Moonriver 404 USB DAC Expansion Module for Streams

The Moonriver 404 USB DAC expansion module fits the Moonriver 404 or 404 Reference internally with a USB digital input and a high-resolution D/A converter.

If you feed your music from a computer, NAS or streaming transport via USB, this module gives you a fully-fledged converter right inside the amplifier – including its own XMOS interface with custom firmware and five separate power supplies on the card.

Why this module?

Because an ESS Sabre 9000 series converter chip together with a generous capacitor bank delivers clean, high-resolution digital playback without a second device needing to go in the rack. Five separate power supplies on the card cleanly isolate the sensitive converter section from the USB interface – effort you rarely see on a plug-in card.

What you get

A USB input supporting PCM signals up to 384 kHz/24 bit and DSD up to DSD128 – enough for practically any current streaming or computer source. Once connected via USB cable, you simply select the digital source through the 404's existing input selector.

Who is the module suited for – and who isn't it for?

Straight talk: for anyone who feeds their music via USB from a computer, NAS or streaming transport and also wants to use DSD formats. If you only want to connect a classic digital source with a coaxial or optical output, the cheaper SPDIF module gets you just as far – both digital modules can't be installed at the same time.

Our verdict

The more consistent of the two digital cards for anyone who genuinely needs USB and DSD playback. Bring us your source, and together we'll check whether USB or SPDIF suits your chain better.

Technical data

• Type: internal digital expansion card for Moonriver 404 / 404 Reference
• Converter chip: ESS Sabre 9000 series (ESS Sabre 9010)
• Digital input: USB, XMOS interface with custom firmware
• Supported formats: PCM up to 384 kHz / 24 bit, DSD up to DSD128
• Power supply: 5 separate voltage supplies on the card, fed from the power supply of the 404 / 404 Reference
• Installation: by our in-house technician
• Compatible with: Moonriver 404 and 404 Reference (only one digital module at a time)
• Warranty: 3 years (manufacturer)

Frequently asked questions

Does the module support DSD playback?

Yes, up to DSD128, plus PCM up to 384 kHz/24 bit over USB. That covers practically any current streaming or computer source.

Can I install the USB and SPDIF module at the same time?

No, the 404 has only one slot for a digital module. For USB sources with DSD support this module is the right choice, for classic SPDIF sources the other one is.

Do I need a driver for my PC?

That depends on the operating system and the formats you want. We set up the module for your computer or streamer right at installation, so everything works straight away.

Can I install the module myself?

Installation requires opening the amplifier. We recommend leaving that to our technician – he installs the card and sets it up with your source.

Why buy the Moonriver USB DAC module at HD Zürisee?

Because we install the card, set it up with your source and show you how to switch between inputs. Call us or write on WhatsApp – we advise you in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

A streamer or network player and a good USB cable.