




Description
MOON 491: Network Preamp for Vinyl Records and Digital Music
As a network player and preamplifier, the MOON 491 handles source selection, digital-to-analog conversion, and volume control before a power amplifier or active speakers. Your vinyl collection remains part of the system just like music from the server or streaming services. A switchable MM/MC phono stage and headphone amplifier are already built in.
What Sets the MOON 491 Apart
- Music selection without switching sources at the rack: MiND 2 provides access to online services, network files, and additional listening zones.
- Conversion and power supply: A dual-mono DAC and MOON Hybrid Power form the technical basis for digital playback.
- Vinyl collection and TV sound: An adjustable MM/MC phono stage and HDMI ARC complement the analog and digital inputs.
- Different system concepts: Regulated RCA and XLR outputs, as well as a fixed-level output, allow for various connection options.
- Operation at the device or from your seat: A color display, app, and CRM-4 remote control are included.
From Your Favorite Album to Your Own Collection: Music on the MOON 491
Today a new release, tomorrow an album you haven't heard in ages from the music server: With the MOON MiND Controller app for iOS and Android, you can access both. Supported services include Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, and Spotify. If you prefer to stay in your usual service app, you can use Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, or Spotify Connect.
Roon can also be integrated, and the 491 is Roon Ready. AirPlay and Bluetooth open up additional ways to connect your mobile device to the system; the player connects to the home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet (LAN).
For stored music, you have the choice between UPnP/DLNA on the network and compatible USB storage connected to the USB-C host connection. With additional MiND-2 devices, playback extends beyond the music room: Even locally connected analog sources can be transmitted to other listening zones.
Digital Playback in the MOON 491
In the DAC, two ESS-9039Q2M converters work together in a dual-mono arrangement with a precision clock. To power the sensitive audio circuits, MOON uses Hybrid Power, a power supply designed for stable, low-noise DC voltage.
MOON 491 and Existing Sources
No separate phono stage is required for vinyl records. The phono input accepts MM and MC cartridges; gain, load impedance, capacitance, and equalization can be adjusted in the menu to match the system. Additional analog sources are connected via line-level RCA or the balanced XLR input.
A CD transport can pass its digital signal optically, coaxially via S/PDIF, or via AES/EBU. For the TV, HDMI ARC handles the audio connection, provided the TV outputs stereo PCM. Which commands the TV remote control can pass through HDMI-CEC can be configured.
Outputs and Headphone Connection of the MOON 491
How the system continues after the preamplifier remains open: The regulated RCA and XLR outputs are suitable for power amplifiers, suitable active speakers, and active subwoofers. If an existing integrated or preamplifier is to control the volume, the RCA fixed-level output serves as the source output.
Prefer listening to music through headphones in the evening? A 6.35 mm stereo jack is located on the front of the device. When headphones are connected, playback through the connected speakers is automatically muted.
Within a compatible MOON system, MOONLink makes joint operation easier, such as switching to standby or adjusting the display brightness.
Operate the MOON 491, Control It from Your Listening Seat
Album covers, volume, and playback information appear on the large color display. The controls on the device are located directly below or beside it; from your seat, you can use the app or the included CRM-4 remote control.
Optionally, the BRM-1 Bluetooth remote control can be paired. It displays the input and volume on its own screen, among other things, and does not need to be pointed at the 491.
The Design of the MOON 491
Glass-bead-blasted aluminum panels define the design of the enclosure.
Suitability and Important Notes for the MOON 491
Who Is the MOON 491 Suitable For?
- Owners of a separate power amplifier or active speakers.
- Those who use vinyl records, streaming, and existing sources in the same stereo system.
- Homes with a local music collection and multiple MiND-2 listening zones.
Important Notes for the MOON 491
- Not all USB storage and file systems are compatible. For larger collections, a DLNA server is recommended.
- A flat, stable surface and sufficient space for ventilation are required.
