Matrix Audio SS-1 Audio Grade Network Switch

Matrix Audio SS-1 Audio Grade Network Switch

The Matrix Audio SS-1 is designed from the ground up for high-quality music streaming, addressing the demands of audio systems rather than general IT networking. By combining high-speed capability with audio-specific engineering, the SS-1 operates with greater stability and lower timing error during playback, supporting consistent, reliable delivery of high-resolution streaming audio.

Connectivity is tailored for audio use. Dual 10Gbps SFP/SFP+ ports allow fibre-based isolation between noisy network hardware and sensitive hi-fi components, helping prevent unwanted electrical noise from reaching your system. Alongside this, the SS-1 includes multiple 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports and dedicated 100Mbps ports for audio devices, allowing connection speeds to be optimised for reduced transmission error. Independent, widely spaced, fully shielded Ethernet sockets and high-grade transformers further improve resistance to radio frequency interference, even when using premium network cables.

Internally, the SS-1 uses an ultra-low phase noise femtosecond clock as the reference for its main controller, delivering accurate timing without the added complexity of an RF synthesiser. Power is supplied via an internal wide-voltage supply, with the option to connect an external linear power supply through the dedicated DC input for users looking to push performance further. Finished in a solid CNC-machined aluminium chassis with adjustable isolation feet and switchable LED indicators, the SS-1 offers a considered upgrade path for anyone refining the network side of a serious streaming system. 

Here is what Matrix Audio say about the SS-1

SS-1 is an audio-grade network switch specifically designed by Matrix Audio for Hi-Fi streaming audio scenarios. Unlike traditional network switches, this product is meticulously engineered to meet the requirements of Hi-Fi audio systems. It includes comprehensive enhancements in its power system, clock system, cooling methods and component selection, all focused on ensuring the lossless transmission of high-definition streaming audio.

Our development of an audio-grade network switch with higher speeds stems from the perspective of digital circuit design. A system capable of supporting higher-speed signal transmission will inherently have a higher stability limit. This also means that the timing error in high-speed equipment is relatively lower compared to low-speed equipment. Therefore, high-speed devices performing at low speeds exhibit superior performance compared to low-speed devices transmitting at the same low speed.

Dual 10Gbps isolated ports

Two SFP/SFP+ ports with up to 10Gbps connection speed allow you to install optical fiber or RJ45 modules according to your needs. This makes it possible to connect both upstream network devices and digital audio players simultaneously through SFP ports, achieving complete electrical isolation between network devices and audio equipment via fiber optic cables. This prevents high-frequency noise or interference from network devices from being transmitted through the ground wire into the audio equipment.

Independent Ethernet sockets

SS-1 not only has multiple Ethernet ports with speeds up to 2.5Gbps, it also has two low speed ports that work at 100Mbps. The connection speed of audio devices can be reduced by connecting to these ports, to reduce the bit error that may occur during data transmission. These ports are designed with independent sockets. The wider spacing between the sockets prevents crowding when using high-end cables. Additionally, we use 10Gbps-grade independent Ethernet transformers and fully shielded Ethernet sockets. Each signal transformer is individually shielded by metal shells, enhancing resistance to radio frequency interference.

External clock input & RF Synthesizer

The clock system is critical for digital circuits, and network switches are no exception. It can be likened to a series of high-speed switches that must operate with extreme precision. Inside the SS-1 Pro, this system consists of a femtosecond clock and a high-precision ultralow phase noise RF synthesizer. The SS-1 Pro supports two clock modes: In internal clock mode, the internal femtosecond clock serves as a reference for the RF synthesizer, which then generates a highly stable, low-phase-noise clock signal for the main controller. In external clock mode, the 10MHz clock signal from an external clock acts as the reference for the RF synthesizer. The DPLL then outputs a synchronized, highly stable, low-phase-noise clock signal to the main controller. Even though the SS-1 has a simplified clock system design and does not have a RF synthesizer, it still features an ultra-low phase noise femtosecond clock as the reference for the main controller, ensuring exceptional performance.

Configurable indicator LEDs

The LED status indicators on the Ethernet ports can be turned off by pressing the setting button on the rear panel, ensuring that the LED lights do not interfere with your listening experience in dark or low-light environments.

Optional for better power supply

To ensure upgradability, the SS-1 is equipped with a DC input port, allowing you to connect an external linear power supply to unleash its potential performance. When the DC input is connected, the internal AC input will be disconnected automatically. The external linear power supply provides clean power directly to the femtosecond clock and the main controller through the internal power line noise suppression filter and four ultra-low noise LDO circuits.

Precision & flexible chassis design

The precision-machined aluminum CNC chassis incorporates Matrix Audio's new design language. With a reinforced steel base, the device is solid and stable. The device comes with four isolation feet by default, but you can change it to three easily to according to your tuning demond and placement needs.

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.