Matrix Audio MS-1

Matrix Audio MS-1

Network streamer and dual-mono DAC without compromise – for your own preamp

The Matrix Audio MS-1 shares its chassis and its entire converter section with the MS-1 Pre, but deliberately leaves out the built-in preamp stage. If you already own a preamplifier or integrated amp with its own volume control, this is the leaner choice: a pure, unbuffered line output instead of extra circuitry sitting in the signal path.

The MS-1 uses the same first-of-its-kind AKM flagship solution as its Pre sibling: two complete DAC sections, each pairing an AK4191 digital modulator with an AK4499 converter, laid out in a strict dual-mono topology on separate boards on either side of the chassis. The result is a neutral, clean sound character with a lot of resolved detail and a soundstage that separates cleanly from the noise floor of the recording.

Digital connectivity leaves nothing to be desired: coaxial and optical, two USB-A ports plus a USB-B for computer connections, I2S-LVDS for lossless signal transfer, and a 10MHz clock input for external reference clocks. Everything is controlled through the MA Remote app; the unit is Roon Ready certified and supports AirPlay 2, Audirvana, UPnP, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz and vTuner.

Need the full feature set including a phono stage and a regulated pre-out? That's the identical MS-1 Pre. Prefer a smaller footprint instead? The MS-1c packs the same dual-mono DAC technology into a more compact chassis.

Technical Specifications