MOON 491 and MOON 371: Differences in System Concepts
With the MOON 491, the power amplifier and source management can be chosen independently; the MOON 371, on the other hand, drives passive speakers directly, thus eliminating the need for a separate power amplifier. For symmetrically connected power amplifiers, the 491 additionally offers regulated XLR outputs, while for existing amplifiers, it provides an RCA fixed-level output. Its AES/EBU input complements the digital connection types available on the 371.
The 491 also offers more extensive cartridge adjustment: In addition to MM/MC presets, individual load values and equalization curves can be selected, while the 371 uses fixed MM/MC configurations. Although the enclosure width and height are identical, the 491 is shallower. However, its lower power consumption does not account for the additionally required power amplifier.
| Feature | MOON 491 | MOON 371 |
|---|---|---|
| Device Concept | Network player and preamplifier | Network player and integrated amplifier |
| Passive speakers and power amplifier performance | Separate power amplifier required; power depends on the selected power amplifier | Direct connection; 100 W per channel at 8 Ω, 200 W per channel at 4 Ω |
| Regulated preamplifier outputs | RCA and balanced XLR | RCA |
| Separate fixed-level output | RCA, for use as a source with an amplifier | No separate fixed-level output |
| Additional AES/EBU digital input | Available | Not available |
| Phono stage and adjustment | MM/MC presets as well as Advanced: adjustable gain, impedance, capacitance, and RIAA/IEC equalization | Choice between fixed MM and MC presets |
| Power consumption: Idle / Full Power Standby | 16 W / 14 W; without external power amplifier | 30 W / 28 W; including integrated power amplifier |
| Enclosure depth | 35.7 cm | 38.5 cm |
| Shipping weight | 9 kg | 9 kg |
Conclusion
The power amplifier is already selected, and the music selection is to remain open: This is precisely the role of the MOON 491. It complements a separately built stereo system without distributing daily operation across multiple source devices.
FAQ
Technical Data
Allgemein |
|
| Warengruppe | Netzwerkplayer und Vorverstärker |
| Hersteller | MOON by Simaudio |
| Modell | 491 |
| Serie | Compass Collection |
| Abmessungen (B × H × T) | 42,9 × 8,7 × 35,7 cm |
| Versandgewicht | 9 kg |
Vorverstärker |
|
| Eingangsempfindlichkeit | 0,3–5 V |
| Eingangsimpedanz | 22 kΩ |
| Verstärkung | 10 dB |
| Frequenzgang | 10 Hz–200 kHz (+0,5/−3,0 dB) |
| Klirrfaktor einschließlich Rauschen (THD+N) | 0,0004 % |
| Intermodulationsverzerrungen | 0,0004 % |
| Signal-Rausch-Abstand | 120 dB |
| Übersprechen | −120 dB |
Digital-Analog-Wandlung |
|
| DAC | Zwei ESS ES9039Q2M in Dual-Mono-Anordnung |
| Stromversorgung | MOON Hybrid Power (MHP) |
| PCM über MiND | Bis 384 kHz |
| DSD über MiND | DSD64, DSD128 und DSD256 |
Phonostufe |
|
| Tonabnehmer | Moving Magnet (MM) und Moving Coil (MC) |
| MM-Voreinstellung | 40 dB Verstärkung, 47 kΩ Eingangsimpedanz, 100 pF Kapazität |
| MC-Voreinstellung | 60 dB Verstärkung, 100 Ω Eingangsimpedanz, 0 pF Kapazität |
| Verstärkung im Advanced-Modus | 40 / 54 / 60 / 66 dB |
| Eingangsimpedanz im Advanced-Modus | 47 kΩ / 1 kΩ / 470 Ω / 100 Ω / 10 Ω |
| Kapazität im Advanced-Modus | 0 / 100 / 470 pF |
| Entzerrung | RIAA oder IEC |
Analoge Anschlüsse |
|
| Phonoeingang | Stereo-Cinch für MM/MC; separater Masseanschluss |
| Line-Eingang | Stereo-Cinch |
| Symmetrischer Line-Eingang | Stereo-XLR |
| Home Theatre Bypass | Für den Line- oder symmetrischen Eingang konfigurierbar; Lautstärkeregelung erfolgt am vorgeschalteten Gerät |
