GOLD NOTE PH-5

Used. In excellent condition. Free from any visible signs of wear. Supplied without the original packaging.

The Gold Note PH-5 is a phono preamplifier designed to deliver high-level performance in a compact and accessible format, incorporating the technical solutions and sound quality that characterize the higher-end models of the Italian manufacturer. Designed to enhance any analogue system, it stands out for its versatility and ability to accommodate a wide range of cartridges and listening configurations, consistently ensuring excellent vinyl playback quality.

The phono preamplifier features an RCA input compatible with both moving-magnet (MM) and moving-coil (MC) cartridges, offering extensive customization options through adjustable gain and loading. This flexibility allows the interface with the cartridge in use to be optimized, achieving an ideal balance of precision, dynamics, and natural sound.

The PH-5 introduces a color touchscreen interface to the Gold Note range for the first time, designed to make operation simple, quick, and intuitive. All settings can be accessed directly from the display and adjusted in real time without interrupting music playback, allowing the user to adapt the preamplifier's operation to the characteristics of the record being played with ease.

The electronic design is based on a completely renewed platform that integrates the entire circuit onto a single board, optimizing the signal path and helping to minimize interference and signal losses. The heart of the PH-5, however, remains entirely analogue: the audio path is built using carefully selected discrete components, while every adjustment made through the touchscreen interface is implemented via dedicated relays that physically modify the signal path, preserving its integrity and maintaining the purity of reproduction.

The preamplifier provides three equalization curves, selectable directly from the display, allowing users to choose between the RIAA, Decca London, and American Columbia standards for the most faithful reproduction possible according to the type of record being played. Each curve is also available in an Enhanced version, developed using proprietary technology inspired by the studies of Georg Neumann. This extends the frequency response up to 50 kHz, enhancing dynamics, transparency, and the sense of realism when required.

For those seeking maximum performance, the Gold Note PH-5 is compatible with a dedicated super-inductive external power supply, designed to further improve power supply stability and allow the preamplifier to express its full potential. The use of this optional unit contributes to an even more three-dimensional, precise, and natural soundstage, bringing out every detail recorded on the vinyl and providing a highly engaging listening experience.

Technical specifications:

• Equalization curves: RIAA, Decca London, American Columbia; Enhanced version available for each curve.
• Subsonic filter: 10 Hz, 36 dB/octave slope.
• Frequency response: 20 Hz–20 kHz (±0.3 dB); Enhanced mode 20 Hz–50 kHz (±0.3 dB).
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): <0.05% at 1 kHz.
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 89 dB.
• Dynamic range: 105 dB.
• Audio input: 1 stereo RCA input compatible with MM and MC cartridges.
• Input sensitivity: adjustable from 0.1 mV (MC) to 10.0 mV (MM).
• Input impedance: 9 selectable values (10 Ω, 22 Ω, 47 Ω, 100 Ω, 220 Ω, 470 Ω, 1 kΩ, 22 kΩ, 47 kΩ).
• Gain: 40 dB (MM); 60 dB (MC); four-level adjustment (0 dB, +3 dB, ±6 dB).
• Input capacitance (MM only): 220 pF.
• Audio outputs: 1 unbalanced RCA; 1 balanced XLR.
• Output impedance: 50 Ω.
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 200 × 80 × 260 mm.
• Weight: 1.2 kg (net).