MOON by Simaudio Compass 491 Network Player / Preamplifier

Overview

The MOON by Simaudio Compass 491 is a premium all-in-one audio hub, integrating a network music player, preamplifier, DAC, phono stage, and headphone amplifier within a single beautifully engineered chassis.

Derived from the design principles of MOON’s flagship North Collection, the 491 reduces signal path complexity while maintaining the highest level of signal integrity. It is engineered to operate in combination with the MOON 461 power amplifier, ensuring optimal system performance across the range.

Streaming & Connectivity

At the core of the 491 is MOON’s proprietary MiND 2 streaming technology. It operates as a UPnP renderer and a Roon Ready endpoint, with full support for AirPlay and Bluetooth.

The MOON MiND Controller app (iOS & Android) provides access to major streaming services including Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, and Spotify. The 491 also supports Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Spotify Connect for seamless third-party control.

Playback and system functions can be controlled via the app, front-panel buttons, or the included aluminium CRM-4 remote control.

DAC & Phono Stage

The DAC section employs two ESS 9039Q2M converters configured in dual-mono mode, combined with a precision clock and refined output stage. This design maximizes channel separation while reducing noise and distortion — delivering a wider dynamic range, natural presentation, and improved spatial accuracy and micro-detail retrieval. The DAC board is mounted on a modular daughter board to support future upgrades.

The integrated phono stage supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges via menu-configurable settings. Selectable input impedance: 47kΩ, 1kΩ, 470Ω, 100Ω, or 10Ω. Selectable input capacitance is also configurable, allowing the phono stage to be precisely optimized for any cartridge.

Power Supply

The 491 features MOON Hybrid Power (MHP), a proprietary technology that blends traditional linear and modern switch-mode designs for ultra-stable, low-noise DC power. It operates at switching frequencies far beyond the audio band, ensuring sensitive circuits — including the phono stage — remain completely uncontaminated. The result is a lower noise floor with greater dynamic headroom.

Visit Our Showroom

Hear the MOON 491 in a private audition at our Covina showroom. We welcome visitors from across Los Angeles, Orange County, Pasadena, Pomona, and the Inland Empire — easy freeway access from all directions.

Sunny Components Inc. / Sunny’s Audio Video
1370 E Cypress Street, Suite D
Covina, CA 91724
Phone: (626) 966-6259 | (626) 975-1353
Website: sunnyaudiovideo.com