Gold Note TUBE-1012 Tube Output Stage, Silver

The Gold Note TUBE-1012 is an external tube output stage that refines the output signal of a source or preamp with twelve 6N1P tubes in Class A. Built for the Gold Note 1000 series, it also works with components from other manufacturers. This version comes in Silver, brushed and anodised aluminium. It barely amplifies – a mere 2 dB – but it changes how music feels.

Why the TUBE-1012?

Because you don't necessarily have to buy a complete tube system to get tube sound. The TUBE-1012 slots into the signal path as an additional output stage without you having to replace your components. You connect Gold Note components such as the DS-1000 EVO, CD-1000 MKII or P-1000 MKII Deluxe via the dedicated 5-pin tube input, and components from other brands via the RCA or XLR line input. Two sources can be connected at the same time, with switching at the front. Inside, three custom-made transformers and a tube voltage regulation with four choke filters are at work – an effort some manufacturers don't even make for their power amps.

What you hear

More warmth, more plasticity, more air around voices – without the sound becoming soft or veiled. The totem-pole output circuit with six independent stages per tube keeps distortion low (0.0028 % THD+N) and the signal-to-noise ratio above 100 dB. With an output impedance below 600 Ω and high level reserves, it drives preamps and power amps without any problem.

Who is the TUBE-1012 for?

For owners of a Gold Note 1000-series chain who want to take the final step, and for anyone who wants to breathe tube character into an existing system. Bottom line: the TUBE-1012 has no volume control and is neither a preamp nor a power amp – it needs both around it. Tubes are also wear parts and want replacing after some years. And if twelve tubes sound like overkill to you: the TUBE-1006 with six tubes is the slightly smaller sibling.

Our verdict

The TUBE-1012 isn't a device you need – it's one you won't want to give back after first listening. Whether it makes sense in your chain and where it should sit in the signal path is something we are happy to work out with you at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil.

Technical data

• Type: tube output stage (external)
• Finish: Silver, brushed anodised aluminium
• Tubes: 12× 6N1P
• Circuit: Class A, totem-pole output stages
• Inputs: 1× RCA (line), 1× XLR (line), 1× tube input (5-pin XLR, for Gold Note components)
• Outputs: RCA and XLR
• Max. input level (THD < 1 %): 6 Vrms (RCA) / 12 Vrms (XLR)
• Max. output level (THD < 1 %): 8 Vrms (RCA) / 16 Vrms (XLR)
• Gain: 2 dB
• Output impedance: < 600 Ω
• Recommended load impedance: > 10 kΩ
• Distortion (THD+N): 0.0028 % (1 kHz, 1.736 V)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 100 dB (1 kHz, 1.736 V)
• Volume control: none
• Operation: input selection and on/off at the front
• Power supply: 3 transformers, tube voltage regulation with 4 choke filters
• Power consumption: 80 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 135 × 370 mm
• Weight: 16 kg

Frequently asked questions

What does a tube output stage like the Gold Note TUBE-1012 do?

It takes the output signal of a source or preamp and passes it on through twelve tubes in Class A. At 2 dB, the gain is deliberately low; the focus is on sonic character: more warmth, space and plasticity, without having to replace your existing components.

Does the TUBE-1012 also work with components from other manufacturers?

Yes. Gold Note 1000-series components connect via the 5-pin tube input, components from other brands via the RCA or XLR line input. Two sources can be connected at the same time, and you select between them at the front. What matters is a load impedance above 10 kΩ on the following device.

Does the TUBE-1012 have volume control?

No, the TUBE-1012 does not control volume. It therefore sits either between the source and a preamp or integrated amplifier, or between a preamp and a power amp, for example on the tube output of the P-1000 MKII Deluxe. Connecting a power amp or active speakers directly to a fixed-level source is not intended.

TUBE-1012 or TUBE-1006 – which tube stage suits me?

Both share the chassis, connections and measured values. The TUBE-1012 works with twelve instead of six tubes and three dedicated transformers, draws 80 instead of 50 watts and weighs 16 instead of around 13 kg. It is the more elaborate option for the top of a Gold Note chain.

Why buy the Gold Note TUBE-1012 at HD Zürisee?

Because a tube stage has to work at the right point in the signal path. We plan with you where the TUBE-1012 sits in your system, which cables it needs and whether the TUBE-1006 or TUBE-1012 makes more sense. On request our technician connects it at your home and is there for you afterwards too.

Goes well with

• Preamplifiers – the counterpart that takes care of the volume.
• Power amplifiers – so the tube sound reaches your speakers.
• Power supplies – the second Gold Note upgrade step alongside the tube stage.
• XLR cables – for the balanced connection into and out of the tube stage.