Moon 491 & 461
Moon is expanding its Compass Collection with two new components that clearly move the series closer to technologies previously associated with the brand's higher-end reference designs. After the 371, a complete streaming amplifier, the company is now introducing a classic two-box system made up of the 491 network player and preamplifier, and the 461 power amplifier. It is an interesting move, because the Compass Collection was originally positioned as a more accessible, compact and practical answer to the flagship North Collection, but it is now becoming clear that the idea is not simply to simplify the range. The new components are designed to bring some of Moon's more advanced technologies into a more traditional two-unit system, where one device handles sources, digital-to-analog conversion, volume control, vinyl playback and headphones, while the other takes care of driving the loudspeakers.