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.
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 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 checkup.
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.
Thank you for selecting the MOON Nēo 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
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 Nēo 380D will continue to
improve during the first 400 hours of listening. This
is the result of a “break-in” period required for the
DAC’s available in its
numerous high quality electronic parts used
throughout this DAC.
Before setting up your new 380D, we encourage
you to please read this manual thoroughly to
properly acquaint yourself with its features. We
hope you enjoy listening to the Nēo 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
Your Nēo 380D Digital-to-Analog Converter 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.
Supports DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 (USB input
only); PCM 16-bit/44.4kHz to 24-bit/192kHz (all inputs)
and up to PCM 32-bit/384kHz DXD (USB input only).
Optional
module (9
room streaming.
Optional
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; IR input for external control with
aftermarket infrared remote control receivers and
SimLink
communications between other MOON components.
Rigid chassis construction to minimize the effects of
external vibrations.
Designed to be powered up at all times for optimal
performance.
TM
controller ports that allow for 2-way
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380D Digital to Analog Converter
Unpacking
The Nēo 380D Digital-to-Analog Converter should be removed from its box with care.
The following accessories should be included inside the box with your Digital-to-Analog Converter:
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 Nēo 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
Please write the serial number of your new Nēo 380D in the space provided below for future reference.
Serial No.: ________________
case you’re required to transport this product. The
customized packaging is specially designed to
protect the 380D from any potential damage during
transit.
For Nēo 380D’s equipped with the optional
“MiND” Music Streamer, please visit our
website to download PDF versions of both the
Installation & Placement
The Nēo 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 Nēo 380D is equipped with
the “MiND” Music Streamer option and you intend
to use its wireless streaming feature (between your
“MiND Setup Guide” and “MiND App User
Guide”.
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”.
If your Nēo 380D is equipped with the DAC
option and you intend to use the USB input
connection (PCM or DSD) with a Windowsbased computer, you will need to install our
USB HD DSD driver, which can be downloaded
from the support section of our website.
Note: Apple-based computers don’t require
this driver.
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 Nēo 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, CDRecorder, 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 Nēo 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 PCM
digital signal at one of the following eight (8)
different sampling rates: “44.1”, “48.0”, “88.2”,
“96.0” , “176.4” , “192.0” , “352.8” and “384.0” (all
in kHz) or a DSD digital signal at one of the
following three (3) data rates DSD64 (2.82MHz),
DSD128 (5.64MHz) and DSD256 (11.28MHz); For
DSD input signals, the corresponding information
will appear in the display window as “DSd” , “DSd.2”
and “DSd.4” for these data rates, respectively.
Notes: (i) DSD format signals can ONLY be
played through the USB (“D8”) input. (ii) PCM
format signals with sample-rates of 352.8kHz
and 384kHz can ONLY be played through the
USB (“D8”) input.
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”).
flash drive or external hard drive to the “D8” input.
Note: you cannot connect a USB
If your Nēo 380D is equipped with the
“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.
optional
Rear Panel Connections
Figure 2: Nēo 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
your Nēo 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 Nēo 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
optional “
MiND” Music Streamer. If
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380D Digital to Analog Converter
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
SimLink™
The main feature of SimLink™ on the Nēo 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
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
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 Nēo 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 Nēo 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
Turning on your Nēo 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
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
keep in mind that once fully “broken-in”, your 380D
requires several hours of operation before reaching
optimal performance after powering it up again.
“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.
preamplifier, integrated amplifier or power amplifier.
As well, always power down your 380D after
powering down your preamplifier, integrated
amplifier or power amplifier.
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380D Digital to Analog Converter
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
The Nēo 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 Nēo 380D,you must first
press the button labeled D/A.
The POWER button located on the upper left will switch the Digital-to-
Analog Converter to either ‘Standby’ or ‘On’
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.
mode.
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.
NOTE: The buttons labelled ◄ BAL► don’t affect the operation of the 380D.
In figure 4 we have a Nēo 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
Figure 5: Remote Operation with SimLink™
In figure 5 we have a 180 MiND Music Streamer
connected to a Nēo 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 Apple smart device
Figure 6: Remote Operation with SimLink™ and 12V Trigger
In figure 6 we have a Nēo 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).
“MiND” on your Apple smart device (full list on the
MiND page of our website)and select this system’s
ZONE, the 330A will automatically turn on. To shut
down the system, press “Off” for this ZONE in the
“MiND” app.
and select this system’s ZONE, the 180 MiND, 380D
and 340i will alll turn on. As well, the 380D will
automatically switch to the MiND input. To shut
down the system, press “Off” for this ZONE in the
MiND app.
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.
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 Nēo 380D, please visit the "Contact Us" page
and complete the "Information request" form on our website at www.simaudio.com.
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).