| Geregelte Vorverstärkerausgänge | Stereo-Cinch und symmetrisch Stereo-XLR |
| Festpegelausgang | Stereo-Cinch |
| Kopfhörerausgang | 6,35-mm-Stereo-Klinke; automatische Stummschaltung der Lautsprecherausgänge beim Einstecken |
Digitale Anschlüsse und Steuerung |
|
| HDMI | HDMI 2.0b mit ARC für Stereo-PCM; HDMI-CEC konfigurierbar |
| Optischer Digitaleingang | TOSLINK |
| Koaxialer Digitaleingang | S/PDIF über Cinch |
| Symmetrischer Digitaleingang | AES/EBU über XLR |
| USB-Host | USB-C für kompatible USB-Speicher; Wiedergabe über MiND Controller |
| Trigger-Ausgang | 12 V zur Standby-Steuerung kompatibler Endstufen |
| Systemverbindung | MOONLink über kompatible Netzwerkverbindungen |
Netzwerk und Streaming |
|
| Netzwerk | Ethernet (LAN) und WLAN; kabelgebundene Verbindung hat Vorrang |
| Streamingplattform | MiND 2 |
| App-Steuerung | MOON MiND Controller für iOS und Android |
| Streamingdienste | Unter anderem Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer und Spotify |
| Connect-Funktionen | Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect und Spotify Connect |
| Weitere Wiedergabeoptionen | Roon Ready, AirPlay und Bluetooth |
| Netzwerkdateien | UPnP/DLNA |
| Multiroom | Mit weiteren MiND-2-Geräten; Übertragung angeschlossener analoger Quellen möglich |
| USB-Dateisysteme | FAT, NTFS und EXT2/3/4; Kompatibilität nicht für jeden Speicher garantiert |
Bedienung |
|
| Anzeige | Farbdisplay mit Wiedergabe-, Eingangs- und Lautstärkeinformationen |
| Fernbedienung | CRM-4 im Lieferumfang; BRM-1 optional kompatibel |
| Lautstärkeschritte | 1,0 dB von 0 bis 30; 0,5 dB von 30 bis 80 |
| Lautstärkebegrenzung | Einschaltlautstärke und Maximallautstärke einstellbar |
Energie |
|
| Leistungsaufnahme im Leerlauf | 16 W |
| Leistungsaufnahme im Full Power Standby | 14 W |
| Leistungsaufnahme im Low Power Standby | 6 W |
Lieferumfang |
|
| MOON 491 | |
| CRM-4 Fernbedienung inkl. zwei AAA-Batterien | |
| Aufbewahrungstasche für die Fernbedienung | |
| Netzkabel | |
| LAN-Kabel | |
| Dokumente |
Manufacturer information
491
Network player and preamplifier, allowing vinyl records and digital music to use the same stereo system, including a built-in DAC and adjustable MM/MC phono stage.
Popular accessories
AVAILABILITY
Immediately available: Available in our warehouse
Available: Available in our supplier's warehouse*
* We ship either from our warehouse or from our supplier's warehouse, whereby the goods can be sent either to us as an intermediate storage or directly to the customer. Our supplier is the manufacturer or distributor of the goods.
DELIVERY TIME
Shipping takes place within the delivery time stated in the online shop.
DELIVERY PERIODS
Prepayment: The delivery period begins one day after receipt of payment
All other payment methods: The delivery period begins one day after conclusion of the contract
DELIVERY DELAYS
Delivery delays may originate from our suppliers and will be announced by us. If major delivery delays occur, we offer a partial delivery, a replacement, or a refund upon individual arrangement.
Check shipping costs
GERMANY & AUSTRIA
Free shipping on orders over €99
Below that: €4.99 shipping costs
Excluded from this are our TVs, which are shipped with a freight forwarding flat rate of €39. The order value is irrelevant.
EUROPE
€49.99 shipping costs
List of countries:
Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden
OUTSIDE EUROPE
Shipping outside Europe requires individual and personal agreement with our logistics team.
Cheaper elsewhere?
