Gold Note PSU-1250 silver

The PSU-1250 from Gold Note is an external power supply dedicated to the Italian manufacturer’s 1000 series components, designed to provide the CD-1000 players, DS-1000 DACs, P-1000 preamplifiers, and PH-1000 phono stages with filtered power of surgical precision. With its 7-transformer design—4 dedicated exclusively to the power stage, 1 for galvanic isolation, and 3 for the Dual Choke inductive filter—this power supply represents the pinnacle of Gold Note’s range in terms of mains conditioning.

A sophisticated electrical design

The PSU-1250 is based on a particularly elaborate multi-transformer topology. The configuration includes 7 transformers: 4 dedicated exclusively to the power stage, one of which is for galvanic isolation of the audio stage, and 3 for the Dual Choke inductive filter. This distribution makes it possible to physically separate the different electrical functions, thereby reducing the risk of interference between stages.

Featuring a hybrid Super Inductive Dual Choke design, the PSU-1250 includes an inductive filter on the analog stage and a dual inductance controlled design driving both the negative and positive high-current stages. This Dual Choke technology, exclusive to Gold Note, is one of the pillars of the Tuscan manufacturer’s design philosophy. The principle is to use chokes (inductors) to filter signal voltages upstream of the electronics, eliminating electromagnetic interference and electrical noise long before they reach the sensitive circuits.

The PSU-1250 incorporates 7 low-noise voltage regulators for exceptional electrical stability, guaranteeing a maximum output voltage variation limited to 0.05%. This remarkable stability is accompanied by line and common-mode noise rejection greater than 80 dB, ensuring that the powered electronics receive current of unrivalled purity.

Galvanic isolation deserves particular attention: it makes it possible to electrically decouple the audio stage from the rest of the power supply, creating a barrier against disturbances that could propagate by conduction. This physical separation helps preserve the integrity of the musical signal, a fundamental element in the design of Gold Note products.

Power and responsiveness in the service of music

The dynamic power of the PSU-1250 exceeds 300 W, far beyond its nominal consumption of 100 W. This substantial energy reserve allows it to respond instantly to transient demands from the electronics, particularly during complex musical passages or dynamic peaks. The 2.5-microsecond response time attests to the speed with which the power supply can deliver the required power.

These external power supplies perfectly filter the alternating current and eliminate electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) from the power system. By removing these pollutants, the PSU-1250 allows the electronics to operate under ideal conditions, freed from the constraints imposed by the variable quality of the domestic power grid.

Ergonomics and practical features

The front panel of the PSU-1250 features a status LED that visually communicates the operating state. When a unit is powered by the PSU, the unit’s status LED changes color, going from blue to green. This simple indication lets you verify at a glance that the connection is correctly established.

The absolute phase control, selectable from the front panel, allows you to adjust the signal phase (0°/180°). Pressing the phase button will invert the phase and the status LED will change color from blue to red (inverted phase). This function is useful for correcting potential phase issues in the audio chain or simply for experimenting and determining which polarity provides the most natural sound according to the system configuration.

The power supply includes automatic voltage detection (100-120 V / 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz), making it easy to use in different regions of the world without operating switches. Connection to 1000 series electronics is via the supplied 1-meter PSU Link cable, ensuring optimal linkage between the power supply and the powered component.

Build and finish

With dimensions of 430 mm in width, 135 mm in height, and 360 mm in depth, the PSU-1250 has an imposing footprint, consistent with that of other 1000 series components. Its net weight of 21 kg (27 kg packaged) reflects the solidity of its construction and the density of the transformers it houses.

The anodized aluminum chassis is available in three finishes: black, silver, or gold, all with a traditional brushed finish. This aesthetic consistency allows you to harmonize the appearance of the hi-fi system, particularly when several elements of the 1000 series are combined.

It is recommended to place the PSU-1250 at a reasonable distance from other audio electronic components, avoiding positioning it under the unit it powers or too close to other electronics. This precaution helps optimize performance by limiting electromagnetic interactions between the system’s various components.

Technical specifications

Electrical performance

• Low-noise voltage regulators
  • PSU-1250: 7 regulators
• Maximum output voltage variation: 0.05%
• Line noise rejection: > 80 dB
• Common-mode noise rejection: > 80 dB
• Absolute phase control: selectable from the front panel
• Full-power response time: < 2.5 µsec
• Dedicated to the Line 1000 electronics

Power supply and consumption

• Power consumption: 100 W
• Dynamic power
  • PSU-1250: > 300 W
  • PSU-1000: > 200 W
• Standby consumption: 1 W
• Mains power: 100–120 V / 220–240 V with automatic detection, 50 / 60 Hz
• Fuse: 3.15 A F

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 135 x 360 mm
• Power connection cable: 1 m
• Weight: 21 kg net, 27 kg packaged