Matrix Audio SS-1 Network Switch

The SS-1 is Matrix Audio’s audio-grade network switch – built specifically for Hi-Fi streaming rather than adapted from general-purpose networking equipment. Power supply, clock system, cooling and component selection are all treated as audio decisions rather than IT ones, aimed at getting high-definition streaming audio across the network without adding noise along the way. For more ports and a more advanced clock system with an external clock input, see the SS-1 Pro.

Built for higher-speed transmission, run conservatively

The SS-1’s ports are built to handle considerably more bandwidth than a Hi-Fi streaming setup actually needs, and that’s deliberate: a system with headroom to spare has a higher stability margin, and timing error in high-speed hardware running well within its limits tends to be lower than in equipment running flat out at a lower speed. Running fast hardware conservatively, rather than slow hardware at its limit, is the design philosophy behind the whole switch.

Ports built for isolation

Two SFP/SFP+ ports support up to 10Gbps and accept either fibre or RJ45 modules, so upstream networking gear and audio equipment can each connect through their own isolated port – with fibre in place, there’s a complete electrical break between the two, keeping high-frequency noise on the network side from reaching the audio side through a shared ground.

Four further 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports and two 100Mbps ports round out the connections; the 100Mbps ports let an audio device’s connection speed be deliberately slowed down, which can reduce bit errors during transmission. Every socket uses 10Gbps-grade Ethernet transformers, individually shielded and spaced widely enough that oversized cable connectors don’t crowd each other.

A femtosecond clock, kept simple

Rather than the SS-1 Pro’s dual-mode clock and RF synthesizer, the SS-1 runs a single ultra-low phase noise femtosecond clock as the reference for the main controller. There’s no external clock input on this model, but the same clock quality feeds every port.

Power with room to grow

The SS-1 ships with a wide-range switching power supply as standard, covering 100–240V without any manual switching. A DC input on the rear lets an external linear power supply be added later: once connected, the SS-1 automatically disconnects its internal AC supply and takes clean power from the external unit instead, feeding the femtosecond clock and main controller through an internal noise suppression filter and four ultra-low-noise LDO regulators.

Build

The CNC-machined aluminium chassis sits on a reinforced steel base for stability, on four isolation feet by default – removable down to three, depending on placement and how the unit sits on a shelf or rack. Status LEDs on every port can be switched off from a button on the rear panel, for anyone who doesn’t want the light in a dark listening room.

Specifications

In the box

• SS-1 network switch
• Power cable
• Quick start guide
• Warranty card

Downloads

• Matrix Audio SS-1 user manual