Gold Note DS-1000 EVO – High-Resolution Streaming DAC
Reference streaming and conversion with a pure DAC approach. The Gold Note DS-1000 EVO is a high-resolution network streamer and dual-mono DAC built around two AKM AK4493 converters. With Roon Ready streaming, broad format support up to PCM 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 (plus DSD512 via USB-B), and both balanced and unbalanced outputs, it’s designed to be the definitive digital front end for serious two-channel systems.
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Dual-mono DAC: 2 × AKM AK4493 for superb separation and low crosstalk
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Hi-res playback: PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz; DSD up to DSD256 (DSD512 via USB-B)
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Streaming: Roon Ready, AirPlay, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, vTuner, MQA
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Connectivity: LAN, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 plus extensive digital inputs
Product Overview
The DS-1000 EVO is built for listeners who want a dedicated streaming DAC with maximum purity and flexibility. It combines a refined network streaming engine with a dual-mono conversion architecture using two AKM AK4493 chips, designed to preserve channel separation and micro-detail while maintaining Gold Note’s natural, musically engaging voicing.
The DS-1000 EVO can function as the digital hub for an entire system: stream from online services, access local libraries via UPnP/DLNA or Roon, and connect external digital sources such as CD transports, TVs and computers through S/PDIF, AES/EBU and USB. Balanced XLR and RCA outputs feed your amplifier or preamp with a low-noise, high-resolution signal.
Listening Experience
The DS-1000 EVO delivers a spacious, finely resolved and effortlessly smooth listening experience. The dual-mono AKM implementation contributes to stable imaging and a deep, layered soundstage, helping instruments and voices occupy clearly defined positions with excellent separation.
Bass is taut and controlled with strong pitch definition, giving rhythm sections confidence without overhang. The midrange is open and expressive—vocals feel present and natural—while treble is extended and refined, revealing air and micro-detail without becoming sharp. The overall presentation is detailed yet fluid, making it easy to enjoy long sessions while still hearing the full texture of high-quality recordings.
Recommended System Context
As a source component, the DS-1000 EVO scales beautifully from small listening rooms to large living spaces. The key is matching it with amplification and loudspeakers that can reveal its resolution and staging. It is ideal for:
- High-performance integrated amplifiers with quality line inputs
- Pre/power systems where a refined DAC is essential
- Balanced chains using XLR for maximum noise rejection and long cable runs
Use Cases
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Streaming hub: Roon Ready and service-based playback for a modern audiophile library
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DAC upgrade: elevate CD transports, TVs and media boxes via optical/coax/AES inputs
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Computer audio: high-resolution playback via USB-B asynchronous connection
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Clean integration: balanced XLR output into quality amplification for a quiet, dynamic chain
Connectivity & Streaming
Network connectivity includes LAN and dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac, 10/433Mbps) for stable streaming and control, plus Bluetooth 5.0 (44/16) for quick wireless playback. The streaming platform supports modern listening methods including Roon Ready, AirPlay and direct control via Tidal Connect and Spotify Connect.
For local libraries, it supports UPnP/DLNA and Roon as media servers. Note: to play DSD over UPnP, your UPnP server must support DSD streaming.
Technical Specifications
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D/A converter chip: 2 × AKM AK4493 (dual-mono design)
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Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz (±0.1dB)
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THD: 0.001% max
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Signal-to-noise ratio: 125dB
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Dynamic range: 120dB
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Network connectivity: LAN / WLAN (Wi-Fi) 802.11a/b/g/n/ac dual band (10/433Mbps)
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Bluetooth: High Definition 5.0 (44/16)
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High-quality streaming: Roon Ready, AirPlay, MQA, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Tidal Connect, vTuner
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Supported audio formats: PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz; DSD up to DSD256 (DSF, DFF); AIFF; ALAC; WAV; FLAC; MP3; Apple Lossless; OGG; Monkey’s
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Supported media servers: UPnP, DLNA, Roon (UPnP server must support DSD streaming to play DSD files)
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Digital inputs:
- 1 × RCA coaxial (PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz)
- 1 × AES/EBU balanced (PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz)
- 2 × TOS-Link (PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz)
- 1 × USB-B asynchronous (up to DSD512 and PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz)
- 1 × USB-A (DSD256 and PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz; FAT32/NTFS, 32GB max for pen drives)
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Audio outputs: 1 × RCA unbalanced (2Vrms); 1 × XLR balanced (2Vrms)
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Output impedance: RCA 50Ω; XLR 100Ω
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Power supply: 100–240V / 50–60Hz
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Power consumption: 30W
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Fuse: 2A T
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Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 135 × 375 mm
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Weight: 10 kg net; 15 kg boxed
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Finishes: Black / Silver / Gold anodised aluminium (brushed)
Why Choose the Gold Note DS-1000 EVO?
The DS-1000 EVO is an outstanding choice if you want a dedicated streaming DAC that blends modern usability with audiophile-grade conversion. With dual-mono AKM DACs, wide format support, Roon Ready streaming and extensive digital connectivity, it brings clarity, scale and refinement to any serious stereo system—acting as a future-ready digital source you can build around for years.
