Moon Audio Unveils the Game-Changing 371 Integrated Amplifier

Experience the versatile power and innovation behind Moon Audio’s new integrated amplifier, redefining hi-fi sound for audiophiles and newcomers alike.

A Secret Unveiled: Moon Audio’s Bold New Chapter

If you’ve ever been as intrigued by hush-hush announcements as I have, you’ll appreciate the buildup around Moon Audio’s latest release. Back in May, at the Munich High End show, whispers floated about an upcoming surprise from the Canadian brand. Yet, for four whole months, nothing leaked. No specs, no hints—just tantalizing mystery.

Fast forward to mid-September, and there I was, standing on Moon Audio’s home turf in Montreal, clueless about what awaited. What made the occasion feel monumental was Moon’s unprecedented move: inviting a dozen journalists worldwide (only two from the U.S.!)—a first in its 45-year history. The suspense was tangible. Would it be a wild new direction like turntables or a broad product lineup akin to the 2019 North Collection launch?

Instead, Moon presented something more modest at first glance: a sleek integrated amplifier named the 371. Admittedly, my initial reaction was muted—just one amplifier, in their familiar domain? However, as the hours unfolded and I got to know the 371 inside out, its revolutionary nature became undeniable. This wasn’t just another amp—it was a game changer in the truest sense.

Versatility at Its Finest: More Than Just an Amplifier

What sets the 371 apart is its jaw-dropping versatility. It’s not just an integrated amplifier with a power rating of 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms (and double that at 4 ohms). No, Moon packed in much more:

• A fully designed MM/MC phonostage for vinyl lovers
• PCM and DSD DAC for pristine digital audio decoding
• A Roon-compatible streamer for seamless networked music playback

And here’s the kicker—all these juicy features come included in the base model. No hidden extras or surprise add-ons. It’s an all-in-one powerhouse.

The rear panel of the 371 reveals an impressive array of connectivity options, reflecting its all-encompassing design.

Innovative Tech Steeped in Moon’s Signature Sound

Digging deeper, the 371 borrows heavily from Moon’s acclaimed North Collection. The jewel in its technological crown? MDCA, or Moon Distortion-Cancelling Amplifier. This clever circuit enhances the feedback loop speed, resulting in superior accuracy and musicality—a concept previously seen in ultra-high-end brands like Soulution and CH-Precision. However, Moon ingeniously delivers these sonic benefits without the astronomical price tag.

Additional perks include:

• A hybrid linear/switching power supply that optimizes performance and efficiency
• A crisp, large display screen for user-friendly operation
• Dual Ethernet ports, including one designed for a locally attached NAS, boosting streaming flexibility

All this engineering excellence is proudly crafted in Moon’s Montreal manufacturing hub, ensuring top-notch build quality without outsourcing overseas. And guess what? The 371 retails at a competitive $6,500—a steal compared to the $10,000 starting point for many barebones rivals and laughably affordable next to the $50,000+ CH-Precision I1 it rivals in specs.

Sound That Speaks Volumes

At the end of the day, an amplifier’s worth hinges on its sound. Paired with Dynaudio Contour Legacy speakers ($14,000), the 371 delivered a sonic experience that genuinely impressed. It conjured an expansive, believable soundstage and captured a rare musical “flow” reminiscent of the higher-end North Collection components.

This effortless musicality invites you to get lost in your favorite records, whether it’s the delicate nuance of a jazz trio or the thunderous power of a rock anthem. The amp’s ability to maintain clarity and dynamics at every volume level makes it an exceptional listening companion.

Introducing the Compass Collection: A New Path for Audiophiles

Here’s a twist—the 371 isn’t a lone wolf. It’s the flagship of Moon’s freshly minted Compass Collection. While details on other upcoming models remain under wraps, Moon hints this line will cater both to hi-fi newcomers and seasoned audiophiles craving simplicity without compromising performance. This thoughtful approach could very well reshape how we think about integrated amplifiers and system setups.

With several models slated for release in the coming months, the Compass Collection promises a new horizon for music lovers looking to streamline their setups without sacrificing sonic excellence.

If you’re eager to experience the 371 yourself, it hits dealers starting October. Based on the buzz, you might want to secure your spot early!

FAQ

• What power output does the Moon 371 deliver?
  The 371 outputs 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms and doubles that to 200 watts at 4 ohms, providing ample power for a wide range of speakers.
• Does the 371 support vinyl playback?
  Yes! It includes a high-quality MM/MC phonostage built right in, making it perfect for vinyl enthusiasts.
• Is digital streaming integrated in the 371?
  Absolutely. The 371 features a Roon-compatible streamer and supports PCM and DSD DAC formats for top-tier digital audio.
• Where is the Moon 371 manufactured?
  It is exclusively built at Moon Audio’s manufacturing facility in Montreal, ensuring premium quality control.
• How does the 371 compare price-wise to competitors?
  Retailing at $6,500, the 371 is competitively priced, notably less expensive than similarly spec’d amps that can start at $10,000 or more.

Ready to bring home a piece of this audio revolution? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store and let the music room magic begin!