SimAudio Moon 280D is a DAC with traditional coaxial, optical and balanced inputs, as well as a USB interface through which you can play PCM with parameters up to 32 bit/384 kHz and DSD64-256. The device is equipped with an optional network card that allows you to stream files from UPnP servers wired and wirelessly, although the device does not accept DSD data over the network.
SimAudio Moon 280D has Internet radio in the form of vTuner, as well as the ability to subscribe to the Tidal service. Well, the collection is completed by Bluetooth with support for the AptX codec, which fulfills the real-life desire to quickly, without any hassles with cords, listen to music from a tablet or smartphone.
Of course, if you are the owner of Apple products, AirPlay support would be more appropriate – but, firstly, this, unlike Bluetooth, requires a network, and in addition, after listening to several songs from the iPad (via Bluetooth, albeit without AptX), you you will find the sound full-bodied and captivating. The XMOS-based USB receiver knows its stuff very well, and if you adjust the buffer size in the software player and other subtleties known to computer audiophiles, you can easily get sound that is equal to or even superior to what the 280D produces when paired with a high-end CD. transport.
There is another reason to choose iOS over Android and Windows Phone competitors when purchasing the SimAudio Moon 280D, even if they support AptX. The fact is that to control you absolutely need the MiND application, which is currently developed only for iOS. Without it, it will be difficult for you to even switch inputs – the standard serial remote control only provides the ability to switch in a circle, and it is difficult to make out which input is selected even at a distance of a couple of meters from the device. This is perhaps the only moment during all testing that caused disappointment – in Otherwise the impressions are extremely positive.
In addition, the optional MiND module provides convenience and a complete graphical interface, allowing you to easily access your digital music library with power and flexibility. Whichever method you choose, we’re confident that the SimAudio Moon 280D will become the center of your music entertainment. Of course, the key features you would expect to see in a NEO series product are present such as SimLink™, RS-232 and IR ports for professional installations.
Key Design Features of the SimAudio Moon 280D
Fully asynchronous DAC supports up to PDC 256 (USB only) and PCM from 44.1 to 384 kHz (32-bit on USB only)
Eight (8) digital inputs (AES/EBU x 1, S/ PDIF x 2, TosLink x 2, USB x 1, Bluetooth and Ethernet or Wi-Fi for MiND), allowing you to connect to almost any digital sources.
Optional MiND (MOON intelligent Network Device) module (8th input) via Wi-Fi or Ethernet for
galvanically isolated multi-room USB streaming input that eliminates all grounding (i.e. non-electrical connection) between USB device (computer, music server) , etc.) and 280D, maintaining audio signal fidelity
All analog stage is fully balanced differential circuitry for increased dynamic range and height, with higher resolution as well as improved signal-to-noise ratio
Expanded analog signal path using high quality DC circuitry servo and proprietary 18dB/octave analog filter
RS-232 port for (i) full unwanted bidirectional feedback and (ii) firmware updates
IR input for external control
SimLink™ controller port for 2-way communication with other compatible components MOON
4-layer PCB with copper tracing for much shorter signal path; This results in greater sonic fidelity and dramatically improved signal-to-noise ratio
Rigid chassis design minimizes the influence of external vibrations
Optimized selection of very high quality electronic components in a balanced circuit
SimAudio Moon 280D Features:
Frequency response (full spectrum): 2 Hz – 100 kHz +0/-3 dB
Harmonic distortion at 1 kHz: 0.001%
Intermodulation distortion: 0.002%
Dynamic range: 120 dB
Signal-to-noise ratio: 118 dB at full power
Channel separation: 116 dB
Jitter level: 1 picosecond
Analog signal level at 0dBFS: 2.0 V
Analog output impedance: 100 Ohm
Digital stream resolution: 16 – 32 bit
Sampling frequency: 44.1 – 384 kHz
Supports DSD streams with resolution: DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256
Dimensions (WxHxD) : – 429 x 86 x 333 mm
Weight: 7.5 kg