Ask us for a discount
Description
MOON 491: Network Preamp for Vinyl Records and Digital Music
As a network player and preamplifier, the MOON 491 handles source selection, digital-to-analog conversion, and volume control before a power amplifier or active speakers. Your vinyl collection remains part of the system just like music from the server or streaming services. A switchable MM/MC phono stage and headphone amplifier are already built in.
What Sets the MOON 491 Apart
- Music selection without switching sources at the rack: MiND 2 provides access to online services, network files, and additional listening zones.
- Conversion and power supply: A dual-mono DAC and MOON Hybrid Power form the technical basis for digital playback.
- Vinyl collection and TV sound: An adjustable MM/MC phono stage and HDMI ARC complement the analog and digital inputs.
- Different system concepts: Regulated RCA and XLR outputs, as well as a fixed-level output, allow for various connection options.
- Operation at the device or from your seat: A color display, app, and CRM-4 remote control are included.
From Your Favorite Album to Your Own Collection: Music on the MOON 491
Today a new release, tomorrow an album you haven't heard in ages from the music server: With the MOON MiND Controller app for iOS and Android, you can access both. Supported services include Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, and Spotify. If you prefer to stay in your usual service app, you can use Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, or Spotify Connect.
Roon can also be integrated, and the 491 is Roon Ready. AirPlay and Bluetooth open up additional ways to connect your mobile device to the system; the player connects to the home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet (LAN).
For stored music, you have the choice between UPnP/DLNA on the network and compatible USB storage connected to the USB-C host connection. With additional MiND-2 devices, playback extends beyond the music room: Even locally connected analog sources can be transmitted to other listening zones.
Digital Playback in the MOON 491
In the DAC, two ESS-9039Q2M converters work together in a dual-mono arrangement with a precision clock. To power the sensitive audio circuits, MOON uses Hybrid Power, a power supply designed for stable, low-noise DC voltage.
MOON 491 and Existing Sources
No separate phono stage is required for vinyl records. The phono input accepts MM and MC cartridges; gain, load impedance, capacitance, and equalization can be adjusted in the menu to match the system. Additional analog sources are connected via line-level RCA or the balanced XLR input.
A CD transport can pass its digital signal optically, coaxially via S/PDIF, or via AES/EBU. For the TV, HDMI ARC handles the audio connection, provided the TV outputs stereo PCM. Which commands the TV remote control can pass through HDMI-CEC can be configured.
Outputs and Headphone Connection of the MOON 491
How the system continues after the preamplifier remains open: The regulated RCA and XLR outputs are suitable for power amplifiers, suitable active speakers, and active subwoofers. If an existing integrated or preamplifier is to control the volume, the RCA fixed-level output serves as the source output.
Prefer listening to music through headphones in the evening? A 6.35 mm stereo jack is located on the front of the device. When headphones are connected, playback through the connected speakers is automatically muted.
Within a compatible MOON system, MOONLink makes joint operation easier, such as switching to standby or adjusting the display brightness.
Operate the MOON 491, Control It from Your Listening Seat
Album covers, volume, and playback information appear on the large color display. The controls on the device are located directly below or beside it; from your seat, you can use the app or the included CRM-4 remote control.
Optionally, the BRM-1 Bluetooth remote control can be paired. It displays the input and volume on its own screen, among other things, and does not need to be pointed at the 491.
The Design of the MOON 491
Glass-bead-blasted aluminum panels define the design of the enclosure.
Suitability and Important Notes for the MOON 491
Who Is the MOON 491 Suitable For?
- Owners of a separate power amplifier or active speakers.
- Those who use vinyl records, streaming, and existing sources in the same stereo system.
- Homes with a local music collection and multiple MiND-2 listening zones.
Important Notes for the MOON 491
- Not all USB storage and file systems are compatible. For larger collections, a DLNA server is recommended.
- A flat, stable surface and sufficient space for ventilation are required.
MOON 491 and MOON 371: Differences in System Concepts
With the MOON 491, the power amplifier and source management can be chosen independently; the MOON 371, on the other hand, drives passive speakers directly, thus eliminating the need for a separate power amplifier. For symmetrically connected power amplifiers, the 491 additionally offers regulated XLR outputs, while for existing amplifiers, it provides an RCA fixed-level output. Its AES/EBU input complements the digital connection types available on the 371.
