In this Gold Note CD-1000 MKII Deluxe DSD CD Player review, we delve into what might just be the ultimate expression of digital audio playback. As an audiophile reviewer at The Audio Tailor, I've experienced countless CD players, but this Italian masterpiece stands in a league of its own.
Design and Build Quality
The CD-1000 MKII exudes luxury through its brushed aluminium chassis. At 12kg, its substantial weight speaks to the robust internal engineering and careful attention to vibration control. The large O-LED display offers crystal-clear visibility, while the elegant minimalist facade would grace any high-end system.
Technical Excellence
At the heart of this player lies the exceptional BurrBrown PCM1792A DAC, chosen for its remarkable ability to render music with breathtaking clarity. The JPL-2800 Stream-Unlimited transport mechanism ensures precise disc reading with a mere 0.0001% speed fluctuation - numbers that translate to remarkable real-world performance.
Sound Quality
The sonic presentation is nothing short of magical. With a signal-to-noise ratio of 128dB and dynamic range of 127dB, the CD-1000 MKII delivers a blackground silence that allows music to emerge with stunning purity. Our team has found that its balanced XLR outputs particularly shine when paired with high-end amplification.
Connectivity and Versatility
Beyond CD playback, this player offers:
- Multiple digital inputs (coaxial and optical)
- USB-B input for DSD and PCM files
- Both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs
- Digital volume control for direct amp connection
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional build quality with premium materials
- State-of-the-art BurrBrown PCM1792A DAC
- Extremely low jitter rates
- Versatile input/output options
- Impressive signal-to-noise ratio
- Optional tube output stage upgrade path
- Sophisticated digital volume control
- Comprehensive format support
Cons
- Premium price point
- Substantial size requires adequate rack space
- May be feature-rich for those seeking simplicity
Who Is This For?
The CD-1000 MKII Deluxe DSD is perfect for the discerning audiophile who:
- Values exceptional build quality
- Maintains an extensive CD collection
- Seeks reference-level digital playback
- Appreciates future upgrade possibilities
Setting Up Your System
For optimal performance, we recommend speaking with our team about system matching. The CD-1000 MKII's capabilities deserve careful consideration of partnering equipment to achieve its full potential. Give us a call on 1300 308 711 for personalised advice.
A Symphony of Digital Excellence
The Gold Note CD-1000 MKII Deluxe DSD represents the pinnacle of CD player design. Its combination of technical excellence, versatility, and pure musical engagement makes it a standout choice for those seeking the ultimate digital source component.
For those ready to elevate their listening experience to new heights, our team is here to help you explore how this remarkable player could transform your system. Contact us for in-depth discussions about integrating this masterpiece into your audio journey.
