moon 380D Neo Series User manual

Owner’s Manual
Series
380D
32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter

380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
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
NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
FCC information for MOON 380D Digital-to-Analog Converters equipped with the MiND Music Streamer module:
This unit contains Transmitter Module FCC ID : ZUCSEDMP3.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may
not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
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380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
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 380D Digital-to-Analog Converter.
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 380D 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 380D 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 380D 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 380D with any liquid. If a liquid substance does enter your MOON
380D, 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 380D.
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 380D. If a problem occurs contact your MOON dealer.
12. NEVER expose the MOON 380D to extremely high or low temperatures.
13. NEVER operate the MOON 380D 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.
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380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
Table of Contents
Introduction .................................................... 5
Unpacking........................................................ 6
Installation & Placement ................................... 6
Front Panel Controls ......................................... 7
Rear Panel Connections ..................................... 8
SimLink™ ........................................................ 9
Operating the 380D .......................................... 9
Balanced Operation ......................................... 9
Remote Control Operation ................................10
Specifications .................................................12
www.simaudio.com
Simaudio Ltd., 1345 Newton Road
Boucherville, Quebec J4B 5H2 CANADA
Date Code: 20130402
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380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
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5
Introduction
Thank you for selecting the MOON 380D Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) 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
DAC’s 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 DACs are so musically satisfying.
The performance of your 380D 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 DAC.
Before setting up your new MOON 380D, we encourage you to please read this manual thoroughly to properly acquaint
yourself with its features. We hope you enjoy listening to the MOON 380D DAC 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 MOON 380D 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:
ESS Technology SABRE32 Ultra DAC/Digital Filter working in 32-bit Hyperstream™ to achieve unprecedented jitter
immunity and low-level linearity via a patented Time Domain Jitter Eliminator.
Digital Audio Signal Processing using M-AJiC32 (MOON Asynchronous Jitter Control in 32-bit mode)
Eight (8) digital inputs (AES/EBU x 2, S/PDIF x 3, TosLink x 2 and USB x 1) allowing for a connection to virtually any
digital source, along with one (1) digital output – S/PDIF
Optional “MiND” (MOON intelligent Network Device) module (9th input) via WiFi or Ethernet input for multi-room streaming
Optional variable analog outputs (balanced & single-ended) using M-eVOL volume circuit which was originally developed
for the MOON Evolution series. Accessible using the remote control, this volume operates in 1dB increments. M-eVOL is
based on a resistive array configuration with no sonic degradation of the audio signal at all volume settings.
Full digital monitor loop on S/PDIF to accommodate external devices such as a room correction component
Separate digital and analog power supplies, each using a toroidal transformer and 11 stages of voltage regulation
“Dual Jitter Control System” producing a digital signal that is virtually jitter-free, measuring below “1 picosecond” as
well as ensuring compatibility with virtually any digital device
USB input with galvanic isolation which eliminates all ground current (i.e. no electrical connection) between the USB
device (computer,music server, etc) and the 380D, preserving the accuracy of the audio signal.
RS-232 port for (i) full unsolicited bidirectional feedback and (ii) firmware updates; 12 Volt trigger output for remote
operation and IR input for external control with aftermarket infrared remote control receivers
Rigid chassis construction to minimize the effects of external vibrations.
Designed to be powered up at all times for optimal performance.

380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
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6
Unpacking
The MOON 380D 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 ‘SimLink’ cable with 1/8” mini plug terminations on each end
9 Wi-Fi antenna for “MiND” Music Streamer equipped version of the MOON 380D
9 This owner’s manual
9 Warranty and product registration information (USA and Canada only)
Once the MOON 380D 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 380D from any potential damage during transit.
Please write the serial number of your new Simaudio MOON 380D in the space provided below for future reference.
Serial No.: ________________
For MOON 380D’s equipped with the optional “MiND” Music Streamer, please visit:
http://www.simaudio.com/MiND.htm
to download PDF versions of both the “MiND Setup Guide” and “MiND App User Guide”.
