Matrix Audio MS-1c Music Streamer
Usage Guide
Amplifier
Computers
DAC
Streamers
Connection Guide
AES/EBU
XLR Pair
USB Type A
Toslink Optical
RCA Single
RCA Pair
IEC 10A
HDMI Standard
Ethernet Plug
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Item code: MS-1c
Inc. VAT (20%) · Ex. VAT: £4,162.50 Ex. VAT · Inc. VAT (20%):
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If you've seen a better offer for this product, we will endeavour to match it. The competing offer must be on brand-new boxed items, and in stock from another UK Online Authorised Retailer (excluding marketplaces). Price match quotations are valid for 7 days.
SPEAKER CABLES:
A quantity of 2 means you will receive a pair of speaker cables e.g. for your front left and front right speakers. By entering a quantity of 1, you will get a cable for a single speaker e.g. centre speaker and this option also enables you to vary the length (and termination) of your cable for each speaker.
OTHER CABLES:
A quantity of 1 means you will receive a single cable in the case of aerial, satellite, subwoofer, digital coaxial & optical cables and a pair of cables in the case of 2 rca to 2 rca analogue audio cables.
NON-CABLE PRODUCTS:
A quantity of 1 means you will receive 1 of the specified products.
Order before 4pm (Mon–Fri) for same-day dispatch
Matrix Audio MS-1c Music Streamer
The Matrix Audio MS-1c is the entry point into the M Series, and it is built around the flagship AKM VELVETSOUND DAC solution combining the AK4191 and AK4499EX chips. Supporting PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to 1-bit/24.58MHz with a dynamic range of up to 125dB, the technical foundation is serious. A dual femtosecond clock architecture, supported by a high-speed FPGA with jitter reduction, keeps timing precise and the noise floor exceptionally low, translating directly into improved texture, airiness, and a more composed presentation across the full frequency range.
Where the MS-1c truly distinguishes itself is in the analogue stage, which uses Swedish LUNDAHL precision transformers for signal coupling. The result is a warm, smooth, and full-bodied character that feels natural and engaging rather than clinical or fatiguing. Both XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced outputs are included with selectable output levels for careful matching to any amplifier or active speaker, and a 100-step digital volume control means it can drive a power amplifier directly without the need for a preamplifier in the chain.
As a streaming platform it is equally well equipped, supporting Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, and Apple Music natively, with gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6 handling connectivity. Local library storage is covered via an NVMe SSD slot, and the unit can serve music to other streamers on the network. Separate power supplies for digital and analogue circuits, with a dedicated linear supply for the analogue stage, ensure the clean, stable foundation that the rest of the design deserves.
Here is what Matrix Audio say about the Ms-1c
As the newest entry-level model in Matrix Audio’s flagship M Series, with sound quality as its top priority, the MS-1c is a premium pure audio source designed for audiophiles. Powered by Matrix Audio’s in-house MA Player Hi-Fi Streamer OS based on Linux, the MS-1c inherits the meticulous hardware design and the philosophy of harmonizing exceptional aesthetics and superior sound quality of the M Series.
MS-1c integrates both analog and digital outputs. Featuring a built-in high-quality DAC, it delivers both refined detail and a warm, musical character, while also supporting external DAC expansion for greater flexibility. It is an ideal choice for entry audiophiles exploring high-quality digital sources, as well as for advanced users looking to upgrade their system or experience streaming audio.
Exceptional Sound
Built upon Matrix Audio’s signature high-resolution digital architecture, the MS-1c incorporates an analog-inspired toning philosophy. Its analog stage features renowned Swedish LUNDAHL precision audio transformers for signal coupling, delivering a warm, smooth, and full-bodied sound signature. The result is a richly detailed yet fatigue-free listening experience.
Flagship DAC Core
The MS-1c is equipped with the flagship AKM VELVETSOUND™ DAC solution, combining the AK4191 and AK4499EX chips. It supports PCM up to 32 Bit/768kHz and DSD up to 1 Bit/24.58MHz, achieving a dynamic range of up to 125dB, ultra-high SNR, and an exceptionally low noise floor. No matter high-resolution and analog-like musicality, every micro detail of the music is reproduced with ease.
