Based on a holistic integration concept and not the current chip flavour fads, the new Gold Note DS-5.2 carefully balances a sum of its parts to draw impressive sonic results. Streamlined digital architecture and original forward thinking design is followed by ease of use and future-proof ability to add functions and features.
Gold Note DS-5.2 is built on series 5.2 unified chassis, where the designers are well aware how to control electrical and mechanical environment, reducing air-borne or structural interference.
Internal power supply provides exceptional operating stability and tight current control even under the most demanding operating conditions. A simple future upgrade path is embedded in all Series 5.2 components with a provision of perfectly matched external power supply, the PSX-5.2.
Original Gold Note digital processing and filtering
In the analogue world of record players Gold Note is a strong proponent of adaptable phono EQ: when a RIIA curve can be user selected according to the technical background of this particular vinyl pressing.
Something very similar is implemented by Gold Note in the digital domain. First tried in a flagship Gold Note DS-10 EVO digital source, the technology allows to predict the subtle timings of analogue waveform by analysing the digital data. The analysis is coded using Gold Note database of digital recordings, where each recording is intimately known and researched, reliable knowledge collected about the instruments used, microphones, studio environment, creative choices made by sound engineers, producers and artists. Using the database, the digital ‘pre-DA’ circuitry can apply DSP necessary for restoring timing clues in the resulting analogue voltage, which are usually lost during conventional digital interpolation.
Gold Note DS-5.2 streamer in 5.2 series framework
While DS-5.2 inherits many ideas from upper 10 and 1000 lines, it is aimed at translating it into a compact and maximum user friendly package. Grounded in genuine engineering the final product is well optimised, efficiently produced with minimum waste and supported with tight quality control. , minimum waste without compromising its principles.
Series 5.2 simplifies entry to the Gold Note world, but at the same time it is not about simplifying design goals.
Music streaming with Gold Note DS-5.2
Music subscription services that you can use with DS-5.2 can be upgraded in the unit’s firmware. Currently TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Deezer, Spotify Connect with Spotify Lossless HD apps can be used for managing content sent to DS5.2. Playback management is not limited to native music subscription apps but can be also be controlled by Roon (DS5.2 is Roon Ready) or any DNLA or UpnP server in your local network.
This compact streamer shares the same network architecture developed for DS-10 EVO, aimed at reliability, stability and streaming quality.
Control app and remote
The unit can controlled by a dedicated app (Google Play App Link GN Control or Apple AppStore GN Control, iPad recommended), IR-remote or touchscreen on the front panel.
Useful everyday features for everyone
Wireless streaming is supported from Bluetooth (in and out, 5.2, aptX HD 24bit) and AirPlay 2 mobile devices. TV sound can be connected by single HDMI cable thanks to eARC feature. Dedicated digital output allows DS-5.2 to be used as a pure head unit upstream to a DAC, there is also a line preamp function to connect to active speaker or power amp.
Using this simple, elegant features, DS-5.2 can communicate with traditional stereo systems, televisions, wireless headphones, desktop systems, gaming environments and compact contemporary setups, always maintaining best sound quality attainable.
Fully balanced architecture
Despite its compact format, DS-5.2 maintains a fully balanced circuitry developed to minimise noise, instability and interference while preserving dynamic naturalness, spatial depth and musical credibility.
Designed and built in Italy
Like all Gold Note products, DS-5.2 is designed, assembled and tested internally in Italy.
According to Gold Note, ‘Made in Italy’ is not simply a geographical origin, but a design method that combines manufacturing culture, musical research, production control and engineering precision within a coherent vision. Form, materials, interface and construction are not separate from sound quality. They are part of it. In digital, as in analogue, quality does not come from a single component, but from the balance of the entire architecture.
Well said, Gold Note, and congratulations on releasing another innovative product in the 5.2 series!
The product debuts at Vienna High End this June. Price and availability will be announced shortly.
Written by Sergei Taranov
