Matrix Audio MS-1 Flagship Music Streamer, DAC & Preamplifier

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Matrix Audio MS-1 Flagship Music Streamer, DAC & Preamplifier Matrix Audio's reference statement — the finest digital front end the company has ever built. The Matrix Audio MS-1 is the flagship of the Matrix Audio M Series — a precision network streamer, flagship DAC, and analog preamplifier in a single full-size chassis that forms the source and conversion center of a complete reference two-channel system. It is the first Matrix Audio product built on AKM's flagship dual-chip AK4191 + AK4499 architecture, implemented in a true dual-mono configuration where left and right channel PCB assemblies are physically mounted on opposite sides of the chassis with fully independent signal paths, power supplies, and Mundorf coupling capacitors. Add to this a DPLL clock system achieving 45 femtosecond jitter, an SFP fiber optic network port, a 10 MHz external clock input, MM/MC phono with high-precision ADC conversion, hardware asynchronous PCM upsampling and DSD conversion, and a precision resistor array preamplifier stage with up to 16 Vrms output — and the MS-1 is not just a flagship product. It is a complete engineering statement about what a digital source component can be. Available now at All Elite Audio, your authorized Matrix Audio dealer in Timonium, Maryland — with in-store demos, expert guidance, and nationwide shipping. True Dual-Mono DAC Architecture — AKM AK4191 + AK4499 The MS-1 is Matrix Audio's first product built on an AKM DAC solution, and the implementation goes well beyond simply choosing the right chips. The dual-chip architecture pairs AKM's AK4191 digital processing IC — which handles upsampling, digital filtering, and delta-sigma modulation — with the AK4499 current-output DAC IC, the most advanced component in AKM's Velvet Sound flagship lineup. This pairing is used twice over: one complete AK4191 + AK4499 set dedicated to the left channel, and a second identical set dedicated to the right channel. The left and right channel PCB assemblies are physically mounted on opposite sides of the internal chassis — not just electrically separated but mechanically separated — creating a genuine dual-mono architecture where no signal, power supply noise, or thermal coupling can cross between channels. An AKM AK4137 sample rate converter is also employed in the processing chain, enabling hardware asynchronous PCM upsampling and DSD conversion that operates independently of the host device's sample rate. Mundorf foil oil-filled coupling capacitors are used in the signal path, and Mundorf series capacitors appear in the power supply filtering — components whose quality reflects the MS-1's positioning as a no-compromise reference design. DPLL Clock System — 45 Femtosecond Jitter The MS-1's clock architecture represents a new design direction for Matrix Audio, distinct from the dual-oscillator approach used in the M Series streaming components below it. The MS-1 uses a high-performance DPLL (Digital Phase-Locked Loop) clock synthesis circuit driven by an ultra-low phase noise reference oscillator. The DPLL generates the audio clock signal in real time with jitter as low as 45 femtoseconds — a figure that represents the near-theoretical limit of achievable timing precision in a digital audio system and places the MS-1 in the same performance tier as dedicated external clock sources many times its price. A 10 MHz external clock input on the rear panel allows the MS-1's DPLL to lock to an external reference source such as the Matrix Audio SC-1, replacing the internal oscillator with the external reference's timing and further reducing any residual jitter to the noise floor of the external clock. SFP Fiber Network Port — Complete Galvanic Isolation In addition to its Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port, the MS-1 includes an SFP port for optical fiber network connection. When connected via fiber, the electrical path between the home network and the MS-1's internal circuitry is completely severed — no conducted noise, no ground loops, no high-frequency interference from upstream switches or routers can reach the MS-1 through the network connection. This is the same principle used in the Matrix Audio SI-1 network isolator, applied at the MS-1's own network input. The SFP port accepts standard SFP optical transceiver modules and pairs naturally with the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro network switch's SFP output for a complete fiber-isolated audio network chain. All Analog Inputs Pass Through High-Precision ADC — IIS-LVDS Output Capability One of the MS-1's most architecturally distinctive features is how it handles analog inputs. The MS-1 has two pairs of line-level inputs (balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA) and one pair of MM/MC phono inputs. All of these analog inputs are converted to digital audio through a high-precision ADC, fed into the MS-1's digital processing unit, and passed through PCM filtering — the same pipeline used for network streaming and external digital sources. This means every analog source connected to the MS-1 benefits from the same clock precision, filtering, and upsampling capabilities as digital sources. Additionally, all audio playing through the MS-1 — including converted analog and phono input signals — can be re-output through the IIS-LVDS port as a high-resolution digital stream. This allows the MS-1 to function as a high-quality ADC and digital transport simultaneously, feeding a second DAC or a digital recording device with fully processed high-resolution audio from any source connected to the system. MM/MC Phono Preamplifier The built-in phono preamplifier supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, with precise RIAA equalization. The phono input feeds into the MS-1's ADC like all other analog inputs, making the digitized phono signal available not only through the analog output stage but also through the IIS-LVDS output for recording or secondary DAC use. For listeners building a complete system around the MS-1, the phono stage eliminates the need for a separate phono preamplifier without any compromise in the signal path quality. MS-1 Pre — Precision Resistor Array Preamplifier