Gold Note DS-1000 EVO silver

The DS-1000 EVO is a network digital-to-analog converter developed by Gold Note. It features a dual-mono conversion architecture based on AKM AK4493 chips and a fully discrete class A output stage. The unit supports audio streams up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD512. It is available in two versions: a standard version and a LINE version equipped with a built-in preamplifier. Gold Note describes the development of this unit as representative of its own sonic signature, refined in its Florence workshops.

A dual-mono design focused on fidelity

The heart of the DS-1000 EVO is built around two AKM AK4493 converters arranged in a dual-mono configuration. This approach ensures absolute separation of the left and right channels from the very conversion stage, virtually eliminating any crosstalk between channels. Each channel has its own conversion circuit with independent power supply, ensuring a stereo image preserved down to the finest details.

The class A output stage completes this design. Gold Note has chosen high-grade discrete audio components for this stage, avoiding generic integrated solutions. This decision results in a sonic signature the brand calls “Italian sound”: reproduction that favors natural timbre, tonal balance, and musical coherence rather than hyper-analytical detail.

The technical specifications reflect this approach: frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with a tolerance of ±0.1 dB, total harmonic distortion limited to 0.001%, signal-to-noise ratio of 125 dB, and dynamic range of 120 dB. Output impedance is 50 Ω on RCA connections and 100 Ω on XLR.

High-resolution formats and uncompromising streaming

The DS-1000 EVO takes a step forward compared with its predecessor, the original DS-1000, which topped out at 24-bit/192 kHz with its Burr-Brown PCM1792 chips. The EVO version goes up to 32-bit/384 kHz in PCM and DSD512 (DSD256 via the USB-A port), thus covering all currently available high-resolution formats.

Digital connectivity offers a broad palette: asynchronous USB-B input capable of handling up to DSD512 and 32-bit/384 kHz PCM, coaxial RCA input, balanced AES/EBU input, two TOS-Link optical inputs (all three limited to 24-bit/192 kHz in PCM), and a front USB-A port accepting USB sticks and hard drives formatted in FAT32 or NTFS up to 32 GB.

Network streaming is based on wired LAN connectivity or dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac. The unit is Roon Ready certified, ensuring native integration with the Roon ecosystem. Streaming services supported include Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, vTuner, and AirPlay. MQA decoding is also included, allowing full unfolding of Master Quality Authenticated files.

The proprietary GN Control app, free for iOS and Android, centralizes management of streaming functions, volume control (on the LINE version), and input selection. Compatible media servers include UPnP, DLNA, and Roon, with one important caveat: the UPnP server must support DSD streaming to play native DSD files.

The LINE version and its preamplifier stage

The DS-1000 EVO comes in two distinct variants. The standard version operates as a pure digital-to-analog converter with fixed RCA and XLR outputs delivering 2 Vrms. The DS-1000 EVO LINE version adds two major functions: a class A preamplifier stage with analog-domain volume control, and RCA and XLR analog inputs that allow analog sources to be integrated into the system.

The LINE version’s preamp stage can be bypassed, allowing the DS-1000 EVO to operate in pure DAC mode when desired. This versatility enables use either as a digital hub with built-in preamplification connected directly to a power amplifier, or as a simple converter within a system that already includes a dedicated preamp.

Both versions feature a professional 6.3 mm headphone output on the front panel, with two sensitivity levels (High/Low). This output does more than simply tap the line-level signal: Gold Note has developed a dedicated amplification circuit with adjustable settings to cover a wide range of headphones, from sensitive in-ears to power-hungry planar magnetics.

Modular upgradability: power supplies and tubes

One of the hallmarks of Gold Note’s 1000 series is its upgradability. The DS-1000 EVO can receive two types of external enhancements: dedicated mains power supplies and tube output stages.

The PSU-1250 and PSU-1000 power supplies are the first upgrade path. These external inductive units connect via a supplied 8-pin DIN cable. The flagship PSU-1250 houses seven transformers: four for the power stage, one for galvanic isolation, and two for the dual-choke inductive filter. The PSU-1000 uses a five-transformer configuration. These power supplies deliver more than 300 W and 200 W of dynamic power respectively, with line and common-mode noise rejection greater than 80 dB and a response time under 2.5 microseconds.

The TUBE-1012 and TUBE-1006 tube output stages are the second upgrade option. These modules operate in class A using a Totem-Pole topology and incorporate 12 or 6 6n1p tubes respectively. Their design is based on six independent audio stages per tube, ensuring extended bandwidth and controlled distortion. These stages connect between the DS-1000 EVO and the preamp or integrated amp, adding the signature of tubes to the signal path.

Gold Note offers two complete configurations called DS-1000 TRIO: the Premium version pairs the DS-1000 EVO LINE with the PSU-1250 and TUBE-1012, while the Lite version combines the standard DS-1000 EVO with the PSU-1000 and TUBE-1006. These multi-chassis sets aim to extract the maximum potential from the platform.

