ЦАПы — Gold Note DS-1000 EVO

The DS-1000 EVO is a full-width streaming DAC from Gold Note, offered in two versions - the DS-1000 EVO as a DAC and streamer only, and the DS-1000 EVO LINE, which adds a Class A preamplifier with analogue inputs. Two AKM AK4493 converters are arranged dual mono, and the streaming platform is shared with the compact DS-10 EVO, in a full-width aluminium case.

Key specs that matter

Two AK4493 chips, one per channel, decode PCM up to 32 bit and 384 kHz and DSD512, with DSD256 over the network. The streaming services are the same as on the DS-10 EVO, among them Roon Ready, Qobuz Connect and Tidal Connect. Digital inputs are coaxial, AES/EBU, two optical, an asynchronous USB-B and USB-A, and the LINE version adds RCA and XLR analogue inputs. On the output side there are RCA and XLR at 2 V RMS, and the LINE version adds variable RCA and XLR outputs and a 6.3 mm headphone jack. Output impedance is 50 ohms on RCA and 100 ohms on XLR. Frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.1 dB, THD is 0.001% and signal to noise ratio is 125 dB. Power consumption is 30 W. The case measures 430 x 135 x 375 mm and weighs 10 kg.

Engineering and use context

In the dual mono converter, each channel has its own AK4493 chip. The asynchronous USB input takes its timing from the DAC's own clock rather than from the computer. Choosing between the two versions decides whether the unit acts purely as a digital source or also as a complete preamplifier with volume control and analogue inputs, so the LINE version can replace a separate preamplifier in a system with a power amplifier. The Class A preamplifier stage in the LINE version keeps its output devices conducting throughout the signal. The DS-1000 EVO matches the width of standard full-size components and weighs two and a half times as much as the DS-10 EVO. Its signal to noise, THD and RCA output impedance figures match those of the smaller model.

Pairing

The fixed outputs of the standard version connect to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier. The LINE version drives a stereo power amplifier directly through its variable outputs, and it accepts a turntable through an external phono stage or other analogue sources on RCA or XLR. Headphones connect to the front jack of the LINE version.

Alternatives

The Gold Note DS-10 EVO is the compact streaming DAC with one AK4493 chip in a 200 mm case, with a headphone output and variable preamplifier outputs as standard.