MOON’S 491 NETWORK PLAYER PREAMPLIFIER AND 461 POWER AMPLIFIER ANNOUNCED

NEWS
hi-fi+ Staff
May 19, 2026

19 May 2026 – Renaissance is pleased to announce the launch of two major additions to MOON’s Compass Collection: the MOON 461 power amplifier and the MOON 491 network player preamplifier. Building on the success of the award-winning MOON 371, these new products continue its evolution with expanded performance, flexibility and system capability.

As the most powerful model in the Compass Collection, the 461 delivers substantial output capability, exceptionally low distortion and stable performance across a wide range of loudspeaker loads, while preserving signal integrity with transparency, dynamic expression and composure.

At the heart of the 461 is MOON’s proprietary MDCA (MOON Distortion-Cancelling Amplifier) architecture, originally developed for the flagship North Collection. This advanced topology significantly reduces distortion and improves linearity, resulting in faithful reproduction with exceptional clarity and precision.

The dual proprietary MOON Hybrid Power (MHP) supply modules improve channel separation, reduce crosstalk and enhance current delivery, particularly with lower-impedance loudspeakers.

The 461’s perfect partner is the new MOON 491, a fully featured network player, preamplifier, DAC, phono stage and headphone amplifier built to serve as the heart of a high-performance audio system.

The MOON 491 combines extensive digital and analogue connectivity with low-noise performance and advanced streaming capabilities, while maintaining the clarity, refinement and musicality that MOON is renowned for. Like the 461, the 491 incorporates MOON Hybrid Power technology.

At its core is the proprietary MiND 2 streaming platform, supporting UPnP streaming, Roon Ready operation, AirPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. Users can access major streaming services including Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer and Spotify via the MOON MiND Controller app for iOS and Android. The 491 also supports Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Spotify Connect.

The integrated phono stage supports both MM and MC cartridges and offers extensive adjustment options, allowing precise cartridge matching for optimised vinyl playback.

The large colour screen displays settings, album art and track details, while the sleek CRM-4 metal remote, designed specifically for the Compass Collection, ensures effortless control.

“As a pairing, the 461 and 491 represent a complete expression of the Compass Collection,” said John Carroll, Managing Director of Renaissance, MOON’s UK and Ireland distributor. “Together they deliver outstanding musical performance and system flexibility, while also forming a visually striking statement that will look exceptional in any environment, from contemporary interiors to traditional spaces.”

The MOON 461 and 491 are designed and handcrafted in Canada using only premium materials. Each unit is backed by MOON’s industry-leading 10-year warranty.

UK RRP: 461 £4,550, 491 £5,950 – including VAT. Available in the UK from July.

Renaissance distributes Audiovector, MOON, Nordost & VPI Industries products in the UK and Ireland.

For more information, visit www.renaissanceaudio.co.uk

Tags: MOON NETWORK PLAYER NEWS POWER AMPLIFIER