Installation & Placement
The MOON 380D requires only minimal ventilation to maintain an optimum and consistent operating temperature. However,
you should avoid placing it near a heat source as this could compromise the Digital-to-Analog Converter’s performance and
reliability. As well, it should be placed on a solid level surface. The 380D uses toroidal transformers; even though they are
well shielded, you should not place the Digital-to-Analog Converter too close to source components sensitive to EMI, such as a
turntables.
In the event that your MOON 380D is equipped with the “MiND” Music Streamer option and you intend to use its wireless
streaming feature (between your wireless router and your 380D), you must install the included Wi-Fi antenna on the back
panel by screwing it into the socket labelled “WIFI ANT”.

380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
Front Panel Controls
Figure 1: MOON 380D Front panel
The front panel will look similar to Figure 1 (above). The large digital display window indicates the selected digital input (“D1”
thru “D8”) its corresponding sampling frequency in kHz (“44.1” thru “192.0”) of the source material currently being played.
The “Standby” button disengages all outputs from the rest of the MOON 380D’s circuitry and turns off the digital display.
However, when in “Standby” mode, all digital and analog audio circuitry remains powered up to help maintain optimal
performance. When switching back from “Standby” to the “on” mode, the selected ‘input’ will be memorized from the previous
listening session. The blue indicator LED turns off when the 380D is in “Standby” mode.
The “Display” button allows you to turn the digital display on and off. The “Mute” button mutes all analog output signals.
Pressing the “Mute” button a second time will reinstate all analog output signals. When the output signal is muted, the
aforementioned contents in the digital display window will repeatedly flash on and off.
The “Digital Monitor” button provides for a dedicated loop to be used with either a digital audio component that can record &
playback (DAT, CD-Recorder, etc.) or a digital signal processor such as a room correction device. Pressing this button allows
you to (1) monitor the recording as it occurs on the recording device or (2) engage the effects of the signal processor. The
monitor component’s digital output must be connected to the 380D’s “Digital Monitor In” and its digital input must be
connected to the 380D’s “Digital Monitor Out”. The corresponding LED to the right of the display window will illuminate when
the “Digital Monitor” function is engaged.
The two (2) buttons labeled “◄Input ►” allow you to sequentially scroll, either forward “►” or backward “◄”through all the
digital inputs. The inputs are ordered as follows going forward (►): “D1”, “D2”, “D3” , “D4” , “D5” , “D6” , “D7” and “D8”.
When you change inputs, the display window will show the new digital input and briefly four (4) dashes “----”. These dashes
indicate that the MOON 380D is in the process of locking onto a digital signal – this may take several seconds. Once the
380D successfully locks onto the digital signal, the four dashes will be replaced by the sampling rate frequency of this digital
signal. When the selected digital input signal cannot be locked onto, “----” remains in the display window. The 380D is
capable of processing a digital signal at one of the following six (6) different sampling rates: “44.1”, “48.0”, “88.2”, “96.0” ,
“176.4” and “192.0” (all in kHz).
A corresponding red LED, located to the right of the display window, will turn onbased on selected input type: “TOSLINK” (for
“D6” and “D7”) , “S/PDIF” (“D3”, “D4” and “D5”), “AES/EBU” (“D1” and “D2”) or “USB” (“D8”). Note: you cannot connect a
USB flash drive to the “D8” input.
If your MOON 380D is equipped with the optional “MiND” music streaming module, the assigned input is “D9”, the sampling
rate will appear in the display as it does for inputs “D1” thru “D8”, and the red “NETWORK” LED will illuminate.
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7

380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
Rear Panel Connections
Figure 2: MOON 380D Rear panel
The rear panel will look similar to Figure 2 (above). On the left side are two rows of analog outputs; The bottom row has two
pairs labeled “Right” and “Left”, each with a single-ended RCA and balanced XLR connector. These are “Fixed Level” outputs,
intended to be connected to a line-level input on either your preamplifier or integrated amplifier. The top row also has two
pairs labeled “Right” and “Left”, each with a single-ended RCA and balanced XLR connector. These are the OPTIONAL
“Variable Level” outputs, whereby the volume level can only be adjusted using the included remote control. These are meant
to be connected directly to your power amplifier’s input; They can be also connected to a line-level input on either your
preamplifier or integrated amplifier. We strongly recommend that you use the balanced XLR connectors on your 380D to
maximize its level of performance. Don’t hesitate to use high quality interconnect cables*. Poor quality interconnect cables
can degrade the overall sonic performance of your system.
