The Moon by Simaudio 491 is a state-of-the-art high-end audio component from the Compass Collection line, combining the functions of a network player, DAC, and analog preamplifier. Designed by a Canadian company as a unified intelligent center for the system (an "all-in-one" solution), it is designed to coordinate any digital and analog audio sources.
Network and Digital Capabilities
The device's network section is based on the proprietary MiND 2 operating system, providing seamless integration with streaming services via Roon Ready, UPnP, Apple AirPlay, and Bluetooth protocols. With direct support for TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and Spotify Connect, users can stream high-resolution music directly from the original mobile apps.
Digital-to-analog conversion is implemented using a Dual-Mono scheme based on two premium ESS ES9039Q2M chips (one per channel), ensuring the highest spatial separation of instruments and jitter suppression. The presence of an HDMI ARC interface makes it easy to connect a television to the system.
Analog Circuitry and Design
The analog section features a pure balanced preamplifier with an outstanding signal-to-noise ratio of 120 dB and record-low distortion levels (THD+N 0.0004%). Additionally, a high-class MM/MC phono stage is onboard with the ability to finely tune capacitance, resistance, and gain through the on-screen menu, as well as a powerful discrete headphone amplifier.
Stability is ensured by the intelligent MOON Hybrid Power (MHP) power supply system, effectively filtering out any network noise. The front panel is adorned with a large color display showing album covers and system status. For synchronization with the Moon 461 power amplifier, the proprietary two-port MOONLink bus is used on Ethernet ports.
Package includes:
- Network player
- Remote control
- Power cable
- Manual
