DS-10 EVO

GoldNote DS-10 Evo — network streamer and DAC. Compact network streaming DAC with AKM AK4493 converter supporting PCM 32bit/384kHz and DSD512. Roon Ready with SNR 125dB in a slim 200×80×260mm aluminium chassis weighing 4kg. Optionally upgradeable with the PSU-10 Evo external power supply for enhanced dynamics and lower noise floor.

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 listeners wanting a DAC/streamer of the year-winning Italian unit; IS-10 or PA-10 system owners adding a premium digital source Mid-range streaming listeners wanting a DAC/Streamer of the Year Italian unit; System 10 owners adding a premium digital source Mid streaming system: DS-10 Evo + PSU-10 Evo + IS-10 or PA-10 Evo + A6 Evo II loudspeakers

Awards & press

⭐ hi-fi+ DAC/Streamer of the Year 2022 "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