moon 610 LP Evolution Series User manual

Owner’s Manual
MOON
Evolution Series
610
LP
Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
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.
____________________________________________________________________________________

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
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 610LP Phono Preamplifier.
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 suppy cord plug from the AC receptacle.
2. The MOON 610LP 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 610LP 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 610LP 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 610LP with any liquid. If a liquid substance does enter your MOON
610LP, 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 610LP.
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 610LP. If a problem occurs contact your MOON dealer.
12. NEVER expose the MOON 610LP to extremely high or low temperatures.
13. NEVER operate the MOON 610LP 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.
____________________________________________________________________________________

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Table of Contents
Congratulations ............................................... 5
Unpacking and Warnings ................................... 5
Introduction .................................................... 6
Installation & Placement ................................... 6
Bottom Panel Layout ........................................ 7
Cartridge Loading Adjustments .......................... 8
Rear Panel Connections ....................................11
Balanced Operation ....................................... 12
Operating the 610LP ........................................12
Specifications .................................................13
www.simaudio.com
Simaudio Ltd., 1345 Newton Road
Boucherville, Quebec J4B 5H2 CANADA
Date Code: 20130306
____________________________________________________________________________________

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Congratulations!
Thank you for selecting the MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier 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
phono preamplifiers available. We have been building high-performance audio equipment for over 25 years, and the
know-how gained through our cumulative experience is an important reason why MOON audio components are so musically
satisfying.
The performance of your 610LP will continue to improve during the first 500 hours of listening. This is the result of a “break-
in” period required for the numerous high quality electronic parts used throughout this phono preamplifier.
Before setting up your new MOON 610LP, we encourage you to please read this manual thoroughly to properly acquaint
yourself with its features. We hope you enjoy listening to the MOON 610LP Phono Preamplifier 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
Unpacking
The MOON 610LP Phono Preamplifier should be removed from its box with care.
The following accessories should be included inside the box with your phono preamplifier:
9
AC power cable
9
One (1) pen shaped plastic hand tool for making DIP-switch adjustments
9
This owner’s manual
9
Warranty and product registration information (USA and Canada only)
As soon as the phono preamplifier is safely removed from its box and placed down, perform a thorough physical inspection
and report any physical damage to your dealer immediately. We suggest that you keep all of the original packaging, storing it
in a safe, dry place in the event that you’re required to transport this product. The customized packaging is specially designed
to protect the MOON 610LP Phono Preamplifier from potential damage that may occur during shipping.
Please write the serial number of your new Simaudio MOON 610LP in the space provided below for future reference.
Serial No.: ________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
Congratulations / Unpacking 5

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Introduction
Your MOON 610LP Phono Preamplifier incorporates many significant design features to achieve its “world class” level of
performance. This is an abbreviated list of the more important features:
The oversized power supply, located within the main chassis, is housed in an isolated enclosure that is
constructed from satin coated 14-gauge steel to eliminate all traces of AC artifacts. Power supply
featuring a "pi-type" filter using 40,000uF of capacitance and dual choke inductance (2x 200mH). The
result is a power supply with a noise floor of -150dB related to 1.0V, DC - 100kHz.
Power supply voltage regulation includes i2DCf (Independent Inductive DC Filtering); 1 inductor for each and every chip
(i.e. OpAmp, etc.) in the audio circuit’s signal path – 24 stages in all.
Adjustable impedance loading - 64 available settings from 12.1Ωto 47kΩ
Adjustable capacitance loading - 16 available settings from 0pF to 1120pF
Adjustable gain settings - 16 available settings from 40dB to 70dB
Selectable equalization curves for both the RIAA and the IEC standards
Customized parts include metallized polypropylene film capacitors with very tight tolerances of 1%
Four-layer PCB tracings with dedicated ground and power planes using pure copper for low impedance
characteristics. The advantages include better circuit layouts resulting in a much shorter signal path and a
vastly improved signal-to-noise ratio
Accurate matching of the very finest quality electronic components in a symmetrical circuit design
The shortest possible signal path for a faster transient response and the lowest possible noise floor.
Installation & Placement
The 610LP is more sensitive than most other types of audio components to EMI (electro-magnetic interference) from power
supplies and motors. Consequently, it should be placed at a minimum distance of 18 inches from power supplies, turntables,
tape decks, AC line filters, etc. As well,
You should never place another component directly on top of this phono preamplifier.
In the event that the surface you have chosen isn’t perfectly level, each of the four (4) legs of your 610LP are height
adjustable; carefully using your fingers, you can either raise each leg by turning the cone underneath clockwise, or lower each
leg by turning it counterclockwise.
We strongly recommend that you leave these cones mounted to the component at all times for reasons related to both
performance and aesthetics.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Introduction / Installation & Placement 6

