moon 220i User manual

Owner’s Manual
Series
220i
Integrated Amplifier

220i Integrated Amplifier
Important Safety Instructions
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or another apparatus that produces
heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one
wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong is provided for safety. If the provided plug does not fit into the outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of
the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the
point where they exit from the apparatus. Unplug mains cord during transportation.
11. Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as when the power cord or plug has been damaged; liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the
apparatus; or the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. No naked flame sources, such as candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
____________________________________________________________________________________

220i Integrated Amplifier
Important Safety Instructions (cont’d)
The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is
intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
Marking by the “CE” symbol (shown left) indicates compliance of this device with the
EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) and LVD (Low Voltage Directive) standards of the
European Community
Please read all instructions and precautions carefully and completely before
operating your Simaudio MOON Nēo
220i Integrated Amplifier.
1. ALWAYS disconnect your entire system from the AC mains before connecting or disconnecting any cables,
or when cleaning any component. To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC mains, disconnect
the power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.
2. The MOON 220i must be terminated with a three-conductor AC mains power cord which includes an earth
ground connection. To prevent shock hazard, all three connections must ALWAYS be used. Connect the
MOON 220i only to an AC source of the proper voltage; Both the shipping box and rear panel serial number
label will indicate the correct voltage. Use of any other voltage will likely damage the unit and void the
warranty
3. AC extension cords are NOT recommended for use with this product. The mains plug of the power supply
cord shall remain readily accessible.
4. NEVER use flammable or combustible chemicals for cleaning audio components.
5. NEVER operate the MOON 220i with any covers removed. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. An
open unit, especially if it is still connected to an AC source, presents a potentially lethal shock hazard. Refer
all questions to authorized service personnel only.
6. NEVER wet the inside of the MOON 220i with any liquid. If a liquid substance does enter your MOON 220i,
immediately disconnect it from the AC mains and take it to your MOON dealer for a complete check-up.
7. NEVER spill or pour liquids directly onto the MOON 220i.
8. NEVER block air flow through ventilation slots or heatsinks.
9. NEVER bypass any fuse.
10. NEVER replace any fuse with a value or type other than those specified
11. NEVER attempt to repair the MOON 220i. If a problem occurs contact your MOON dealer.
12. NEVER expose the MOON 220i to extremely high or low temperatures.
13. NEVER operate the MOON 220i in an explosive atmosphere.
14. ALWAYS keep electrical equipment out of reach of children.
15. ALWAYS unplug sensitive electronic equipment during lightning storms.
16. WARNING: Do not expose batteries or battery pack to excessive heat such as sunshine, or fire or the like.
____________________________________________________________________________________

220i Integrated Amplifier
Table of Contents
Introduction .................................................... 5
Unpacking........................................................ 6
Installation & Placement ................................... 6
Front Panel Controls ......................................... 7
Rear Panel Connections ..................................... 8
SimLink™ ........................................................ 9
Operating the 220i ........................................... 9
Remote Control Operation ................................10
Specifications .................................................12
www.simaudio.com
Simaudio Ltd., 1345 Newton Road
Boucherville, Quebec J4B 5H2 CANADA
Date Code: 20130822
____________________________________________________________________________________

220i Integrated Amplifier
____________________________________________________________________________________
5
Introduction
Thank you for selecting the Nēo 220i Integrated Amplifier as a part of your music/cinema system. This component has been
designed to offer state-of-the-art high-end performance in an elegant package, while retaining all the sonic hallmarks on
which Simaudio has made its reputation. We have spared no effort to ensure that it is amongst
the finest two-channel
Integrated Amplifiers available in its class. We have been building high-performance audio equipment for over 30 years, and
the know-how gained through our cumulative experience is an important reason why MOON integrated amplifiers are so
musically satisfying.
The performance of your 220i will continue to improve during the first 400 hours of listening. This is the result of a “break-
in” period required for the numerous high quality electronic parts used throughout this integrated amplifier.
Before setting up your new Nēo 220i, we encourage you to please read this manual thoroughly to properly acquaint yourself
with its features. We hope you enjoy listening to the Nēo 220i integrated amplifier as much as the pride we have taken in
creating this fine audio product. We understand the power and emotion of music and build our products with the goal of
faithfully capturing these elusive qualities.
The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. The most current version
of this manual is available on our official website at http://www.simaudio.com/manuals.htm
Your Nēo 220i integrated amplifier incorporates many significant design features to achieve its “world class” level of
performance. This is an abbreviated list of the more important features:
Six line-level inputs including one front-mounted 1/8” mini-jack for personal media players
Headphone output on ¼” TRS jack located on the front panel
RS-232 port for i) full unsolicited bidirectional feedback in custom installation setups and ii) firmware updates
IR input for external control
Proprietary MOON Bipolar Output transistors with unprecedented gain linearity resulting in improved bass
response and even more accurate sonic reproduction
Class A output to 5 watts for greater efficiency.
SimLinkTM controller port allows for 2-way communications between other compatible MOON components
Rigid chassis construction to minimize the effects of external vibrations
Designed to be powered up at all times for optimal performance
Low operating temperature for an ultra-long life expectancy.

