IS-10

GoldNote IS-10 — all-in-one integrated amplifier with streaming and DAC. Compact all-in-one integrated amplifier with 90W per channel at 8Ω, AKM AK4493 streaming DAC with DSD256 and SNR 125dB. In a 200×80×260mm chassis weighing 4kg, it supports Roon Ready streaming and can be expanded with a PA-10 Evo to deliver 280W in mono configuration.

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 buyers wanting an award-winning all-in-one Italian amplifier/DAC/streamer; those simplifying a system without sacrificing music quality Mid-range buyers wanting an award-winning all-in-one Italian amplifier/DAC/streamer; those simplifying without sacrificing quality Complete system: IS-10 + A3 Evo II or A6 Evo II + optional PH-5 phono stage + optional DS-10 Evo streaming front-end

Awards & press

⭐ Soundnews Product of the Year 2023 "IS-10 is a true value champion and quite possibly, a giant killer all-in-one that challenges separates." — Sandu Vitalie, Soundnews, December 2023