The MOON 491 brings together network playback, preamplification, digital-to-analog conversion, phono playback, and headphone listening in one premium component. Positioned at the heart of the Compass Collection, it is designed to handle digital and analog sources with precision, flexibility, and refinement.
Performance and Reliability
The MOON 491 is built to manage digital and analog sources with precision, stability, and control.
At its core is MiND 2, MOON’s proprietary network streaming platform. The 491 uses the UPnP protocol, is Roon Ready, and supports Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect. With the MOON MiND Controller app for iOS and Android, listeners can access major music services including Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, and Spotify.
The 491 also integrates MOON Hybrid Power, a proprietary power supply architecture designed to deliver ultra-stable, very low-noise DC power. Operating at switching frequencies beyond the audio band, it helps protect sensitive audio circuits and contributes to a lower noise floor.
Its DAC section uses two ESS 9039Q2M converters in dual-mono mode, paired with a precision clock and a refined output stage. This architecture supports stable, precise, and detailed digital-to-analog conversion.
As with all MOON products, the 491 is backed by a 10-year warranty.
Experience and Design
The 491 is designed to feel natural from the first interaction.
Its large colour display clearly shows volume, album artwork, and essential system information. Front-panel controls provide direct access to key functions, while the CRM-4 aluminum remote, the MiND app, and compatible streaming service interfaces give listeners multiple ways to control playback.
With its iconic black MOON chassis, bead-blasted aluminum cheeks in black or silver, and timeless design language, the 491 brings a quiet, refined presence to any listening space. It is designed to sit at the centre of a high-end audio system without making the experience feel complicated.
Sound
The MOON 491 is designed to preserve signal integrity with clarity, refinement, and coherence.
Its integrated phono stage supports both MM and MC cartridges, with menu-configurable settings for impedance, capacitance, gain, and equalization curves. This adaptability allows the phono stage to be optimized for different cartridges while preserving the richness and immediacy of vinyl playback.
As a network player, preamplifier, DAC, phono stage, and headphone amplifier, the 491 brings every source into a coherent listening experience. Paired with the MOON 461 power amplifier, it forms the highest-performing system in the Compass Collection.
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MHP – MOON Hybrid Power
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MiND 2
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Phono Stage with MM/MC
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MOONLink on dual-Ethernet port
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Bead-blasted aluminum cheeks
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Large colour display
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USB service port for direct firmware update
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Modular board for future upgradeability
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CRM-4 Remote Control and compatible with the BRM-1 Bluetooth remote control
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Input Sensitivity0.3 V – 5 V
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Input Impedance22 kΩ
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Gain10 dB
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Frequency Response10 Hz – 200 kHz +0.5/-3.0 dB
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Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise0.0004%
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Intermodulation Distortion0.0004%
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Signal-to-Noise Ratio120 dB
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Crosstalk–108 dB
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Power Consumption (Idle)16 W
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Power Consumption (Full Power Standby)14 W
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Power Consumption (Low Power Standby)6 W
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Dimensions (width x height x depth)16.9x3.5x14.1 in / 42.9x8.7x35.7 cm
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Shipping Weight20 lbs / 9 kg
The following accessories should be included inside the box with your network player / preamplifier:
- Quick start guide
- AC power cable
- CRM-4 remote control
- MOONLink
- Warranty and product registration information (USA and Canada only)