Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage – Affordable High-end

It is the third phono preamplifier that Akamai s.r.l. now presents with the new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage under the Gold Note brand. The new solution is the latest addition to the Italian high-end hi-fi manufacturer’s range, which so far includes the Gold Note PH-1000 Phono Stage and Gold Note PH-10 Phono Stage. It is interesting to note that the new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage was developed on the basis of its bigger sister, the Gold Note PH-10 Phono Stage.

Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage – Made to rediscover vinyl

Once again, the Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage sets the bar very high, according to the manufacturer’s promise, because this new phono preamplifier was developed with the intention of rediscovering vinyl. Thus, a solution is promised that can also meet high expectations.

For this purpose, the basis of the circuit technology of the Gold Note PH-10 Phono Stage was used, but it was further developed.

Suitable for MM and MC cartridges

It should be explicitly mentioned that this is a phono preamplifier that can be used for both MM and MC cartridges.

For this purpose, an input in the form of a pair of cinch sockets is available, signals are also output unbalanced via a pair of cinch sockets at first, but also balanced via a pair of XLR connectors if required.

Flexibly adjustable

In order to always achieve optimal signal processing with a wide variety of pick-up systems, the new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage allows for particularly versatile adjustment.

For example, the input impedance can be adjusted in nine steps between 10, 22, 47, 100, 220, 470 ohms or 1, 22 and 47 kOhms. Likewise, the amplification factor can be adjusted between 34 and 66 dB in eight steps.

The new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage also offers three equalisation curves, namely RIAA, Decca London and American Columbia, in order to be able to make an optimal adjustment to the different records. In addition, all three options have a so-called enhanced mode.

The new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage has a generously dimensioned, graphics-capable colour touchscreen display on the front so that the settings can be made easily and conveniently.

High-quality components for clean signal processing

The manufacturer explicitly emphasises that the new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage relies solely on high-quality, selected components and that the Class A circuitry has been designed to be extremely low-noise.

Integrated power supply with upgrade option

The Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage uses an integrated power supply, but also offers the option of an external solution. The rear panel has a PSU connector for this purpose.

The new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage measures only 200 mm in width, 80 mm in height and 280 mm in depth, yet weighs around 1.2 kg. This is, of course, also due to the solid aluminium housing, which is, however, only available in black anodised finish; Gold Note does not offer the usual gold finish.

Prices and availability

The new Gold Note PH-5 Phono Stage phono preamplifier will be available from specialist dealers immediately. The manufacturer states a recommended retail price of € 890,-.

Getting to the point

This is already the third phono preamplifier that the Italian high-end hi-fi manufacturer Akamai s.r.l. is offering under the Gold Note brand. Although it ranks below the previously available models Gold Note PH-1000 Phono Stage and Gold Note PH-10 Phono Stage, it is supposed to distinguish itself through flexibility, impeccable signal processing and, last but not least, particularly easy operation. Gold Note speaks here of an analogue heart with a digital interface and a high-end solution that is offered at an attractive price.