CD Player MOON by Simaudio 260D Black

CD transport with an optional 32-bit DAC in a single chassis

The MOON 260D is a CD transport with an optional 32-bit DAC that combines disc playback and the function of a standalone digital-to-analogue converter in one unit. The mechanical section is built around an in-house CD drive system mounted on a four-point M-Quattro gel-based floating suspension, which damps vibrations transmitted to the pickup assembly. The digital section is implemented as a true 32-bit asynchronous D/A converter and is entirely optional — it can be added later, or the unit can be purchased in the T version as a pure transport for owners of an external DAC.

Connection to the rest of the system is handled by two digital outputs, S/PDIF and AES/EBU, while the input side offers two S/PDIF connectors along with one TosLink, allowing virtually any digital source to be connected. The signal path is complemented by a 32-bit processing engine with upsampling capability, the oversized power supplies typical of the MOON brand and carefully engineered analogue output stages. PCM handling covers bit depths of 16 – 24 bits and sampling rates of 44.1 – 192 kHz, with the analogue output delivering 2.0 V at 0 dBFS and an output impedance of 75 Ω.

The transport supports MQA pass-through: MQA-encoded data on the disc leaves via the digital output untouched, so it can be decoded by a certified MQA converter. The measured parameters — dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio of 120 dB, channel separation of 116 dB, THD and intermodulation distortion of 0.005 % and intrinsic jitter at 1 ps RMS — translate into stable timing of the digital stream, clarity in quiet passages and precise localisation of instruments. At the same time, the vibration damping of the transport mechanism contributes to a more believable rendering of the spatial information in the recording.

Frequency response extends from 2 Hz to 100 kHz (+0/-3 dB). The unit measures 42.9 × 8.6 × 33.3 cm and has a shipping weight of 7.5 kg. The package includes a power cable, a CRM-3 remote control with two CR-2032 batteries, a SimLink connecting cable with 1/8" mini jack connectors at both ends and a user manual.

Key features

• Mechanism: In-house CD drive on M-Quattro gel suspension
• Conversion: Optional 32-bit asynchronous D/A converter
• Connectivity: S/PDIF and AES/EBU outputs, S/PDIF and TosLink inputs
• MQA: MQA pass-through for an external certified DAC
• Specs: Dynamic range 120 dB, jitter 1 ps RMS