There is one “Digital SPDIF Output” on an RCA connector, immediately followed by the SPDIF digital “Monitor Loop” with one
input and one output, both on RCA connectors. Next is a group of eight (8) “Digital Inputs” labelled “D1” thru “D8”. Inputs
“D1” and “D2” are AES/EBU on 3-pin XLR connectors and they benefit most from cables with an impedance of 110Ω. Inputs
“D3”, “D4” and “D5” are S/PDIF – the first two on RCA connectors and the third on a BNC connector, benefitting most from
cables with an impedance of 75Ω. Inputs “D6” and “D7” are Optical and use a Toslink connector. Finally, input “D8” is USB
type-B connector. Don’t hesitate to use high quality digital interconnect cables*.
The space directly above the row of digital inputs is reserved for the
optional “ MiND” Music Streamer. If your MOON 380D is
equipped with the “MiND” option, you will see a socket for a WiFi antenna and a RJ45 ethernet connector socket. Please
consult the “MiND Setup Guide” and “MiND User Guide” for further details.
The upper right side of the rear panel has various connectors for external communications. The MOON 380D is equipped
with full-function bi-directional RS-232 port control and status for custom integration or automation, as well as future software
updates. Next to the RS-232 port 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. Then there is a 1/8” mini-jack input for use with aftermarket infrared
remote control receivers. Finally, there’s a 12V trigger output on a 1/8” mini-jack.
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
380D 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
.
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380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
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9
SimLink™
The main feature of SimLink™ on the MOON 380D, involves the “Standby” function. By pressing down and holding the
“Standby” button for 2 seconds on the 380D, all other MOON components connected via the SimLink will go into “Standby”
mode along with the 380D. The same logic applies when switching from “Standby” to active mode. However, if your MOON
380D is equipped with both the “MiND” Music Streamer and the variable analog outputs, then the SimLink™ offers many
more features: Volume, Mute, Standby. Digital Input Selection all via the “MiND” app running on your Apple or Android device
The connection rules for the SimLink™ are very straightforward. 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 will not function. Also,
there is no master component in a SimLink™ chain; no one particular component operates as the main communications
controller. If you are using your MOON 380D with an older MOON product such as a P-7, P-8 or i-7, you will need to update
the software of the older product to allow for complete SimLink™ functionality. Contact your retailer for further details.
Operating the 380D
We recommend leaving your MOON 380D 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 DAC. Please keep in mind that once fully “broken-in”, your
380D requires several hours of operation before reaching optimal performance after powering it up again.
Turning on your MOON 380D for the first time
Prior to turning the DAC 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. 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 380D 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 380D on or
off, you should always power up your 380D before powering up your preamplifier, integrated amplifier or power amplifier. As
well, always power down your 380D after powering down your preamplifier, integrated amplifier or power amplifier
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 both the
preamplifier and 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 +4 Volts, the other will be carrying a
signal of –4 Volts. When these two inverted signals on a balanced line are output from the MOON 380D, 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 cancel out.

380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
Remote Control Operation
Figure 3: Remote Operation with 12V Trigger
In figure 3 we have a MOON 380D, equipped with both the “MiND” and variable output options, connected to a 330A
Amplifier via their respective 12V triggers (using a 1/8” mini-jack cable); The 12V trigger output on the 380D is connected to
the 12V trigger input on the 330A. When you launch the “MiND” on your smart device (iPad, iPhone, Android Device), the
330A will automatically turn on. The same rule applies when you shut down the “MiND” app.
Figure 4: Remote Operation with SimLink™
In figure 4 we have a 180 “MiND” Music Streamer connected to a MOON 380D DAC via their respective SimLink™ ports
(using a 1/8” mini-jack cable), and the 380D connected to a 340i Integrated Amplifier also via their respective SimLink™
ports. When you launch the MiND App on your smart device (iPad, iPhone, Android Device), the 180 “MiND”, 380D and 340i
will alll turn on. As well, the 380D will automatically switch to the MiND input. The same rule applies when you shut down
the “MiND” app.
