Moonriver 505 Hybrid Phono Preamplifier

The Moonriver 505 is a standalone hybrid phono preamplifier with four inputs for MM and MC cartridges, handmade in Sweden.

“Hybrid” means here: IC operational amplifiers for low noise combined with a discrete circuit for dynamic drive – a deliberate choice against dogmatic purism and for whatever ultimately comes out of the speakers. The focus lies especially on the midrange between 200 and 4000 Hz, where voices and most instruments live.

Why the Moonriver 505?

Because it gives you room for up to four cartridges at once, each one individually stored via the memory function. Twelve gain stages (six each for MM and MC), MC loading impedances from 10 to 1000 Ω plus a freely configurable option, five MM capacitance values from 100 to 680 pF – there's hardly a cartridge that can't be matched exactly with this. Plus XLR and RCA inputs and outputs, and three EQ curves: RIAA, Decca and Columbia for old 78 rpm shellac records.

What you get

A phono preamplifier that can serve several turntables or cartridges at once, without you having to swap cables or reset values every time you switch – the memory function remembers the setting per input. Stereo/mono switching for mono pressings and automatic muting on source changes round out everyday use.

Who is the 505 suited for – and who isn't it for?

Straight talk: for anyone with several cartridges or turntables who wants maximum flexibility in matching and gain, and for anyone who also wants to hear old 78 rpm shellac records with the correct EQ curve. If you only run a single MM cartridge and will never switch, a simpler phono stage – or a Moonriver phono module in the 404 – already gives you everything you need, and you don't have to pay for the 505's extra flexibility.

Our verdict

One of the most flexible phono preamplifiers in its price class – and according to Chris Kelly of The Ear (22 August 2024) “a masterpiece of audio engineering”. For anyone with a demanding record collection and several cartridges, one of the most consistent choices on the market.

Technical data – Moonriver 505

• Type: standalone hybrid phono preamplifier (IC operational amplifiers + discrete circuit)
• Inputs: 4× phono, MM and MC, each individually configurable
• Inputs/outputs: XLR and RCA
• Gain: 34–72 dB, 12 stages (6× MM, 6× MC)
• MC loading impedance: 10, 47, 100, 470, 1000 Ω plus freely configurable
• MM loading impedance: 22, 47, 75 kΩ
• MM capacitance: 100, 220, 330, 470, 680 pF
• Equalization curves: RIAA, Decca, Columbia (78 rpm)
• Functions: stereo/mono switching, automatic muting, memory function per input
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 43 × 13.5 × 39 cm
• Weight: 12 kg
• Origin: handmade in Malmö, Sweden
• Warranty: 3 years (manufacturer)

Frequently asked questions

Can I run several cartridges on the 505 at the same time?

Yes, the 505 has four phono inputs for MM and MC, each individually adjustable in gain, impedance and capacitance. The memory function remembers the setting per input, so you don't have to readjust anything when switching.

What do the Decca and Columbia curves do?

Older shellac records (78 rpm) were often not cut to today's standard RIAA curve. With the additional Decca and Columbia equalization curves, you hear such pressings with the historically correct equalization instead of tonally distorted.

Do I need XLR cables, or is RCA enough?

Both work – the 505 offers balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs and outputs in parallel. XLR is especially worthwhile for longer cable runs or if your amplifier has a balanced input.

What does “hybrid” mean in the 505?

It refers to the combination of low-noise IC operational amplifiers and an additional discrete circuit stage. Moonriver combines low noise with dynamic drive this way, rather than dogmatically committing to a single design approach.

Why buy the Moonriver 505 at HD Zürisee?

Because we show you how to set gain, impedance and capacitance exactly for your cartridges – and take care of the initial setup for you if needed. Call us or write on WhatsApp – we advise you in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

A turntable with a matching cartridge and a high-quality phono cable.