Meet the Matrix Audio TS-1
The Matrix Audio TS-1 is a network streamer, DAC and headphone amplifier gathered into one enclosure. Matrix Audio has built its reputation since 2010 as a digital source and streaming specialist, and the TS-1 shows that focus clearly. It streams from the network, decodes the file with its own converter stage, and offers analog outputs to feed the rest of your system or a pair of headphones directly. For a listener who wants a complete, capable digital front end without stacking separate boxes, this is a thoughtful place to begin.
Design and Technology
At the heart of the TS-1 sits the ESS ES9038PRO, one of the most respected converter chips in high fidelity. It handles native DSD playback and high-rate PCM, and it supports MQA. Around that DAC, Matrix Audio pairs a high-precision femtosecond master clock. That clock matters because timing accuracy in the digital domain has a direct effect on how clean and settled the music sounds. Low timing jitter helps the converter resolve fine detail and keeps the presentation stable.
On the network side the TS-1 is Roon Ready and works with TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA and AirPlay, all controlled through the Matrix Audio MA app. You can connect by Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Beyond streaming it also accepts external digital sources through coaxial, optical and USB inputs, so a CD transport or a computer can feed the same converter stage.
Outputs and Headphone Amplifier
The TS-1 provides balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs, which makes it easy to connect to a preamplifier, an integrated amplifier or active speakers. It also includes an integrated headphone amplifier, so late night listening does not require another component on the shelf. This combination of streaming, conversion and headphone drive in one chassis is what gives the TS-1 its distinct character as an all in one digital hub.
Sound and Performance Character
The ES9038PRO and femtosecond clock together aim for a clean, detailed and composed presentation. Instead of coloring the music, the goal of this design is to let the recording speak with low noise and accurate timing. Through headphones the integrated amplifier gives you an immediate way to hear that clarity, and through the balanced outputs into a larger system the TS-1 serves as a stable, high-resolution source.
Where the TS-1 Sits in the Range
Matrix Audio offers several ways to bring streaming and digital conversion into your system. The Matrix Audio ND-1 and the Matrix Audio MS-1c, the Matrix Audio MS-1 and the Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre each address the digital source in their own way, from streamer focused designs to a version with preamp functionality. The TS-1 distinguishes itself by combining network streaming, an ES9038PRO DAC and an integrated headphone amplifier in a single unit with both balanced and single-ended analog output.
If you want streaming, conversion and amplification for speakers all in one, the Matrix Audio MD-1 streaming integrated amplifier folds power amplification into the package. The compact Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4 is another all in one streamer, DAC and headphone amplifier for a smaller footprint. The TS-1 slots in as a focused source and headphone solution that expects a separate amplifier or active speakers when you want to drive passive loudspeakers.
Building a System Around the TS-1
Because the TS-1 outputs a line level signal, it needs downstream amplification for passive speakers. A natural full Matrix Audio path pairs the TS-1 with the Matrix Audio MP-1 Class A preamplifier and the Matrix Audio MA-1 Class AB power amplifier for a cohesive, high-performance chain. If you prefer fewer boxes, the Matrix Audio MD-1 can take the analog handoff and drive speakers directly.
For loudspeakers, the KLH Model Three bookshelves make a musical, easygoing match, and cabling with the AudioQuest Rocket 88 BiWire keeps the connection clean. If you are building a wider setup, the MoFi SourcePoint 10 Center Channel is another option to consider.
A Note on the Digital Chain
Streaming quality benefits from a clean network path, but remember that a switch, isolator or clock does not make sound on its own. Those pieces serve the digital chain feeding a source like the TS-1. The TS-1 already carries its own femtosecond master clock, so its timing foundation is built in.
How It Compares by Preference
Within this category AEA carries several streamers and transports that each suit a different taste. The TEAC NT-507T and the EverSolo T10 are transport oriented designs, while the EverSolo DMP-A8 Gen 2 Master Edition and the EverSolo DAC Z10 take an all in one approach with their own feature sets. The Silent Angel Rhein Z1C V2 focuses on serving and Roon core duties. The TS-1 is distinct for pairing Matrix Audio streaming and the MA app with an ES9038PRO converter, a femtosecond clock and a built in headphone amplifier in one chassis. The right choice comes down to how you want your source, DAC and headphone stages arranged.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Matrix Audio TS-1?
The Matrix Audio TS-1 is a network streamer, DAC and headphone amplifier gathered into one enclosure. Matrix Audio has built its reputation since 2010 as a digital source and streaming specialist, and the TS-1 shows that focus clearly. It streams from the network, decodes the file with its own converter stage, and offers analog outputs to feed the rest of your system or a pair of headphones directly.
How is the Matrix Audio TS-1 designed and built?
At the heart of the TS-1 sits the ESS ES9038PRO, one of the most respected converter chips in high fidelity. It handles native DSD playback and high-rate PCM, and it supports MQA. Around that DAC, Matrix Audio pairs a high-precision femtosecond master clock. That clock matters because timing accuracy in the digital domain has a direct effect on how clean and settled the music sounds.
What does the Matrix Audio TS-1 sound like?
The ES9038PRO and femtosecond clock together aim for a clean, detailed and composed presentation. Instead of coloring the music, the goal of this design is to let the recording speak with low noise and accurate timing. Through headphones the integrated amplifier gives you an immediate way to hear that clarity, and through the balanced outputs into a larger system the TS-1 serves as a stable, high-resolution source.
Where does the Matrix Audio TS-1 sit in the range?
Matrix Audio offers several ways to bring streaming and digital conversion into your system. The Matrix Audio ND-1 and the Matrix Audio MS-1c , the Matrix Audio MS-1 and the Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre each address the digital source in their own way, from streamer focused designs to a version with preamp functionality.
How does the Matrix Audio TS-1 compare to the alternatives?
Within this category AEA carries several streamers and transports that each suit a different taste. The TEAC NT-507T and the EverSolo T10 are transport oriented designs, while the EverSolo DMP-A8 Gen 2 Master Edition and the EverSolo DAC Z10 take an all in one approach with their own feature sets. The Silent Angel Rhein Z1C V2 focuses on serving and Roon core duties.
Come Listen
AEA is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer with a showroom in Timonium, Maryland. Demo units rotate and not every model is always set up, so please reach out to us to arrange a listen to the TS-1 and the components that pair with it.