Matrix Audio ND-1

Overview

The Matrix Audio ND-1 is a Digital-to-Analog Converter designed to serve as the digital heart of a high-fidelity system. It combines a reference-grade AKM DAC stage with a wide set of digital inputs, giving you a single component that receives music from external transports, streamers, and computers, then converts it to a clean analog signal for your preamplifier or integrated amplifier. It reflects Matrix Audio's focus as a specialist in digital source and streaming components, with attention paid to clocking, isolation, and signal integrity throughout the chain.

Engineering centers on an AKM AK4191EQ modulator feeding two AK4499EX converters, one per channel, supported by a high-precision femtosecond master clock that reduces jitter and helps the conversion stage resolve fine detail and spatial cues. A 10 MHz external clock input lets it lock to a reference such as the Matrix SC-1. The ND-1 handles high-rate PCM and native or DoP DSD, and offers an unusually wide set of digital inputs so streamers, transports, and computers can all take advantage of its conversion and clocking.

The ND-1 is for the listener who wants a reference converter at the center of a system, ready to feed a separate amplifier or an active system. It suits those building around Matrix Audio electronics as well as anyone who already owns a streamer or transport and wants conversion and clocking handled by a dedicated component.

Key Features

• Dedicated reference DAC for a clean digital front end
• AKM AK4191EQ modulator with two AK4499EX converters, one per channel
• High-precision femtosecond master clock for reduced jitter
• 10 MHz external clock input for locking to a reference clock
• Managed through the Matrix Audio MA control app
• High-rate PCM with native and DoP DSD support
• Multiple digital inputs for external transports and computers
• Balanced and single-ended analog outputs for flexible system integration

How the ND-1 Compares

Matrix Audio ND-1 vs Matrix Audio MS-1c

The MS-1c sits higher in the Matrix Audio range and adds network streaming on top of its conversion, so it works as a complete front end on its own. The ND-1 is conversion only and needs a source. Choose the MS-1c if you want streaming built in, or the ND-1 if you already have a streamer and want a dedicated converter. See the Matrix Audio MS-1c.

Matrix Audio ND-1 vs Matrix Audio TS-1

The TS-1 adds a headphone amplifier alongside its streaming and DAC functions, making it a natural desktop or headphone-first solution. The ND-1 concentrates on feeding a separate amplifier and system. Pick the TS-1 if headphones are central, or the ND-1 if you are building around loudspeakers. See the Matrix Audio TS-1.

Matrix Audio ND-1 vs Audiolab 9000N

The Audiolab 9000N is a network streamer with its own sonic character and interface philosophy, and it streams on its own. The Matrix Audio ND-1 is a converter only, leaning on its AKM conversion and femtosecond clocking, so it needs a streamer or transport in front of it. Choose the 9000N for a complete one-box front end, or the ND-1 to upgrade conversion in a system that already streams. See the Audiolab 9000N.

Recommended Amplification and Speakers

The ND-1 is a source and DAC, so it needs amplification and speakers to complete the system. These Matrix Audio electronics and catalog speakers build a coherent chain around it.

• Matrix Audio MP-1 Preamplifier This Class A flagship preamplifier takes the ND-1 analog output and provides refined gain and control, keeping the chain within a single design language.
• Matrix Audio MA-1 Power Amplifier The MA-1 Class AB power amplifier pairs with the MP-1 to drive demanding speakers with authority, forming a full Matrix Audio separates system around the ND-1.
• Matrix Audio MD-1 Streaming Integrated For a simpler build, the MD-1 streaming integrated amplifier offers a compact single-box amplification path that complements the ND-1 within the same brand.
• Amphion Argon 1 These precise standmount speakers reveal the ND-1 resolution and clocking benefits in a nearfield or smaller room.
• Gauder Akustik Capello 40 For larger rooms and full-range ambitions, these floorstanders scale up the system and make the most of the MA-1 and MP-1 pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Matrix Audio ND-1?
It is a reference digital-to-analog converter that takes digital sources such as a streamer, transport, or computer and converts them to analog for a separate amplifier or integrated amplifier.

Does the ND-1 stream on its own?
No. The ND-1 is a converter with no network connection, so it is not Roon Ready and has no onboard services. Feed it from a streamer such as the Matrix MS-1c or TT-1 and you get Roon and the streaming services through that.

What DAC stage does the ND-1 use?
It uses an AKM AK4191EQ modulator feeding two AK4499EX converters, one per channel, in a fully balanced configuration.

Does the ND-1 support DSD?
Yes, it supports high-rate PCM and DSD in both native and DoP form. It does not do MQA.

How do I control the ND-1?
You control it through the Matrix Audio MA control app, along with the supplied remote.

Does the ND-1 have a headphone output?
The ND-1 is focused on network DAC duties feeding a system. If you want an integrated headphone amplifier, consider the Matrix Audio TS-1.

What analog outputs does the ND-1 have?
It provides balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs for flexible system integration.

Can I connect an external transport to the ND-1?
Yes, it offers digital inputs so external transports and computers can use its conversion and clocking.

Why does clocking matter in the ND-1?
A high-precision femtosecond master clock reduces jitter, which helps the DAC resolve fine detail and spatial cues.

What amplifier should I pair with the ND-1?
The Matrix Audio MP-1 preamplifier with the MA-1 power amplifier, or an MD streaming integrated, keeps the system within one design language.

Which speakers work well with an ND-1 system?
The Amphion Argon 1 suits smaller rooms while the Gauder Akustik Capello 40 scales the system up for larger spaces.

How does the ND-1 compare to the MS-1c?
The MS-1c sits higher in the range and adds network streaming, while the ND-1 is a conversion-only component for a system that already has a source.

How does the ND-1 compare to the TS-1?
The TS-1 adds a headphone amplifier for desktop or headphone-first use, while the ND-1 concentrates on feeding a separate amplifier for a loudspeaker system.

Do I need a separate streamer to use it?
Yes, if you want network playback. The ND-1 converts whatever you feed its digital inputs, so pair it with a streamer, a transport, or a computer over USB.

Can I use the ND-1 with active speakers?
Yes, its balanced and single-ended outputs can feed active speakers or a preamplifier ahead of a power amplifier.

Does the ND-1 support high-resolution files?
Yes, it handles high-rate PCM and DSD content.

Is the ND-1 suitable as a system centerpiece?
Yes, it is designed to be the digital heart of a system, taking every digital source in the rack through one reference conversion stage.

What warranty does the ND-1 include?
It carries a one year parts and labor warranty from Matrix Audio for the original owner.

Can the ND-1 benefit from a network switch or isolator?
A galvanically isolated switch helps the streamer feeding the ND-1 rather than the ND-1 itself, which has no network connection. Clean power and a good USB or AES cable matter more here.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer in MD with this model in stock, offering genuine warranty coverage and expert guidance to help you build the right system.