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Gold Note is-10
The IS-10 is the new All-In-One of our compact series of electronics, a complete High-End stereo system featuring a powerful stereo integrated amplifier 90W into 8Ω (140W into 4Ω), and D/A converter with high-resolution streaming – supporting up to PCM 32bit/384kHz and DSD256. It also includes an audiophile headphone preamp with a 6,3 mm connection to drive any type of headphones. Features a cutting-edge streamer, IS-10 supports high-resolution files, such as MQA and DSD (up to DSD256), providing the best audio quality to enjoy your favorite songs. Fully Roon Ready, it’s compatible with Tidal, Tidal Connect, MQA, Qobuz, Spotify and Deezer (via LAN, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth).
In addition, the IS-10 works also as a monoblock when matched with a PA-10 EVO power amplifier, increasing the power output to 280W @ 8Ω.
MULTI-ROOM AND NETWORK STREAMER
The IS-10 is a device with a plug&play installation and it is fully compatible with multi-room systems. You can stream your favorite music through Roon, Airplay, Tidal, MQA, Qobuz, Spotify, vTuner, and Deezer or access your collection of digital music stored locally on a NAS or a USB flash drive, controlling the device with our easy-to-use GN Control App on your smartphone or tablet (available for free on iOS and Android).
In addition, the IS-10 features also Tidal Connect to control the unit directly from the Tidal app. Simply connect it to your network and get ready to explore the limitless possibilities of high-resolution music.
MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY AND HEADPHONES OUTPUT
The IS-10 can be controlled using the remote, the SKC, or the app GN Control, ensuring the best performance ever. Thanks the intuitive menu on the display you makes fine adjustments easily and quickly without interrupting playback. When paired with a PA-10 EVO, the IS-10 ca be set as a mono amp using the “Mono R” output and the button “M” on the rear panel and selecting “MONO” on the display menu. IS-10 also features a professional 6.3mm headphones output with two sensitivity levels (High/Low), a proprietary technology we developed to get the best out of your headphones.
ROON READY
Being Roon Ready means that Gold Note uses Roon streaming technology, for an incredible user interface, simple setup, rock-solid daily reliability, and the highest levels of audio performance, without compromise.
TIDAL CONNECT
With Tidal Connect you can stream music to your IS-10 directly from the Tidal app (both with iOS and Android).
AUDIRVĀNA
Plays with Audirvāna products are certified to play music from Audirvāna over USB or network with the best level of integration and audio performance.
QOBUZ CONNECT
With Qobuz Connect you can stream music to your IS-1000 MkII directly from the Qobuz app (available on iOS and Android).
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Gold Note is-10 — a compact, high‑feature all‑in‑one with musical poise
The Gold Note is-10 packs a streamer, D/A stage (AKM AK4493), preamp, headphone amp and a 90W/ch power section into a slim, CNC‑machined aluminum chassis. Reviewers praised its engaging midrange, wide soundstage and punchy dynamics, noting a sparkly treble and imaging that projects beyond the speakers. The unit is Roon Ready and supports Tidal Connect, AirPlay, MQA and USB/local media for flexible streaming and high‑res playback. Its Italian fit‑and‑finish and small footprint suit living rooms and desktop rigs alike. Ideal for listeners who want one polished box to drive speakers and headphones with authority, the is-10 delivers exceptional value for its feature set and sonic strengths. (See reviews by Graig Neville, The Ear and Sandu Vitalie.)
Pros
- Comprehensive, high‑resolution streaming and DAC section (AKM AK4493) with Roon Ready, Tidal Connect, AirPlay and MQA support.
- Strong dynamics and headroom from a compact 90W/8Ω (expandable to 280W mono with PA‑10 EVO), able to drive larger speakers and demanding headphones.
- Premium Italian build and elegant, space‑saving design—CNC‑machined aluminium with excellent fit and finish.
- Wide, three‑dimensional soundstage with a warm, natural midrange that renders vocals and detail with engaging presence.
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Cons
- Wi‑Fi/app setup and GN Control app can be fiddly; the app’s volume control is sensitive and initial UI bugs were reported.
- Bass can be lean or show slightly rushed decay on some setups and the RCA/analog path felt thinner for vinyl users compared with the internal digital playback.
Sound Quality
88/100
Dynamics
88/100
The IS-10 is repeatedly described as fast, punchy and possessing ample headroom for its 90W/8Ω rating; reviewers called it dynamic and muscular for its size. A few comments caveat that absolute driver control can be challenged with very stiff/ceramic drivers and that bass decay can feel a touch rushed in some contexts, which prevents an even higher rating.
Soundstage Imaging
89/100
Soundstage and imaging are strong: The Ear and Soundnews reported expansive, three-dimensional staging with precise imaging, while Part-Time Audiophile described solid side-to-side definition (more two-dimensional in that reviewer’s setup). Overall the unit projects very good depth and image focus for its class.
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Build Quality
92/100
Multiple reviewers note high-quality Italian CNC-machined aluminium casework, excellent fit and finish, and attractive industrial design. The compact, well-constructed chassis and solid remote contribute to an impression of premium build and attention to detail.
Features Connectivity
94/100
The IS-10 is a fully featured all-in-one: Roon Ready, Tidal Connect, MQA, AirPlay, Wi‑Fi/Ethernet, Bluetooth HD, multiple digital inputs (USB-A, coax, 2×TOSLINK), AKM AK4493 DAC, headphone output, app control and firmware updates. That combination of high-res streaming, versatile inputs and control places it at the high end of feature sets for integrated amplifiers.
Value for Money
96/100
Reviewers explicitly praised the IS-10’s price-to-performance, calling it a 'value champion' and even a 'giant killer' at roughly $3,395–$3,499. Multiple reviews said it sounds like a more expensive product and can drive far pricier speakers, supporting a very strong value assessment.
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