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Bottom Panel Layout
Figure 1: MOON 610LP Bottom Panel layout
Settings for cartridge resisitance loading, cartridge capaciitance loading, gain and equalization curve are all done using white
colored DIP switches located on the 610LP’s bottom panel as shown above in figure 1. There are two (2) banks of DIP
switches – The upper bank provides for the capacitance and resistance loading adjustments; the lower bank for gain level and
equalization curve settings. Examples of the DIP switch positions for all available settings are clearly shown on the bottom
panel – below and to the right of the actual DIP switches. Since the MOON 610LP is a genuine dual-mono design, there are
2 sets of DIP switches for each adjustment – one each for the left and right channels.
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Bottom Panel Layout 7

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Cartridge Loading Adjustments
Prior to making any of these adjustments, always disconnect the AC power cord and all interconnects from MOON 610LP.
We strongly recommend using the
pen shaped
plastic hand tool
that we have included with your 610LP as it was specifically
designed for this purpose. Using another tool made from a material other than plastic may damage the DIP switches and/or
scratch the painted surface on the bottom of the 610LP’. Finally, to achieve the best possible sonic performance, it is
absolutely necessary that all settings be identical for both the left and the right channels.
In the following examples,
the color white always indicates the position - left (‘ON’) or
right (‘OFF’) of the DIP switch.
In the example to the left, the DIP switch is in the left
position (‘ON’).
This is to be consistent with the actual white color of these switches.
Capacitance Loading:
There are sixteen (16) unique capacitance loading settings available using DIP switches 7 through 10, located at the top of
the upper DIP switch bank. The range of available settings begins at 0pF and ends at 1120pF:
Figure 2: Left and right channel DIP switches for capacitance loading adjustments
The factory default is 100 pF, whereby DIP switches 10, 9, and 8 are all in the right (‘OFF’)
position and DIP switch 7 is in the left position (‘ON’) as seen in the example to the right.
This setting would be applicable for most moving magnet cartridges.
In the event that you are using a moving coil cartridge, you will most likely want to set the
capacitance loading to 0pF. This is done by positioning all 4 DIP switches (7, 8, 9, & 10) to
the right position (‘OFF’) as seen in the example to the right.
A comprehensive diagram of the DIP switch combinations for all 16 available capacitance loading settings can be seen on the
bottom panel, immediately to the right of the switches. Finally, the values written beside the DIP switch number represent the
capacitance load if only that switch is in the left position (‘ON’). For example, when only switch 10 is in the left position (‘ON’),
the load value will be 470pF; when only switch 9 is in the left position (‘ON’), the load value will be 330pF; and finally when
only switch 8 is in the left position (‘ON’), the load value will be 220pF.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Cartridge Loading Adjustments 8

