MOON North Collection 891 Stereo Preamp/Network Streamer

MOON 891 Network Player / Preamplifier (North Collection)

The MOON 891 is a flagship North Collection control center that merges a high-end network streamer, precision DAC, and reference-grade analog preamplifier into one uncompromising chassis. Built for listeners who want complete command of both digital and analog sources, it uses a fully isolated, dual-mono architecture with independently powered stages to keep noise low, dynamics wide, and imaging stable at any volume. Stream through the MiND 2 platform (Roon Ready, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and more), connect everything from a TV via HDMI ARC to computers via USB audio, and fine-tune playback through a true analog volume stage designed for silent, ultra-precise control. Add in a configurable MM/MC phono input, flexible variable/fixed RCA/XLR outputs, MOONLink system integration, and a front color display made for daily use—and the 891 becomes the “last preamp/streamer” foundation for serious high-resolution systems. The Moon 891 is part of ListenUp's MOON Preamplifier Collection and MOON Streamers/DACs Collection.

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What It's Good At:

• Delivering reference-level streaming + DAC performance while preserving analog warmth and realism
• Acting as a single-box hub for modern systems (USB, HDMI ARC, AES/EBU, optical, coax, analog, phono)
• Ultra-quiet, highly precise analog volume control for lifelike low-level detail and big dynamic swings
• High-resolution playback support for PCM, DSD, and MQA across key inputs and streaming paths
• Vinyl-ready systems with configurable MM/MC phono stage (gain, loading, capacitance)
• System-wide coordination and clean installs with MOONLink, 12V trigger out, Ethernet/Wi-Fi, and USB host playback

MOON 891 Full Specifications:

• Product Type: Network Player / DAC / Preamplifier (single chassis)
• Streaming / Network Platform: MiND 2
• Streaming Compatibility: Roon Ready, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect (and additional MiND-supported services)
• DAC / Digital Processing: MOON Digital Engine (MDE2 / MDE-3 DAC technology referenced)
• Digital Audio Support (General): PCM, DSD, MQA (capability varies by input)
• PCM Support (noted): Up to 384 kHz (noted via USB audio input)
• DSD Support (noted): Up to DSD512 (22.6 MHz) via USB audio input (noted); DSD rates also shown up to DSD256 (11.2896 MHz) on supported paths
• Digital Inputs (Count / Types): 6 digital inputs total, including:
  • USB Audio (Type-B) (computer source input)
  • AES/EBU (XLR)
  • S/PDIF Coaxial (RCA) (2 inputs shown)
  • Optical (TOSLINK) (2 inputs shown)
• HDMI: 1 × HDMI (2.0b) with ARC (PCM audio input from ARC-enabled TV)
• Analog Inputs (Rear Panel Shown): 3 analog inputs total
  • Phono / A1: single-ended RCA (switchable between line level and phono) + GND terminal for tonearm grounding
  • A2: single-ended RCA (unbalanced line level)
  • Balanced: XLR (balanced line level)
• Phono Stage: MM/MC, configurable
• Phono Input Gain: 40 / 54 / 60 / 66 dB
• Phono Input Capacitance: 0 / 100 / 470 pF
• Phono Input Resistance: 10 Ω / 100 Ω / 1 kΩ / 47 kΩ
• EQ Curves (noted): RIAA and IEC options (advanced configuration)
• Analog Outputs: RCA and XLR outputs with independent configuration per output pair
• Output Modes: Variable (preamplifier use) or Fixed (for devices with their own volume control)
• Volume Control (noted): Precision analog volume system (M-VOL3 referenced; M-Ray2 volume control also referenced)
• Output Impedance: 50 Ω
• Analog Input Impedance: 22 kΩ
• Maximum Gain (Line Level): 13.5 dB
• Crosstalk: –125 dB
• Frequency Response: 2 Hz – 200 kHz (+0 dB / –3 dB)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Analog Preamplifier): 120 dB
• Dynamic Range (Digital Input, Fixed Output): 125 dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.0004%
• Intermodulation Distortion: 0.0003%
• USB Host (Type-A) Playback: Yes (local playback via MiND Controller “Library > USB”)
• Supported File Systems: FAT, NTFS, EXT2/3/4
• Maximum Capacity: Determined by file system; NTFS up to 256 TB
• Maximum File Bitrate: 200 Mb/s
• Drive Spin Rate (noted): 5400 / 7200 RPM
• Drive Size (noted): 2.5" ; 3.5" (with 12 V power supply)
• Network Connectivity: Ethernet (RJ-45) + Wi-Fi (via included antennas)
• Bluetooth Audio: Yes (pairing and playback supported)
• 12V Trigger Output: Yes (mini-jack TS)
• System Integration: MOONLink (group control, coordinated standby/brightness/volume behaviors)
• Display (noted): Color graphic display (4.3" referenced; 5.0" graphic colour display also referenced)
• Mechanical Isolation: MDB (MOON Damping Base) vibration control system
• Power Consumption (Idle): 25 W
• Power Consumption (Full Power Standby): 22 W
• Power Consumption (Low Power Standby): 5 W
• Dimensions (L × H × D): 48.1 cm × 10.2 cm × 44.9 cm / 18.95" × 4.03" × 17.66"
• Shipping Weight: 19 kg / 41 lbs
• Included Accessories / In the Box:
  • Power cable
  • BRM-1 intelligent remote control
  • 2 × Wi-Fi antennas
  • Ethernet cable
  • USB cable
  • Quick Start Guides (2)
  • Owner’s manual
  • MOONLink (noted as included)
  • Warranty / product registration information (Canada & USA only)

MOON 891 Q&A:

What is the MOON 891, and what does it replace in a hi-fi system?

It combines a network streamer, high-resolution DAC, and reference analog preamplifier in one chassis—often replacing a separate streamer, DAC, and preamp.

Which streaming platforms and apps work with the MOON 891?

It runs the MiND 2 platform and supports popular options like Roon Ready, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect, plus additional MiND-supported services.

Can I connect my TV to the MOON 891?

Yes. It includes an HDMI ARC input (HDMI 2.0b) to bring TV audio into your stereo system with clean, simple integration.

Does the MOON 891 support vinyl playback directly?

Yes. The Phono/A1 input can be configured as a phono stage for MM or MC cartridges, with selectable gain, loading, and capacitance settings.

What digital inputs are included for disc transports, streamers, or computers?

It offers USB audio (Type-B), AES/EBU, coaxial S/PDIF (two inputs), and optical (two inputs), giving you a complete digital input array for modern and legacy sources.

Can it function as the main preamp for power amps or active speakers?

Yes. The analog outputs can be set to Variable for true preamp operation and connection to power amplifiers, subwoofers, or active loudspeakers.

Can I use fixed output to feed another integrated amp or headphone amp?

Yes. Each output pair can be configured to Fixed for devices with their own volume control—ideal for integrated amps or headphone amplifiers.

Can I play music from a USB drive directly from the unit?

Yes. The USB host (Type-A) supports local playback via the MiND Controller, with broad file system compatibility (FAT, NTFS, EXT2/3/4).

MOON 891 Downloads:

MOON 891 Manual

MOON North Collection Video: