Gold Note PH-1000 LITE MM/MC Phono Stage

Gold Note PH-1000 LITE – High-end phono preamplifier for demanding vinyl systems

The Gold Note PH-1000 LITE is a high-quality phono preamplifier for discerning vinyl enthusiasts who want to combine precise, quiet, and musical playback with a clear and straightforward operating concept. As a deliberately feature-reduced version of the PH-1000, the PH-1000 LITE focuses on the essential functions of a high-end phono preamplifier, emphasizing high-quality signal processing and natural music reproduction.

The discrete circuit design with short signal paths ensures stable and clean processing of the phono signal. Sonically, the Gold Note PH-1000 LITE presents itself as balanced, detailed, and pleasantly controlled. Vocals are rendered with presence and clarity, while the bass remains precise, structured, and authoritative. The phono preamplifier also impresses in the treble range with its fine resolution, revealing details clearly without sounding harsh or intrusive. This results in a harmonious soundstage with a successful combination of detail and musical coherence, making it ideally suited for extended listening sessions.

With a total of 36 predefined equalization curves, the PH-1000 LITE offers flexible adaptation to different records and recordings. At the same time, operation remains straightforward, as the particularly extensive configuration options of the larger PH-1000 have been deliberately omitted. This model is therefore aimed at listeners who want a high-quality and versatile phono solution without having to deal with a multitude of complex settings.

The Gold Note PH-1000 LITE supports both MM and MC cartridges and offers a gain of 40 dB for MM systems and 60 dB for MC systems. Two RCA phono inputs and one XLR input allow for flexible integration into high-quality hi-fi systems. For signal output, there are two unbalanced RCA stereo outputs and one balanced XLR stereo output. Additionally, the unit features a 6.3 mm headphone output and a dedicated tube output for the optional TUBE-1012 tube output stage.

Despite its streamlined design, the PH-1000 LITE can be selectively expanded. External power supplies such as the PSU-1250 or PSU-1000 allow for further optimization of the power supply, while the TUBE-1012 offers additional options for sonic customization. This ensures that the phono preamplifier remains attractive for future upgrades and can be tailored to the individual requirements of any hi-fi system.

The housing, made of high-quality, brushed aluminum, underscores the device's elegant character and integrates stylishly into sophisticated hi-fi systems. For individual customization to existing systems, the Gold Note PH-1000 LITE is available in three colors: black, silver, and gold.

Overall, the Gold Note PH-1000 LITE impresses as a focused, high-end phono preamplifier that combines stable, controlled, and musical vinyl playback with practical features. The combination of discrete circuitry, 36 equalization curves, support for MM and MC cartridges, and optional upgrades makes it an attractive solution for high-quality analog playback systems.

Technical data

Audio

• Gain: MM 40 dB / MC 60 dB
• Equalization curves: 36 presets
• Signal-to-noise ratio: high, model-typical gold-grade standard

Entrances and exits

• Phono inputs: 2 × RCA, 1 × XLR
• Outputs: 2 × RCA stereo outputs, unbalanced
• 1 × XLR stereo output, balanced
• 1 × Tube output for TUBE-1012
• Headphone output: 6.3 mm
• Analog outputs: RCA

Power supply and mechanics

• Power supply: 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 135 × 375 mm
• Housing: brushed aluminum
• Colors: Black, Silver, Gold
• Upgrade options: PSU-1250, PSU-1000 and TUBE-1012