Gold Note PH-5.2 headphone amplifier

Gold Note HP-5.2 – Audiophile headphone control center with DAC and preamplifier

The Gold Note HP-5.2 combines a headphone amplifier, DAC, preamplifier, and Bluetooth receiver in a single compact, high-end device. As part of the Gold Note Series 5.2, it blends high-quality audio technology with versatile connectivity and customization options. This makes the HP-5.2 suitable for demanding headphone setups as well as serving as the central interface for a compact hi-fi system.

At its core is a fully symmetrical dual-mono design using Class A technology, which supports precise and controlled signal processing. The powerful amplifier section offers ample reserves for various high-quality headphones and can be specifically tailored to their individual characteristics.

The HP-5.2 is particularly flexible thanks to its extensive adjustment options. The damping factor can be adjusted, allowing for precise optimization of the interaction between the headphones and amplifier. Gain and balance controls, as well as a mono/stereo setting, are also available. All settings can be conveniently adjusted and adapted to the specific listening situation.

Another special feature is the integrated crossfeed function. It allows for a more natural spatial reproduction and can contribute to a more relaxed perception of space, especially when listening with headphones. Additionally, Harman curve correction offers another way to adjust the tonal balance for different headphones.

Digital sources can also be easily integrated. The integrated DAC processes high-resolution digital music signals, thus adding a central digital interface to the HP-5.2. Bluetooth 5.1 HD with aptX support is available for wireless streaming. This allows music to be conveniently played back from compatible mobile devices and other Bluetooth sources.

In addition to headphone amplification, the HP-5.2 also functions as an analog preamplifier. Its RCA and XLR outputs allow it to be directly connected to power amplifiers or active speakers. This makes the compact headphone amplifier suitable as the central control unit of a high-quality stereo system.

Sonically, the Gold Note HP-5.2 delivers an open, direct, and controlled sound. Its high transparency ensures a clear reproduction of voices and instruments, while the fully symmetrical dual-mono architecture supports precise channel separation. Vocals sound three-dimensional and focused, and instruments gain clear definition and convincing presence.

In the bass range, the HP-5.2 impresses with precise and stable reproduction. Low frequencies are controlled and rendered quickly, while the different damping factor settings allow for targeted adjustment to the respective headphones.

The HP-5.2 also offers versatile spatial capabilities. With its variable crossfeed, the soundstage can be precisely controlled and, if desired, brought closer to the natural perception of loudspeaker reproduction. This results in a flexible solution that can be adapted to different recordings and personal preferences.

For additional power reserves, the HP-5.2 can be expanded with the Gold Note PSX-5.2. This external induction power supply is available as an upgrade option and allows for further optimization of the device. The housing, made of sandblasted, black anodized aluminum, underscores the high-quality construction and, with its compact dimensions, integrates harmoniously into modern hi-fi systems.

The Gold Note HP-5.2 combines Class-A amplification, DAC, preamplifier, and Bluetooth in a versatile audiophile control center. Its fully balanced dual-mono architecture, extensive customization options, and optional expandability make it a flexible solution for demanding headphone and hi-fi systems.

Features & Highlights

Class-A headphone amplifier with integrated DAC and preamplifier

Fully symmetrical dual-mono architecture

Extensive headphone customization

Adjustable damping factor

Adjustable gain and balance control

Mono/Stereo adjustment

Adjustable crossfeed function

Harman curve correction

Bluetooth 5.1 HD with aptX support

Integrated DAC for high-resolution digital music signals

Analog preamp section

RCA and XLR outputs

3.5 mm, 6.3 mm, 4.4 mm Pentaconn and 4-pin XLR headphone output

color display

Upgradeable with the external Gold Note PSX-5.2 induction power supply

Handmade in Italy

Housing made of sandblasted, black anodized aluminum

Technical data

Type: Class-A headphone amplifier with DAC and preamplifier

Architecture: fully symmetrical, Dual Mono

Bluetooth: 5.1 HD, aptX

Crossfeed: adjustable

Harman correction: adjustable

Damping factor: adjustable

Gain: adjustable

Balance: adjustable

Mono/Stereo: adjustable

Headphone outputs: 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm, 4.4 mm Pentaconn, 4-pin XLR

Analog outputs: RCA, XLR

Display: Color display

Housing: sandblasted, black anodized aluminum

Dimensions (W × H × D): 200 × 80 × 260 mm

Weight: 4 kg