Matrix Audio MS-1 Music Streamer

Matrix Audio MS-1 Music Streamer

The Matrix Audio MS-1 series represents the brand’s flagship approach to digital source design, combining advanced streaming, reference-grade digital conversion, and flexible system integration. Designed as the source component within the M Series, both models deliver exceptional control, clarity, and neutrality, making them suitable for high-end separates systems as well as more streamlined setups.

Both the MS-1 and MS-1 Pre share the same powerful digital platform, built around the MA Player operating system and controlled via the MA Remote App. High-precision clocking using a DPLL synthesis system delivers extremely low jitter, with support for an external 10MHz reference clock for further refinement. Dual mono AKM flagship DAC chipsets, independent left and right channel layouts, and optional PCM resampling or DSD conversion allow the user to fine-tune playback character while preserving detail, timing, and tonal balance.

Where the two models differ is in output capability. The MS-1 functions as a reference streamer and DAC with fixed-level balanced analogue outputs, ideal for use with an external preamplifier. The MS-1 Pre adds a precision analogue preamp stage with resistor-array volume control and adjustable balanced and unbalanced outputs, allowing it to drive power amplifiers or active speakers directly. Both versions also include extensive digital inputs, balanced and unbalanced analogue inputs, a built-in MM and MC phono stage, IIS-LVDS output, SFP fibre networking, and support for internal NVMe SSD storage. Whether chosen as a pure digital source or as the control centre of a system, the MS-1 range offers a flexible and future-ready foundation for reference-level audio. 

Here is what Matrix Audio say about the MS-1

The all-new M series marks a milestone for Matrix Audio as it advances towards traditional Hi-Fi systems. This series includes the music streamer MS-1, the preamplifier MP-1 and the power amplifier MA-1, forming a complete flagship system of Matrix Audio that presents our understanding of Hi-Fi audio. The M series is the first lineup to adopt the new Matrix Design language, serving as a precursor to the future evolution of Matrix Audio products.

Evaluating audio products from the dimensions of "listening" and "looking" has always been our consistent philosophy. From concept to design, every step contains the love for music and the pursuit of beauty. MS-1 is Matrix Audio's brand-new flagship music streamer. Its industrial design showcases our concept of simplicity. With hundreds of circular perforations of varying sizes and depths arranged in an array on the simple hexahedron, resembling rhythmic beats dancing and emerging on the surface.

Focus On Software Experience

The source device is the soul of an audio system. Hardware contributes the body of MS-1, while software is the soul. We not only prioritize audio quality but also focus on the user experience. We simplify the human-machine interaction and emphasize music info display on the device screen. We insist on allowing you to comfortably control your entire audio system from your listening position, picking up your phone or tablet to operate it through the MA Remote App, rather than frequently getting up to touch the device. Even from the basic functions like volume change, track selection and playback to configurations such as filters, operating modes and display brightness, everything can be done on the app. This is all supported by our meticulously developed MA Player software system.

MA Player

This is a streamlined and optimized software system based on Linux. It is specially designed for Hi-Fi audio playback. Which is exclusively available for Matrix Audio's products. Today, MA Player has evolved to a new level, not only enhancing its playback performance but also introducing numerous new features, improving the interactive experience.

MA Remote App

It serves as the core tool for controlling your music streamers. By installing the MA Remote App on your iPhone, iPad or Android phone, they become the most convenient control centres, allowing you to browse and play your local music, enjoy high-resolution music from streaming platforms like SONY Select, TIDAL, Qobuz and HIGHRESAUDIO, Baidu Cloud, QQ Music, listen to exciting online radio stations. Even when music is streaming from Roon or other apps, you also can view the track information through the MA Remote App. Furthermore, the MA Remote App allows you to set every hardware configuration, completely changing the operation of an audio device.

PCM Resampling & DSD Conversion

You can let the built-in asynchronous upsampling and DSD conversion engine process all the audio data in digital stage. With asynchronous resampling and interpolation operations, jitters will be isolated and details will be improved. The DSD converter transforms all playing audio into DSD, enhancing sound density. The processing engine features adjustable PCM or DSD conversion configurations, allowing you to experience the sound differences under different settings.

IIS-LVDS Digital Output

MS-1 also works as a high-level audio transport that can output all playing audio as high-resolution signals through IIS-LVDS port. Including audio signals from analogue input and phono input. Which enables you to connect to other DACs to achieve different listening experiences.

Analog Input & Phono Input

MS-1 has two pairs of line inputs and one pair of phono input. With XLR and RCA line inputs allowing you to integrate any device with analogue output into the digital audio system. The built-in phono preamplifier supports both MM and MC modes, enabling direct connection to a vinyl turntable. All analogue audio inputs are converted to digital audio through high-precision ADC, aggregated into the digital processing unit and applied PCM filters. These signals are also allowed to output from the IIS-LVDS port.

Digital Audio Input

Equipped with comprehensive digital input ports, MS-1 can be used as a high-end DAC. With USB, optical, coaxial or IIS-LVDS digital inputs, it can be connected to computers, CD transports, set-top boxes, game consoles and other devices, allowing the audio from these devices to be output through high-quality DAC in MS-1, creating a high-quality audio experience at every aspects.

Preamplifier & Dual Balanced Output

MS-1 Pre features a built-in preamplifier and a precision resistor array volume control. The preamplifier is composed of multi-stage op-amps, which has a +10dB gain and can output audio signals up to 16VRMS. It compatible with power amplifiers or active speakers directly. Providing excellent channel consistency and distortion characteristics even at low volumes. Additionally, MS-1 Pre offers a pair of fixed-level XLR line outputs, which can be used simultaneously with the pre-out. Enables you to connect it to other recording and monitoring devices.