Greater Precision
The MS-1c employs dual femtosecond clock architecture. Two custom femtosecond clocks provide references for 44.1kHz and 48kHz based sampling rates. Combined with a high-speed FPGA featuring frequency division and jitter reduction algorithms, this design significantly minimizes phase noise and improves data reconstruction accuracy—resulting in enhanced airiness and texture.
Dual Analog Outputs
The MS-1c features both XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced analog outputs, with two selectable output level settings. Users can match the output levels to the input sensitivity of power amplifiers or active speakers, ensuring optimal gain structure and avoiding distortion or dynamic loss. Additionally, it offers high-precision digital volume control with 100-step attenuation, allowing for direct connection to power amplifiers or active speakers.
CD Ripping & Playback
By connecting an external USB CD drive, users can enjoy CD playback and easily rip CDs into digital files. Like creating a digital copy of a precious CD, perfectly blending the high-quality audio of a CD with the flexible management of a streamer. It allows you to enjoy the unique ritual of CD playback while breaking through the limitations of the physical medium of a CD, playing music anytime via the MS-1c, making music a truly ubiquitous and beautiful companion in your life.
Flexible Storage Expansion
An NVMe SSD slot on the bottom allows easy storage expansion. A specially designed ultra-low-noise independent power supply ensures a clean environment for the SSD—far superior to regular computer implementations. The internal storage is accessible over the local network, making library management simple. The device can also function as a NAS, serving music to other streamers on the network.
Seamless Networking
Supports both wired Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. The gigabit Ethernet offers the most stable performance for high-resolution PCM and DSD playback. When cabling is inconvenient, Wi-Fi 6 provides a flexible and convenient alternative for high-quality streaming.
Robust Power Design
The MS-1c features a carefully engineered architecture of power with separate supplies for digital and analog circuits. A dedicated linear power supply for analog stages, combined with multiple LDO regulators, minimizes ripple and noise, ensuring a clean and stable power foundation for superior sound performance.
Specifications
Outputs
Digital:
- OPTICAL, COAXIAL, AES/EBU
- PCM 16-24Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz
- DSD 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz (DoP)
- IIS LVDS
-
- PCM 16-32Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz
- DSD 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz, 5.64MHz, 6.14MHz, 11.29MHz, 12.29MHz, 22.58MHz, 24.58MHz
- USB DAC
- Maximum support up to PCM 32Bit/768kHz and DSD 24.58MHz (dependent on connected USB DAC device specifications)
- USB DAC port provides a maximum 5V/1A low-noise power supply
Analog:
- XLR
-
- Output Impedance: 20Ω
- Output Level: 4.5VRMS / 0~4.5VRMS Adjustable
- SNR: >126dB A-weighting
- THD+N: <0.02% @ 1kHz
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.1 / -3dB @ 83kHz
- Crosstalk: >-130dB
- RCA
- Output Impedance: 20Ω
- Output Level: 2.25VRMS / 0~2.25VRMS Adjustable
- SNR: >123dB A-weighting
- THD+N: <0.02% @ 1kHz
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.3 / -3dB @ 83kHz
- Crosstalk: >-130dB
Network
- LAN — 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Wi-Fi — 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz
USB
- USB 3.0
-
- Provides a maximum power of 5V/1A
- Compatible with USB mass storage standard devices
- Supported file formats: FAT, FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS
- Compatibility with all storage devices is not guaranteed
MA player
- Controller app — MA Remote App
- Local Playback
-
- Formats Supported: MP3, WMA, WAV, AIF, AIFC, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, OGG, APE, ALAC, M4A, DSF, DFF, CUE, ISO
- PCM: 16-24Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz
- DSD: 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz, 5.64MHz, 6.14MHz, 11.29MHz, 12.29MHz, 22.58MHz, 24.58MHz
- Roon Ready
- PCM: 16-24Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz
- DSD: 2.82MHz, 5.64MHz, 11.29MHz, 22.58MHz
- Apple Music — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- AirPlay 2 — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- DLNA/UPnP — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- TIDAL Connect — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- Spotify Connect — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- Qobuz Connect — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- vTuner — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- Radio Paradise — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
Trigger
- Trigger In - DC 6-12V / <10mA
- Trigger Out - DC 12V / 50mA MAX
Storage Extension
- Weight - 6.5kg (14.33 lbs)
- Dimensions
- Width: 430mm (16.93 inches)
- Depth: 315mm (12.40 inches)
- Height: 96mm (3.78 inches)
Accessories
- Power Cable x1
- IR Remote x1
- Printed Material x1
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.