220i Integrated Amplifier
____________________________________________________________________________________
6
Unpacking
The Nēo 220i integrated amplifier should be removed from its box with care.
The following accessories should be included inside the box with your integrated amplifier:
9 AC power cable
9 ‘CRM-2’ remote control with two ‘AA’ batteries
9 This owner’s manual
9 Warranty and product registration information (USA and Canada only)
Once the Nēo 220i is unpacked, inspect it thoroughly and report any damage to your dealer immediately. We suggest that
you keep all of the original packaging, storing it in a safe, dry place in case you’re required to transport this product. The
customized packaging is specially designed to protect the 220i from any potential damage during transit.
Please write the serial number of your new Simaudio Nēo 220i in the space provided below for future reference.
Serial No.: ________________
Installation & Placement
The Nēo 220i Integrated Amplifier requires reasonable ventilation to maintain an optimum and consistent operating
temperature, especially since it will radiate heat when driven hard. Consequently, it should be placed in a location with empty
space around it for proper heat dissipation. You should never place another component on top of this integrated amplifier. As
well, it should be placed on a solid level surface. You should avoid placing it near a heat source or inside a closed cabinet that
is not well ventilated as this could compromise the amplifier’s performance and reliability. The 220i uses a large toroidal
transformer in its power supply; even though it is well shielded, you should not place this integrated amplifier too close to
source components sensitive to EMI, such as turntables, phono preamplifiers and CD Players. Finally, y
ou should never place
another component directly on top of this integrated amplifier.

220i Integrated Amplifier
Front Panel Controls
Figure 1: Nēo 220i Front panel
The front panel will look similar to Figure 1 (above). The remote control sensor is located directly to the right of the “Phones”
output jack and it should never be blocked, otherwise remote control operation may be compromised. The “Standby” button
disengages the input section from the rest of the Nēo 220i’s circuitry. When in “Standby” mode all audio circuitry remains
powered up to help maintain optimal performance. When switching back from “Standby” to the “on” mode, both the ‘input’
and volume level settings will be memorized from the previous listening session. The blue indicator LED turns off when the
220i is in “Standby” mode.
The Nēo 220i integrated amplifier has six (6) inputs labeled CD, Video, DVD, Aux, Tuner, and MP. Each of the first five (5)
inputs has a corresponding pair of input connections located on the unit’s rear panel (refer to the section entitled “Rear Panel
Connections” for futher details). The sixth input, labelled “MP” (Media Player) has its corresponding input connection located
on the right side of the front panel for easy access. The “MP” input uses a 1/8” mini-jack connector which is the most common
type of connection found on portable media players. Select any one of these six (6) inputs by simply pressing the associated
button. When selected, the corresponding red indicator LED, located directly beside the button will illuminate.
The “Spk off” button turns off the output signal only to the loudspeakers connected to the Nēo 220i. This feature is very
useful when using headphones. When this function is engaged, the red LED located to the right will illuminate.
The “Mute” button mutes the output signal to the loudspeaker terminals, headphone jack, as well as both the fixed and
variable line output connectors (refer to the section entitled “Rear Panel Connections” for further details). Pressing the “Mute”
button a second time will reinstate the volume back to its previous level. When the output signal is muted, the red LED to the
right will repeatedly flash on and off.
The “Phones” jack is used for connecting a pair of stereo headphones to the Nēo 220i. The input connector is a standard ¼”
stereo TRS jack. When a pair of headphones are used with the 220i,the loudspeakers will still receive an output signal.
However, you should use the “Spk off” button for private listening.
The rotary “Volume” control determines the output level and has an embedded red LED to indicate its actual position.
____________________________________________________________________________________
7

