Warwick Acoustics APERIO GSE Black Limited Edition

GoldenSound Signature Edition · electrostatic reference headphone system · limited to 25 systems worldwide

One of the rarest versions of the Warwick Acoustics APERIO: the APERIO GSE Black Limited Edition combines GoldenSound's bespoke Signature tuning with an exceptionally exclusive black edition. Only 25 systems exist worldwide.

One of those 25 systems is here with us in Italy and is available to audition at any time – a rare opportunity to experience this extraordinary reference system for yourself.

APERIO reimagined – together with GoldenSound

Since its introduction, APERIO has represented Warwick Acoustics' uncompromising approach to complete electrostatic headphone reproduction. For the GoldenSound Signature Edition (GSE), Warwick worked with British high-end audio expert GoldenSound to create a new tuning of its flagship system.

This goes far beyond a simple tonal adjustment. The GSE combines second-generation BD-HPEL transducers with redeveloped analogue and digital signal paths. The aim was to retain the exceptional resolution and transparency of the original APERIO while further developing timbre, bass authority, spatial presentation and musical naturalness.

Following an extended development process and public demonstrations of early tunings, the APERIO GoldenSound Signature Edition was officially launched at High End Munich in May 2025.

Gen-2 BD-HPEL – electrostatic precision

At the heart of the system is Warwick's Balanced-Drive High Precision Electrostatic Laminate technology. The symmetrically driven electrostatic transducers use an exceptionally low-mass diaphragm and operate with a 1,800 V DC bias voltage.

The second-generation BD-HPEL design provides greater excursion capability, improved linearity and lower distortion compared with the original architecture. The result is the speed, resolution and spatial precision for which APERIO is known, while the GSE tuning adds greater physical presence and a more involving musical presentation.

A complete reference system

APERIO is not simply a headphone paired with an external amplifier. Warwick applies a rigorous Complete System Design approach: headphones, electrostatic energiser, Class-A amplification, preamplifier, DAC and digital processing are engineered as a single optimised system.

The electronics use a dual-mono topology and fully differential analogue signal routing. Dual 32-bit DAC stages support PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs accommodate analogue sources, while USB, AES3, coaxial S/PDIF and Ethernet provide extensive digital connectivity.

Analogue sources stay analogue

A key part of the APERIO architecture is the separate handling of analogue and digital signals. Analogue sources can pass through the dedicated analogue path, while PCM is handled using high-precision 64-bit digital processing. Level control is correspondingly separated into analogue and digital domains.

This makes APERIO equally suited to modern digital playback and to premium external DACs, phono stages and other analogue sources.

Open, lightweight and resonance controlled

The open ear cups are made from magnesium, combining low mass with high rigidity and excellent acoustic damping. Warwick deliberately minimises material around the transducer so that airflow remains as unrestricted as possible.

The ear cushions combine acoustically absorbent foam with perforated, sustainably sourced cabretta leather. Despite its sophisticated electrostatic construction, the headphone weighs approximately 405 g and is designed for extended listening sessions.

APERIO GSE – CanJam New York listening impressions

Compared directly with the original APERIO, impressions highlighted deeper and more textured bass, further improved instrument separation, a greater sense of depth and realism, and treble that remains highly detailed while sounding smoother.

Warwick Acoustics – GoldenSound Signature Edition

Warwick describes the GSE as a new perspective on the APERIO sound, combining lifelike timbre, authoritative bass and an expansive soundstage through Gen-2 BD-HPEL transducers and redeveloped analogue and digital pathways.

Technical specifications – Headphone

Technical specifications – Electronics

In the box

• Warwick Acoustics APERIO GSE Black Limited Edition headphone system
• APERIO electronics / energiser / DAC / preamplifier
• 2 m dual-mono headphone cable
• Hard-shell Pelican carrying case
• Power cable / power supply

Exclusive in Italy: one of only 25 systems worldwide is here with us and the APERIO GSE Black is available for a personal audition at any time.