About Matrix Audio
Chinese maker of DACs, streamers and amplifiers, with its own playback software and companion app.
Matrix Audio makes DACs, headphone amplifiers, USB audio interfaces, streaming DACs, power amplifiers and music streamers. It also makes network switches, clock sources and isolators for digital audio systems, along with cables and accessories. The brand was registered in Xi'an, China, and sells through partners in dozens of countries.
Read more about Matrix Show less
Streaming sits alongside the DACs
Matrix makes plain DACs as well as network-connected units. The mini-i and X-SABRE are DAC lines, while the Element series combines a streaming DAC with a network connection. That means you can choose between a simple converter and a streamer, depending on how you play your music.
Software that runs on the hardware
The MA Player system is a Linux-based high-resolution playback platform, and the MA Remote app controls it from Android, iOS and iPadOS devices. Because the software is Matrix's own, you control the streamer from the same app whichever model you choose.
Digital accessories for your network
Matrix also lists the SU-1 USB isolation switcher, the SI-1 network isolator and the SS-1 Pro network switch, plus clock sources. These are for digital systems where you want to tidy up the path between the network, the streamer and the DAC.
Why we stock Matrix
Matrix build complete units. You get the feature set you would normally find several price brackets higher: full connectivity, proper implementation, no obvious corners cut. If you want one box to do the job rather than three that each do a part of it, the value is hard to argue with.
Outputs
Digital:
- OPTICAL, COAXIAL, AES/EBU
- PCM 16-24Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz
- DSD 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz (DoP)
- IIS LVDS
-
- PCM 16-32Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz
- DSD 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz, 5.64MHz, 6.14MHz, 11.29MHz, 12.29MHz, 22.58MHz, 24.58MHz
- USB DAC
- Maximum support up to PCM 32Bit/768kHz and DSD 24.58MHz (dependent on connected USB DAC device specifications)
- USB DAC port provides a maximum 5V/1A low-noise power supply
Analog:
- XLR
-
- Output Impedance: 20Ω
- Output Level: 4.5VRMS / 0~4.5VRMS Adjustable
- SNR: >126dB A-weighting
- THD+N: <0.02% @ 1kHz
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.1 / -3dB @ 83kHz
- Crosstalk: >-130dB
- RCA
- Output Impedance: 20Ω
- Output Level: 2.25VRMS / 0~2.25VRMS Adjustable
- SNR: >123dB A-weighting
- THD+N: <0.02% @ 1kHz
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.3 / -3dB @ 83kHz
- Crosstalk: >-130dB
Network
- LAN — 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Wi-Fi — 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz
USB
- USB 3.0
-
- Provides a maximum power of 5V/1A
- Compatible with USB mass storage standard devices
- Supported file formats: FAT, FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS
- Compatibility with all storage devices is not guaranteed
MA player
- Controller app — MA Remote App
- Local Playback
-
- Formats Supported: MP3, WMA, WAV, AIF, AIFC, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, OGG, APE, ALAC, M4A, DSF, DFF, CUE, ISO
- PCM: 16-24Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz
- DSD: 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz, 5.64MHz, 6.14MHz, 11.29MHz, 12.29MHz, 22.58MHz, 24.58MHz
- Roon Ready
- PCM: 16-24Bit / 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz
- DSD: 2.82MHz, 5.64MHz, 11.29MHz, 22.58MHz
- Apple Music — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- AirPlay 2 — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- DLNA/UPnP — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- TIDAL Connect — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- Spotify Connect — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- Qobuz Connect — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- vTuner — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
- Radio Paradise — Audio specifications depend on the service provider
Trigger
- Trigger In - DC 6-12V / <10mA
- Trigger Out - DC 12V / 50mA MAX
Storage Extension
- Weight - 6.5kg (14.33 lbs)
- Dimensions
- Width: 430mm (16.93 inches)
- Depth: 315mm (12.40 inches)
- Height: 96mm (3.78 inches)
Accessories
- Power Cable x1
- IR Remote x1
- Printed Material x1
We use Royal Mail 1st Class services for our Standard Delivery.
