Gold Note - DS-5.2 - Streaming DAC / Preamplifier

Gold Note DS-5.2 Streaming DAC / Preamplifier

The Gold Note DS-5.2 is a compact high-end digital source that brings together network streaming, DAC, preamplifier, HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, headphone output, and balanced analog output in one elegant Series 5.2 component.

Designed and built in Italy, the DS-5.2 is made for listeners who want modern digital convenience without giving up the natural, musical presentation Gold Note is known for. Use it as the heart of a compact system, as a streaming DAC into your existing amplifier, or as a digital preamp with balanced or RCA output.

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Key Features

• Compact high-end streaming DAC and preamplifier
• Fully balanced internal architecture
• AKM AK4493 DAC
• Roon Ready
• TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2
• Bluetooth 5.2 input and output with aptX HD
• HDMI eARC with CEC support for TV integration
• Color touchscreen display with album artwork
• Fixed DAC output or variable preamp output
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs
• Headphone output
• Coaxial, optical, USB-A, USB-C, network, HDMI eARC, and Bluetooth inputs
• Dedicated coaxial digital output
• Optional PSX-5.2 external power supply upgrade
• Designed, assembled, and tested in Italy

Compact, Flexible, and Fully Modern

The DS-5.2 is designed to fit easily into today’s listening setups. It supports high-resolution network streaming, HDMI eARC for TV integration, Bluetooth in and out, USB playback, coaxial and optical digital inputs, and both fixed DAC and variable preamp output.

A color touchscreen display with album artwork makes everyday use simple, while the Gold Note GN Control app gives you easy access to streaming, volume, inputs, and system settings.

Streaming Built In

The DS-5.2 supports a wide range of modern streaming platforms, including:

• Roon Ready
• TIDAL Connect
• Qobuz Connect
• Spotify Connect
• Spotify Lossless
• AirPlay 2
• Deezer
• vTuner internet radio
• UPnP / DLNA
• Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX HD

Network playback supports up to PCM 32-bit / 384kHz and DSD256, making the DS-5.2 a serious digital front end for both streaming and local library playback.

DAC, Streamer, and Preamp in One

At its core, the DS-5.2 uses an AKM AK4493 DAC and a fully balanced architecture designed to preserve low noise, dynamic control, and natural musical flow.

It can be used three main ways:

• As a network streamer and DAC into an integrated amplifier
• As a digital preamplifier directly into a power amplifier or active speakers
• As a pure streamer using its dedicated digital output into another DAC

The DS-5.2 also includes a front headphone output, making it equally useful for speaker-based and personal listening.

Built for System Growth

The DS-5.2 is part of Gold Note’s modular Series 5.2 ecosystem and can be upgraded with the optional PSX-5.2 external power supply. This allows the system to grow over time with improved stability, control, and dynamic performance.