MOON 491 Compass Streaming Preamplifier, Black

The MOON 491 in Black is a network preamplifier from the MOON Compass Collection that combines streamer, DAC, phono stage, preamplifier and headphone amplifier in one chassis – in an all-black finish with a black chassis and black aluminium side panels.

Technically it's identical to the silver-trimmed variant. So you only need to decide whether your rack prefers the contrast or the all-dark look – sonically, the two give away nothing to each other.

Why the MOON 491?

The streaming heart beats with MOON's MiND 2 module: Roon Ready, UPnP, AirPlay, Bluetooth, plus Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer and Spotify with their respective Connect protocols. It's operated via the MOON app, the front buttons or the aluminium CRM-4 remote control. The large colour display shows volume and album art – and does look rather good in the living room.

Inside, two ESS 9039Q2M DACs convert in dual-mono mode, backed by a precision clock. The fully configurable phono stage understands MM and MC cartridges; you set loading resistance, capacitance and gain directly in the on-screen menu. Add to that analogue inputs (RCA + balanced XLR), HDMI ARC for TV, and its own headphone amplifier on the 6.35mm output. The MHP power supply keeps sensitive circuitry clean – low noise, wide dynamics, more music.

What you get

A complete preamp that replaces half a stack of components: streamer, converter, phono, preamplifier and headphone output in one box, controlled by app, remote or the large colour display with album art. Fewer cables, fewer sockets – and still the option to fully expand later with a matching power amp like the MOON 461.

Can the MOON 491 be used without a streaming subscription?

Yes. Internet radio, music from your own network (UPnP), vinyl via the phono stage, a CD player, or TV via HDMI ARC all work entirely without a paid subscription. Streaming services are an option, not a requirement.

Who is the 491 for – and who isn't it for?

Perfect for anyone who wants to bundle digital and analogue sources in one high-quality device – turntable and headphones included. If you only listen to the occasional Bluetooth stream on the side, you'll barely tap into its potential; it would almost be a waste.

Our verdict

The black 491 is a complete preamp for years to come: streamer, DAC, phono and headphone amplifier that you no longer have to piece together separately. Paired with the MOON 461 power amplifier, it becomes a matched high-end system. We're happy to talk through in person at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil which sources, speakers and cables suit it best.

Technical data

• Functions: network player, preamplifier, DAC, phono stage, headphone amplifier
• Streaming: MiND 2, Roon Ready, AirPlay, Bluetooth, UPnP
• Streaming services: Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, Spotify (incl. Connect protocols)
• DAC converters: 2× ESS 9039Q2M in dual-mono mode with precision clock
• DAC formats: DSD, DXD, MQA
• Digital inputs: HDMI ARC, optical, AES-EBU, S/PDIF, USB host
• Analogue inputs: RCA, XLR (balanced), phono (MM + MC, configurable)
• Outputs: variable XLR (balanced), variable RCA, fixed RCA, 6.35mm headphone
• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 200 kHz (+0.5 / −3.0 dB)
• Total harmonic distortion + noise: 0.0004%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 120 dB
• Crosstalk: −120 dB
• Power consumption (operation / standby / eco): 16 W / 14 W / 6 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 42.9 × 8.7 × 35.7 cm
• Weight: 9 kg
• Colour: all-black (chassis and side panels)
• Warranty (MOON Switzerland): 5 years

Frequently asked questions

How does the black 491 differ from the silver version?

Only in looks: black instead of silver aluminium side panels, the chassis is black on both. Functions, connections and sound are identical.

Does the MOON 491 have a built-in phono input?

Yes. The 491 has a fully configurable phono stage for MM and MC cartridges. You set loading resistance, capacitance and gain directly in the menu – a separate phono preamp isn't needed.

Which power amp suits the MOON 491?

The MOON 461 power amplifier from the same Compass Collection is ideal – matched in look and sound. In principle, though, the 491 can be paired with any high-quality power amp or active speakers.

Why buy the MOON 491 at HD Zürisee?

Because a device with so many talents deserves proper advice: we set up streaming, the phono stage and sources for you, find the right speakers and cables, and as an authorised dealer in Wädenswil we take care of warranty and service – with our own in-house technician.

Goes well with

You'll find the right power amp in the MOON Collection – for example the MOON 461 stereo power amplifier. You'll find more models under Power Amplifiers and Preamplifiers.