Dual D/A Chip Independent Channel Design

Matrix Audio's first product based on AKM D/A solution, featuring dual AK4191 and AK4499 flagship D/A chipsets. Each chipset works in parallel in mono mode. The left and right channel PCB assemblies are mounted at two sides of the device separately, to form a completely dual mono design. Aiming to a precise signal reproduction and outstanding dynamic range, you can catch every micro details of sound, deeply restoring the essence of music.

Precision Resistor Volume Control

The volume control is a critical factor affecting audio quality, ensuring lossless attenuation and consistent volume levels between channels is the prerequisite for good sound. MS-1 Pre has a built-in preamplifier which uses voltage-divider volume control by resistor array. Four high-quality volume control units composed of 64 precision resistors with 1‰ accuracy and 32 fully sealed reed relays which are switched rapidly by the MCU. This control method not only minimizes any impact on sound quality but also ensures excellent consistency between the two channels. The operation noise of the reed relays is almost inaudible even when changing volume continuously.

DPLL High Precision Clock

Clocks are the cornerstone of digital audio systems. Unlike previous Matrix Audio products, the MS-1 is equipped with a high-performance DPLL clock synthesis circuit. The ultra-low phase noise reference clock works with the DPLL circuit generates an clock signal with jitter as low as 45fs in real-time, providing a reference for the entire digital audio circuitry. If you have a higher-precision 10MHz external clock, you can connect it to the clock input port to enhance the performance of the internal audio clock.

Expandable SFP Fiber Optic Network Port

In order to isolate high-frequency interference from switches and front-end network devices, we have added an SFP interface, enabling the music streamer to connect to the local network via fiber optic cables. With the electrical isolation properties of fiber optic transmission, the electrical connection between the front-end switch and the music streamer can be completely disconnected, ensuring a purer sound. Of course, we also retain the Ethernet port for convenient connection without altering your network structure.

NVMe SSD Slot

In order to avoid the annoying experience of frequently plugging and unplugging USB drives, we reserved an NVMe SSD slot on the bottom of the chassis of MS-1. You can install an high-speed SSD as internal storage, avoid of using a 2.5" or 3.5" HDD, completely eliminating the impact of vibration and noise of HDD on sound quality. Music resources stored on the SSD can be maintained through network sharing, or copy the music files from the external storage to the internal storage through MA Remote App.

Square Copper Wire Transformer & Linear Power

Power is the start point of an audio system. We customized two high-power toroidal transformers with square copper wire for the digital and analogue sections of MS-1. Compared to traditional toroidal transformers with circular cross-section wire, square copper wire has a larger conductor surface, higher current capacity, and lower resistance, resulting in better transient response and richer low frequencies. Paired with the M-Lytic AG series filter capacitors from MUNDORF, it adds a silky smoothness and mellow to the sound. Dozens of low-noise LDOs and ultra-low-noise LDOs provide ample power supply to each circuit unit, even including the SSD, pursuing excellence at every stage.

H-Shaped Chassis Structure

The H-shaped structure is a unique design created by Matrix Audio for the M series products, born from two years of continuous optimization and improvement considering various aspects such as mechanics relationship, circuit layout, and exterior appearance. The 20mm CNC aluminium plate become the support structure of the entire device after dozens of procedures, serving as the core of the H-shaped structure. All components are mounted on the aluminium plate, and the entire weight is supported by heavy-duty feet installed on the main beam, making it solid and stable. After the panels are installed, multiple isolated cavities are formed with the main beam. Different circuit modules are properly placed in each cavity, effectively reducing interference between circuit modules. The circuit modules for the left and right channels are symmetrically arranged on both sides, creating a balanced visual impression.

Elegant Industrial Design & Refined Build Quality

The ingenious industrial design is an indispensable part of our product, flowing out the brand-new Matrix Design language from dots, lines and surfaces. Each component undergoes multiple delicate CNC machining and surface treatments, providing a exquisite and comfortable matte texture, allowing you to feel the unique craftsmanship in operation, displaying a distinctive elegant temperament.

Pure & Clear

The MS-1 has a pure sound with natural and balanced tone that remains true to music without any coloration. It accurately interprets every detail in the music with a rational and neutral attitude, providing your system with a clear source. Every detail of the M series embodies our pursuit of excellence. Everything you hear, see and touch is the final presentation by team Matrix Audio through continuous trial and fail, meticulous polishing, and careful calibration. We persevere tirelessly, striving to make things more beautiful and the sound more captivating.

Specifications

About Matrix Audio

Matrix Audio UK is a renowned audio brand established in 2009 and based in the historic city of Xi'an, China. With a strong focus on developing, producing, and selling digital Hi-Fi audio products, Matrix Audio has evolved into a leading digital audio company over the course of over a decade.

Matrix Audio has built a stellar reputation among audiophiles in China and worldwide thanks to its commitment to delivering high-quality audio DACs, audio amplifiers, and other digital audio equipment. Their success can be attributed to the expertise of their professional testers, advanced research facilities, and state-of-the-art audio analysers.

The brand name "Matrix" is inspired by the mathematical concept of balance between two dimensions: portrait and landscape. Matrix Audio applies this concept to its product development and design philosophy. They prioritise excellent sound performance and strive for aesthetically pleasing designs that seamlessly integrate into any home environment. Harmony, both in sound and design, is the ultimate goal for Matrix Audio.

Choose Matrix Audio UK at Future Shop for cutting-edge digital Hi-Fi audio products that combine exceptional sound quality with captivating design, earning them a respected brand image and loyal following among audiophiles worldwide.