Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro

Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro represents a new generation of network switches specifically designed for high-fidelity audio systems. Far from being a simple Ethernet switch, this meticulously crafted device aims to optimize the transmission of digital audio data by eliminating interference, reducing electrical noise, and ensuring perfect signal synchronization. With its carefully filtered linear power supply, femtosecond clock system, and specialized ports, the SS-1 Pro is intended for audiophiles seeking to extract the very best from their music streaming platforms.

A High-Fidelity-Oriented Design

The philosophy behind the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro is based on a fundamental principle of digital electronics: a system capable of handling high-speed transmissions inherently has a higher stability limit. This counterintuitive approach means that equipment designed to operate at high speeds exhibits fewer synchronization errors when running at lower speeds.

The SS-1 Pro leverages this principle by integrating components capable of handling data rates up to 10 Gbps, even though most audio streams require only a fraction of this bandwidth. This performance margin results in more stable and precise audio data transmission, with less jitter (timing fluctuations) and fewer bit errors that can subtly degrade sound quality.

Every aspect of the SS-1 Pro has been rethought compared to conventional network switches: the power supply system, clock system, cooling methods, and component selection have all been optimized to ensure lossless transmission of high-definition audio streams.

Connectivity and Specialized Ports

The SS-1 Pro offers exceptionally versatile connectivity with special attention to the specific needs of audio systems. Its rear panel features a carefully designed layout with several types of ports:

Two SFP/SFP+ 10 Gbps ports allow you to install fiber optic or RJ45 modules as needed. This flexibility is particularly valuable as it enables complete electrical isolation between your network devices and your audio equipment via fiber optic cables. This isolation effectively prevents the transmission of high-frequency noise or interference from network devices to audio equipment through grounding cables.

Six RJ45 Ethernet ports supporting speeds up to 2.5 Gbps provide standard connectivity for most devices. But what truly sets the SS-1 Pro apart are its two dedicated ports operating at 100 Mbps. These low-speed ports are specifically designed for audio devices, as reducing connection speed can decrease bit errors during data transmission.

A telling detail of the attention paid to audiophile needs: these ports are designed with independent jacks and wider spacing between them. This design prevents crowding when using high-end cables, which are often thicker than standard Ethernet cables. Additionally, each signal transformer is individually shielded with metal casings, enhancing resistance to radio frequency interference.

The Precision Clock System

At the heart of the SS-1 Pro is a sophisticated clock system, a crucial element for any digital circuit. In a network switch, this system can be compared to a conductor who must coordinate a series of high-speed switches with extreme precision.

The SS-1 Pro features a femtosecond clock (precision on the order of 10^-15 seconds) coupled with a high-precision, ultra-low phase noise RF synthesizer. This configuration allows for two operating modes:

In internal clock mode, the femtosecond clock serves as a reference for the RF synthesizer, which then generates an extremely stable, low phase noise clock signal for the main controller.

In external clock mode, a 10 MHz clock signal from an external clock (via the dedicated BNC input) serves as a reference for the RF synthesizer. The DPLL (Digital Phase-Locked Loop) then outputs a synchronized, highly stable, low phase noise clock signal for the main controller.

This advanced architecture minimizes jitter (tiny timing variations) that can affect the accuracy of downstream digital-to-analog conversion, thus contributing to more faithful and natural sound reproduction.

Power Supply and Noise Filtering

The power supply is often the weak link in digital devices, especially in audio applications where the slightest disturbances can result in audible degradation. The SS-1 Pro takes a no-compromise approach with a high-quality linear power supply.

A custom O-core toroidal transformer, combined with high-speed Schottky diodes and nearly 10,000 µF of audio-grade filtering capacitors, forms the first stage of the power supply. Up to six ultra-low noise LDO (Low-Drop Out) voltage regulators provide clean power to the clock system and main control chip.

For heat dissipation, Matrix Audio has chosen a large passive heatsink for the main control chip, ensuring silent operation without a fan that could introduce vibrations or acoustic noise.

The status LED indicators can be turned off by pressing the adjustment button on the rear panel, ensuring that lights do not disturb your listening experience in dark or dimly lit environments.

SS-1 vs SS-1 Pro: Understanding the Differences

Matrix Audio offers two models in this range: the standard SS-1 and the high-end SS-1 Pro. While sharing the same design philosophy, these two devices have notable differences that justify their positioning.

The standard SS-1 uses a wide-range switching power supply, while the SS-1 Pro features a linear power supply with a toroidal transformer. To compensate, the SS-1 is equipped with a DC input allowing you to connect an external linear power supply to unlock its performance potential.

In terms of the clock system, the SS-1 Pro has a femtosecond clock coupled with an RF synthesizer and a 10 MHz external clock input. The standard SS-1, although equipped with a simplified clock system without an RF synthesizer, still features a femtosecond clock with ultra-low phase noise as a reference for the main controller.

Listening tests reported by expert audiophiles suggest that the difference between the two models is subtle but noticeable on a high-quality system. The SS-1 Pro notably offers a bit more body and fluidity, with better definition of micro-details and increased dynamics.

Technical Specifications

• High throughput for better stability
• Digitally designed for high-speed performance
• Fewer synchronization errors than with low-speed equipment
• Enhanced performance even at reduced transmission speeds

Connectivity

• SFP / SFP+ 10 Gbit/s ports
  • Two SFP / SFP+ ports for fiber or RJ45 modules
  • Complete electrical isolation via optical cables
  • Reduces high-frequency noise transmitted to audio equipment
• Ports and connectors
  • 2x RJ45 100 Mbit/s / 10 Mbit/s
  • 6x RJ45 2.5 Gbit/s / 1 Gbit/s / 100 Mbit/s / 10 Mbit/s
  • 2x 10 Gbit/s SFP / SFP+

Physical Design

• CNC chassis
  • Precision-machined aluminum, reinforced steel base
  • Enhanced mechanical stability
  • Default isolation feet (4), can be mounted on 3 points

Clock Management

• Internal femtosecond clock + RF synthesizer
  • Internal mode: internal clock as synthesizer reference
  • External mode: external 10 MHz clock as reference
• External clock input
  • Exclusive to SS-1 Pro
  • 10 MHz / 50 Ω impedance / sine or square wave input

Standards and Protocols

• IEEE 802.3: 10BASE-T
• IEEE 802.3u: 100BASE-X
• IEEE 802.3z: 1000BASE-T
• IEEE 802.3ab: 1000BASE-T
• IEEE 802.3ae: 10G BASE-SR / LR
• IEEE 802.3bz: 2.5 Gbit/s / 5 Gbit/s BASE-T
• IEEE 802.3cb: 2500BASE-X

LED Indicators

• 1x LED – power / status
• 2x LED – clock mode (SS-1 Pro only)
• Each LAN port has 2 LEDs: speed, link, and activity

Technical Specifications

• MAC address table: up to 16K entries

Power Supply

• Power type: linear power supply with automatic voltage range
• Power supply voltage: AC 100 V-120 V 50/60 Hz / AC 220 V-240 V 50/60 Hz
  • Auto-adaptive voltage
• Power consumption: < 15 W