The PH-1000 is undoubtedly Gold Note’s most advanced phono preamp. This is evident simply from the fact that the model comes with the 1000 series chassis – in either a black or silver finish, depending on your needs. This also includes the sharp, high-contrast color display on the front. The large TFT color display is used to read the settings and at the same time, of course, the options can be read from it during playback, which is operated via the rotary knob on the right of the device. This has a push-button function, which can be used to turn the device on and off. Remote control is also available.
By the way, the user is generously supported in the settings on the device itself. The PH-1000 has a total of 40 pre-programmed and four manually adjustable equalizer curves. Furthermore, it has an incredible seven gain and twelve load settings. These settings are rounded off by six capacity options for MM cartridges.
But slow down now – what makes the new phono preamp so unique? You quickly discover that the model has a mini-USB jack, which can be used to upload software updates. This seems to be a novelty since we are still talking about a device with which you can make your records audible. It can be assumed that Gold Note will expand the PH-1000 to offer even more possibilities and this will be done via that access.
It also stands out that the circuit is equipped with high-quality components in Class A technology. The headphone output is also available in Class A circuitry. Furthermore, the PH-1000 has three independent phono inputs: two RCA and one floating balanced XLR (which means that it only evaluates the differential signal between the two conductors of the pickup coil). The phono inputs can be configured as stage or preamp. Optionally there’s a line input. MM cartridges are not balanced, which is not possible with this model. In addition, there are other RCA and XLR inputs.
Final Thoughts
A precise sound that comes close to the listening position. A stage is set up, from which the sounds resound with pinpoint accuracy. And on top of it numerous possibilities to get to this sound experience. The PH-1000 from Gold Note unites all of this. It works extremely well. We are thrilled!
