DS-10 EVO LINE

GoldNote DS-10 Evo Line — network streamer/DAC with line stage. Compact network streaming DAC with AKM AK4493 converter and an additional 3.5mm analogue line input for direct source connection. Supports PCM 32/384kHz, DSD512, Roon Ready, SNR 125dB. Ideal one-box digital source and preamp in compact high-end systems; upgradeable with PSU-10 Evo.

Technical background

GoldNote streaming DACs run an embedded Linux platform supporting Roon Ready, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, AirPlay and UPnP/DLNA simultaneously. The AKM AK4493 DAC chip (or dual AK4493 in mono-mode for 1000-series) supports PCM 32-bit/384kHz and DSD512, achieving SNR 125–130dB. A discrete Class A output stage processes the final signal in the analogue domain, giving GoldNote DACs a musical warmth rarely found in purely digital designs.

Design story

The DS-1000 Evo and DS-10 Evo were designed as complete digital hubs — not just streamers — with a discrete Class A output stage that processes the final signal entirely in the analogue domain. This gives GoldNote DACs a musical warmth and three-dimensionality rarely found in purely digital designs; hi-fi+ described the DS-1000 Evo as 'the antithesis of that strident, aggressive digital sound', and awarded the DS-10 Evo DAC/Streamer of the Year 2022.

Best for

Mid-range streaming buyers wanting the DS-10 Evo with balanced Line outputs; system builders wanting balanced connectivity in the DS-10 tier Mid-range streaming buyers wanting the DS-10 Evo with an additional analogue input for flexible source integration Compact digital hub: DS-10 Evo Line + PSU-10 Evo + PA-10 Evo + A6 Evo II — complete System 10 streaming

Awards & press

⭐ hi-fi+ DAC/Streamer Highly Commended 2023 (DS-10 Evo + PSU-10 Evo) "This little machine has a compelling musical nature and some desirable attributes that appeal to those core audio values that I have always looked for." — Chris Thomas, hi-fi+, November 2022 (DS-10 Evo platform)