For the first time in a decade, the Italian brand Gold Note has introduced a specialized solution for headphone enthusiasts—a customizable amplifier that delivers exceptional sound quality. The manufacturer claims that the Gold Note HP-10 model has transformed the headphone listening experience, much like the groundbreaking Gold Note PH-10 phono preamplifier did upon its release, which has since become a leading choice in its price category. Similarly, the Gold Note HP-10 is an innovative amplifier crafted not merely to power headphones but to infuse them with the essence of music.
The Gold Note HP-10 Headphone Amplifier is available in three finishes, making it perfect for those seeking to enhance their audio system with a high-quality, dedicated component, or for individuals desiring an all-in-one desktop solution that integrates Bluetooth, DAC, and headphone amplification.
To achieve superior sound quality, the Gold Note HP-10 employs a “dual mono” architecture and fully balanced circuitry. The amplifier stages are constructed using discrete components and operate in pure Class A mode.
For headphone connectivity, the Gold Note HP-10 features both balanced outputs (XLR, 4.4 mm) and unbalanced outputs (6.3 mm jack, 3.5 mm mini-jack). The adjustable damping factor (DF) allows users to find the optimal pairing with any headphones. Notably, the Gold Note HP-10 is the only headphone amplifier that offers four options for cross-combining the left and right channel signals, enabling precise control over the soundstage during headphone listening. The crossfeed function allows for full or partial blending of the left and right channels, creating a more realistic 3D sound image tailored to the type of headphones and the nature of the music.
The Gold Note HP-10 features sophisticated technical solutions that enable real-time application of the Harman curve across high, mid, and low frequencies, or across the entire frequency range in various combinations, ensuring an almost flawless compatibility with any headphones. Furthermore, this component offers the capability to modify gain, phase, and utilize the Superflat option. All these precise adjustments are conducted entirely within the analog domain.
Gold Note recognizes that every audiophile has distinct preferences and requirements, which is why they provide three configurations of the Gold Note HP-10 headphone amplifier to cater to a diverse array of music enthusiasts:
– Gold Note HP-10 – a fully analog model encompassing all the essential features
– Gold Note HP-10 BT – this version adds support for the wireless Bluetooth aptX HD 5.1 standard and includes a DAC unit utilizing the ESS Sabre chip
– Gold Note HP-10 DELUXE – building on the first model, it offers Bluetooth aptX HD 5.1 support, a USB-C input, and is equipped with a high-end DAC unit featuring the AKM AK4493 chip from Asahi Kasei.
The Gold Note HP-10 headphone amplifier is equipped with a front panel that includes a touchscreen display. This display offers an intuitive menu that can be easily navigated using the SKC (Single Knob Control) knob or the provided Gold Note remote control.
The Gold Note HP-10 headphone amplifier is available in three finishes: matte aluminum in gold, silver or black.
Price: $3000
