"a well-rounded DAC that handles all musical genres with finesse"
Fully asynchronous DAC.
Supports native DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 (USB only).
Supports PCM up to 384kHz (32-bit on USB only).
7 digital inputs (AES/EBU x 1, S/PDIF x 2, TosLink x 2, USB x 1 and Qualcomm® aptXTM audio for Bluetooth® x 1) for use with virtually any digital source.
Front panel LED indicators for active input and input signal PCM sampling & DSD rates.
With 8th digital input through our MiND 2 streaming module (via WiFi or Ethernet).
Analog stage: fully balanced differential circuit for increased dynamic range and headroom, higher resolution, as well as improved signal-to-noise ratio.
Frequency response (full range)2 Hz - 100 kHz +0/-3 dB
THD @ 1kHz, 0dBFS (A-weighted)0.001 %
Intermodulation distortion0.002 %
Dynamic Range120 dB
Signal-to-noise Ratio118 dB @ full output
Channel Separation116 dB
Intrinsic Jitter1 picosecond RMS
Analog Output @ 0dBFS2.0 V
Analog output impedance100 Ω
PCM Bit-depth range16 - 32 bits
PCM sampling frequency rates44.1 - 384 kHz
DSD sample ratesDSD64, DSD128 & DSD256
Shipping weight16 lb / 7.5 kg
Dimensions (width x height x depth)16.9 x 3.4 x 13.1 in
42.9 x 8.6 x 33.3 cm
I really enjoyed my time with the Simaudio Moon Neo 280D. I feel it’s a world-beater at its price, with sound quality that approaches, and in some respects exceeds, those of costlier DACs. Yes, it’s more expensive than the Oppo HA-1, and doesn’t offer a headphone amp or preamp functionality, but that shouldn’t concern you if all you need is an audio DAC. Plus, with the optional MiND module, which eliminates the need for a computer, the Neo 280D’s value increases.
The Moon Neo 280D is a well-rounded DAC that handles all musical genres with finesse, but if your tastes lean more toward rock’n’roll and fusion, the Neo 280D may very well be the DAC for you. My default recommendation in this price range has been the Oppo HA-1, but the Neo 280D should be right up there for those looking for other options in that price range or higher. As for that market sweet spot that Simaudio is aiming for? I’d say the Moon Neo 280D is right on target.