220i Integrated Amplifier
Rear Panel Connections
Figure 2: Nēo 220i Rear panel
The rear panel will look similar to Figure 2 (above). There are five (5) pairs of single-ended inputs on RCA connectors labeled
CD, DVD, TUNER. VIDEO and AUX. The RCA input connectors on the rear panel have been color coded: ‘white’ for the left
channel and ‘red’ for the right channel.
The Nēo 220i integrated amplifier also has one pair of non-amplified outputs labeled ‘PRE OUT’, located next to the AUX
input, and is designated for output to a power amplifier with single-ended RCA inputs in the event that you wish to use your
220i as a preamplifier only. The output level on the ‘PRE OUT’ is variable and is adjusted by volume control.
Don’t hesitate to use high quality interconnect cables*. Poor quality interconnect cables can degrade the overall sonic
performance of your system.
To the right of the input and “PRE OUT” section are a series of input/ouput connectors for external communication. From left
to right there are two (2) “SimLink™” connectors labeled “in” and “out” on 1/8” mini jacks. Please refer to the next section
entitled SimLink™ for more details. Next, there’s a 1/8” mini-jack input for use with aftermarket infrared remote control
receivers. Finally, there’s a full-function bi-directional RS-232 port control and status for custom integration or automation on
a DB9 connector.
The Nēo 220i is equipped with a pair of gold-plated binding posts. Connect your speakers, with the cables of your choice, to
the 220i’s speaker binding posts. Take care to respect the polarity (“+” , “-” ) of the outputs. Once again, don’t hesitate to
use high quality speaker cables*. Poor quality speaker cables can degrade the overall sonic performance of your system.
Finally on the far right side is the main power switch (“0”=off, “1”=on), the IEC receptacle, labeled “AC Input” for the
included AC power cord, and the “AC Fuse” socket cover. Connect the supplied AC power cable to the IEC receptacle. Ensure
that the AC wall outlet you use has a functioning ground. For the best sonic performance, it is preferable that you plug your
220i directly into a dedicated AC outlet and avoid using an extension cord. If you have the time and willingness, consider
installing a superior quality AC wall outlet such as a hospital grade Hubbell*.
* Please speak with your MOON Authorized Retailer about the benefits of high quality cables for your system, and
superior quality AC wall outlet.
____________________________________________________________________________________
8

220i Integrated Amplifier
____________________________________________________________________________________
9
SimLink™
The SimLink™ provides communication features between various MOON components. For example, if you were to connect
the 260D to the 220i via the SimLink™, pressing the X(play) button on the 260D will cause the 220i to automatically
switch to the input labelled ‘CD’. A second feature of SimLink™ involves the “Standby” function. By pressing down and
holding the “Standby” button for 2 seconds on the either the 260D or 220i, both units will go into “Standby” mode. The
same logic applies when switching from “Standby” to active mode.
If you are using the “MiND” Music Streamer and an external digital-to-analog converter (DAC), you must make a SimLink™
connection between the “MiND”s SimLink™ out and the 220i’s SimLink™ in. The ‘Aux’ input is the default input for the “MiND”
Music Streamer; When you press the X(play) button on the “MiND” App, the 220i will automatically switch to the input
labeled ‘Aux’. You can change these default settings for the “MiND” as follows: Select the input that you want as the new
default for “MiND”, then press and hold the “MP” button until the front panel display begins to flash on and off.
The connection rules for the SimLink™ are very basic. You must always connect the supplied cable between one component’s
SimLink™ Out jack and another component’s SimLink™ In jack. If you inadvertently connect the cable between either two
SimLink™ In or two SimLink™ Out jacks, the SimLink™ communication feature may not function. Also, there is no master
component in a SimLink™ chain; no one particular component operates as the main communications controller.
Operating the 220i
We recommend leaving your Nēo 220i powered up at all times to maintain optimal performance. When you plan on being
away for a few days, it may not be a bad idea to power off your amplifier. Please keep in mind that once fully “broken-in”,
your 220i requires several hours of operation before reaching optimal performance after powering it up again.
Turning on your Nēo 220i for the first time
Prior to turning the amplifier on for the first time, make sure that every cable is properly connected to avoid any problems.
Flick the main rocker switch, located on the rear panel, labeled “POWER” to the ‘1’ (on) position. The blue LED on the front
panel will blink for up to 10 seconds while it achieves standby mode. When it stops blinking and is not illuminated, your 220i
is in standby mode. Next, briefly press the push button labeled “Standby” located on the front panel. You will hear a very faint
click sound confirming that everything is in order. The blue LED on the front panel will illuminate, indicating that the 220i is
now powered up and ready for use.
On and Off Sequence
To avoid having any annoying noises (ie. “thumps” and “pops”) emanate from your speakers when powering your 220i on or
off, you should always power up any source components prior to powering up your 220i. As well, always power down your
220i prior to powering down any source components.

