All-in-One Player MOON by Simaudio ACE Black

An integrated amplifier with streaming DAC that brings digital and analogue sources together in a single unit

The ACE is a complete all-in-one solution from MOON – an integrated amplifier with a built-in streaming DAC that needs nothing more than a pair of speakers and a network connection to get the system running. At the heart of its network capability is the MiND (MOON intelligent Network Device) module with a graphical control interface and an app that gives you access to your local library as well as streaming services including Tidal Masters, Deezer Hi-Fi and Qobuz Sublime+. The unit is certified ROON Ready, supports MQA decoding and Apple AirPlay 2 with synchronised multi-room playback.

The digital section handles PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256, with eight digital inputs on offer – asynchronous USB for hi-res audio, two SPDIF, two optical inputs, Bluetooth with the Qualcomm aptX codec, Wi-Fi and Ethernet. The analogue side adds three line inputs including a front-panel 3.5 mm mini-jack, an MM phono stage for a turntable and a 6.3 mm headphone output on the front panel. The line inputs can be configured in pass-through mode, which bypasses the amplification stage and allows the ACE to be integrated into a home cinema system.

The design is based on a rigid chassis that suppresses the influence of external vibration and on the careful selection of electronic components. The power section delivers 50 W per channel into 8 Ω with a signal-to-noise ratio of 110 dB, THD of 0.02 % and intermodulation distortion of 0.005 %. A frequency response of 10 Hz – 80 kHz (+0/-3 dB) together with -100 dB crosstalk contributes to a stable stereo image, clearly defined instrument placement and a quiet recording background. The result is the classic MOON signature – controlled, firm bass, a transparent midrange and naturally drawn highs.

System integration is handled by the SimLink™ port for two-way communication with other compatible MOON components. The MiND app controls a genuine analogue volume stage rather than digital attenuation, preserving signal resolution even at lower listening levels. An OLED display shows operating information, while an extended software menu on the unit itself allows configuration, including the MiND settings.

Key features

• Power: 50 W per channel into 8 Ω, 110 dB S/N ratio
• DAC: PCM 32-bit/384 kHz, DSD256, MQA decoding
• Streaming: MiND module, ROON Ready, AirPlay 2, Tidal, Qobuz
• Inputs: 8 digital inputs, USB, SPDIF, optical, aptX Bluetooth
• Analogue: MM phono input, pass-through mode, headphone output