MOON 860A v2 Power Amplifier
The MOON 860A v2 Power Amplifier is a high-end balanced differential dual-mono amplifier designed for listeners who want transparency, control, and scale from a serious two-channel system. It draws on trickle-down technology from MOON’s flagship 888 Power Amplifier and combines proprietary Lynx zero-global-feedback architecture, MOON bipolar output transistors, a short signal path, and an oversized power supply to produce 225 watts per channel into 8 ohms, 450 watts per channel into 4 ohms, or 750 watts in monaural mode. Class A output up to 5 watts, stability into any known speaker impedance, and a high damping factor help it deliver clean transients, strong bass authority, and refined timbre. For setup flexibility, it offers balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs, switchable AC/DC coupling, stereo/mono switching, RS-232 control, and 12V trigger support for advanced hi-fi and custom-install systems.
The MOON Certified Reserve Standard
Every MOON Certified product meets a strict manufacturer standard:
- Fully tested, refurbished, and certified by MOON technicians
- Includes new packaging and complete accessory packs
- Technician sign-off certification included
- Backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty
What It's Good At:
- Driving demanding loudspeakers with confidence thanks to its true dual-mono layout, high damping factor, and stable output into any known speaker impedance.
- Delivering both finesse and force with Class A output up to 5 watts and powerful output ratings for stereo or bridged-mono operation.
- Pairing easily with a wide range of preamplifiers using balanced XLR or single-ended RCA inputs plus switchable AC/DC coupling.
- Supporting serious system integration with RS-232, 12V trigger input/output, and rear-panel stereo/mono switching.
- Preserving speed, bass grip, and tonal accuracy through proprietary MOON bipolar output transistors, a short signal path, and dual 1.2 kVA transformers.
- Fitting premium listening rooms with substantial build quality and multiple finish options, including Black, 2-Tone, and Silver depending on location.
MOON 860A v2 Full Specifications:
- Product type: balanced differential dual-mono power amplifier
- Number of channels/configuration: 2-channel dual-mono; balanced configuration
- Operating modes: stereo or monaural via rear-panel switch; a second identical unit is required for a stereo system in monaural operation
- Power output at 8Ω: 225 W per channel
- Power output at 4Ω: 450 W per channel
- Power output in monaural mode at 8Ω: 750 W
- Class A output: up to 5 watts
- Inputs: balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA, one or the other per channel; do not connect both simultaneously
- Input selection and matching: BAL/UNBAL input switch plus AC/DC coupling switch; DC is recommended for most preamplifiers, while AC is recommended for many older or tube preamplifiers
- Speaker outputs: 1 pair of binding posts per channel
- Control connections: RS-232 port; 12V trigger input/output (1 in / 1 out)
- Output stability: stable into any known speaker impedance
- Gain: 31 dB
- Input sensitivity: 1.2V
- Input impedance: 47,500Ω
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 110 dB at full power
- Frequency response (published): datasheet lists 10Hz–100kHz, +0/-3 dB; manual lists 10Hz–55kHz, +0/-3.0 dB
- Crosstalk at 1kHz: -110 dB
- THD (20Hz–20kHz @ 1W): 0.005%
- THD (20Hz–20kHz @ 200W): 0.03%
- Intermodulation distortion: 0.006%
- Power supply transformers: 2 x 1.2 kVA
- Power supply capacitance: 240,000 µF
- Shipping weight: 90 lb / 40 kg
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 18.75 x 7.5 x 17.5 in; metric dimensions are published as 47.6 x 19.2 x 44.5 cm in the datasheet and 47.6 x 19.1 x 44.5 cm in the manual
- Balanced pin assignment: Pin 1 = Ground, Pin 2 = Positive, Pin 3 = Negative
- Fuse replacement: 120V version uses a 10A fast blow (3AG); 230V version uses a 5A fast blow (3AG)
- Available finishes: Black, 2-Tone, and Silver; finish availability depends on location
- Included in the box: AC power cable and warranty/product registration information for USA and Canada
MOON 860A v2 Q&A:
- Is the MOON 860A v2 a stereo amplifier or a mono amplifier?
- It is a dual-mono stereo power amplifier by default, and it can also be switched to monaural mode from the rear panel. For a full stereo system in monaural operation, two identical 860A v2 amplifiers are required.
- How much power does the 860A v2 deliver?
- It is rated at 225 watts per channel into 8 ohms, 450 watts per channel into 4 ohms, and 750 watts in monaural mode at 8 ohms.
- What inputs does it offer?
- Each channel provides both a balanced XLR input and a single-ended RCA input, with a BAL/UNBAL selector to choose the active connection. Both inputs should not be connected at the same time.
- What does the AC/DC coupling switch do?
- The coupling switch helps match the amplifier to the connected preamplifier. DC is recommended for most preamplifiers, including MOON models, while AC is suggested for many older or tube preamplifiers and can help if the protection circuit detects DC on the input.
- Can the 860A v2 be used in a custom-install or automated system?
- Yes. It includes RS-232 connectivity for control and firmware updates, plus 12V trigger input and output for coordinated power control with compatible components.
- Will it work with difficult speaker loads?
- It is designed to remain stable into any known speaker impedance, and its dual-mono layout plus high damping factor are intended to improve speaker control and dynamics.
- Does it include built-in protection?
- Yes. The 860A v2 uses a self-diagnostic system that can shut the amplifier down if it detects DC at the input or overheating, with front-panel LED blink codes to indicate the issue.
- Does it need break-in time or continuous power for best performance?
- The manual says performance continues to improve during the first 300 hours of listening, and MOON recommends leaving the amplifier powered up to maintain optimal performance.
MOON 860A v2 Downloads:
MOON 860A v2 User Manual
MOON 860A v2 Comparison Chart
