Gold Note DS-1000 MkII

Introduction and Features

Audio Streaming Just Became Better

The Gold Note DS-1000 simplifies enjoying music by allowing playback from flash memory (USB key) or connecting to the web for digital radio. It features a D/A converter with S/PDIF coaxial and TOS optical digital inputs, powered by an AKM receiver, and a USB port powered by XMOS U6 500MHz DSD for high-speed peripherals. It supports high-quality, high-resolution playback up to 24bit/192kHz.

More Time for Music, Less Time to Make It Work

A large 3.5" TFT monitor provides clear menu navigation for USB inputs, digital inputs, and radio stations. The unit features the exclusive SKC (Single Knob Control), making it a user-friendly plug-and-play source controllable even without a remote.

Total Control Over Your System

The DS-1000 boasts a unique modular design, part of Gold Note's 1000 series, allowing expansion with optional internal preamp stages and analogue balanced stereo inputs. Modularity extends to external accessories like the TUBE-1006 and TUBE-1012 Class-A tube output stages, and the PSU-1000 power supply. The output stage is based on Gold Note's experience with the Favard CD Player, utilizing a fully balanced, solid-state Dual-Mono PCM1792A.

For a no-compromises experience, the DS-1000 can optionally integrate two balanced Class A tube output stages: TUBE-1012 (12 double triode tubes, 6 transformers, inductive and tube power supply for ultra-low distortion) and TUBE-1006 (6 tubes for improved performance). Two external super power supplies, PSU-1000 (1000 Watt inductive unit), are available for enhanced power and galvanic insulation from AC system, providing shielding from RFI and EMI.

Upgrade When You Want To

The DS-1000 includes a standard digital volume control and can connect directly to a power amplifier without a preamplifier. An optional high-quality preamp stage with a PGA single resistor for dual-mono volume control is available. A stereo balanced analogue input is also offered, allowing the DS-1000 to function as an integrated control unit.

Specifications

DSD Streamer with integrated DSD D/A Converter

• Frequency response: 5Hz-200kHz +/-0.3dB
• THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): 0.001% max
• Signal to Noise ratio: -125dB
• Dynamic response: 129dB
• Output impedance: 50Ω
• Digital filter: proprietary Zero-Clock circuit with three Master Clocks
• Volume control: switchable On/Off Digital partializer

Network

• LAN/WLAN WiFi: 802.11b/g via RJ45 10/100Mbps socket and Antenna
• Supports native and DoP DSD64/128/256 and PCM up to 24bit/192kHz

Digital Inputs

• 1 RCA S/PDIF coaxial and 1 TOS-optical asynchronous 24bit/192kHz
• 1 USB-B asynchronous native and DoP DSD64/128/256 and PCM up to 24bit/192kHz
• 2 USB-A ports for flash memories and HDD (FAT32 only) for native and DoP DSD64 and PCM up to 24bit/192kHz

Audio Outputs

• Line output level (fixed): stereo RCA @ 2Volt and balanced XLR @ 4Volt
• Digital output: S/PDIF, 75Ω RCA 24bit

Supported Media Servers

• Minim
• Bubble UPnP
• All UPnP certified media servers

Supported Audio Formats

• AIFF (.aif, .aiff, .aifc)
• WAV (.wav) packed/unpacked
• FLAC, ALAC, MP3
• MPEG-4 - Advanced Audio coding File (.aac, .m4a) including Apple lossless.
• WmA - Windows media Audio 9.
• WAX - Windows media audio metafiles.
• ASX - Advanced Stream Redirector (.asx)
• DSD 2.8MHz - mass storage units from USB-A ports and UPnP server (UPnP server must support DSD streaming).

