MOON 461 + 491 Compass HiFi Set, Silver/Black

The MOON 461 + 491 HiFi set is a separately built stereo combination from the MOON Compass Collection, made up of the 461 power amplifier and the 491 streaming preamplifier with DAC.

It brings MOON's technology from the larger series – MDCA amplification, true dual-mono and the MiND 2 streaming platform – into a more compact, more affordable format. Black chassis, side panels available in black or silver, available from early July 2026.

Why this set?

Because you get a complete high-end chain from a single source, without having to invest straight into the flagship league. The 491 handles everything at the front: streaming via MiND 2 (Roon Ready, AirPlay, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, Spotify Connect), a high-quality DAC for DSD, DXD and MQA, a configurable MM/MC phono stage, HDMI ARC, balanced inputs and outputs and a built-in headphone amplifier. If needed, it also runs purely as an analogue preamplifier.

The 461 delivers the power: 150 watts per channel at 8 ohms, 300 watts at 4 ohms; in mono-bridge mode, one 461 delivers up to 450 watts. Two separate MHP power supplies (true dual-mono) and the MDCA topology from MOON's larger series provide control even into demanding speakers. As a matched set, you get both devices cheaper than buying them separately – and a system that feels like a single piece, both sonically and visually.

What you get

A fully-grown MOON signature: calm, controlled and transparent, with the typical composure even at higher levels. The 461 takes a firm grip on the speakers so bass stays dry and well-defined, while the 491 provides a clean, detail-rich background. From vinyl to headphones to high-resolution streams, everything plays through the same, matched chain.

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

For anyone who wants a complete, expandable high-end system with a modern streaming platform without reaching for the 7 or 8 series – ideal for medium to larger rooms and demanding floorstanding or bookshelf speakers.

Straight talk: anyone who really wants to drive large, power-hungry speakers to the limit in a large room is better served by the 761 + 791 or 861 + 891. And anyone who wants everything in one enclosure should look at the MOON 371. For most real-world living rooms, though, the 461 + 491 hits the point between sound, feature set and price pretty precisely.

Our verdict

The 461 + 491 is the sensible way into genuine MOON high-end: separately built, streaming-capable, phono-ready and, thanks to the mono-bridge option, even expandable. We at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil tell you honestly whether this set suits your speakers or whether a size up or an all-in-one makes more sense – and set up your streaming and sources cleanly.

Technical data

MOON 461 – power amplifier

• Output power (stereo, 8 Ω): 150 W per channel
• Output power (stereo, 4 Ω): 300 W per channel
• Output power (mono-bridge): 450 W
• Operating modes: 3 (incl. stereo, mono-bridge)
• Technology: MDCA, dual-mono with two MHP power supplies
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 42.9 × 8.7 × 36.8 cm
• Weight: 11 kg

MOON 491 – streaming preamplifier / DAC

• Streaming: MiND 2 – Roon Ready, AirPlay, Bluetooth, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, Spotify Connect
• DAC: supports DSD, DXD and MQA
• Analogue: MM/MC phono stage (configurable), balanced inputs and outputs
• Video: 1× HDMI with ARC
• Headphones: built-in headphone amplifier
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 42.9 × 8.7 × 35.7 cm
• Weight: 9 kg

• Finish: black chassis, side panels in black or silver
• Availability: from early July 2026
• Warranty (MOON Switzerland): 5 years
• Included in delivery: MOON 461 power amplifier, MOON 491 streaming preamplifier, power cables, remote control and manuals

Frequently asked questions

What's included in the MOON 461 + 491 set?
The 461 power amplifier and the 491 streaming preamplifier with DAC from the Compass Collection, plus remote control, power cables and manuals. That gives you source, preamp and power amplifier complete – all that's missing is speakers and cabling.

Is the set Roon Ready and streaming-capable?
Yes. The 491 uses the MiND 2 platform, is Roon Ready and supports AirPlay, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer and Spotify Connect. Even without a paid subscription you can play internet radio and files from the network; DSD, DXD and MQA are processed.

Can I expand the 461 + 491 later?
Yes. The 461 can be run in mono-bridge mode with up to 450 watts; with a second power amplifier this creates a monoblock configuration. Overall, the 461 offers three operating modes, so the system can grow with your demands.

What colours is the set available in?
The chassis is black, and you choose the side panels in black or silver. That way the set fits either discreetly dark or with a silver accent into your decor. It's available from early July 2026.

Why buy the MOON 461 + 491 set at HD Zürisee?
Because there's a lot of advice packed between the 461, 491 and your speakers. We clarify the speaker match, placement and streaming setup, advise on sensible expansion, and as an authorised MOON dealer in Wädenswil we're there for you for warranty and service – with our own technician.

Goes well with

You'll find matching speakers under Speakers, cabling under Cables and headphones for the 491 under Headphones. The whole series is shown in the MOON Collection.