

Gold Note IS-1000 DELUXE Integrated Amplifier Review: Italian Mastery Meets Modern Innovation
In this Gold Note IS-1000 DELUXE Integrated Amplifier review, we're diving deep into what might be the most compelling all-in-one solution in high-end audio today. As an audiophile who's spent countless hours with various integrateds, this Italian masterpiece has managed to capture our attention in ways few others have. Want to explore this remarkable piece of equipment further? Our team at The Audio Tailor is always available at 1300 308 711 to discuss your specific needs.
Design and Build Quality
The IS-1000 DELUXE exemplifies Italian craftsmanship at its finest. The elegant chassis, with its sophisticated gold finish, speaks volumes about Gold Note's attention to detail. At 18kg, this isn't just a pretty face – it's built like a tank, with carefully considered component placement and superior vibration control.
Performance and Sound Quality
The heart of this system is its robust Class AB amplification, delivering 125W per channel into 8 ohms. What sets this apart is the remarkably low THD of 0.005% at 5W, ensuring pristine audio reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum.
Digital Excellence
The upgraded BurrBrown PCM1792A DAC represents a significant step up from the standard IS-1000, offering:
- Exceptional detail retrieval
- Natural tonality
- Impressive soundstage depth
- Superior handling of complex musical passages
Analogue Heritage
The built-in MM/MC phono stage, derived from Gold Note's acclaimed PH-10, provides vinyl enthusiasts with a solution that doesn't compromise on quality. Feel free to ring our team to discuss how this might integrate with your current turntable setup.
Connectivity and Streaming
The IS-1000 DELUXE is a connectivity powerhouse, offering:
- Balanced XLR inputs
- Multiple RCA inputs
- Digital connections (Coax, Optical, USB-A)
- Network streaming via LAN or Wi-Fi
- Support for major streaming services including Roon, Tidal, and Spotify Connect
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and Italian design
- Powerful, clean Class AB amplification
- Premium BurrBrown PCM1792A DAC
- Comprehensive streaming capabilities
- High-quality MM/MC phono stage
- Intuitive control via smartphone app
- Extensive connectivity options
- Low THD for pristine sound reproduction
Cons
- Premium pricing (but justified by features)
- Weight might require sturdy furniture
- DSD support limited to DSD64
- Learning curve for full feature utilisation
User Experience and Control
The GN Control App provides seamless integration with both iOS and Android devices, offering intuitive control over all functions. The included remote control is equally well-designed, providing easy access to essential functions from your listening position.
Real-World Application
Whether you're streaming high-resolution audio, spinning vinyl, or connecting digital sources, the IS-1000 DELUXE handles everything with remarkable finesse. It's particularly well-suited for:
- Dedicated listening rooms
- High-end home audio systems
- Vinyl enthusiasts who also embrace streaming
- Those seeking a premium all-in-one solution
A Symphony of Excellence
The Gold Note IS-1000 DELUXE Integrated Amplifier represents the pinnacle of modern audio engineering combined with classic Italian craftsmanship. It's a testament to what's possible when no compromises are made in the pursuit of audio excellence.
For personalised insights into how this remarkable integrated amplifier might suit your specific setup, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at 1300 308 711. We're always excited to share our passion for exceptional audio equipment.
