Matrix Audio MS-1 Music Streamer

Matrix Audio MS‑1

Flagship high-resolution music streamer, DAC and analog preamp all in one reference-level chassis.

The Matrix Audio MS-1 is designed for the serious audiophile seeking a single, top-tier unit that handles streaming, digital-to-analog conversion and analog preamplification with full flexibility. It features a dual-mono DAC architecture, an ultra-low-jitter DPLL and external 10 MHz clock input, multiple analog inputs (including MM/MC phono) and high-performance analog outputs for use as a preamplifier. With the MS-1 you’ll experience exceptional clarity, low noise, rich dynamics and a soundstage that reveals subtle musical layers often lost in lesser digital-front-ends.

With exhaustive connectivity and internal storage expansion (NVMe SSD slot), the MS-1 is ideal for those building the ultimate stereo system with passive speakers or power amplification, and want one component to take care of everything upstream of the amp. For assistance or product questions, call 443-402-5055 or text 443-402-5064 to reach our team. All Elite Audio is an authorized Maryland dealer with a full home audio showroom.

Key Specifications

• High-performance DAC: AKM AK4191 + AK4499 chipsets in parallel, dual mono architecture. 
  
• Ultra-low-jitter clock system with DPLL and external 10 MHz input. 
  
• Analog inputs: Two pairs of line inputs (RCA & XLR) plus one pair phono input (MM/MC). 
  
• Digital inputs: USB-B, optical, coaxial, IIS-LVDS; Digital outputs: IIS-LVDS. 
  
• Network features: SFP fiber optic port + Gigabit LAN; internal NVMe SSD slot for library storage. 
  
• Format support: PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz, DSD up to DSD1024. 
  
• Dimensions & build: 430 mm width, ~353 mm depth; premium H-frame chassis construction. 
  

Top 20 Questions About Matrix Audio MS-1

What is the Matrix Audio MS-1?
The MS-1 is a flagship music streamer and DAC/preamp designed to combine streaming, conversion and analog preamplification in one high-end unit.

How does the MS-1 differ from a standard streamer or DAC?
The MS-1 includes full analog input capability (including phono), analog output preamp stage, high-end DAC architecture and flagship build quality — going far beyond a typical network streamer.

What systems benefit most from the MS-1?
High-end stereo systems with passive loudspeakers or external power amplifiers where the user wants a top-class digital/analog front-end and values peak performance and flexibility.

Does the MS-1 support vinyl turntables?
Yes — the MS-1 includes a phono input configurable for MM and MC cartridges. 

Can I use MS-1 as a DAC only and feed another pre-amp?
Yes — the MS-1 has balanced and unbalanced line outputs and can serve purely as a DAC/streamer in your system.

Does the MS-1 support external master clock input?
Yes — it accepts a 10 MHz external clock to improve timing and reduce jitter further. 

Can I install internal storage for my music library on the MS-1?
Yes — the MS-1 offers an NVMe M.2 SSD slot for internal storage of your music files. 

What digital output interfaces are available on the MS-1?
One notable output is IIS-LVDS (via HDMI form) which allows high-bandwidth connection to compatible DACs. 

What streaming services and formats does the MS-1 support?
It supports major services (Tidal, Qobuz etc.), network playback, high-res formats up to PCM 768 kHz and DSD1024. 

Does the MS-1 include analog preamp volume control?
The base MS-1 model is primarily a streamer/DAC/preamp unit; there is a “Pre” variant (MS-1 Pre) with full volume-controlled preamp functionality. 
Hi-Fi News

Will the MS-1 improve sound quality over my current setup?
If your current front-end is less qualified (higher jitter, weaker power supply, limited analog input/output), the MS-1 can provide significant gains in clarity, timing, bass control and system coherence.

Is the MS-1 compatible with my existing DAC?
Yes — it can output digital signals via IIS-LVDS, USB, coaxial or optical, and it also functions as a DAC itself. Integration depends on your downstream gear.

What kind of power supply design does the MS-1 use?
The MS-1 uses high-quality toroidal transformers (square-copper wire) with separate left and right channel supplies and premium capacitors (e.g., Mundorf series) for low noise and high transient performance. 

How large and heavy is the MS-1?
The device occupies approx 430 mm in width and ~353 mm depth; weight is substantial (~14.6 kg) reflecting the premium build. 

Does the MS-1 support Ethernet and fiber isolation?
Yes — it has a SFP fiber network port to isolate the unit from network-induced interference, plus Gigabit LAN. 

What makes the clock system in the MS-1 special?
It uses a DPLL clock synthesis circuit achieving jitter as low as ~45 fs and supports external high-precision clocking for optimal timing. 

Can I use the MS-1 with active speakers?
Yes — if you use its variable line outputs and let your active speakers act as final amplification, or connect via analog outputs to an integrated amp or power amp.

Is the MS-1 future-proof?
With internal storage expansion, high-res format support, fiber isolation, external clock input and premium build, the MS-1 is designed to remain relevant for years.

Is the MS-1 worth the investment?
For audiophiles with high-quality systems and who demand top performance from the digital front end, yes — the MS-1 delivers premium design, flexibility and sound quality. For simpler systems the gains may be more modest.

Where can I get help with the MS-1?
For assistance or product questions, call 443-402-5055 or text 443-402-5064 to reach our team at All Elite Audio, your authorized Maryland dealer with a full home-audio showroom.