing and playing audio files.

Streaming services are accessible directly from the amplifier: Tidal Connect (available from serial number 79486), Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Deezer, as well as MQA decoding and AirPlay streaming. The GN Control app, available free on iOS and Android, provides full control of the device from a smartphone or tablet. The user interface displays track metadata, album art, and offers intuitive navigation across sources.

Ergonomics and advanced features

The front panel of the IS-1000 MKII LINE features a square color display measuring 72 x 55 mm, perfectly readable from a distance. The multifunction rotary knob controls volume by rotation and accesses menus through successive presses. This simple yet effective interface allows quick navigation between inputs, adjustment of balance, or modification of the damping factor without relying on the remote control.

The adjustable damping factor is a noteworthy technical feature: adjustable between 250 (High mode) and 25 (Low mode), it tailors the amplifier’s behavior to the characteristics of the connected speakers. High mode suits demanding speakers that require firm bass control, while Low mode delivers a softer signature reminiscent of tube amplifiers. The Booster function, which can be disabled and adjusted across three levels, increases gain around 50 Hz to compensate for limitations of small speakers or to enrich low-volume listening.

Analog outputs include a fixed output (0 dB, 1.4 Vrms) and a variable output (+9.5 dB, 4 Vrms max), the latter enabling use of the IS-1000 MKII LINE as a preamplifier with an external power amplifier or active speakers. The 50-ohm output impedance ensures optimal compatibility with most audio equipment.

Technical specifications

Amplification

• Type: Class AB (MOSFET)
• Power: 125 W into 8 Ω at 1 kHz per channel
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.005% at 5 W; 0.1% from 0.1 to 50 W (20 Hz–20 kHz)
• Damping factor: >100
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >100 dB (line/digital)
• Bass amplifier: 3-level adjustable, enhances bass around 50 Hz

Digital-to-analog conversion

• Model: BurrBrown PCM1796
• Supported formats: PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz and DSD64
• High-resolution playback via USB, network, or NAS server

Connectivity and streaming

• Network: Ethernet and Wi‑Fi
• Protocols and services: Roon Ready, Tidal Connect (from S/N 79486), MQA, AirPlay, vTuner, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify Connect
• Media servers: MinimServer, Bubble UPnP, all certified UPnP servers
• Multiroom compatibility and high-resolution streaming

Inputs and outputs

• Digital inputs:
  • 1x RCA coaxial (PCM 24/192)
  • 3x optical Toslink (PCM 24/192)
  • 1x USB-A (DSD64 / PCM 24/192, FAT32/NTFS, max 32 GB)
• Analog inputs:
  • 1x balanced XLR
  • 1x RCA line
  • 1x RCA line / AV
• Analog outputs:
  • 1x fixed RCA (0 dB, 1.4 Vrms)
  • 1x variable RCA (+9.5 dB, 4 Vrms max)
  • Output impedance: 50 Ω

Power supply

• Voltage: 100–120 V / 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz
• Power consumption: 30–400 W max; standby <0.5 W
• Fuses: 3.15 A T (220–240 V) / 6.3 A T (100–120 V)

Dimensions and finishes

• Dimensions: 430 x 135 x 375 mm (W x H x D)
• Weight: 18 kg net / 23 kg packaged

Control and accessories

• Multifunction remote control included
• GN Control app for smartphone and tablet (iOS and Android)
• Full control via the mobile app
• High-resolution network and USB player, ideal for digital sources and media servers