Gold Note DS-5.2 – Compact Streamer, DAC and Preamplifier

Italian company Gold Note has released the Gold Note DS-5.2 network player. The device combines the functions of a streamer, digital source and digital-to-analogue converter. The new model joins the compact Series 5.2 component range and, according to the manufacturer, uses a number of engineering solutions familiar from the higher-end DS-10 EVO.

Gold Note emphasises that the DS-5.2 is not a simplified modification of the DS-10 EVO. Rather, it is a more compact interpretation of the same concept. The unit is built as a fully balanced digital source and housed in a black anodised aluminium chassis. With a width of 200 mm and a weight of around 4 kg, it can be placed in a small Hi-Fi system, on a TV stand, in a standard rack or even in a compartment of an IKEA Kallax shelf. The front panel features a 3-inch colour touchscreen that displays settings and album artwork.

The network platform of the Gold Note DS-5.2 is inherited from the DS-10 EVO. The model supports Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, including Lossless, as well as Apple AirPlay 2. When connected via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, the player handles PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256. Music can also be played from FAT32 and NTFS storage devices via USB-A at the same resolutions. Control is handled through the Gold Note GN Control app, while Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX HD is provided for direct wireless streaming from a smartphone or tablet.

The Gold Note DS-5.2 is designed for more than just network playback. Its input section includes a coaxial RCA digital input and an optical TOSLINK input, both accepting signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz. There is also an HDMI eARC port for connecting a TV, with the same maximum resolution. In addition, the unit has an analogue RCA stereo input, allowing it to be used in a system as a compact preamplifier.

For digital output, a coaxial RCA output is provided, supporting signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The device can also transmit audio via Bluetooth 5.2 aptX HD. This allows the DS-5.2 to operate not only as a standalone streamer and DAC, but also as a digital transport paired with an external converter.

Analogue outputs are available via RCA and XLR connectors. The user can choose a fixed output mode with a 2 V RMS level or use the variable RCA and XLR outputs. A 6.35 mm headphone jack is also located on the front panel. According to the manufacturer, the built-in headphone amplifier delivers up to 2 W of power. The ability to disable or activate volume control makes the DS-5.2 a versatile component: it can work either as a source with a fixed output or as a preamplifier.

Digital-to-analogue conversion is based on an AKM AK4493 chip from Asahi Kasei. It is integrated into a fully balanced circuit, for which Gold Note claims total harmonic distortion of 0.001%, a signal-to-noise ratio of 125 dB and a dynamic range of 120 dB. At the same time, the company traditionally focuses not only on the chosen DAC chip and measurable parameters, but also on its own sound tuning, based on experience with reference recordings, studios and sound engineers.

The Gold Note DS-5.2 is designed and manufactured in Italy, like the brand’s other components. The recommended retail price of the streamer in the European market is €1,290.