Matrix Audio Element M2

The Matrix Audio Element M2 represents the evolution of the Element range, offering a comprehensive solution for demanding audiophiles. This network player combines a high-performance digital-to-analog converter, a powerful headphone amplifier, and a versatile music streamer in a compact and elegant enclosure. Featuring an LCD touchscreen, broad compatibility with streaming services, and support for high-resolution audio formats, the Element M2 stands out as a centerpiece for any modern audio system.

Sophisticated Technical Design

The Element M2 impresses with its meticulous technical design. At the heart of the device is the ESS9028PRO digital-to-analog converter, renowned for its exceptional performance. Matrix Audio has pushed the envelope by integrating a Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock, a crucial component that minimizes jitter (timing fluctuations) to ensure more precise and detailed sound reproduction.

The M2’s major technical feature lies in its dual isolated power supply design. The ARM processor (NXP i.MX 6Quad Cortex-A9) and the digital audio processing section each benefit from independent power supplies, connected via optocouplers to ensure complete electrical isolation. This separation eliminates potential interference between digital and analog circuits, significantly contributing to the purity of the audio signal.

The M2’s enclosure, measuring 280 × 259 × 58 mm and weighing 3.5 kg, exudes a sense of solidity and quality. Its understated and elegant design blends seamlessly into any audiophile environment, while the 8.79 cm (3.46-inch) LCD touchscreen provides a modern and functional visual interface.

Exceptionally Rich Connectivity

The Element M2 stands out for its versatile connectivity, offering a full range of inputs and outputs to suit virtually any usage scenario. On the digital input side, the device features a coaxial SPDIF port, a Toslink optical input, a USB-B port for computer connection, and an HDMI ARC input for receiving audio from a compatible TV.

A notable feature is the presence of an I2S input via HDMI, a digital connection format appreciated by audiophiles for its ability to transmit clock and data signals separately, thus reducing synchronization issues.

For network connectivity, the M2 offers a Gigabit Ethernet port (10/100/1000 Mbps) as well as dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz/5 GHz), providing flexibility and stability for audio streaming. A USB-C port also allows direct connection of external hard drives or USB sticks to access a local music library.

On the output side, the device is just as comprehensive, with unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR analog outputs for connection to an amplifier or active speakers. The front panel features two headphone outputs: a standard 6.35 mm jack and a balanced 4.4 mm Pentaconn output for compatible high-end headphones.

A Complete Streaming Ecosystem

The Element M2 truly shines in its ability to integrate into the modern audio ecosystem. Roon Ready compatible, it fits perfectly into this popular audiophile environment. For those who prefer other solutions, the device supports DLNA/UPnP and AirPlay 2 protocols, making it easy to stream music from various devices.

Major streaming services are directly accessible: Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify are natively integrated. Even better, Tidal Connect and Spotify Connect functionalities allow you to control playback directly from the official apps of these services, without going through the M2’s interface. Radio enthusiasts are not left out, with support for vTuner, providing access to thousands of stations worldwide.

The proprietary MA Remote app allows you to control the device remotely and access files stored on the local network (NAS, computer) or on a USB device connected directly to the M2. Format compatibility is exhaustive: MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, AAC, ALAC, APE, OGG, as well as high-resolution formats up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD512. MQA decoding is also supported, allowing you to fully enjoy Tidal Masters tracks.

An Intuitive User Experience

The Element M2’s user interface revolves around its 8.79 cm LCD touchscreen. During playback, the screen displays detailed information about the current track, including file quality, format, and sampling rate. Menu navigation and playback control are done via touch, offering an intuitive and responsive experience.

For those who prefer remote operation, the device comes with an RM4 remote control, allowing access to main functions without moving. The MA Remote app is a more comprehensive alternative, turning a smartphone or tablet into an advanced remote with access to all device features.

Initial setup is relatively simple, though entering Wi-Fi passwords can be tricky due to the small size of the virtual keyboard on the touchscreen. Once this step is completed, daily use becomes smooth and enjoyable. The device offers various customization options, such as choosing between fixed or variable output level, or automatically muting the line outputs when headphones are plugged in.

A High-Performance Headphone Amplifier

The Element M2 features a fully balanced four-channel headphone amplifier, capable of delivering substantial power: 1.8 watts at 32 ohms in balanced mode (4.4 mm output) and 1.2 watts in unbalanced mode (6.35 mm output). This power reserve allows it to efficiently drive most audiophile headphones on the market.

A technical detail to note is the relatively high output impedance: 22 ohms for the balanced 4.4 mm output and 11 ohms for the unbalanced 6.35 mm output. This characteristic makes the Element M2 particularly suitable for high-impedance headphones (100 ohms and above), while some low-impedance models may exhibit tonal variations due to the less favorable damping factor.

The balanced design of the headphone amplifier helps reduce distortion and background noise, offering detailed listening with an especially quiet background. Audiophiles will appreciate the M2’s ability to reveal the finest details in their favorite recordings while maintaining a coherent and engaging musical presentation.

Technical Specifications

User Interface

• 8.79 cm LCD touchscreen for easy use
• New touch playback controls
• Detailed track information display for network or local music

Hardware Platform

• CPU: NXP i.MX 6Quad Cortex-A9
• DAC chip: ES9028PRO
• Clock source: Crystek CCHD-950

Formats and Compatibility

• MA Player:
  • Control app: MA Remote App
  • Supported formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, AIF, AIFC, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, OGG, APE, ALAC, M4A, DSF, DFF, CUE
• Roon compatible

Streaming Services

• AirPlay 2
• DLNA / UPnP
• TIDAL Connect
• Spotify Connect
• vTuner
• Radio Paradise
• HIGHRESAUDIO

Connectivity

• Inputs:
  • Coaxial SPDIF
  • HDMI
  • I2S via HDMI
  • Optical Toslink
  • RJ45
  • USB
• Outputs:
  • 4.4 mm jack
  • 6.35 mm jack
  • RCA
  • XLR

Network Features

• LAN: 10/100/1000 Mbps
• WLAN: 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz

USB Port

• Maximum power: 5 V / 1 A
• Compatible with USB mass storage devices
• Supported file formats: FAT, FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS
• Compatibility is not guaranteed with all storage devices

Trigger Specifications

• Trigger input: DC 6-12 V < 10 mA
• Trigger output: DC 12 V / 50 mA MAX

Headphone Support

• 4.4 mm balanced headphone jack
• 4-channel balanced headphone amplifier
• Balanced circuit design for low distortion and reduced noise

Power Specifications

• Power supply voltage: AC 100 V-120 V 50/60 Hz / AC 220 V-240 V 50/60 Hz
• Standby power consumption: < 5 W
• Maximum power consumption: < 50 W

Physical Characteristics

• Weight: 3.5 kg
• Dimensions:
  • Width: 280 mm
  • Depth: 259 mm
  • Height: 58 mm

Included Accessories

• RM4 remote control: 1
• Power cable: 1
• Quick start guide: 1
• Warranty card: 1