Matrix Audio element M2 Music Streamer / Headphone Amplifier

Matrix Audio Element M2 Music Streamer / Headphone Amplifier

Compact high-end network streamer, DAC, and balanced headphone amplifier designed to deliver exceptional clarity, precision, and versatility for modern audiophiles.

The Matrix Audio Element M2 is engineered as a complete digital source component that merges high-resolution streaming, reference-grade D/A conversion, and powerful headphone amplification in one elegant chassis. Designed for listeners who demand high fidelity with minimal clutter, it can function as a streamer, DAC, headphone amp, and digital preamplifier — all from a single unit.

At its core, the Matrix Audio Element M2 uses the ESS ES9028PRO DAC, known for its clean, detailed sound and high dynamic range. Paired with a Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock, it delivers ultra-low jitter and exceptional time-domain accuracy. The analog output stage is fully balanced, feeding both the 4.4 mm headphone jack and XLR line outputs for the cleanest possible signal path. The built-in headphone amplifier delivers up to 1.8 W into 33 ohms (balanced), capable of driving everything from sensitive IEMs to high-impedance studio headphones with authority.

The Matrix Audio Element M2 supports Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, DLNA, and UPnP streaming over Gigabit Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi. HDMI ARC allows direct audio return from televisions, while USB Audio, coaxial, optical, and IIS-LVDS inputs ensure compatibility with all digital sources. A large color display and tactile front-panel control make operation intuitive, while the MA Remote App offers full control and playlist management.

Built for clean signal isolation, the Element M2 features separate power supplies for digital and analog circuits and precision grounding to minimize interference. With its balanced outputs, refined design, and versatile streaming capability, the Matrix Audio Element M2 serves equally well as a headphone powerhouse, desktop DAC, or centerpiece in a modern two-channel system.

Key Specifications — Matrix Audio Element M2

• DAC Chip: ESS ES9028PRO
  
• Clock System: Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond oscillator
  
• Headphone Outputs: 4.4 mm balanced, 6.35 mm unbalanced
  
• Headphone Power: 1.8 W @ 33 Ω (balanced), 1.0 W @ 300 Ω
  
• Output Impedance: <22 Ω balanced, <11 Ω unbalanced
  
• Line Outputs: Balanced XLR, single-ended RCA
  
• Digital Inputs: USB Audio, coaxial, optical, IIS-LVDS, HDMI ARC
  
• Streaming: Roon Ready, AirPlay 2, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, DLNA/UPnP
  
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz & 5 GHz)
  
• Playback Formats: PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz, DSD up to DSD512 (native and DoP), MQA decoding
  
• Display: Full-color front panel touchscreen
  
• Control: Front-panel interface, IR remote, MA Remote App
  
• Dimensions: 280 mm × 259 mm × 58 mm
  
• Weight: 3.5 kg

Top 20 Questions About Matrix Audio Element M2

What is the Matrix Audio Element M2?
The Matrix Audio Element M2 is an advanced streaming DAC and headphone amplifier that combines network playback, preamp control, and high-power headphone output in one compact chassis.

Which DAC chip is used in the Matrix Audio Element M2?
It uses the ESS ES9028PRO DAC, offering detailed, natural sound with high dynamic range and low distortion.

Can the Matrix Audio Element M2 drive power-hungry headphones?
Yes. With up to 1.8 watts into 33 ohms, it can drive most planar magnetic and high-impedance headphones with ease.

Does the Matrix Audio Element M2 support balanced headphone output?
Yes. It includes a 4.4 mm balanced headphone jack in addition to a 6.35 mm unbalanced jack.

Is the Matrix Audio Element M2 Roon Ready?
Yes. It is fully Roon Ready and integrates seamlessly with Roon for network playback.

What streaming services are compatible with the Matrix Audio Element M2?
It supports TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, and DLNA/UPnP streaming from compatible sources.

Does the Matrix Audio Element M2 support HDMI ARC?
Yes. The HDMI ARC input allows you to connect your TV for high-quality audio playback through your hi-fi system.

Can I use the Matrix Audio Element M2 as a preamplifier?
Yes. It functions as a digital preamp with both balanced and single-ended line outputs.

How does the Matrix Audio Element M2 minimize jitter?
Its Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock ensures ultra-precise digital timing and reduced phase noise.

Is Wi-Fi compatibility included?
Yes. The Matrix Audio Element M2 includes dual-band Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet for wired connections.

Does it support DSD and MQA playback?
Yes. It handles DSD up to DSD512 and decodes MQA files natively.

Can I control it without the app?
Yes. The front touchscreen and included remote provide full device control without needing the app.

Is there an analog input?
No. The Matrix Audio Element M2 focuses on digital playback but provides both analog line outputs.

What is the difference between the Matrix Audio Element M2 and Element X2?
The Element M2 is a smaller, more affordable version with slightly lower output power and an ES9028PRO DAC instead of the ES9038PRO found in the X2.

Does the Matrix Audio Element M2 support AirPlay 2?
Yes. AirPlay 2 compatibility allows easy wireless streaming from Apple devices.

What are the main digital input options?
USB Audio, coaxial, optical, IIS-LVDS, and HDMI ARC inputs are all included.

Can the Matrix Audio Element M2 be used with active speakers?
Yes. It can directly drive powered speakers through its XLR or RCA outputs.

Is the headphone output noise-free for sensitive IEMs?
Yes. The amplifier’s low noise floor and gain structure make it suitable for both high-sensitivity and high-impedance headphones.

Who can I contact for purchase help or technical questions?
For assistance or product questions, call 443-402-5055 or text 443-402-5064 to reach our team at All Elite Audio, your authorized Matrix Audio dealer in Maryland with a full home audio showroom.