Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro Network Switch

The SS-1 Pro is Matrix Audio’s flagship 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 a simpler version without the external clock input or the extra ports, see the SS-1.

Built for higher-speed transmission, run conservatively

The SS-1 Pro’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.

Six 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 clock system built to go further

Inside is a femtosecond clock paired with a high-precision, ultra-low phase noise RF synthesizer. In internal clock mode, the femtosecond clock references the RF synthesizer, which generates the stable, low-phase-noise signal the main controller runs from. In external clock mode, a 10MHz signal from an outboard clock – including Matrix Audio’s own SC-1 – takes over as the reference instead, with a DPLL producing the synchronised clock signal for the controller.

Linear power, silent cooling

A custom O-core toroidal transformer, high-speed Schottky diodes and close to 10,000µF of audio-grade filtering capacitance form the first stage of the power supply, with up to six ultra-low-noise LDO regulators cleaning power specifically for the clock system and the main control chip. The control chip’s heatsink is sized to work passively, with no fan and nothing to generate noise of its own.

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 Pro network switch
• Power cable
• Quick start guide
• Warranty card

Downloads

• Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro user manual