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Internal Settings (cont’d)
Resistance Loading:
There are sixty-four (64) unique resistance loading settings available using DIP switches 1 through 6, located at the bottom of
the upper DIP switch bank. The range of available settings starts at 12.1Ωand ends at 47kΩ:
Figure 3: Left and right channel DIP switches for resistance loading adjustments
The factory default is 47KΩ, whereby DIP switches 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 are all in the right
(‘OFF’) position as seen in the example to the right. This setting would be applicable for most
moving magnet cartridges
In the event that you are using a moving coil cartridge, you will most likely want to set the
resistance loading to a much lower impedance value. For instance, in the event that your
cartridge manufacturer recommends a value of 100Ω, you would position DIP switch 3 to the
left (‘ON’) and the other remaining switches (1, 2, 4, 5 & 6) to the right position (‘OFF’) as
seen in the example to the right.
We strongly recommended that you never use the
47kΩresistive load setting for moving coil cartridges.
A comprehensive diagram of the DIP switch combinations for all 64 available resistance loading settings can be seen on the
bottom panel, immediately to the right of the switches and just below the previously mentioned capacitance settings diagram.
Finally, the values written beside the DIP switch number represent the resistance load if only that switch is in the left position
(‘ON’). For example, when only switch 1 is in the left position (‘ON’), the load value will be 22Ω; when only switch 4 is in the
left position (‘ON’), the load value will be 221Ω; and finally when only switch 6 is in the left position (‘ON’), the load value will
be 1000Ω.
Note:
Choosing a loading impedance for a moving coil cartridge is not an exact science as there are many variables that can
affect the manufacturer’s recommended setting. Choosing the best impedance is ultimately a compromise between what
sounds best to your own ears and what works best for the cartridge, based on its internal workings. When experimenting with
different impedance settings, always keep in mind that a poorly loaded moving coil cartridge will result in sonic performance
yielding a lack of definition, reduced bass performance, as well as aggressive upper-mid and high frequencies.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Cartridge Loading Adjustments 9

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Internal Settings (cont’d)
Gain Setting:
There are sixteen (16) unique gain level settings available using DIP switches 2 through 5, located at the top of the lower DIP
switch bank. The range of available settings runs from 40dB all the way up to 70.0dB:
Figure 4: Left and right channel DIP switches for gain level settings
The factory default gain level setting is 40dB whereby DIP switches 5, 4, 3 & 2 are set to the
right position (’OFF’). This setting would be applicable for most moving magnet cartridges.
In the event that you are using a moving coil cartridge, you will need to increase the gain level setting. This is a general rule
for determining the gain of a MC cartridge: For a low output MC cartridge (0.7mV and lower), set the gain level to at least
66dB; for a medium output MC (0.7mV to 1.5mV) set the gain level to 60dB; for a high output MC (> 1.5mV) set the gain
level to 54dB. Since every audio system is different, these are just approximated values.
The example to the right show a gain level setting of 60.0dB where DIP switches 5 and 3 are
in the left (‘ON’) position and DIP switches 2 and 4 are in the right (‘OFF’) position.
Equalization Curve:
The MOON 610LP Phono Preamplifier is equipped with circuitry for two (2) different equalization curves; The RIAA
standard and the less common IEC modified curve. The main difference is that the RIAA curve produces a flat frequency
response from 20Hz to 20kHz; The IEC curve acts as a subsonic filter removing inaudible infrasonic bass
only
below 20Hz.
Using DIP switch 1 on lower bank. The factory default is the RIAA curve whereby DIP switch 1 is in the right (‘OFF’) position.
To change to the IEC curve, simply move this DIP switch to the left (‘ON’) position.
Figure 5: Left and right channel DIP switches for equalization curves
To determine which curve is best for you, perform this simple test: Use the 610LP with the RIAA curve and watch the
movement of your loudspeaker’s bass drivers. If their motion doesn’t follow the pattern of the record you’re playing or you
see excessive driver movement, chances are you should use the IEC curve to eliminate the subsonic information not present
on the record.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Cartridge Loading Adjustments 10