Power

• 100-120V / 220-240V, 50/60Hz
• Dual-Mono power supply
• Power consumption: 30W
• Fuse 220/240V 1A F/T
• Fuse 100/120V 2A F/T

Finishes

• Brushed anodised Aluminium available in Black, Silver or Gold

Upgrades

• TUBE-1012: Class-A 12 Tubes output stage with inductive tube power supply.
• TUBE-1006: Class-A 6 Tubes output stage.
• PSU-1000: Inductive external multi transformer super power supply.
• Preamp Stage: PGA single resistor for dual-mono volume control.
• Analogue input: Stereo balanced XLR.
• External AC filter: Gold Note Lucca AC distributor.
• Other: Gold Note Lucca power chord.

Front and Rear Panel

Front Panel

• LED STANDBY/ON-OFF
• IR RECEIVER
• DISPLAY
• SKC (SINGLE KNOB CONTROL)

Rear Panel

The rear panel features a comprehensive array of connections:

• TUBE 1006/1012 OUTPUT STAGE
• ANALOGIC INPUT
• TOS/LINK OPTICAL AUDIO INPUT
• EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY PLUG
• WI-FI ANTENNA CONNECTOR
• USB HOST
• MASTER ON/OFF
• LINE OUTPUT (BALANCED XLR L/R, UNBALANCED RCA L/R)
• LINE INPUT (BALANCED XLR L/R)
• USB DAC (TOS IN, USB DAC, RF IN)
• MASTER PSU
• ETHERNET
• COAX OUT
• COAX IN
• USB 1, USB 2
• AC Power Plug
• SPDIF/COAX OUTPUT
• SPDIF/COAX INPUT
• USB FOR FAT32 FLASH MEMORIES
• ETHERNET/LAN

The unit is Made in Italy.

Operating the DS-1000

Turning DS-1000 On/Off

To turn the unit on or off, press and hold the knob for 3 seconds.

Select a Function

Turn the knob left or right until the desired function is highlighted. Press the knob to select it.

• Single Click: Enter/Play
• 2 Second Long Click: Back to previous/Stop
• 5 Second Long Click: Standby

A remote control app is available for iOS and Android. Search for "Gold Note DS-1000 Remote" on the App Store or Google Play Store, or scan the provided QR codes (Note: QR codes are excluded from this HTML output).

IMPORTANT: To use the Gold Note DS-1000 Remote app, the phone/tablet must be connected to the same network as the DS-1000.

Remote Control (Optional)

The optional Gold Note remote control allows convenient operation of the DAC without touching the front panel knob. It provides full access to all functions.

Volume Control

To enable or disable digital volume control:

1. Select DAC from the remote.
2. Enter the sequence 0 - 1 - 7 - 4.
3. The display will show "VOLUME CONTROL ENABLED" or "VOLUME CONTROL DISABLED".

Remote Button Functions:

• VOLUME: Use VOL+ and VOL- to adjust volume by 1dB increments.
• MUTE: Instantly mutes the DS-1000. Input selection is disabled while muted.
• SHIFT: Activates the SELECTION FRAME to select functions, similar to pressing the knob.
• DAC: Select to connect the DS-1000 as a DAC.
• POWER ON/OFF: Turns the DS-1000 ON and OFF (master switch on rear panel must be ON).
• BALANCE L/R: Adjusts the volume balance between left and right channels by 1dB increments.
• INPUT SELECTION: Use IN+ and IN- to change the selected input. When the SELECTION FRAME is red, use IN+ and IN- to change the function and set the desired value.
• DISPLAY: Turns the display ON and OFF.

Functions

Playing Music via USB

To browse an USB HDD connected to the DS-1000, select the USB port (1 or 2). The DS-1000 will display the memory content and audio files.

Adding Favorites

Files can be marked as "favorite" using the companion App available on iOS and Android.

Using DS-1000 as a DAC

To use the DS-1000 as a D/A converter, select COAX IN or TOS IN from the main menu. The same function is accessed via USB Host IN, enabling USB Digital to Analogue conversion. The display will show the source's sample frequency (FS). Apple devices recognize the DS-1000 as a DAC automatically. Windows devices require specific drivers, available for download at www.goldnote.it/ds-1000.

