Gold Note CD-1000 MKII Deluxe CD Player, Gold

The Gold Note CD-1000 MKII Deluxe is a high-end CD player with an integrated D/A converter that combines an aluminium transport from Stream Unlimited with the Burr-Brown PCM1792A and balanced XLR outputs.

Built in Florence, here in gold, in a brushed full-width aluminium chassis with a large O-LED display. A machine for people who don't see their CD collection as a relic, but as an archive that is finally allowed to sound the way it was mastered.

Why the CD-1000 MKII Deluxe?

Because Gold Note doesn't stop at the converter here. The JPL-2800 transport from Stream Unlimited sits in an aluminium frame and reads with a speed fluctuation of 0.0001% – so steady that error correction has hardly anything to do. Gold Note's own Zero-Clock concept keeps jitter low, and a dual-mono power supply separates the channels right at the source. On top of that come two digital inputs (coax and Toslink): your TV or streamer can use the built-in converter too. And because the digital volume control can be switched on, the CD-1000 can go straight into a power amplifier or active speakers when needed.

What you hear

Calm, space and effortless dynamics: 128 dB signal-to-noise ratio is just a number on paper; in the listening room it means a black background from which voices and instruments step out vividly. The PCM1792A is regarded as one of the most musical Burr-Brown converters, and Gold Note voices it smooth rather than analytical. If you want more, you have two levers: the external PSU-1250 or PSU-1000 power supply for more control in the bass, and the TUBE-1012 tube output stage for tonal colour with warmth. The connection for it is already on the back – the tube stage itself is a separate unit.

Who is the CD-1000 MKII Deluxe for?

For collectors with a serious CD library who are looking for a player that grows with them instead of being replaced in five years. Also interesting for anyone who wants to build a lean system without a preamp. Bottom line: if you want to play high-resolution files from a computer, the DSD version (USB-B input) is the better choice. And if you only slip in a CD now and then, you're buying more machine than you'll ever use – a bit like a concert grand piano used as a shelf.

Our verdict

The CD-1000 MKII Deluxe is an uncompromising yet remarkably sensibly expandable CD player – solidly built, sonically assured and with a real upgrade path. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we're happy to advise you on whether a power supply or tube stage brings more to your system – call, write or message us on WhatsApp.

Technical data

• Device type: CD player with integrated D/A converter
• D/A converter: Burr-Brown PCM1792A, 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Transport: aluminium JPL-2800 (Stream Unlimited), speed fluctuation 0.0001%
• Playable formats: CD (Red Book), CD-R, CD-RW, MP3
• Digital inputs: 1× coaxial S/PDIF (RCA), 1× Toslink (optical), up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Digital output: 1× coaxial S/PDIF, 75 Ω
• Analogue outputs: 1× RCA (unbalanced), 1× XLR (balanced), 1× connection for TUBE-1012 tube output stage
• Output level: RCA 2 Vrms, XLR 2 Vrms; fixed or variable via switchable digital volume control
• Headphone output: none
• Output impedance: 50 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: dual-mono, 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
• Power consumption: 30 W
• Operation: O-LED display, multifunction remote control
• Upgradeable: external power supplies PSU-1250 / PSU-1000, TUBE-1012 tube output stage (sold separately)
• Finish: brushed aluminium, Gold
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 135 × 375 mm
• Weight: 12 kg
• Included: CD player, multifunction remote control

Frequently asked questions

Does the CD-1000 MKII Deluxe have a built-in tube?

No, the player uses a transistor output stage. On the back, however, there is a dedicated connection for Gold Note's external TUBE-1012 tube output stage. This lets you add a Class A tube stage later without replacing the player. The TUBE-1012 is available separately.

Can I connect the CD-1000 MKII Deluxe directly to a power amplifier?

Yes, thanks to the switchable digital volume control. It lets you drive a power amplifier or active speakers directly via RCA or XLR. In normal use with an integrated amplifier, you leave the control switched off, and the player delivers a fixed level of 2 Vrms.

What is the difference between the Deluxe and the DSD version?

The DSD version adds a USB-B input through which you can feed PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz and DSD256 from a computer. Transport, converter, chassis and outputs are identical. If you only use CDs and coax or Toslink sources, you don't need to pay the extra.

Why buy the Gold Note CD-1000 MKII Deluxe at HD Zürisee?

Because a player of this class only shines in the right system. We know Gold Note well, advise you on combining it with an amplifier, power supply or tube stage, and take care of delivery and installation. Our technician remains your contact after the purchase whenever questions come up.

Goes well with

An integrated amplifier or – with the volume control activated – a power amplifier, balanced XLR cables and an external Gold Note power supply from our power supplies. More from the brand at Gold Note.