Five questions to better understand the DS-1000 EVO

What is the difference between the DS-1000 EVO and the DS-1000 EVO LINE?
The LINE version adds a class A preamplifier stage with analog-domain volume control, as well as RCA and XLR analog inputs. It therefore allows you to connect analog sources and use the DS-1000 EVO as a preamp, potentially eliminating the need for a separate preamp in the chain. The standard version operates exclusively as a digital-to-analog converter with fixed outputs.

Can the DS-1000 EVO natively decode MQA?
Yes, the DS-1000 EVO features full MQA decoding. When you play an MQA file from Tidal or a local library, the unit performs complete unfolding and displays it on its screen. This compatibility also extends to MQA-CD files and Tidal Masters streams.

Are the external PSU-1250 and PSU-1000 power supplies interchangeable?
These two power supplies use the same connector and work with the entire Gold Note 1000 series (CD-1000, P-1000, PH-1000, DS-1000 EVO). The PSU-1250 delivers more dynamic power thanks to its seven transformers, versus five for the PSU-1000. The choice depends on your budget and the performance level you’re seeking, with the PSU-1250 representing the pinnacle of what the brand offers.

Can the TUBE-1012 or TUBE-1006 modules be used with brands other than Gold Note?
Absolutely. These tube output stages feature standard RCA and XLR line inputs. They can therefore be placed between any source (DAC, CD player, phono preamp) and an amplifier or preamp. Gold Note has provided a dedicated input on its 1000 series units for optimized connection, but these modules also operate independently with any component that has line outputs.

Is the GN Control app essential for using the DS-1000 EVO?
No, the GN Control app makes navigation easier and gives access to all streaming functions, but it is not mandatory. You can use Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, or AirPlay directly from the native apps of these services. Roon can also fully control the DS-1000 EVO. The GN Control app is mainly useful for managing UPnP/DLNA servers, internet radio via vTuner, and adjusting certain device settings from your smartphone.

How does playback from a USB stick or external hard drive work?
The front USB-A port accepts storage devices formatted in FAT32 or NTFS, up to 32 GB for USB sticks (higher capacity possible for hard drives). Once connected, the content becomes accessible via the GN Control app or directly from the DS-1000 EVO’s display. The unit plays PCM formats up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256 from this local USB source.

Do I need an Ethernet cable, or is Wi-Fi sufficient for high-resolution streaming?
The DS-1000 EVO’s dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi theoretically offers enough bandwidth for high-resolution streaming, including DSD512 and 32-bit/384 kHz PCM. However, an Ethernet cable remains preferable to guarantee maximum stability, eliminate potential dropouts, and reduce latency. A wired connection is particularly recommended if your music library is stored on a NAS or if you mainly use very high-resolution files.

Technical specifications

Digital-to-analog conversion

• Conversion chip: 2 × AKM AK4493
• Architecture: dual mono design
• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+ / - 0.1 dB)
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.001% maximum
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 125 dB
• Dynamic range: 120 dB
• RCA output impedance: 50 Ω

Supported formats and resolutions

• PCM formats: up to 32-bit / 384 kHz
• DSD formats: up to DSD512 (DSF, DFF)
• Other formats: MQA, AIFF, ALAC, WAV, FLAC, MP3, Apple Lossless, OGG, Monkey’s

Connectivity and streaming services

• Network: LAN / WLAN (Wi-Fi) 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac dual band (10 / 433 Mbps)
• Bluetooth: high-definition 5.0 (44 / 16)
• Streaming services: Roon Ready, Airplay, MQA, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Tidal Connect, vTuner
• Supported media servers: UPnP, DLNA, Roon
  • The UPnP server must support DSD streaming for DSD file playback

Inputs and outputs

• Digital inputs
  • 1 × RCA coaxial (PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz)
  • 1 × balanced AES / EBU (PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz)
  • 2 × TOS-Link (PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz)
  • 1 × asynchronous USB-B (up to DSD512 and PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz)
  • 1 × USB-A port (up to DSD256 and PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz, formatted in FAT32 / NTFS, 32 GB maximum for USB sticks)
• Analog inputs (DS-1000 EVO LINE only)
  • 1 × unbalanced RCA
  • 1 × balanced XLR
• DAC audio outputs
  • 1 × RCA 2 Vrms
  • 1 × XLR 2 Vrms
• Preamplifier audio outputs (DS-1000 EVO LINE only)
  • 1 × unbalanced RCA
  • 1 × balanced XLR
• Headphone output: 6.3 mm front jack with two sensitivity levels (High / Low)

Features and control

• Preamplifier stage volume control: available only on the DS-1000 EVO LINE model
  • Volume controlled in the analog domain
  • Can be bypassed in DAC mode
• Output stage: class A with discrete audio-grade components
• Dedicated app: GN Control (iOS and Android) for managing features and streaming services
• Multifunction remote control included

Power supply and upgrade paths

• Mains power supply: 100 - 240 V / 50 - 60 Hz
• Power consumption: 30 W
• Fuse: 2 A T
• Upgrade paths
  • External power supplies: PSU-1250, PSU-1000
  • Tube output stage: TUBE-1012, TUBE-1006

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 mm × 135 mm × 375 mm
• Net weight: 10 kg
• Shipping weight: 15 kg

Non-contractual photo. This is the rear panel of the DS-1000 LINE