The new Moon ACE all-in-one amplifier takes the majority of the features and performances that made the success of its predecessor, but with several improvements and additional features.
Its interface integrates now streaming platforms, such as Tidal Masters, Deezer Hi-Fi and Qobuz Sublime+.
MOON ACE with MIND2 card: FEATURES
The MiND proprietary application works on iPad, iPhone and all Android devices. The MiND 2 not only allows you to access, browse and play music from a computer, NAS, mobile device and various music services on Internet, but also controls a Moon system easily.
Besides all MiND original features, the MiND 2 update offers the Room Ready that allows a multi-room synchronized playback. It also allows the streaming of TIDAL Masters (MCQA*), Qobuz Sublime+ and Deezer Hi-Fi via the Ethernet connection. MiND 2 can play audio files up to 32 bit / 384 kHz and DSD256!
All the features are grouped together on an Oled display, located in the middle of the front panel. It is clearly legible, no matter the viewing angle. The manufacture finish and quality are impeccable.
MOON ACE with MIND2 card: CONNECTIONS
There is also a huge connections choice: 2 high level analogue inputs of RCA, a mini Jack input on the front, 2 SPDIF coaxial digital inputs, 2 Toslink optical digital inputs, 1 USB digital input and 1 RJ45 and WiFi input.
In addition, the Moon ACE all-in-one offers a headphone output in the 6.35 mm format, and a stereo RCA analogue output.
Vinyl lovers have not been forgotten, thanks to an excellent phono input for MM cartridges.
MOON ACE with MIND2 card: TEST AND LISTENING
The Moon ACE with MiND2 completely holds the sound signature that makes the reputation of the Quebec manufacturer.
Furthermore, the manufacturer worked on the homogeneity of the inputs. Indeed, they all offer the same quality level. Even Internet radios stations surprised us with their quality, which is very rare.
The restitution remains soft and very present.
The Moon ACE favours matter and timbre rather than transparency and ultra-definition. Nevertheless, do not believe that it is not precise! It is, but with a kind of softness and a lot of nuances.
There is also excellent dynamics that will not give any frustration to Pop or Rock lovers.
The Moon ACE integrated amplifier with MiND2 card is probably the most performing all-in-one on the market. Its easy of use and its perfect ergonomic are key advantages.
Associated with a good pair of Hi-Fi speakers, it will form a very performing and durable Hi-Fi system. The phono input is of an excellent quality, which is rare or inexistent on competing products.
Highly recommended!
AWARDS:
Choc of Classica
What Hi-Fi - Best Buy
FranckType: connected all-in-one
Control: remote control
Application: compatible with iOS and Android
Power per channel: 50 W / 8 ohms
Input sensitivity: 370 mV - 3.0V RMS
Input impedance: 22 - 100 ohms
Gain: 37dB
Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB
Bandwidth: 10 Hz - 80k Hz
Crosstalk: - 100 dB
Distortion: 0.02 %
Resolution: from 16 to 32 bit
Sampling frequency: from 44.1 - 384kHz, DSD64, DSD128, DSD256
High-level analogue inputs: 2 x RCA, 1 x mini Jack
Phono input: 1 x MM
Coaxial digital inputs: 2 x SPDIF
Optical digital inputs: 2 x Toslink
USB digital input: 1 x USB2
MiND digital inputs: RJ45 and WiFi
Headphone output: 6.35 mm
Analogue output: RCA stereo
Control: Control4 compatible
Dimensions: 89 x 429 x 366 mm
Weight: 11 kg