Figure 5: Remote Operation with SimLink™ and 12V Trigger
In figure 5 we have a MOON 380D DAC connected to a 350P Preamplifier via their respective SimLink™ ports (using a 1/8”
mini-jack cable), and the 350P is connected to a 330A Amplifier via their respective 12V triggers (also using a 1/8” mini-jack
cable). When you turn on the 380D via remote control (or its Standby button), both the 350P and 330A will turn on
automatically. The same rule applies when you put the 380D into Standby mode.
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380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
Remote Control Operation (cont’d)
The MOON 380D Digital-to-Analog Converter uses the ‘CRM-2’ full-function
remote control (figure 6). 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 MOON 380D,you must first
press the button labeled D/A.
The POWER button located on the upper left will switch the integrated amplifier to
either ‘Standby’ or ‘On’ mode.
The DISPLAY button turns the front panel display on and off.
The 2 buttons labelled ◄INPUT ►allow you to sequentially scroll, either
backwards or forwards, through all eight (8) available inputs. For example, to
switch from “D4” to “D1” you may press either ◄INPUT three (3) times or
INPUT ►five (5) times. Pressing and holding down either of these
buttons results in only a single change to the selected input.
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.
For MOON 380D’s equipped with the optional volume control:
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.
Figure 6: CRM-2 Remote Control
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380D Digital-to-Analog Converter
Specifications
Configuration ......................................................... Balanced differential
Digital / Analog Power Supply Transformers .............. 25VA / 10VA
Power Supply Capacitance ...................................... 26,400µF
Digital Filter / Digital-to-Analog Converters ............... ESS ES9016 Sabre32 32-bit Hyperstream™
Frequency Response (full range).............................. 2Hz - 100kHz +0/-3dB
THD @1kHz, 0dBFS (A-weighted).............................. < 0.001%
Intermodulation Distortion ...................................... < 0.001%
Dynamic Range ...................................................... > 120dB
Signal-to-noise Ratio .............................................. > 120dB @ full output
Slew Rate .............................................................. 50V/µs
Channel Separation ................................................ > 116dB
Low Level Linearity ................................................. < ±0.25dB at -90dBFS
Intrinsic Jitter ......................................................... 1 picosecond RMS
Analog Outputs – Balanced ..................................... 1 pair XLR – Fixed Level
Optional Analog Outputs – Balanced ........................ 1 pair XLR – Variable Level
Analog Outputs – Single Ended ............................... 1 pair RCA
Optional Analog Outputs – Single Ended .................. 1 pair RCA – Variable Level
Analog Output Impedance - XLR / RCA .................. 100Ω
Max. Analog Output @ 0dBFS - XLR / RCA .............. 2.0 Volts
Bit-depth range / Sampling Frequency – All inputs ..... 16 to 24 bits / 44.1kHz to 192kHz
Digital Inputs (8)..................................................... 2 x AES/EBU , 3 x S/PDIF, 2 x TosLink, 1 x USB
Digital Outputs (1) ................................................. S/PDIF
Digital Monitor Loop ................................................ S/PDIF - 1 input / 1 output
Remote Control ...................................................... Full-Function CRM-2
Power Consumption @ idle ..................................... 10 watts
AC Power Requirements ......................................... 120V / 60Hz or 240V / 50Hz
Shipping Weight ..................................................... 16 lbs / 7.5 Kgs
Dimensions (W x H x D, inches) ............................... 16.9 x 3.4 x 13.1
Balanced Pin Assignment: Pin 1................................ Ground
Pin 2................................ Positive
Pin 3 .............................. Negative
Optional MiND Music Streamer:
Signal Input – Wired ................................................ 100Base-T RJ45 Ethernet interface
Signal Input – Wireless ............................................ IEEE 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi interface
NOTE: If you require the RS-232 codes for your MOON 380D,please contact Simaudio Ltd.
directly by either email ([e-mail]) or by toll-free telephone [phone]).
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).
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