Moon by Simaudio
Moon by Simaudio 850P Reference Phono Preamplifier
Best reference preamplifier for uncompromising audiophiles seeking pure, high-end analog sound.
The Moon Evolution 850P is an all-analog preamplifier designed for audiophiles seeking a traditional high-end audio system. It features a dual-chassis construction, with one unit housing the audio circuitry and the other the power supply and digital controller. This design ensures optimal performance by isolating sensitive components. The 850P boasts a fully differential, no global feedback circuit topology with no capacitors in the audio signal path, and incorporates Simaudio's M-Octave damping system for vibration isolation. Its robust power supply and precise volume control offer exceptional clarity and spaciousness. The MOON 850P is the most advanced MOON preamplifier to date, designed for discerning listeners seeking uncompromising musical reproduction. It features proprietary technologies like the M-Octave Damping system, which isolates the audio circuit from microphonics using an 8-point floating suspension for a more natural and lifelike sound. The dual-chassis design separates the power supply and digital control from the audio circuitry. Other in-house technologies include i²DCf power supply voltage regulation, M-Ray volume control with 530 steps, SimLink, and M-Lock, along with custom-install connectivity options.
$36000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
8
/ 468
#8 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+423%
Above average
Shipping weight
151
/ pounds
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute transparency and lifelike musical realism
- Collectors prioritizing long-term reliability and premium build standards
- Vinyl enthusiasts using diverse high-end cartridge configurations
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking entry-level or mid-range audio solutions
- Owners of modest turntable setups lacking high-performance components
- Casual listeners intimidated by complex technical calibration processes
Performance breakdown
Signal Purity
Capacitor-free signal path ensures absolute transparency for the most demanding listeners.
Vibration Isolation
Eight-point floating suspension effectively eliminates microphonic interference for cleaner playback.
Volume Precision
M-Ray control offers 530 granular steps for perfect level matching.
Power Stability
Dual-chassis design and extensive voltage regulation provide rock-solid electrical consistency.
System Integration
Comprehensive connectivity options make it a versatile centerpiece for complex setups.
Build Integrity
Massive dual-chassis construction reflects uncompromising engineering and long-term durability.
Key Specs
Shipping weight
151 pounds
Dimensions (each chassis)
18.75"W x 4"H x 16.5"D
Inputs
3 pairs XLR, 5 pairs RCA
Outputs
2 pairs fixed (XLR and RCA), 2 pairs variable (XLR and RCA)
Power supply
Dual toroidal transformers, extensive choke filtering, six stages of DC voltage regulation
Audio signal path
Fully differential, no global feedback, no capacitors
Control
SimLink, 12V triggers, RS-232
Volume control
530 increments
Features
- Fully differential, no global feedback circuit topology
- No capacitors in the audio signal path
- M-Octave damping system with audio circuitry on an eight-point floating suspension
- Dual toroidal transformers with extensive choke filtering and six stages of DC voltage regulation
- Two chassis design for audio circuitry and power supply/controller
- SimLink inputs and outputs for system integration
- 12V triggers and RS-232 port for control
- Customizable settings including home-theater bypass and gain offset
- M-Octave Damping system isolates audio circuitry from microphonic vibrations for a more natural sound.
- Dual-chassis design separates power supply and digital control from sensitive audio circuitry.
- i²DCf power supply voltage regulation with 40 stages for precise filtering.
- M-Ray volume control offers 530 steps for extremely precise level adjustment.
- Configurable 'home theater ready' inputs bypass the volume control.
- SimLink and M-Lock technologies for integrated system control.
- RS-232 connection, IR port, and 12 Volt triggers for custom installations.
- User-selectable cosmetic options available at purchase.
What customers say
For a reference phono preamplifier, customers consistently praise its exceptional sound reproduction and robust build quality. Owners frequently highlight the profound clarity, expansive soundstage, and intricate detail it brings to their vinyl collections, transforming the listening experience. The elegant design and premium construction are also recurring points of appreciation, reinforcing its status as a top tier audio component. This preamplifier is celebrated for delivering an unparalleled sonic purity that justifies its premium positioning.
Know before you buy
The dual-chassis construction physically separates the power supply and digital control circuitry from the sensitive audio signal path. This isolation prevents electromagnetic interference and noise from contaminating the audio, resulting in a cleaner, more spacious soundstage.
The M-Octave system uses an eight-point floating suspension to isolate the audio circuitry from microphonic vibrations. By minimizing these mechanical resonances, the preamplifier delivers a more natural, lifelike presentation with reduced distortion.
Yes, the 850P features configurable inputs that allow for a home-theater bypass. This lets you route your surround sound processor through the preamplifier, using the 850P as a pass-through for your main speakers while maintaining your high-end audio setup.
The M-Ray volume control provides 530 individual steps of adjustment. This allows for extremely precise volume levels, ensuring you can find the perfect listening volume without the channel imbalance often found in traditional potentiometers.
The 850P is designed with a fully differential, no global feedback topology and contains no capacitors in the audio signal path. This direct-coupled design preserves signal integrity, though it is best paired with high-quality components to ensure the entire system remains balanced and stable.
The unit is well-equipped for professional integration, featuring an RS-232 port, an IR input, and 12V triggers. These allow for seamless control and power synchronization with other components in your system.
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$36000