Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre

Overview

The Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre is a flagship all in one digital front end that combines a high resolution network streamer, a reference grade digital to analog converter, and a full analog preamplifier stage in one chassis. It is built for the listener who wants to move from a streaming service or local library straight into a power amplifier with minimal signal path and no separate preamp box. Native streaming covers Roon Ready operation along with TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA, and AirPlay, all controlled through the MA control app.

Engineering centers on a flagship ESS DAC platform driven by a high precision femtosecond master clock, with an external clock input so the unit can be locked to the SC-1 reference clock for the lowest jitter. Format support spans high rate PCM, DSD, and MQA. True balanced circuitry feeds XLR and RCA outputs, and the analog preamplifier stage lets you regulate volume in the analog domain and connect directly to a power amplifier such as the Matrix Audio MA-1.

The MS-1 Pre suits the audiophile building a streamlined high end system who values a single, elegant source and control point. It is equally at home as the digital heart of a large reference system or as the anchor of a focused two box setup with a single power amplifier and a fine pair of loudspeakers.

Key Features

• Flagship ESS DAC platform with high precision femtosecond master clock
• Integrated analog preamplifier stage drives a power amplifier directly
• Roon Ready plus TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA, and AirPlay native streaming
• MA control app for full setup, source, and volume management
• High rate PCM, DSD, and MQA decoding support
• True balanced circuit with XLR and RCA analog outputs
• External clock input for locking to the SC-1 reference clock
• Multiple digital inputs for use as a standalone DAC and preamp hub
• Machined aluminum chassis for low resonance and clean power delivery

How the MS-1 Pre Compares

Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre vs Matrix Audio MS-1

The standard MS-1 is a flagship music streamer and DAC intended to feed a separate preamplifier or an integrated amplifier. The MS-1 Pre adds a full analog preamplifier stage so it can connect directly to a power amplifier and control volume in the analog domain. Choose the MS-1 Pre when you want to eliminate a separate preamp, or the MS-1 when your system already has a dedicated preamplifier you wish to keep. See the Matrix Audio MS-1.

Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre vs Matrix Audio MS-1c

The MS-1c is a more compact take on the Matrix streaming and DAC concept, aimed at tidy systems where space is at a premium. The MS-1 Pre is the fuller expression with its added analog preamplifier stage and direct power amp connection. Pick the MS-1c for a streamlined source into an existing amp, and the MS-1 Pre when you want source, conversion, and preamplification in one flagship chassis. See the Matrix Audio MS-1c.

Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre vs Luxman NT-07

The Luxman NT-07 is a pure network transport that outputs a digital signal to an external DAC, reflecting a classic separates philosophy. The MS-1 Pre takes a different path by integrating streaming, conversion, and preamplification into a single control point. Choose the Luxman if you already own a favored DAC and want a dedicated transport, or the MS-1 Pre for an all in one flagship digital front end. See the Luxman NT-07.

Recommended Amplification and Speakers

The MS-1 Pre already handles streaming, conversion, and preamplification, so build around a power amplifier and speakers that suit your room.

• Matrix Audio MA-1 This flagship Class AB power amplifier is the natural partner, connecting directly to the MS-1 Pre analog preamp stage for a clean two box reference system.
• Matrix Audio MD-1P A streaming integrated option for a simpler footprint, useful if you want to compare a single box path against the MS-1 Pre and MA-1 stack.
• Gauder Akustik Arcona 80 MKII SD A resolving floorstander that rewards the low jitter clocking and detail of the MS-1 Pre in medium to large rooms.
• Amphion Argon 7LX Controlled directivity and even tonal balance make this a fine match for a focused, precise digital front end.
• Spendor Classic 1/2 A warm, musical three way stand mount for those who favor a rich, room friendly presentation alongside the MS-1 Pre.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Matrix Audio MS-1 Pre?
It is a flagship network streamer, DAC, and analog preamplifier in one chassis, designed to feed a power amplifier directly.

Can the MS-1 Pre drive a power amplifier without a separate preamp?
Yes. Its analog preamplifier stage provides volume control and can connect straight to a power amplifier such as the Matrix Audio MA-1.

How is the MS-1 Pre different from the MS-1?
The MS-1 is a streamer and DAC that needs a separate preamp or integrated amp, while the MS-1 Pre adds a full analog preamplifier stage for direct power amp connection.

Is the MS-1 Pre Roon Ready?
Yes, it is Roon Ready and also supports TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA, and AirPlay.

What app controls the MS-1 Pre?
The MA control app manages setup, source selection, streaming, and volume.

What DAC platform does the MS-1 Pre use?
It uses dual AKM AK4191 and AK4499 flagship chipsets, one per channel, paired with a high precision femtosecond master clock.

Does the MS-1 Pre support DSD and MQA?
Yes, it supports high rate PCM, native DSD, and MQA.

Can I use an external clock with the MS-1 Pre?
Yes, it has an external clock input so you can lock it to the SC-1 reference clock for lower jitter.

Does the MS-1 Pre have balanced outputs?
Yes, it features a true balanced circuit with XLR outputs alongside single ended RCA.

What digital inputs does the MS-1 Pre offer?
It provides USB, optical, and coaxial inputs plus network streaming, so it can also serve as a standalone DAC and preamp hub.

Can the MS-1 Pre be used purely as a DAC?
Yes. You can feed it from digital sources and use it as a DAC and preamplifier without relying on its streaming section.

What power amplifier pairs best with the MS-1 Pre?
The Matrix Audio MA-1 flagship Class AB power amplifier is the natural partner for a matched two box system.

Would a network switch or isolator improve the MS-1 Pre?
An audio grade galvanically isolated switch or isolator such as the SS-1, SS-1 Pro, or SI-1 can lower network noise ahead of the streamer.

Does the MS-1 Pre work with local music libraries?
Yes, it can play from network shares over DLNA in addition to streaming services.

Is the MS-1 Pre suitable for large speakers?
Yes, paired with a capable power amplifier it can anchor a system with resolving floorstanders like the Gauder Akustik Arcona 80 MKII SD.

What is included in the box?
The unit ships with a power cable, remote control, wireless antenna, and a quick start guide.

Does the MS-1 Pre support high resolution streaming?
Yes, it streams high resolution content from TIDAL and Qobuz and supports high rate PCM and DSD.

How does the MS-1 Pre compare to a network transport?
A network transport outputs only a digital signal to an external DAC, while the MS-1 Pre integrates streaming, conversion, and preamplification in one unit.

What warranty does the MS-1 Pre carry?
It carries 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 genuine product, full manufacturer warranty support, and expert guidance building a complete system around the MS-1 Pre. This item is in stock.