Functions: Network and Connectivity

Playing Music from Network

Navigate to "Settings" > "Network" to configure the connection. Choose between "Wired" and "Wireless". "Automatic (DHCP)" is recommended for home networks; static IP address configuration is also possible. Confirm settings when prompted; the unit will restart. The DS-1000 is compatible with all UPnP servers, with Universal Media Server or JRiver recommended.

Setting the Security Key for Wi-Fi

When connecting to wireless networks, the unit will scan for available networks or allow manual entry of a network ID. Use the knob to select characters, press to confirm and move to the next character, or press and hold to delete. Confirm the password entry.

Setting a Static IP Address and Wired Connection

To set a static IP address, gather network information: IP address for DS-1000, Subnet Mask (usually 255.255.255.0), and Default Gateway Address (router's IP). Follow the on-screen prompts to enter the IP address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway Address. For DNS, select "Static IP Address" and use Google DNS (primary 8.8.8.8, alternative 8.8.4.4).

Proxy Server and Save Settings

Configure proxy settings if required and save the network configuration.

Internet Radio

Select "Internet Radio" to browse and listen to available radio stations.

Network Player

When "Media Server" is selected, the DS-1000 displays available UPnP units on the network. Choose a server to browse directories and audio files.

Updating DS-1000 Software

To update the software, ensure the DS-1000 is connected to the Internet. Navigate to "Settings" > "Software Update" to initiate the process.

Other Settings

Within "Settings", users can configure:

• TIME: Set time zones, daylight savings, and display the current time.
• PLAYBACK: Define favorite playback modes (repeat, shuffle, slideshow for image files).
• GENERAL: Access "Reset Settings" to revert to initial setup, or "Info" to view current software and hardware versions.

Optional Upgrade

The DS-1000 offers several optional upgrades to enhance its performance:

• TUBE-1012: Class-A 12 Tubes output stage with inductive tube power supply.
• TUBE-1006: Class-A 6 Tubes output stage.
• PSU-1000: Dual-Mono 1000Watt Super External Power supply.
• PREAMP STAGE: Features a PGA single resistor for dual-mono volume control, allowing direct connection to power amplifiers or active speakers.
• ANALOGUE INPUT: Provides a stereo balanced XLR input for connecting external analogue units like a phono stage.

Warranty and Service

Warranty

To validate the warranty, register the unit on the Gold Note website within 15 days of purchase at www.goldnote.it/warranty. Failure to register correctly or purchasing from a different country may result in warranty refusal. The warranty does not cover Tubes, Phono Cartridge Stylus, and Batteries.

Service

Gold Note products are designed for reliable performance. If issues arise that cannot be resolved by the user, contact your dealer for assistance. Do not return items directly to the factory or distributor without authorization, as this may void responsibility. For more information, visit www.goldnote.it/service.

PLEASE NOTE: Descriptions and technical characteristics are subject to change without notice.

Important Safety Information

CAUTION!
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER ONLY TO QUALIFIED GOLD NOTE SERVICE PERSONNEL FOR SERVICE.

WARNING!
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Do not disassemble any part of the product. Do not use any part of the product for other purposes. For service and problems of any kind, contact qualified Gold Note personnel. Protect the product from rain, humidity, and keep away from heat sources, electric and electronic motors. The supplied power cord must be used only with this unit. Gold Note is not responsible for any improper use of this unit.

This appliance has a serial number located on the rear panel. Please record the model and serial number and retain them for your records.

Serial Number: _________________________

Model: _________________________

Safety Instructions:

1. Read and store these instructions.
2. Heed all warnings.
3. Follow all instructions.
4. Do not use this apparatus near water.
5. Clean only with a dry cloth.
6. Do not block ventilation openings and install according to manufacturer's instructions.
7. Do not install near heat sources (radiators, stoves, amplifiers).
8. Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong for safety. Consult an electrician if the plug does not fit your outlet.
9. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, especially at plugs and where it exits the apparatus.
10. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
11. Use only with the manufacturer-specified cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. Exercise caution when moving cart/apparatus combinations to avoid tip-over.
12. Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required if the apparatus is damaged (e.g., power cord, liquid spill, dropped) or does not operate normally.