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Rear Panel Connections
Figure 6: MOON 610LP Rear panel
The rear panel will look similar to Figure 6 (above). All audio connectors are located on the left side of the rear panel. As a
result of the MOON 610LP Phono Preamplifier’s balanced and symmetrical circuit design, the layout of these audio
connectors follows the same orientation: A pair of single-ended RCA input connectors are located in the middle and on either
side you will find the balanced XLR input connector for that same channel. Connect the cables from your turntable to either
the RCA or XLR inputs.
The design of the 610LP allows for ONLY 1 input connection so you cannot use both types of input
connectors
. Immediately to each side of the XLR input connectors are the balanced XLR output connectors. Beside each XLR
output is the single-ended RCA output connector for that same channel. You can use either or both the XLR outputs and RCA
outputs to connect to your preamplifier/integrated amplifier. In the event that the preamplifier/integrated amplifier you’re
connecting the 610LP to has balanced inputs, its highly advantageous to use the 610LP’s XLR outputs. This will provide you
with an even better signal-to-noise ratio.
In the event that you’re using the balanced XLR inputs, you must first remove the factory installed “dummy” XLR
jumpers (see figure 7 below) from the back panel XLR connectors and store them in a safe place. These jumpers are
required ONLY when using the single-ended RCA inputs. In the event that you decide to switch to single-ended input mode,
you must reinstall the XLR jumper (between pins 1 and 3) exactly as show below. The purpose of these jumpers is to help
maintain the lowest possible noise level when not using the 610LP’s balanced input circuitry.
Figure 7: XLR connector without and with jumper accessory
To the right of the array of audio connectors is a 4-pin XLR connector labeled “DC Input” which is reserved for future use
when an external power supply will be made available for the MOON 610LP. Directly to the right of the 4-pin XLR are two
12 Volt triggers, each on a 1/8” mini-jack; one input and one output, the latter for use in the event that wish you to “daisy
chain” an additional component on the same trigger circuit.Finally on the far right side is the “AC Power” section with a main
power switch (“0”=off, “1”=on) and IEC receptacle for the included AC power cord.
Don’t hesitate to use high quality interconnect cables. Poor quality interconnect cables can degrade the overall sonic
performance of your system.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Rear Panel Connections 11

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Balanced Operation
When using an unbalanced interconnect, the audio signal runs through both the center wire and the shield/ground wire. Any
noise picked up by this interconnect (ie. nearby magnetic fields such as an AC power cord) will be reproduced by the
integrated amplifier, then heard through the loudspeakers. Conversely, a balanced interconnect has three separate
conductors; one for the ground and two for the actual signal. These two signals are identical except that one is 180 degrees
out of phase with the other. For example, when one conductor is carrying a signal of +2 Volts, the other will be carrying a
signal of –2 Volts. When these two inverted signals on a balanced line are output from the MOON 610LP, any noise picked
up by the interconnect will be eliminated since a differential circuit amplifies only the difference between these two signals:
Noise on a balanced interconnect will be equal on both conductors and therefore not be processed.
Operating the 610LP
We recommend that you leave your MOON 610LP Phono Preamplifier powered up at all times to maintain optimal
performance. In the event that you plan to be away from your home for a few days, powering off the Phono Preamplifier may
not be a bad idea. Once fully “broken-in”, please keep in mind that your 610LP will require several hours of playing time
before it reaches its peak performance after you’ve powered it up again.
Making the AC Connection
Connect the supplied AC power cable to the IEC receptacle, located on the rear panel of the phono preamplifier’s chassis.
Ensure that the AC wall outlet you use has a functioning ground. For the best sonic performance, it is preferable that you
plug your MOON 610LP directly into a dedicated AC outlet and avoid using an extension cord.
In order to obtain the maximum performance from your audio system, we strongly recommend that the detachable power
cord not come into physical contact with any of the interconnect cables running to and from your 610LP. In the event that
this can’t be avoided, you should ensure that any cables coming into contact with each other are crossed at ninety degree
angle to minimize the contact area.
Powering up your MOON 610LP for the first time
Prior to turning this preamplifier on for the first time, make sure that every cable is properly connected to avoid any problems.
Then turn on your phono preamplifier in the following manner:
1) Flick the main rocker switch labeled “POWER” to the ‘1’ (on) position on the rear of the controller chassis.
2) Press the push button labeled “Standby” on the 610LP, the blue LED will illuminate, indicating that the 610LP
is now powered up and ready for use. You are now ready to begin listening to music.
On and Off Sequence
To avoid having any annoying noises (ie. “thumps” and “pops”) emanate from your speakers when powering your 610LP on
or off, you should
1) Always power up your 610LP before powering up your preamplifier and/or integrated amplifier.
2) Always power down your 610LP after powering down your preamplifier and/or integrated amplifier.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Balanced Operation / Operating the 610LP 12

