Gold Note CD-10 CD Player, Black

The Gold Note CD-10 is a compact CD player with an integrated AKM AK4493 converter that combines digital inputs, balanced outputs and a switchable volume control in a half-width chassis.

The anodised, brushed aluminium in black measures just 20 centimetres across – enough room for a serious transport, a touch display and a rotary knob that feels the way you'd expect at this price.

Why the CD-10?

Because the CD-10 can do more than its size suggests. Besides the CD transport with gapless playback, it accepts digital signals up to 24-bit / 192 kHz via coax and Toslink – so your TV, games console or streamer benefits from the AK4493 too. The digital outputs pass the data on to an external converter when needed. And with the volume control switched on, it drives a power amplifier or active speakers directly. You operate it via touchscreen, rotary knob or remote, whichever suits you at the moment.

What you hear

A calm, neatly layered sound with surprising substance for a device of this size. 128 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 127 dB dynamic range make sure quiet passages really stay quiet and loud ones don't sound squeezed. Gold Note focuses on a low noise floor, and you can hear it: reverb tails decay naturally instead of vanishing into nothing. If you want to step up later, add the external PSU-10 EVO power supply – a small change with a noticeable effect.

Who is the CD-10 for?

For anyone who wants a high-quality CD source but doesn't have a wardrobe-sized rack – ideal next to a Gold Note amplifier from the 10 series or in a lean system with active speakers. Bottom line: there is no USB input for a computer, and the CD-10 doesn't do streaming on its own either. If you need both, pair it with a streamer or take a look at the DSD version of the CD-1000.

Our verdict

The CD-10 is proof that high-end doesn't have to be wide: compact, well equipped, versatile to connect and sonically far beyond its chassis size. We at HD Zürisee on Lake Zurich in Wädenswil are happy to help you find the right amplifier or power supply to go with it – just get in touch.

Technical data

• Device type: CD player with integrated D/A converter
• D/A converter: AKM AK4493
• Playable formats: CD (Red Book), CD-R, CD-RW; gapless playback
• Speed fluctuation: 0.0001%
• Digital inputs: 1× coaxial S/PDIF, 1× Toslink (optical), each up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Digital outputs: 1× coaxial S/PDIF, 1× Toslink (optical), each up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Analogue outputs: 1× RCA (unbalanced), 1× XLR (balanced)
• Output level: RCA 2 Vrms, XLR 2 Vrms; fixed or variable via switchable digital volume control
• Headphone output: none
• Output impedance: 100 Ω
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.3 dB)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): 0.001% max.
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 128 dB
• Dynamic range: 127 dB
• Power supply: 100–240 V / 50–60 Hz
• Power consumption: 30 W
• Operation: touchscreen, rotary knob, multifunction remote control
• Upgradeable: external PSU-10 EVO power supply (sold separately)
• Finish: anodised, brushed aluminium, Black
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 200 × 80 × 260 mm
• Weight: 4 kg
• Included: CD player, multifunction remote control

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the Gold Note CD-10 as a DAC for my TV?

Yes. The CD-10 has one coaxial and one optical digital input for signals up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. Connect your TV's Toslink output to the player and use the built-in AKM converter for films, concerts or your games console too. The CD-10 does not, however, have a USB input.

Can I connect headphones to the CD-10?

No, the CD-10 has no headphone output. The rotary knob on the front is used for operation and, if activated, for volume control of the line outputs. For headphones, connect the player to an amplifier with a headphone jack or to a separate headphone amplifier, for example via the XLR output.

What does the external PSU-10 EVO power supply bring?

The PSU-10 EVO is an inductive dual-mono power supply that replaces the CD-10's internal power supply. Gold Note promises more calm, dynamics and fine detail as a result. It's an optional upgrade you can add at any time later – the CD-10 performs fully without the power supply too.

Why buy the Gold Note CD-10 at HD Zürisee?

Because we know Gold Note's 10 series and which combinations prove themselves in everyday use. We advise you on amplifiers, speakers and cabling, deliver on request and set everything up at your place. If questions arise after the purchase, our technician helps you directly.

Goes well with

A compact integrated amplifier, a streamer for network sources, high-quality RCA cables or XLR cables and the matching power supply from our power supplies. You'll find everything from Gold Note here.