Matrix Audio MS-1

Matrix Audio MS-1 represents the culmination of Matrix Audio’s expertise in high-fidelity audio playback. This high-end network player inaugurates the brand’s new M series, setting new standards in sound quality, versatility, and design. With its symmetrical dual-mono architecture, latest-generation AKM converters, and comprehensive support for high-resolution formats, the MS-1 stands out as a benchmark for demanding audiophiles. Its ability to integrate analog sources, including turntables, and its compatibility with all major streaming services make it a true nerve center for any quality audio system.

An uncompromising audio architecture

The MS-1 marks a first for Matrix Audio with the adoption of a digital-to-analog conversion solution based on AKM chips. Each audio channel benefits from its own set of AK4191 and AK4499EX converters operating in parallel mono mode. The printed circuit boards for the left and right channels are physically separated and mounted on either side of the chassis, forming a true dual-mono design. This radical approach aims to ensure absolutely precise sound reproduction and exceptional dynamic range, capturing the finest sonic details and faithfully conveying the very essence of the music.

The sonic result is striking from the very first listen. The MS-1 delivers music with an addictive blend of detail, spaciousness, and musical flow. Its sound presentation is characterized by remarkable clarity and precision, never veering into artificiality or sterility. Listening tests reveal precise articulation, deep and powerful bass, and an ability to reveal the subtleties of musical productions or the characteristics of associated equipment.

Comprehensive connectivity for total versatility

The MS-1 stands out for its exceptional versatility in connectivity. On the digital side, it features USB-B, Toslink optical, coaxial, and I2S-LVDS inputs, allowing you to connect computers, CD transports, decoders, and game consoles. All these inputs benefit from the MS-1’s high-quality audio processing, ensuring an optimal listening experience regardless of the source.

Analog sources are equally well supported, with two pairs of line inputs (XLR and RCA) and a phono input. The latter, compatible with both MM and MC cartridges, allows you to connect a turntable directly without an external preamplifier. All analog inputs are converted to digital signal via high-precision analog-to-digital converters, then processed by the digital processing unit with PCM filters applied.

For network streaming, the MS-1 offers built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, an RJ45 Ethernet port, and even an SFP port for optical fiber. It is compatible with major streaming services such as Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, and vTuner, as well as AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP, and Roon protocols.

Exceptional hardware design

The power supply is the foundation of any audio system, and this is precisely where the MS-1 excels. Matrix Audio has custom-designed two high-power toroidal transformers, specifically dedicated to the digital and analog sections. These transformers feature square copper wire winding, an alternative to the traditional round-section wire. This design offers a larger conductive surface, higher current capacity, and reduced resistance, resulting in improved transient response and richer bass frequencies. Combined with Mundorf M-Lytic AG filter capacitors, this setup gives the sound a silky smoothness and richness.

The clock processing also reflects Matrix Audio’s attention to detail. Unlike the brand’s previous products, the MS-1 integrates a high-performance DPLL clock synthesis circuit. The ultra-low phase noise reference clock, combined with the DPLL circuit, generates a clock signal with only 45fs of real-time jitter, serving as a reference for the entire digital audio circuit. For purists, a 10 MHz external clock input allows for even further improvement of the internal audio clock’s performance.

An intuitive and comprehensive user interface

User experience has not been overlooked in the design of the MS-1. Matrix Audio has simplified human-machine interaction by focusing on displaying musical information on the device’s screen. The brand’s philosophy is to allow full control of the audio system from the listening position via a smartphone or tablet, thanks to the MA Remote app, rather than having to get up to operate the device.

The MA Remote 4.0 app offers complete control over all MS-1 features, from basic functions like volume adjustment, track selection, and playback, to more advanced settings such as filters, operating modes, and display brightness. All of this is supported by the MA Player software system, carefully developed by Matrix Audio.

Optimized storage and file management

To avoid the inconvenience of frequently plugging and unplugging USB drives, Matrix has integrated an NVMe SSD slot at the bottom of the MS-1 chassis. This slot allows you to install a high-speed SSD as internal storage, eliminating the need for traditional 2.5” or 3.5” hard drives. This approach completely removes the potential impact of hard drive vibrations and noise on sound quality.

