In this Gold Note DS-1000 EVO Line DAC review, we explore an extraordinary piece of audio engineering that exemplifies the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship and sonic excellence. As seasoned audiophiles at The Audio Tailor, we've experienced countless DACs, but this masterpiece from Gold Note has left an indelible impression with its remarkable dual-mono architecture and sophisticated streaming capabilities.
Design and Build Quality
The DS-1000 EVO Line exudes luxury with its substantial chassis and immaculate finish. At 10kg, this isn't just another digital component - it's a statement piece that commands attention in any high-end system. The elegant gold finish and precision-machined controls reflect Gold Note's unwavering commitment to excellence.
Technical Prowess
The heart of this DAC comprises dual AKM AK4493 converters in a true dual-mono configuration. This sophisticated architecture delivers:
- Exceptional channel separation
- Remarkably low noise floor (125dB SNR)
- Pristine signal conversion up to 32bit/384kHz PCM and DSD512
- Negligible THD of just 0.001%
Streaming and Connectivity
The DS-1000 EVO Line's streaming capabilities are comprehensive:
- Native Tidal Connect integration
- Roon Ready certification
- Support for Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and more
- Dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0
- Extensive digital inputs including USB, AES/EBU, and Toslink
Sound Quality
The sonic presentation is nothing short of magnificent. The Class A output stage imparts a natural warmth while maintaining exceptional detail retrieval. Bass response is authoritative yet nuanced, while the midrange exhibits the kind of transparency that makes vocals feel startlingly present.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional dual-mono DAC architecture
- Comprehensive streaming capabilities
- Class A preamp stage
- Extensive format support including MQA
- Professional-grade headphone output
- Outstanding build quality
- Intuitive control app
- Versatile connectivity options
Cons
- Premium price point
- Substantial size requires adequate rack space
- WiFi setup may require initial patience
- App requires occasional updates
Who Is This For?
The DS-1000 EVO Line DAC is perfect for:
- Serious audiophiles seeking reference-level digital playback
- Streaming enthusiasts who demand the highest quality
- Music lovers who appreciate Italian audio craftsmanship
- Those building a premium digital-focused system
Setting Up Your DS-1000 EVO
While the DS-1000 EVO Line is sophisticated, setup is straightforward. Our team at The Audio Tailor is always available to guide you through optimising your new DAC - just give us a ring on 1300 308 711 for personalised assistance.
The Golden Note: Final Thoughts
The Gold Note DS-1000 EVO Line DAC represents the culmination of Italian audio expertise and modern digital innovation. It's a device that doesn't just convert digital signals - it breathes life into music with an authority and finesse that's rare in the digital domain.
For those seeking to elevate their digital playback to reference levels, we encourage you to reach out to our team. With our extensive experience in high-end audio, we can help ensure this remarkable DAC reaches its full potential in your system.
Looking for expert guidance on integrating the DS-1000 EVO Line into your setup? Our team is just a phone call away at 1300 308 711.
