Moon North 681
Streamer-DAC
€ 13500
MOON 681 network player – DAC and streaming front end for the North Collection
The dedicated digital front end of the North Collection
The MOON 681 is the recommended digital source component for Simaudio's North Collection. It combines a fully capable DAC with MiND 2 streaming, six digital inputs and both fixed and variable analogue outputs in a single chassis. Since MDE-1 DAC technology and a fully balanced internal layout work together, the 681 consequently achieves THD+N of just 0.0003% and a signal-to-noise ratio of 125 dB. The result is a signal free from coloration and distortion.
MDE-1 and MHV — digital precision and volume control
MDE-1 stands for MOON Digital Engine 1 — a proprietary DAC topology that actively suppresses noise and distortion. As a result, the 681 achieves a dynamic range of 125 dB and crosstalk of –125 dB. Furthermore, MHV (MOON Hybrid Volume) provides transparent, stable gain control at all levels. Since variable analogue outputs are included, the 681 consequently connects directly to a power amplifier without an external preamplifier.
MiND 2 streaming and six digital inputs
The MiND 2 platform supports Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify, AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX, Spotify Connect and Roon Ready. Since all major streaming services are thereby covered natively, no additional hardware is required. The six digital inputs include HDMI ARC, AES/EBU, USB audio, optical and coaxial — moreover allowing virtually any digital source to connect. MOONLink furthermore enables seamless coordination with the MOON 641 integrated amplifier.
4.3-inch display and North Collection design
The 4.3-inch colour display shows album artwork, format, source and playback status clearly. Simaudio designs and assembles the 681 entirely in Québec, Canada. Frequency response extends from 2 Hz to 100 kHz within +0/–3 dB. Above all, standby consumption of just 5 W makes the 681 practical for everyday use.
Specifications
- Type: network player/DAC
- Collection: North Collection
- Technologies: MiND 2, MDE-1, MHV, MOONLink
- Digital inputs: 6 — HDMI ARC, AES/EBU, USB audio, optical, coaxial
- Analogue outputs: RCA and XLR, fixed and variable
- THD+N @ 0 dBFS: 0.0003%
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 125 dB
- Dynamic range: 125 dB
- Crosstalk: –125 dB
- Frequency response: 2 Hz–100 kHz, +0/–3 dB
- Streaming: Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify, AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX, Roon Ready
- Display: 4.3-inch colour display
- Remote control: BRM-1
- Standby consumption: 5 W
- Dimensions: 481×102×427 mm
- Weight: 18 kg
- Origin: designed and built in Québec, Canada
Frequently asked questions about the MOON 681 network player
Can the MOON 681 connect directly to a power amplifier?
Yes — since the 681 includes MHV hybrid volume control and variable analogue outputs, it connects directly to a power amplifier. An external preamplifier is therefore not required.
Which streaming services does the MOON 681 support?
The 681 supports Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Spotify, AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX, Spotify Connect and Roon Ready. Control is via the MOON MiND Controller app on iOS and Android.
What is the difference between the MOON 681 and the MOON 371?
The MOON 371 is an all-in-one amplifier from the Compass Collection with a built-in amplifier and phono stage. By contrast, the 681 is a dedicated network player/DAC from the North Collection — without amplification, but with higher measured performance and more extensive digital connectivity. Since amplifier and source are separate, the 681 consequently suits a system where each component is optimised independently.
Hear the MOON 681 at Novus Audio
The MOON 681 network player is available for a personal listening session at Novus Audio in the Netherlands. We welcome visitors by appointment — come and hear what it does for your system. Book an Appointment
