Matrix Audio MS-1 Music Streamer

The MS-1 is Matrix Audio’s flagship music streamer – the source component at the heart of the new M Series, alongside the MP-1 preamplifier and MA-1 power amplifier. It brings together streaming, local storage, and analogue and digital inputs in one chassis, with Matrix Audio’s distinctive perforated top panel. Where the MS-1c is the way into the M Series, the MS-1 is the fullest expression of it, built for a system where the streamer is expected to do more than just stream. For a version with a built-in preamplifier, see the MS-1P.

Sound quality

The MS-1 pairs dual AKM AK4191/AK4499EX DAC chipsets in a fully dual-mono layout, with the left and right channel boards mounted on opposite sides of the chassis rather than a single chip doing double duty. The result is a wide, stable stereo image with real separation between channels.

Timing comes from a DPLL clock synthesis circuit with jitter as low as 45 femtoseconds; for anyone chasing even more precision, an external 10MHz clock input lets a dedicated master clock take over.

Custom square-copper-wire toroidal transformers and Mundorf filter capacitors round out a power supply built to keep noise out of the signal path, giving the sound a settled, low-noise foundation to build on.

Built to fit the system, not dictate it

The MS-1 isn’t only a streamer, it’s a hub for the rest of a system. Two pairs of analogue line inputs (XLR and RCA) and a built-in MM/MC phono stage mean a turntable or other analogue source can all be folded into the same box and converted to digital for processing or output.

A fixed XLR or RCA output feeds a preamplifier or integrated amplifier, and for anyone building toward an external DAC, the high-bandwidth IIS-LVDS transport output carries the full-resolution signal, including whatever’s coming in on the analogue and phono inputs, out to a partner device. For built-in volume control instead of a fixed output, the MS-1P adds a preamplifier to the same platform.

Storage and everyday use

An NVMe SSD bay on the underside gives the MS-1 its own local library, shared across the network so it is accessible to other devices. For anyone running a fibre network, an SFP port sits alongside the standard Ethernet connection, electrically isolating the streamer from other network gear. Day-to-day control is through the MA Remote App, with Roon Ready certification and the usual streaming services covered.

Build

The MS-1 uses Matrix Audio’s H-shaped chassis structure: a 20mm CNC-machined aluminium plate forms the core support, with the left and right channel circuitry mounted symmetrically on either side in isolated cavities. It’s a heavier, more substantial build than the MS-1c, reflecting its place at the top of the M Series.

Specifications

In the box

• MS-1 streamer
• RM4B remote control
• Power cable
• User manual
• Warranty card

Downloads

• Matrix Audio MS-1 user manual