Orders received before 4.30 pm Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same day by FIRST CLASS post (unless premium postal or timed courier services are selected), subject to stock availability. This does not apply to custom-length cables and speaker cables as these require a longer timescale to terminate. This also excludes all cables selected for the burn-in service. Please note, we do not process orders on national holidays in the UK. Over 98% of our orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays.
Standard delivery is usually within 2 working days, although 98% of all orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays. In extreme cases, such as delivery to the Highlands and Islands, this may take 3 days.
All items are fully insured and come with an invoice from Future Shop. We use the Royal Mail for delivery of small packages and DPD Local or DHL for items that weigh over 2KG. Items over 2KG are fully insured and will usually be delivered within 48 hours of placing your order subject to stock availability. For international orders, we use FedEx or DHL services where customers have selected this option.








Please note, special orders for non-standard cable lengths may be subject to longer deliver time-scales. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
We offer 'Free delivery on orders over £99' subject to the following terms & conditions:
- Applies only to orders with £99 or more of items (including VAT at the UK rate), at Future Shop
- Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK (excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL).
- Applies only to deliveries to addresses within mainland UK and Northern Ireland addresses. Applies only to orders that are to be delivered to a single Mainland UK delivery address.
- You will not be eligible for free delivery on your order if any items are cancelled or returned for a refund, bringing the total order amount below £99. Where items are returned, the refund due will be the cost of the item less any postage costs.
- We reserve the right to change or discontinue 'Free delivery on orders over £99 promotion at any time.
- FREE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £99 OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO TRADE CUSTOMERS.
UK Postal & Delivery Charges - FIRST CLASS
Free UK delivery on all orders over £99*
| Weight | Price (FIRST CLASS UK POSTAGE) |
| 0g - 1000g | £3.95 |
| 1000g - 1400g | £4.95 |
| 1400g - 1800g | £5.95 |
| 1800g - 2000g | £6.95 |
| 2000g - 3000g | £8.95 |
* Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK.
Free Delivery for orders over £99 excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL.
Special Delivery UK - Guaranteed Next Working Day
We have 99.9% of the UK covered With Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery. We guarantee delivery to most UK addresses by 1pm the next working day. This includes Northern Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey. Some places take longer to deliver to but we still guarantee delivery within three working days by 5.30 PM.
Please note, Royal Mail Special Delivery for next working day may not be possible where non-standard cable lengths are ordered. If this is the case, the item will be shipped via The Royal Mail Special Delivery service as soon as the cable is custom made.
For orders weighing over 2KG, we reserve the right to ship items using Next Day Pre-Noon Courier Services where Royal Mail Special Delivery option has been selected.
Channel Islands & Northern Ireland
We accept orders from all Channel Islands including Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. Unless you select a premium service, Items weighing under 2KG are delivered using our standard UK delivery option above. For items weighing over 2KG, a surcharge may be applied for all deliveries to the Channel Islands as well as Northern Ireland.
European Countries
Deliveries to EU member states are not subject to 20% VAT after December 31st 2020 and therefore the 20% VAT on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
The customer will be liable for the VAT at the local VAT rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee if applicable. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 3 to 5 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7-10 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Economy - Item are usually delivered within 48 to 72 hours
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Worldwide - Excluding UK & Europe
Deliveries outside of the UK are not subject to 20% VAT and so the 20% tax on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
If applicable, the customer will be liable for the taxes at the local tax rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7 to 10 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 15 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability
- Where the actual weight of the package significantly exceeds the shipping cost charged on orders, we may write to you for an additional shipping charge. For larger orders, items may be shipped in multiple packets at our discretion
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.