Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4

Overview

The Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4 is an all in one desktop hub that unites a native network streamer, a flagship class digital to analog converter and a capable headphone amplifier in a single compact chassis. Built around an ESS ES9038PRO DAC stage and paired with a high precision femtosecond master clock, it decodes high rate PCM, DSD and MQA with low jitter and a clean, resolving character that suits nearfield listening and desktop systems.

Streaming is handled by the Matrix Audio platform and the MA control app, with Roon Ready certification plus TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA and AirPlay on board. A broad set of digital inputs lets it serve as the heart of a desk based system, while balanced and single ended analog outputs feed a preamplifier, active speakers or a power amplifier. On the front panel, balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs make it a genuine endpoint for both dynamic and demanding headphones.

It is aimed at the listener who wants one tidy device to stream, convert and drive headphones without a stack of separates. Desktop audiophiles, second system owners and anyone building around active speakers will find its combination of resolution, connectivity and app control a natural fit.

Key Features

• ESS ES9038PRO flagship DAC stage for high resolution, low distortion playback
• Native network streaming with Roon Ready, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA and AirPlay
• MA control app for library browsing, service access and settings
• High precision femtosecond master clock for low jitter conversion
• Balanced and single ended headphone outputs for dynamic and demanding cans
• Supports high rate PCM, native DSD and MQA decoding
• Balanced XLR and RCA analog outputs for flexible system integration
• Multiple digital inputs including USB, optical and coaxial
• Compact desktop chassis with color display and app or panel control

How the mini-i Pro 4 Compares

Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4 vs Matrix Audio MD-1

The MD-1 sits higher in the Matrix Audio range and builds on the same streaming platform with a more ambitious analog and clocking implementation and a larger, more display forward chassis. The mini-i Pro 4 focuses on compact desktop convenience with streamer, DAC and headphone amp in one small footprint. Step up to the MD-1 if you want the fuller reference presentation and expanded connectivity in a main system context. See the Matrix Audio MD-1.

Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4 vs Audiolab 6000A MKII

The Audiolab 6000A MKII is a traditional integrated amplifier built to drive passive floorstanders and bookshelves with generous continuous power. The mini-i Pro 4 takes a different approach as a streaming source and headphone hub that outputs to active speakers or a separate power stage. Choose the Audiolab for a conventional passive speaker system, and the Matrix for a desktop centric, headphone and streaming focused setup. See the Audiolab 6000A MKII.

Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4 vs Yamaha R-N800A

The Yamaha R-N800A is a full size network receiver with built in power amplification, phono input and room based living system features. The mini-i Pro 4 is a more compact source first device that pairs streaming and conversion with strong headphone drive. Pick the Yamaha for a living room stereo with passive speakers, and the Matrix for a desk or second system built around active speakers or headphones. See the Yamaha R-N800A.

Recommended Speakers and Source

Because the mini-i Pro 4 outputs to active speakers or a power stage and drives headphones directly, these pairings keep the system tidy and true to its desktop character.

• Klipsch The Fives II These powered speakers accept the mini-i Pro 4 analog output directly, creating a complete, compact streaming and active speaker system with no separate amplifier required.
• Cambridge Audio L/R S Active Ultra compact active speakers that suit a desktop footprint and let the mini-i Pro 4 handle streaming and conversion while the speakers provide their own amplification.
• Cambridge Audio L/R M Active A slightly larger active pair for a nearfield system, pairing cleanly with the mini-i Pro 4 balanced or single ended outputs for a neat all digital signal path.
• Matrix Audio TT-1 Transport As a dedicated digital transport it can feed a clean digital signal into the mini-i Pro 4 DAC stage, keeping the source within the Matrix Audio ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4?
It is a compact desktop device that combines a network music streamer, a flagship class DAC and a headphone amplifier in one chassis.

Which DAC chip does it use?
It is built around the ESS ES9038PRO, a flagship converter paired with a high precision femtosecond master clock.

Is it Roon Ready?
Yes. It is Roon Ready and also supports TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA and AirPlay.

Does it support MQA?
Yes, it offers full MQA decoding along with high rate PCM and native DSD.

How high in resolution can it play?
It supports high rate PCM up to 32bit / 768kHz and DSD up to DSD512.

Can I control it from an app?
Yes. The MA control app handles library browsing, streaming service access and device settings.

Does it have balanced outputs?
Yes, it provides balanced XLR and single ended RCA analog outputs for flexible system integration.

What headphone outputs does it have?
It offers both balanced and single ended headphone outputs so you can run a range of dynamic and demanding headphones.

Can it drive passive speakers directly?
No. It is designed to feed active speakers or a separate power amplifier rather than drive passive speakers on its own.

Which active speakers pair well with it?
Klipsch The Fives II and the Cambridge Audio L/R active pairs make simple, tidy systems using the mini-i Pro 4 analog outputs.

What digital inputs are provided?
It includes USB, coaxial, optical and AES/EBU digital inputs for use with computers and transports.

Can I use it with a dedicated transport?
Yes. A Matrix Audio transport such as the TT-1 can feed the mini-i Pro 4 DAC stage over a digital connection.

Does it connect over Wi-Fi or Ethernet?
It supports both wired Ethernet and Wi-Fi networking for streaming.

Is it a good desktop solution?
Yes. Its compact chassis, streaming, DAC and headphone amp make it well suited to a desk or nearfield system.

How does it compare to the MD-1?
The MD-1 sits higher in the range with a more ambitious implementation and expanded connectivity, while the mini-i Pro 4 prioritizes compact all in one convenience.

Can I connect it to a power amplifier?
Yes. Use the balanced XLR or RCA outputs to feed a separate power amplifier if you want to drive passive speakers.

Does it include a remote?
Yes, a remote control is included along with the power and USB cables and Wi-Fi antenna.

Who is it best for?
It suits desktop audiophiles, second system owners and anyone wanting one device for streaming, conversion and headphone listening.

What warranty does it carry?
It is covered by a one year parts and labor warranty from Matrix Audio for the original owner.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer in MD, so you receive a genuine unit with full warranty support and expert guidance on setup and matching.