Moonriver Audio Integrated Amplifiers

Model 404 Reference

Stereophile Class A. 50 watts of Swedish precision.

The 404 Reference builds on the runaway success of the standard Model 404 by doubling the power supply capacitance to 107,000 microfarads — 21,000 of which are dedicated solely to the discrete preamp section. The result is a deeper, more articulate soundstage with greater bass authority and low-level detail retrieval. Fitted with WBT nextgen speaker terminals and additional vibration-dampening materials, the Reference edition extracts performance that reviewers have called 'the best solid-state integrated amplifier I have ever auditioned.'

At a Glance

●50W per channel (8Ω), 70W (4Ω)

●Class A/B topology

●107,000 µF total capacitance

●Fully discrete preamp section

●5 separate power supplies

●WBT nextgen speaker terminals

●5 line inputs + tape monitor

●Optional MM/MC phono module

●Optional SPDIF or USB DAC module

●Blue ALPS motorised volume

●Solid walnut side panels

●Hand-assembled in Sweden

Key Features

107,000 µF Power Supply

Nearly double the standard 404's capacitance. Five separate power supplies with dedicated 21,000 µF for the preamp section deliver an effortless, dynamic presentation that belies the modest wattage rating.

Discrete Preamp Section

A fully discrete preamplifier design provides acute dynamic awareness and tonal richness. The shortest feasible signal path with relay-based switching ensures that nothing is added or subtracted from the music.

Modular Architecture

Two of the five line inputs can be replaced with optional phono stage (MM or MM/MC) or DAC modules (SPDIF or USB with native DSD support). Modules install without soldering — the amplifier grows with your system.

WBT nextgen Terminals

Reference-grade WBT nextgen speaker binding posts provide the most secure, low-resistance connection to your loudspeakers — a significant upgrade over the standard model.

Technologies Inside

Through-Hole Construction

Built to last. Built to be serviced.

Every Moonriver product uses through-hole components in its analog circuits — hand-soldered onto PCBs designed for the shortest possible signal paths. This traditional construction method is more labour-intensive than surface-mount, but it produces more robust joints, is easier to inspect and service, and allows components to be replaced individually decades from now.

Surface-mount technology dominates modern electronics for cost and density reasons, but Moonriver deliberately chose a different path. Through-hole components have larger solder joints that resist fatigue and thermal cycling. The PCB layouts are optimised for minimal trace length rather than maximum component density, keeping the signal path as short as physically possible. Tool-free lid removal means any qualified technician can inspect and maintain the amplifier without special equipment.

Gallery

A closer look at the Model 404 Reference.

Experience the Model 404 Reference

Visit our showroom for a personal demonstration. Hear the difference for yourself.

Book a Demo Visit Moonriver Audio

For complete specifications and technical details, visit the official Moonriver Audio website.