The 491 also offers more extensive cartridge adjustment: In addition to MM/MC presets, individual load values and equalization curves can be selected, while the 371 uses fixed MM/MC configurations. Although the enclosure width and height are identical, the 491 is shallower. However, its lower power consumption does not account for the additionally required power amplifier.
| Feature | MOON 491 | MOON 371 |
|---|---|---|
| Device Concept | Network player and preamplifier | Network player and integrated amplifier |
| Passive speakers and power amplifier performance | Separate power amplifier required; power depends on the selected power amplifier | Direct connection; 100 W per channel at 8 Ω, 200 W per channel at 4 Ω |
| Regulated preamplifier outputs | RCA and balanced XLR | RCA |
| Separate fixed-level output | RCA, for use as a source with an amplifier | No separate fixed-level output |
| Additional AES/EBU digital input | Available | Not available |
| Phono stage and adjustment | MM/MC presets as well as Advanced: adjustable gain, impedance, capacitance, and RIAA/IEC equalization | Choice between fixed MM and MC presets |
| Power consumption: Idle / Full Power Standby | 16 W / 14 W; without external power amplifier | 30 W / 28 W; including integrated power amplifier |
| Enclosure depth | 35.7 cm | 38.5 cm |
| Shipping weight | 9 kg | 9 kg |
Conclusion
The power amplifier is already selected, and the music selection is to remain open: This is precisely the role of the MOON 491. It complements a separately built stereo system without distributing daily operation across multiple source devices.
FAQ
Technical Data
Allgemein |
|
| Warengruppe | Netzwerkplayer und Vorverstärker |
| Hersteller | MOON by Simaudio |
| Modell | 491 |
| Serie | Compass Collection |
| Abmessungen (B × H × T) | 42,9 × 8,7 × 35,7 cm |
| Versandgewicht | 9 kg |
Vorverstärker |
|
| Eingangsempfindlichkeit | 0,3–5 V |
| Eingangsimpedanz | 22 kΩ |
| Verstärkung | 10 dB |
| Frequenzgang | 10 Hz–200 kHz (+0,5/−3,0 dB) |
| Klirrfaktor einschließlich Rauschen (THD+N) | 0,0004 % |
| Intermodulationsverzerrungen | 0,0004 % |
| Signal-Rausch-Abstand | 120 dB |
| Übersprechen | −120 dB |
Digital-Analog-Wandlung |
|
| DAC | Zwei ESS ES9039Q2M in Dual-Mono-Anordnung |
| Stromversorgung | MOON Hybrid Power (MHP) |
| PCM über MiND | Bis 384 kHz |
| DSD über MiND | DSD64, DSD128 und DSD256 |
Phonostufe |
|
| Tonabnehmer | Moving Magnet (MM) und Moving Coil (MC) |
| MM-Voreinstellung | 40 dB Verstärkung, 47 kΩ Eingangsimpedanz, 100 pF Kapazität |
| MC-Voreinstellung | 60 dB Verstärkung, 100 Ω Eingangsimpedanz, 0 pF Kapazität |
| Verstärkung im Advanced-Modus | 40 / 54 / 60 / 66 dB |
| Eingangsimpedanz im Advanced-Modus | 47 kΩ / 1 kΩ / 470 Ω / 100 Ω / 10 Ω |
| Kapazität im Advanced-Modus | 0 / 100 / 470 pF |
| Entzerrung | RIAA oder IEC |
Analoge Anschlüsse |
|
| Phonoeingang | Stereo-Cinch für MM/MC; separater Masseanschluss |
| Line-Eingang | Stereo-Cinch |
| Symmetrischer Line-Eingang | Stereo-XLR |
| Home Theatre Bypass | Für den Line- oder symmetrischen Eingang konfigurierbar; Lautstärkeregelung erfolgt am vorgeschalteten Gerät |
| Geregelte Vorverstärkerausgänge | Stereo-Cinch und symmetrisch Stereo-XLR |
| Festpegelausgang | Stereo-Cinch |
| Kopfhörerausgang | 6,35-mm-Stereo-Klinke; automatische Stummschaltung der Lautsprecherausgänge beim Einstecken |
Digitale Anschlüsse und Steuerung |
|
| HDMI | HDMI 2.0b mit ARC für Stereo-PCM; HDMI-CEC konfigurierbar |
| Optischer Digitaleingang | TOSLINK |