Music files stored on the SSD can be managed via network sharing or by copying music files from external storage to the internal SSD using the MA Remote app. The MS-1 supports a wide range of audio formats, including MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, OGG, APE, ALAC, DSF, DFF, and CUE, with PCM compatibility up to 24 bit/768 kHz, native DSD up to DSD512, and full MQA decoding.

Seamless integration into a high-end audio system

The MS-1 is part of Matrix Audio’s new M series, which also includes the MP-1 preamplifier and the MA-1 power amplifier. This series marks an important milestone for Matrix Audio in its evolution toward traditional hi-fi systems. Together, they form a complete, high-end Matrix Audio system that demonstrates the brand’s deep understanding of high-fidelity audio.

The industrial design of the MS-1 illustrates Matrix Audio’s concept of simplicity. Hundreds of round holes of varying sizes and depths are arranged on a simple hexagon, evoking rhythmic beats that dance and appear on the surface. This aesthetic harmonizes perfectly with the other elements of the M series, creating a visually coherent and elegant ensemble.

Technical Specifications

Architecture and Conversion

• Symmetrical dual mono architecture
  • Dual AKM AK4499EX + AK4191 converters (1 combo per channel)
• Extended dynamic range with precise and detailed reproduction

Audio Formats

• PCM: up to 24 bit / 768 kHz
• Native DSD: up to DSD512
• MQA: full decoder supported
• Compatible file formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, AIF, AIFC, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, OGG, APE, ALAC, M4A, DSF, DFF, CUE

User Interface

• High-resolution color touchscreen
• Software interface: MA Player (Linux optimized for audio)
• Mobile app: MA Remote App 4.0
• RM4B remote control included

Signal Processing and Clock

• Signal processing:
  • Asynchronous PCM upsampling
  • Configurable DSD conversion
  • Adjustable digital filters according to source or preferences
• Clock and jitter:
  • Ultra-precise internal clock with low phase noise (jitter: 45 fs)
  • 10 MHz clock input for more precise external source

Storage

• M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe SSD slot for internal storage
• USB-A (storage) compatibility: USB 3.0, 5 V, 1.5 A
  • Supported file systems: FAT, FAT32, exFAT, NTFS
  • Compatibility with all storage media not guaranteed
• Copy from external devices via MA Remote app

Sampling Rate Compatibility

• Optical Toslink and coaxial: PCM up to 24 bit / 192 kHz
• I2S LVDS:
  • PCM up to 32 bit / 768 kHz
  • DSD DoP up to DSD256
  • Native DSD up to DSD512
• USB-B:
  • PCM up to 24 bit / 768 kHz
  • DSD DoP up to DSD256
  • Native DSD up to DSD512
  • MQA

Network Connectivity and Streaming

• Network connections:
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • RJ45 LAN port (10/100/1000 Mbps)
  • SFP fiber optic port (10/100/1000 Mbps)
• Compatible streaming services:
  • AirPlay 2
  • DLNA / UPnP
  • Roon Ready
  • Spotify Connect
  • Tidal Connect
  • Qobuz / HighResAudio
  • Internet radio: Radio Paradise, vTuner, etc.

Inputs and Outputs

• Digital inputs:
  • 1 x USB-B (PC connection)
  • 2 x USB-A (storage)
  • 1 x Optical Toslink
  • 2 x Coaxial
  • 1 x I2S LVDS via HDMI (input)
  • 1 x 10 MHz / 50 ohm external clock input
  • 1 x Trigger input (DC 6-12 V < 10 mA)
• Analog inputs:
  • 1 x balanced XLR
  • 1 x stereo RCA
  • 1 x Phono (MM / MC)
• Audio outputs:
  • 1 x stereo RCA
  • 1 x balanced XLR
  • 1 x I2S LVDS via HDMI
  • 1 x trigger output (DC 12 V / 50 mA max.)

General

Power Supply

• Dual high-power toroidal transformer
• Square copper winding for better conduction
• Mundorf M-Lytic AG capacitors
• Low-noise LDO regulators for ultra-stable power supply
• Power supply: AC 220 V-240 V, 50/60 Hz
• Maximum power consumption: < 60 W
• Standby power consumption: < 5 W

Physical Characteristics

• High-quality aluminum chassis
• Design harmonized with Matrix MP-1 and MA-1
• Dimensions: 430 x 353 x 106 mm
• Weight: 14.6 kg
• Color: silver

Box Contents

• 1 x Matrix MS-1 network player
• 1 x RM4B remote control
• 1 x power cable