Moon 491

MOON 491 – the centre of a modern high-end system

Five functions, one chassis, no compromise

The MOON 491 brings together a network player, preamplifier, DAC, phono stage and headphone amplifier in a single chassis. As the control hub of the Compass Collection, it draws directly from the design principles of MOON's flagship North Collection — consequently delivering signal quality that is highly unusual at this price point. At its core are the proprietary MiND 2 streaming platform, dual ESS 9039Q2M converters in a dual-mono configuration, and MOON Hybrid Power technology. Together, these reduce system complexity without sacrificing the sonic performance that defines the MOON 491.

MiND 2 — streaming without compromise

MiND 2 forms the digital backbone of the MOON 491. It operates as a Roon Ready endpoint and UPnP renderer, with full support for AirPlay and Bluetooth. Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect are built in, therefore each service can be controlled directly from its native app. Furthermore, the MOON MiND Controller app for iOS and Android provides access to Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer and Spotify — all without additional hardware. Above all, the platform is designed to stay current, with a modular DAC board that supports future upgrades.

Dual-mono ESS DAC — precision in every detail

Two ESS 9039Q2M converters, configured in dual-mono mode, form the heart of the DAC section. A precision clock and refined output stage work together to maximise channel separation while minimising noise and distortion. Consequently, the 491 delivers a wide soundstage, precise imaging and exceptional micro-detail retrieval. Moreover, the DAC board is mounted on a modular daughterboard, thereby supporting future upgrades as the technology evolves.

MM and MC phono stage — fully configurable

Vinyl listeners are well served by the 491's integrated phono stage, which supports both MM and MC cartridges. Input impedance is selectable from five settings — 47 kΩ, 1 kΩ, 470 Ω, 100 Ω or 10 Ω — while capacitance, gain and equalisation curves are also configurable via the menu. Therefore the phono stage can be precisely matched to virtually any cartridge, from an entry-level MM to a demanding low-output MC. The MOON Hybrid Power supply operates well above the audio band, thereby keeping noise out of the sensitive phono circuitry.

Specifications

• Type: network player / preamplifier / DAC / phono stage / headphone amplifier
• Streaming: MiND 2, Roon Ready, AirPlay, Bluetooth, UPnP
• Streaming services: Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, Spotify (incl. Connect protocols)
• DAC: 2× ESS 9039Q2M, dual-mono, modular daughterboard
• Phono stage: MM and MC, configurable impedance / capacitance / gain / EQ curves
• Power supply: MOON Hybrid Power (MHP)
• Digital inputs: 4× (incl. USB, USB-C, S/PDIF, TosLink)
• Analogue inputs: RCA, XLR
• Outputs: fixed and variable RCA, variable XLR, 6.35mm headphone
• Further connections: HDMI ARC, 2× RJ45
• Display: large colour display (volume, album art, system information)
• Remote control: CRM-4 aluminium
• Finishes: all-black, two-tone (black + silver)
• Warranty: 10 years

Frequently asked questions

What separates the MOON 491 from the MOON 371?

The MOON 371 is an integrated all-in-one solution with a built-in amplifier. The 491, by contrast, is a dedicated network player and preamplifier without a power stage — designed as the control centre of a separates-based system. It also offers a more capable DAC section with dual ESS 9039Q2M converters, a more extensively configurable phono stage, and MOON Hybrid Power technology. Its natural partner is the new MOON 461 power amplifier.

Is the MOON 491 suitable for vinyl?

Yes. The built-in phono stage supports both MM and MC cartridges and is configurable via the menu for impedance, capacitance, gain and equalisation curve. Consequently the 491 is compatible with virtually any cartridge, from an affordable MM system to a demanding low-output MC.

Can the MOON 491 be used with an existing power amplifier?

Yes. Both RCA and XLR outputs are provided, therefore the 491 integrates with virtually any power amplifier. The ideal partner within the Compass Collection is the new MOON 461, but the 491 slots equally well into an existing high-end setup. At Novus Audio we are happy to advise on the best combination for your system.