| Koaxialer Digitaleingang | S/PDIF über Cinch |
| Symmetrischer Digitaleingang | AES/EBU über XLR |
| USB-Host | USB-C für kompatible USB-Speicher; Wiedergabe über MiND Controller |
| Trigger-Ausgang | 12 V zur Standby-Steuerung kompatibler Endstufen |
| Systemverbindung | MOONLink über kompatible Netzwerkverbindungen |
Netzwerk und Streaming |
|
| Netzwerk | Ethernet (LAN) und WLAN; kabelgebundene Verbindung hat Vorrang |
| Streamingplattform | MiND 2 |
| App-Steuerung | MOON MiND Controller für iOS und Android |
| Streamingdienste | Unter anderem Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer und Spotify |
| Connect-Funktionen | Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect und Spotify Connect |
| Weitere Wiedergabeoptionen | Roon Ready, AirPlay und Bluetooth |
| Netzwerkdateien | UPnP/DLNA |
| Multiroom | Mit weiteren MiND-2-Geräten; Übertragung angeschlossener analoger Quellen möglich |
| USB-Dateisysteme | FAT, NTFS und EXT2/3/4; Kompatibilität nicht für jeden Speicher garantiert |
Bedienung |
|
| Anzeige | Farbdisplay mit Wiedergabe-, Eingangs- und Lautstärkeinformationen |
| Fernbedienung | CRM-4 im Lieferumfang; BRM-1 optional kompatibel |
| Lautstärkeschritte | 1,0 dB von 0 bis 30; 0,5 dB von 30 bis 80 |
| Lautstärkebegrenzung | Einschaltlautstärke und Maximallautstärke einstellbar |
Energie |
|
| Leistungsaufnahme im Leerlauf | 16 W |
| Leistungsaufnahme im Full Power Standby | 14 W |
| Leistungsaufnahme im Low Power Standby | 6 W |
Lieferumfang |
|
| MOON 491 | |
| CRM-4 Fernbedienung inkl. zwei AAA-Batterien | |
| Aufbewahrungstasche für die Fernbedienung | |
| Netzkabel | |
| LAN-Kabel | |
| Dokumente |
Manufacturer information

491
-
Fidelity Guide
Feel free to check out our Advice Blog. Here we discuss fundamentals and answer frequently asked questions from the Hi-Fi world.
-
FAQs
You can find questions and answers about products, availability, shipping, payment, and service in our FAQs.
-
Customer service
Our online customer service and sales team is available to assist you by phone or email.
shop@fidelity-hh.de
040 25776690 -
Fidelity Store
For personal and expert advice, visit our store. Here you can experience and compare products in 10 different listening studios across more than 800 m² of exhibition space.
Adlerstraße 79, Rellingen
Our exhibition
Arrange an appointment
Frequently asked questions about our products
Please visit our FAQ page to learn more.
Are all displayed products immediately available?
All visible products are generally either in stock with us or can be ordered from our suppliers. You can find the current availability or delivery time on the respective product page. If you have any questions about availability, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Do you offer pre-purchase advice?
Yes. If you are still unsure about your choice or if our online shop does not cover all the information you need, we would be happy to advise you in person. We are committed to finding a long-term and suitable solution for your requirements. Please contact us in person to benefit from our experience.
How do I find the right accessories for my setup?
The added value that the right accessories can bring is often underestimated. To help you get the most out of your setup, we are happy to advise you personally.
Is there a warranty on all products?
Our products come with their own manufacturer's warranty, the duration and terms of which may vary depending on the brand and product. We handle warranty claims for products purchased from us on your behalf.





