Gold Note A3 EVO II Bookshelf Speakers, Walnut Matte (Pair)

The Gold Note A3 EVO II is a compact 2-way bookshelf speaker made in Italy that, at just 24 centimetres wide, builds a surprisingly grown-up soundstage.

This version has silk-matte lacquered walnut on the side panels. Matte has a practical advantage you only learn to appreciate in everyday use: the surface absorbs light instead of reflecting it, and shows neither fingerprints nor a haze of dust. The speaker visually recedes — which in a living room with wood, textiles and little gloss is often exactly the right choice.

Why the A3 EVO II?

Because good sound doesn't depend on cabinet size, but on what's inside. Gold Note manufactures in Tuscany and combines a 1.1-inch silk dome tweeter with a 6-inch treated-paper mid-woofer. The diamond-faceted cabinet has almost no parallel inner surfaces — standing waves have a correspondingly hard time. The result is a calm, low-resonance foundation, the basis that lets a small speaker sound big.

What you hear

An open, unfussy midrange in which voices keep their body, and highs that don't tire even after three hours. The bass reaches down to 45 Hz while staying dry rather than thick — exactly the tuning that works in small rooms, where an inflated upper bass would otherwise boom quickly. Imaging and layering are remarkably precise for this class.

Who is the A3 EVO II suited for – and who isn't it for?

For anyone who listens to music seriously in 10 to 25 square metres and doesn't want a speaker that visually takes over the room. This is exactly where the matte finish shows its strength: it stays calm even right next to a window, where a glossy surface would constantly catch reflections. Plain talk: if you need volume for a large open-plan space or expect deep bass below 45 Hz, go for the A6 EVO II or plan for a subwoofer. And if you're after the demonstrative piano-lacquer look, you'll find it in the high-gloss version — sonically it makes no difference.

Our verdict

The A3 EVO II in walnut matte is the understated one of the two veneers and, acoustically, exactly the same speaker. If you value fine resolution over sheer sound pressure and would rather see the music than the furniture, this is a decision that still holds up years later.

Technical data

• Type: 2-way bass-reflex bookshelf speaker
• Frequency response: 45–20,000 Hz (±3 dB)
• Efficiency: 87 dB SPL (2.83 V / 1 m)
• Nominal impedance: 6 Ω
• Crossover frequency: 2,000 Hz (12 dB/octave)
• Recommended amplifier power: from 10 W
• Maximum power handling: 100 W RMS
• Tweeter: 1.1-inch silk dome
• Mid-woofer: 1 × 6-inch, treated paper cone
• Cabinet: diamond-faceted, black body, walnut matte side panels
• Terminals: gold-plated, nickel-free binding posts
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 24 × 35 × 29.5 cm
• Weight: 20 kg per pair (net), 25 kg packed
• Scope of delivery: pair, fabric covers, quick guide

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between walnut matte and walnut high gloss?

Only the finish of the side panels. Drivers, crossover, cabinet and all measured values are identical. Matte-lacquered walnut lets you feel the wood grain, reflects no light and stays free of fingerprints. High gloss looks more striking and refined, but demands regular wiping.

Is the A3 EVO II sold as a pair?

Yes. Gold Note sells and delivers the A3 EVO II in pairs, and all manufacturer figures refer to a pair — including the 20-kilogram net weight. For a single unit, for example as a replacement or an addition to an existing system, it's best to just ask us.

Is the bass enough without a subwoofer?

In small to medium rooms, yes. The A3 EVO II goes down to 45 Hz, fully covering the fundamental tone of voices, guitars, piano and strings. If you want organ pedal, synth sub-bass or home-cinema effects, adding a subwoofer makes sense.

Can I put the A3 EVO II in a shelf?

Possible, but not optimal. As a bass-reflex design it needs air and benefits strongly from being placed freely at ear height. In an enclosed shelf compartment it loses openness and gains upper bass. If it must go in a shelf, keep it flush with the front edge and with some distance to the back wall.

Which amplifier suits the A3 EVO II?

According to the manufacturer it runs from 10 watts and handles up to 100 watts RMS. Six ohms nominal impedance and 87-decibel efficiency make it an uncomplicated partner for tube amps as well as transistor amps. We're happy to discuss in detail which combination works in your room.

Why buy the A3 EVO II in walnut matte from HD Zürisee?

Because with a bookshelf speaker, placement decides the result, and that's exactly what we help with. HD Zürisee in Wädenswil carries Gold Note in its range, knows the combinations from its own experience, and takes time for room, stand and amplifier choice. Call us or write to us.

Goes well with

A speaker stand isn't an accessory for the A3 EVO II, it's part of the sound — Gold Note offers a precisely matched model. Add a suitable integrated amplifier, and if vinyl is your thing, a turntable from the same house.