MOON 260DT CD Transport, Black

MOON 260DT – the pure CD transport

The MOON 260DT is a pure CD transport that reads the CD and outputs the signal purely digitally to an external DAC – deliberately without a built-in converter and without analogue outputs.

It's the transport version of the proven 260D: the same mechanism, the same chassis. If you already have a good DAC – for example in the MOON 681 or 791, or as a standalone unit – this is the consistent solution for you.

Why a pure transport?

Separating the digital-to-analogue converter from the CD drive keeps the sensitive conversion away from the drive's mechanical vibrations. The 260DT relies on MOON's own CD mechanism and the M-Quattro suspension – a gel-based 4-point system that keeps vibrations away from the laser pickup.

Connections

• Digital outputs: 1× SPDIF, 1× AES/EBU
• No analogue outputs, no internal DAC
• SimLink, RS-232, 12V trigger, remote control

Straight talk: who it's for – and who it isn't

The 260DT absolutely requires an external DAC – without a converter, no sound comes out of your speakers. If you want drive and DAC in one unit, get the 260D instead. If you're after maximum flexibility for an existing high-end setup with its own converter, the 260DT is the right choice.

Our verdict

The 260DT is the consistent choice if you deliberately want to separate out the conversion: a high-quality drive that has just one job – and does it really well. In Black it sits discreetly in your rack. We're happy to talk through which DAC suits it and your system best in person at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil.

Technical data

• Drive: MOON CD mechanism with M-Quattro gel suspension
• Outputs: SPDIF, AES/EBU (purely digital)
• Analogue outputs / internal DAC: none
• Control: SimLink, RS-232, 12V trigger, remote control
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 429 × 86 × 333 mm
• Weight: 7.5 kg
• Finish: Black
• Warranty (MOON Switzerland): 5 years

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between the MOON 260D and 260DT?

The 260D is a CD transport plus a DAC with analogue outputs. The 260DT is just the transport – without a DAC and without analogue outputs, intended for use with an external converter.

Do I need a separate DAC for the 260DT?

Yes. The 260DT outputs exclusively in digital (SPDIF and AES/EBU) and needs a DAC, for example in the MOON 681 or 791, or a standalone converter.

Does the MOON 260DT also play SACD?

No, the 260DT is a pure transport for audio CDs.

Why buy the MOON 260DT at HD Zürisee?

Because a transport without the right DAC is only half a solution: we help you choose the right converter, wire both up cleanly, and as an authorised MOON dealer in Wädenswil we're here for warranty and service – with our own in-house technician.

Goes well with

You'll find the right converter under DAC, more MOON sources in the MOON Collection, and under CD Players.