MATRIX AUDIO MS-1C

Matrix Audio MS-1c represents the entry point to the brand’s prestigious M Series, combining a high-performance Hi-Fi network streamer and a reference-grade DAC within a single chassis. Designed for enthusiasts seeking uncompromising high-resolution digital playback, it inherits the design philosophy, premium build quality, and advanced technologies of the flagship models while offering a more accessible solution without sacrificing audiophile performance.

At the heart of the digital conversion stage is the latest-generation AKM VELVETSOUND architecture, pairing the AK4191 and AK4499EX chips to handle PCM audio up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD signals up to 24.58 MHz. This platform delivers an outstanding dynamic range and an exceptionally low noise floor, resulting in a detailed, refined, and natural sound presentation capable of revealing the finest musical nuances without listener fatigue, even during extended listening sessions.

Particular attention has been devoted to the analog stage, one of the most distinctive aspects of the design. Signal coupling is achieved through precision LUNDAHL audio transformers, a solution more commonly found in higher-end source components and rarely seen in this product category. This approach contributes to a rich harmonic structure, full-bodied tonal balance, and fluid musical presentation that recalls the natural character of the finest analog sources while preserving all the advantages of digital playback.

Timing accuracy is entrusted to an advanced dual femtosecond clock architecture, with dedicated clocks for the 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz frequency families. Working in conjunction with a high-speed FPGA featuring sophisticated jitter reduction and frequency management algorithms, the system minimizes phase noise and enhances digital signal reconstruction. The audible result is a wider and more open soundstage, improved instrument separation, and greater definition throughout the acoustic image.

The digital connectivity is exceptionally comprehensive, featuring optical, coaxial, and AES/EBU outputs, alongside an IIS-LVDS interface capable of transmitting PCM signals up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD up to 24.58 MHz to compatible DACs. A USB-DAC output further expands the unit’s versatility, allowing seamless integration into both straightforward audio systems and advanced high-end setups.

On the analog side, the MS-1c provides balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs with selectable output levels, enabling precise matching to downstream amplification. Its high-precision 100-step digital volume control also allows direct connection to power amplifiers or active loudspeakers, eliminating the need for a dedicated preamplifier and reducing the number of stages in the signal path.

The user experience is centered around the proprietary MA Player operating system, developed by Matrix Audio on a Linux platform. Through the MA Remote application for iOS, iPadOS, and Android, users benefit from intuitive control, responsive operation, and a refined interface. The software ecosystem offers native integration with leading high-resolution streaming services including Apple Music, TIDAL, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, and internet radio, while also supporting Roon Ready, Audirvāna, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, UPnP/DLNA, and NAA for effortless integration into virtually any modern audio environment.

A particularly valuable feature is its CD playback and archiving capability. By connecting an external USB optical drive, users can play compact discs and perform CD ripping directly to digital storage, combining the appeal of physical media with the convenience of a modern music library.

Music library management has been engineered with equal care. A dedicated NVMe SSD slot located on the underside of the chassis allows internal storage expansion and benefits from a dedicated ultra-low-noise linear power supply specifically designed for the storage module. Installed drives can be shared across the local network, and the MS-1c can also function as a music NAS, distributing content to other streamers throughout the home.

Network connectivity includes both Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6. Wired networking remains the ideal solution for high-resolution PCM and DSD playback, while Wi-Fi 6 provides a high-performance alternative when cabling is impractical, ensuring excellent stability and bandwidth.

The power supply architecture has been carefully designed to separate the digital and analog sections. A dedicated linear power supply for the analog circuitry, combined with multiple low-noise LDO regulators, provides an exceptionally clean and stable electrical foundation, enabling the DAC section to perform at its full potential.

From a mechanical perspective, the MS-1c incorporates the MA-DAMPER STD vibration-control system developed in collaboration with Audio Bastion. This internal silicone-based structure effectively absorbs external vibrations, helping preserve signal integrity and sonic accuracy. The CNC-machined aluminum chassis, available in black or silver finishes, completes a design that combines high-end audio performance, operational flexibility, and meticulous craftsmanship.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Hi-Fi network streamer with integrated DAC.
• DAC chip: AKM VELVETSOUND AK4191 + AK4499EX.
• Maximum PCM resolution: up to 32-bit / 768 kHz.
• Maximum DSD resolution: up to 1-bit / 24.58 MHz (DSD512).
• Dynamic range: 125 dB.
• Clock architecture: dual femtosecond clock dedicated to the 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz frequency families.
• Operating system: proprietary Linux-based MA Player.
• Control app: MA Remote for iOS, iPadOS, and Android.
• Certifications and compatibility: Roon Ready; AirPlay 2; TIDAL Connect; Qobuz Connect; Spotify Connect; Audirvāna; UPnP/DLNA; NAA.
• Integrated streaming services: Apple Music; TIDAL; Qobuz; HIGHRESAUDIO; internet radio.
• Digital outputs: optical; coaxial; AES/EBU (PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz, DSD 3.07 MHz via DoP).
• IIS-LVDS output: PCM from 16 to 32-bit up to 768 kHz; DSD up to 24.58 MHz.
• USB DAC output: PCM up to 32-bit / 768 kHz; DSD up to 24.58 MHz.
• Analog outputs: balanced XLR; unbalanced RCA with two selectable output levels.
• Volume control: high-precision 100-step digital volume control.
• Network connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet; Wi-Fi 6.
• Storage expansion: NVMe SSD slot with dedicated linear power supply.
• Storage functions: CD playback and ripping via external USB drive; integrated NAS functionality.
• Damping system: MA-DAMPER STD silicone isolation system, developed in collaboration with Audio Bastion.
• Chassis: CNC-machined aluminum.
• Finishes: black; silver.
• Dimensions: 430 × 196 × 315 mm (W × H × D).
• Weight: 6.47 kg.