220i Integrated Amplifier
Remote Control Operation
Figure 3: Remote Operation with SimLink™
In figure 3 we have a 180 “MiND” Music Streamer and a Nēo 220i Integrated Amplifier connected together via their
respective SimLink™ ports. The SimLink™ output on the 180 “MiND” is connected to the SimLink™ input on the 220i using a
1/8” mini-jack cable. When you launch the MiND App on your smart device (iPad, iPhone, Android Device) and select this
system’s ZONE, both the 180 “MiND” and the 220i will turn on. To shut down the system, press “Off” for this ZONE in the
“MiND” app.
____________________________________________________________________________________
10

220i Integrated Amplifier
Remote Control Operation (cont’d)
The Nēo 220i Integrated Amplifier uses the ‘CRM-2’ full-function remote control
(figure 4). It operates on the Philips RC-5 communication protocol and is can be
used with other Simaudio MOON components.
The ‘CRM-2’ remote uses two AA batteries (included). To install them, simply slide
the back plate off in the direction of the arrow; insert the batteries in the correct
direction and then replace the back plate.
To engage the ‘CRM-2’ remote for use with the Nēo 220i Integrated Amplifier,
you must first press the button labeled AMP.
The POWER button located on the upper left will switch the integrated amplifier to
either ‘Standby’ or ‘On’ mode.
The 2 buttons labelled ◄INPUT ►allow you to sequentially scroll, either
backwards or forwards, through all six (6) available inputs. For example, to switch
from the “CD” to the “VIDEO” input you may press either ◄INPUT three (3)
times or INPUT ►three (3) times. Pressing and holding down either of
these buttons results in only a single change to the selected input.
The 2 buttons labelled ▼VOL ▲allow you to control the volume level. Pressing
▼VOL results in a decrease in the volume level; Pressing VOL ▲results in an
increase in the volume level. You may either press and hold these buttons down or
press them briefly to make volume adjustments.
The MUTE button turns off the output volume. Pressing the “Mute” button a
second time will reinstate the output volume level back to its current setting.
NOTE: The 2 buttons labelled ◄BAL ►and the DISPLAY button don’t affect the
operation of the 220i.
Figure 4: CRM-2 Remote Control
____________________________________________________________________________________
11

220i Integrated Amplifier
Specifications
Configuration ......................................................... Stereo
Power Supply Transformer ....................................... 250VA
Power Supply Capacitance ...................................... 20,000µF
Class Of Operation - Amplifier .................................. Class A/B
Single-ended inputs ................................................. 5 (RCA)
Mini-jack input ........................................................ 1 (1/8”)
Input Sensitivity ..................................................... 370mV – 3.0V RMS
Input Impedance ................................................... 11,000Ω
Preamplifier output ................................................. 1 (RCA)
Headphone output ................................................... 1 ( 1/4” Strereo TRS)
Output Device Type - Amplifier ................................ Bipolar
Output Power @ 8Ω................................................ 40 Watts per channel
Output Power @ 4Ω................................................ 80 Watts per channel
Output Impedance .................................................. 0.04Ω
Damping Factor ...................................................... > 200
Gain ....................................................................... 34dB
Dynamic Headroom ................................................. 3dB
Signal-to-noise Ratio .............................................. 101dB @ full power
Maximum Output Voltage ........................................ 20 Volts
Slew Rate ............................................................... 20V/µs
Maximum Current – Peak ........................................ 14 amperes
Maximum Current – Continuous .............................. 8 amperes
Frequency Response .............................................. 10Hz - 100kHz +0/-3dB
Crosstalk @ 1kHz ................................................... -78dB
Intermodulation Distortion ...................................... < 0.07%
THD (20Hz - 20kHz @ 1 watt) ................................ < 0.015%
THD (20Hz - 20kHz @ 50 watts) ............................ < 0.03%
Remote Control ...................................................... Full-Function (CRM-2)
AC Power Requirements ......................................... 120V / 60Hz or 240V / 50Hz
Shipping Weight ..................................................... 20 lbs / 8 Kgs
Dimensions (W x H x D, inches) .............................. 16.9 x 3.5 x 14.4
NOTE: If you require the RS-232 codes for your Nēo 220i,please contact Simaudio Ltd.
directly by either email ([e-mail]) or by toll-free telephone [phone]).
Fuse Replacement: For the 120V version use a 4A fast blow (3AG size).
For the 220 - 240V version use a 2A fast blow (3AG size).
____________________________________________________________________________________
12