MOON 260D CD Transport with DAC, Black

The MOON 260D is a CD transport from Simaudio with a built-in 32-bit/192kHz DAC that plays your CDs and, via three digital inputs, also serves as a central converter for streamers, TVs and other sources.

Why the MOON 260D?

Because it combines two worlds in one chassis: a proven CD drive for your collection and a standalone, audiophile digital-to-analogue converter for everything else digital. You don't have to choose between a CD player and a DAC – you get both, with the calm, precise MOON signature. The three digital inputs (two coaxial S/PDIF, one optical) cover a streamer, TV or a second digital player. MQA is passed through, and a digital output allows for a later upgrade to an external DAC.

What you hear

A clean, calm and detailed sound – whether from the silver disc or the streamer. The built-in converter holds its own confidently in its class: voices are tangible in the room, the soundstage is clearly layered, and the typical MOON character – calm, transparent, without harshness – carries through across all inputs.

Who is the 260D for – and who is it not for?

Ideal for anyone with a CD collection who also wants a good DAC for streamer and TV – one central digital source instead of several separate boxes. Via XLR and RCA it matches practically any amplifier.

Honest take: if you no longer listen to CDs and stream exclusively, you don't need the drive and you're better off with a pure streamer or DAC. And if you already own a high-end DAC, you'll more likely use the 260D purely as a transport via the digital output.

Our verdict

A versatile CD transport with a full-fledged DAC that elegantly reduces a system's digital source to a single device. In Black it looks especially understated. We at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil will tell you honestly whether it suits your amplifier and your sources – and we're happy to advise you on it.

Technical data

• Type: CD transport with built-in digital-to-analogue converter
• DAC resolution: up to 32-bit / 192 kHz (all digital inputs)
• Digital inputs: 2× S/PDIF (RCA coax), 1× TosLink (optical)
• Digital output: 1× S/PDIF (RCA coax)
• Analogue outputs: 1× stereo RCA (unbalanced), 1× stereo XLR (balanced)
• MQA: pass-through
• System control: SimLink
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 429 × 86 × 333 mm
• Weight: 7.5 kg
• Finish: Black
• Warranty (MOON Switzerland): 5 years
• What's included: 260D, infrared remote control, power cable, manual, MOON SimLink cable

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a separate DAC for the MOON 260D?
No, if you use it as your central digital source – the built-in 32-bit/192kHz converter is full-fledged. If you want to upgrade later, the digital output passes the signal cleanly on to an external high-end DAC.

Which sources can I connect to the 260D?
Via the three digital inputs: a streamer, TV, AV receiver or a second digital player – two coaxial, one optical. That makes the 260D the central conversion stage of your system.

Does the MOON 260D play MQA?
It passes MQA through. That lets you forward MQA signals, for example from Tidal, to an external MQA renderer.

Why buy the MOON 260D at HD Zürisee?
Because a digital source only convinces in combination with an amplifier and speakers. We advise you on integrating it into your chain, set up your sources, and as an authorised MOON dealer in Wädenswil we're here for warranty and service – with our own technician.

Goes well with

You'll find the right amplifier under Integrated Amplifiers, and speakers under Speakers. More converters are shown in the DAC collection, and the full brand range in the MOON Collection.