The Matrix Audio Reference Amplification approach
Matrix Audio built its name as a digital source and streaming specialist, so it is worth understanding the goal behind its Reference Amplification models. This category exists to give the brand's DAC and streamer sources a matched analog partner, one that preserves detail and stays out of the way of the music. Two models anchor the lineup, and they are designed to work as a complete stack or to be integrated into a system you already own.
The shared design language here is fully balanced circuitry, machined aluminum construction, and a clear separation of duties between amplification stages. The Matrix Audio MP-1 handles source selection and gain control, while the Matrix Audio MA-1 delivers current to your loudspeakers. Keeping preamplification and power amplification in separate chassis is a deliberate design choice that isolates the delicate low level signal stage from the demands of driving speakers.
Meet the models
Matrix Audio MP-1 Class A preamplifier
The MP-1 is a Class A analog stereo preamplifier with a fully balanced topology. Class A operation is a design choice aimed at linearity and continuity in the signal, and it sits at the heart of what this preamp is trying to achieve. It offers both balanced XLR and single ended RCA analog inputs, along with balanced XLR and single ended RCA outputs, so it connects cleanly to a wide range of sources and power amplifiers. Volume is managed by a precision electronic volume control, and the whole design lives in a machined aluminum flagship enclosure.
This is the control center of a Reference stack. Its job is to route your sources, set level with precision, and pass the signal along with as little coloration as possible.
Matrix Audio MA-1 Class AB power amplifier
The MA-1 is a two channel stereo power amplifier using a Class AB output stage with a true balanced circuit topology. Class AB is a design goal centered on delivering meaningful power with strong efficiency, which makes it a practical match for a broad range of loudspeakers. It accepts balanced XLR and single ended RCA inputs, and it drives speakers through binding post terminals. This is the muscle of the system, taking the low level signal from a preamplifier and turning it into the current your speakers need.
How the two work together
The MP-1 and MA-1 are conceived as a matched pair. The MP-1's balanced XLR outputs connect directly to the MA-1's balanced XLR inputs, keeping the signal balanced through the whole analog chain. If you are building a full Reference stack, running the connection balanced end to end lets both units operate the way they were designed to.
That said, each model is fully capable on its own terms. The MP-1 can feed a power amplifier you already own thanks to its balanced and single ended outputs, and the MA-1 can be driven by a suitable preamplifier or source through its balanced or single ended inputs.
Grouping the lineup by role
Unlike a range of numbered tiers within a single product family, these two models are not ranked against one another. They perform different functions, so the choice is less about which is higher and more about what your system needs.
- Control and source selection: the MP-1, a Class A preamplifier.
- Loudspeaker drive: the MA-1, a Class AB power amplifier.
- Complete analog stack: both together, connected balanced.
Which should you buy by scenario
You want a complete matched analog front end and power section
Choose both the MP-1 and the MA-1. This is the intended Reference pairing, with a fully balanced path from preamp output to power amp input, and it gives you a coherent stack designed to complement Matrix Audio sources.
You already have a power amplifier you like
Choose the MP-1 on its own. Its balanced and single ended outputs let it act as the control center for your existing amplifier, and the Class A preamplification stage becomes the new voice of your front end.
You already have a preamplifier or a source with volume control
Choose the MA-1 on its own. If you have a preamp with balanced or single ended outputs, or a Matrix Audio source that offers level control, the MA-1 provides the Class AB power stage to drive your loudspeakers.
You are pairing with Matrix Audio digital sources
A Reference stack is a natural home for a Matrix Audio streaming DAC. Many of the brand's MS, TS, MD, and mini-i models support Roon Ready, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA, AirPlay, and control through the MA app, and they handle MQA, DSD, and high rate PCM. Feeding the MP-1 from a balanced source output keeps the whole chain balanced into the MA-1.
Matching to your loudspeakers
Because the MA-1 is a Class AB stereo amplifier, it suits a wide range of conventional loudspeakers. The right pairing depends on your speakers' sensitivity and how much room you need to fill, so it helps to think about your specific speakers rather than a single power figure. The MP-1 pairs appropriately at the same reference level, keeping the front end and power section balanced in ambition as well as in circuitry.
Come listen in Timonium
All Elite Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer with a showroom in Timonium, Maryland. Demo units rotate and not every model is always set up, so reach out to AEA to arrange a listen and we will let you know what is currently available to audition.