Matrix Audio TS-1

Overview

The Matrix Audio TS-1 is a single-chassis music streamer, digital-to-analog converter, and headphone amplifier built for listeners who want a complete digital front end without stacking separate boxes. It streams natively from Roon, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA, and AirPlay, and it is fully controllable through the Matrix Audio MA control app, so managing libraries and services is straightforward from a phone or tablet.

Engineering follows the Matrix Audio digital philosophy, pairing one AKM AK4493SEQ DAC per channel with a high-precision femtosecond master clock to keep jitter low and detail retrieval high. The TS-1 supports high-rate PCM, DSD, and MQA, and offers true balanced XLR alongside single-ended RCA outputs so it integrates cleanly with balanced and unbalanced systems. A capable headphone amplifier is included, giving desktop and near-field listeners a direct, high-quality personal listening path.

This model suits the audiophile who wants streaming, conversion, and headphone drive consolidated into one refined component that can anchor a compact reference system or feed an existing amplifier and speakers. It is a natural centerpiece for a Matrix Audio system and pairs equally well with third-party amplification.

Key Features

• All-in-one network streamer, DAC, and headphone amplifier in one chassis
• AKM AK4493SEQ DAC per channel, dual units in parallel, for low-distortion, high-resolution conversion
• High-precision femtosecond master clock to minimize jitter
• Native streaming from Roon Ready, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA, and AirPlay
• Full control through the Matrix Audio MA app
• High-rate PCM, DSD, and MQA support
• True balanced circuit with XLR outputs plus RCA single-ended outputs
• Integrated headphone amplifier for direct personal listening
• Comprehensive digital inputs for connecting external transports and sources

How the TS-1 Compares

Matrix Audio TS-1 vs Matrix Audio ND-1

The ND-1 sits higher in the Matrix Audio range and is focused as a dedicated audio DAC, with the added refinement that a higher model can offer. The TS-1 differs in character by consolidating streaming, conversion, and headphone drive into a single, self-contained front end. Choose the TS-1 when you want an all-in-one source and headphone hub; step up to the ND-1 when your priority is a dedicated conversion stage. See the Matrix Audio ND-1.

Matrix Audio TS-1 vs Matrix Audio TT-1

The TT-1 is a digital audio transport designed to feed an external DAC over a clean digital link. The TS-1 instead includes its own DAC and headphone amplifier, making it a complete listening solution on its own. Pick the TT-1 if you already own a preferred DAC; pick the TS-1 if you want streaming and conversion in one box. See the Matrix Audio TT-1.

Matrix Audio TS-1 vs Silent Angel Rhein Z1C V2

The Silent Angel Rhein Z1C V2 is oriented toward music server and Roon Core duties, serving and managing a library on the network. The TS-1 is character-tuned as a streaming endpoint with onboard DAC and headphone output, geared to playback rather than core hosting. Use the two roles as complements: one can serve, the other can render and convert. See the Silent Angel Rhein Z1C V2.

Recommended Amplification and Speakers

Build around the TS-1 with Matrix Audio amplification and a pair of resolving speakers to reveal what the DAC and clock deliver.

• Matrix Audio MP-1 Preamplifier This flagship Class A preamplifier accepts the TS-1 balanced XLR output and provides refined line-level control for a full separates system.
• Matrix Audio MA-1 Power Amplifier The Class AB MA-1 pairs with the MP-1 to drive demanding speakers with authority, forming a coherent Matrix Audio chain from stream to speaker.
• Matrix Audio MD-1 Streaming Integrated For a simpler, space-saving system, the MD-1 provides integrated amplification that complements the TS-1 as a Matrix Audio pairing.
• Amphion Argon 1 These precise, controlled-directivity standmounts reward the clean, low-jitter output of the TS-1 in near-field and small-room settings.
• Spendor A1.2 A refined two-way that offers a natural, musical voice, making it an easy match for a Matrix Audio digital front end in a compact room.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Matrix Audio TS-1?
It is a single-chassis network streamer, digital-to-analog converter, and headphone amplifier designed to serve as a complete digital front end.

What DAC does the TS-1 use?
It uses the ESS AKM AK4493SEQ DAC per channel, dual units in parallel, for low-distortion, high-resolution conversion.

Which streaming services are supported?
The TS-1 supports Roon Ready, TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, DLNA, and AirPlay.

How do I control the TS-1?
It is controlled through the Matrix Audio MA app on your phone or tablet, and it works within Roon as a Roon Ready endpoint.

Does the TS-1 support DSD and MQA?
Yes, it supports high-rate PCM, DSD, and MQA playback.

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

Can I use headphones directly with the TS-1?
Yes, it includes an integrated headphone amplifier for direct personal listening.

What clock does the TS-1 use?
It uses a high-precision femtosecond master clock to keep jitter low and preserve detail.

Can the TS-1 accept external digital sources?
Yes, it provides digital inputs so you can connect an external transport or other digital source.

Does the TS-1 need a separate DAC?
No, the DAC is built in, so it converts and streams without an additional converter.

What amplification pairs well with the TS-1?
The Matrix Audio MP-1 preamplifier with the MA-1 power amplifier makes a full separates system, or the MD-1 streaming integrated offers a simpler pairing.

How does the TS-1 compare to the ND-1?
The ND-1 sits higher in the range as a dedicated DAC, while the TS-1 consolidates streaming, conversion, and headphone drive into one component.

How does the TS-1 differ from the TT-1?
The TT-1 is a transport that feeds an external DAC, whereas the TS-1 has its own DAC and headphone amplifier built in.

Is the TS-1 a good desktop source?
Yes, its onboard DAC and headphone amplifier make it well suited to desktop and near-field listening as well as full systems.

Can I connect the TS-1 to an existing amplifier?
Yes, use the XLR or RCA outputs to feed a preamplifier or integrated amplifier of your choice.

Does the TS-1 support wired and wireless networking?
Yes, it offers both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity for streaming.

What speakers work well with a TS-1 system?
Resolving standmounts such as the Amphion Argon 1 or Spendor A1.2 reveal the clean, low-jitter output of the TS-1 in compact rooms.

Can a Matrix Audio network switch help the TS-1?
Yes, an audio-grade, galvanically isolated switch such as the SS-1 or an isolator like the SI-1 can lower network noise ahead of the streamer.

What warranty does the TS-1 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, so you receive a genuine unit with full warranty support, expert setup guidance, and knowledgeable service before and after your purchase.