Gold Note PSU-1250 gold

The PSU-1250 from Gold Note is an external power supply dedicated to the Italian manufacturer’s 1000 series components, designed to provide 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 devoted 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.

Sophisticated electrical design

The PSU-1250 is based on a particularly elaborate multi‑transformer topology. The configuration comprises 7 transformers: 4 dedicated exclusively to the power stage, one of which is used for galvanic isolation of the audio stage, and 3 for the Dual Choke inductive filter. This distribution allows the different electrical functions to be physically separated, 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 powering both the high‑current negative and positive 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 the signal voltages upstream of the electronics, eliminating electromagnetic interference and electrical noise well 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 paired with line and common‑mode noise rejection exceeding 80 dB, ensuring that the connected electronics receive current of unmatched purity.

Galvanic isolation deserves particular attention: it electrically decouples 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 Gold Note’s product design.

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 makes it possible to respond instantly to the transient demands of the electronics, especially during complex musical passages or dynamic peaks. The 2.5‑microsecond response time demonstrates how quickly the power supply can deliver the required power.

These external power supplies perfectly filter the AC mains and remove electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio‑frequency interference (RFI) from the power system. By eliminating this pollution, the PSU-1250 allows the electronics to operate under ideal conditions, free from the constraints imposed by the variable quality of domestic power grids.

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, switching from blue to green. This simple indication makes it easy to see at a glance that the connection is properly established.

The absolute phase control, selectable from the front panel, allows adjustment of the signal phase (0°/180°). Pressing the phase button inverts the phase and the status LED changes color from blue to red (inverted phase). This function is useful for correcting any phase anomalies in the audio chain or simply for experimenting and determining which polarity delivers 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 switch manipulation. Connection to 1000 series electronics is via the supplied 1‑meter PSU Link cable, ensuring optimal coupling between the power supply and the powered device.

Build and finish

With dimensions of 430 mm wide, 135 mm high and 360 mm deep, the PSU-1250 has a substantial footprint, consistent with the other components in the 1000 series. Its net weight of 21 kg (27 kg boxed) 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 the appearance of the hi‑fi system to be harmonized, especially when several 1000 series components are used together.

It is recommended to place the PSU-1250 at a reasonable distance from other audio electronics, avoiding positioning it underneath the unit it powers or too close to other components. This precaution optimizes performance by limiting electromagnetic interactions between the various elements of the system.

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 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