MOON 610LP Dual-Mono Phono Preamplifier
Specifications
Configuration ........................................................... Fully balanced, dual-mono
Power Supply Transformer ....................................... 25VA
Power Supply Capacitance ...................................... 40 000µF
Balanced inputs ....................................................... 1 pair (XLR)
Single-ended inputs ................................................. 1 pair (RCA)
Input Impedance - Adjustable ................................. 64 settings from 12.1Ωto 47kΩ
Input Capacitance - Adjustable ............................... 16 settings from 0pF to 1120pF
Gain Level – Adjustable ........................................... 16 settings from 40dB to 70dB
Balanced outputs ................................................... 1 pair (XLR)
Single-ended outputs .............................................. 1 pair (RCA)
Input overload @ 40dB gain .................................... 200mV RMS (XLR) / 100mV RMS (RCA)
Input overload @ 55.5dB gain .................................. 30mV RMS (XLR) / 15mV RMS (RCA)
Input overload @ 60dB gain .................................... 20mV RMS (XLR) / 10mV RMS (RCA)
Input overload @ 65dB gain .................................... 10mV RMS (XLR) / 5mV RMS (RCA)
Input overload @ 70dB gain .................................... 5mV RMS (XLR) / 2.5mV RMS (RCA)
Signal-to-noise Ratio (full scale @ 40dB gain) ......... 112dBr
Signal-to-noise Ratio (full scale @ 55.5dB gain) ...... 106dBr
Signal-to-noise Ratio (full scale @ 60dB gain) ......... 103dBr
Signal-to-noise Ratio (full scale @ 65dB gain) ......... 98dBr
Signal-to-noise Ratio (full scale @ 70dB gain) ......... 93dBr
Maximum Output (1kHz @ 10KΩ) ............................ 20V (XLR) / 10 Volts (RCA)
Frequency Response – RIAA & IEC Curve ................. 20Hz - 20kHz (±0.1dB)
Output Impedance .................................................. 50Ω
IEC Curve Effect ...................................................... -7dB @ 10Hz
Crosstalk @ 1kHz ................................................... -106dB
Intermodulation Distortion ...................................... < 0.002%
THD (20Hz - 20kHz) .............................................. < 0.001%
Power Consumption ................................................ 10 Watts
AC Power Requirements ......................................... 120V or 240V, 60Hz or 50Hz
Shipping Weight ..................................................... 40 lbs / 18 Kg
Dimensions (W x H x D, inches) ............................... 18.75 x 4.0 x 16.81
Balanced Input Pin Assignment:
Pin 1................................ Ground
Pin 2................................ Positive
Pin 3 .............................. Negative
12 Volt Trigger: Logic ............................... Direct (0V off, 12V on)
Jack................................. 3.5mm microphone jack
Input Impedance.............. 12kΩ
Current Consumption........ 1mA
Fuse Replacement: For the 120V version use a 0.2A slow blow (5 x 20mm size).
For the 230V version use a 0.1A slow blow (5 x 20mm size).
____________________________________________________________________________________
Specifications 13
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