The MS-1 is available in two variants: the standard MS-1, and the MS-1 Pre which adds a fully capable analog preamplifier stage. The MS-1 Pre's preamplifier uses a precision resistor array volume control — a relay-switched stepped attenuator that provides exceptional channel matching and consistent performance at all volume settings — combined with a multi-stage op-amp output stage. The preamplifier provides +10 dB of gain with a maximum output level of 16 Vrms balanced, making it capable of driving any power amplifier or active speaker directly to any required listening level. The MS-1 Pre also includes a pair of fixed-level balanced XLR outputs that are simultaneously available with the variable preamp outputs, allowing connection to a recording device, a second power amplifier, or a monitoring system without interrupting the main signal path. For listeners who already own a dedicated analog preamplifier such as the Matrix Audio MP-1 and prefer to pass the MS-1's output through that preamp stage, the standard MS-1's fixed-level outputs are the appropriate choice. For listeners who want the MS-1 to serve as the sole volume control in the system and connect directly to a power amplifier, the MS-1 Pre is the correct variant. Hardware Upsampling Engine — Six PCM Digital Filters The AKM chipset in the MS-1, including the AK4137 sample rate converter, enables a hardware asynchronous PCM upsampler and DSD conversion processing engine. This operates independently of the source sample rate, allowing the MS-1 to upsample any PCM source to higher rates before conversion — a process that can improve the performance of the DAC output stage by pushing noise shaping further out of the audible band. Six selectable PCM digital filters are available, accessible from the front display and MA Remote app, allowing listeners to adjust the digital filter characteristic to suit their preference or recording type. Power Supply — Two Square-Core Copper Toroidal Transformers With Mundorf Capacitors The MS-1's power supply uses two high-quality square-core copper wire toroidal transformers — one dedicated to the analog circuits and one to the digital circuits — with independent windings providing complete power supply separation between the left and right analog channels and between the analog and digital domains. Mundorf series filter capacitors are used throughout the power supply stage, chosen for their low ESR, high transient response, and long-term stability in audiophile-grade applications. The combination of transformer topology, winding independence, and Mundorf passive components gives the MS-1 a power supply architecture befitting its flagship status and $9,999 price point. The M Series System Context The MS-1 is the source component of Matrix Audio's complete M Series reference system, which also includes the MP-1 analog preamplifier and MA-1 power amplifier. Used together, these three components form Matrix Audio's most complete and highest-performing system, with the MS-1 handling streaming, DAC conversion, and digital processing, the MP-1 handling analog volume control and input switching, and the MA-1 delivering the power amplification stage. The MS-1 can also be used in any system configuration as a standalone streamer/DAC feeding any preamplifier and power amplifier combination, or as a complete source-and-preamp in a power-amplifier-direct chain with the MS-1 Pre variant. Key Specifications DAC Architecture: Dual AKM AK4191 (upsampler/modulator) + AK4499 (flagship DAC IC) per channel; true dual-mono — left and right PCB assemblies physically on opposite sides of chassis Additional Processing: AKM AK4137 sample rate converter; hardware asynchronous PCM upsampler and DSD conversion engine Coupling Capacitors: Mundorf foil oil-filled Power Supply: Two square-core copper wire toroidal transformers (analog and digital independent); separate left and right analog channel windings; Mundorf filter capacitors Clock System: DPLL clock synthesis circuit; ultra-low phase noise reference oscillator; 45 fs jitter; 10 MHz external clock input Network: Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 + SFP optical fiber port Digital Inputs: USB-B, optical, coaxial x2, IIS-LVDS (HDMI form) Digital Output: IIS-LVDS (HDMI form) — outputs all sources including ADC-converted analog and phono inputs Analog Inputs: 2x balanced XLR line, 2x unbalanced RCA line, MM/MC phono (all converted via high-precision ADC) Analog Outputs (standard MS-1): Fixed-level balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA MS-1 Pre Additions: Precision resistor array volume control, multi-stage op-amp preamplifier, +10 dB gain, up to 16 Vrms output; simultaneous fixed-level balanced XLR outputs Digital Filters: 6 selectable PCM filters; high-spec multi-mode DSD/PCM upsampling modes Supported Formats: PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz; DSD up to DSD1024 Streaming: TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, DLNA, UPnP, internet radio Internal Storage: NVMe M.2 SSD slot Network: Gigabit Ethernet + SFP fiber optic port OS: MA Player (Linux-based, MA Remote 4.0 app, iOS and Android) Chassis: H-frame construction; signature Matrix Audio circular perforation array front and top panel Dimensions (W x D): Approximately 430 x 353 mm Weight: Approximately 14.6 kg Warranty: 1 year manufacturer warranty Why Buy From All Elite Audio All Elite Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer located in Timonium, Maryland — part of the greater Baltimore area. We carry the complete Matrix Audio M Series including the MS-1, the MP-1 analog preamplifier, and the MA-1 power amplifier, as well as the full supporting ecosystem of the SC-1 reference clock, NT-1 transport, SS-1 Pro network switch, and SI-1 network isolator. Our team has direct experience with the full Matrix Audio reference system and can help you configure the MS-1 correctly for your specific power amplifier, analog preamplifier, and network infrastructure. We offer white-glove service, in-store demos, and support before and after your purchase. Whether you are local to Maryland or ordering nationwide, we are here to help you get the most from your system. Call: 443-402-5055 Text: 443-402-5064 Visit: 1921 York Rd, Timonium, MD 21093 Frequently Asked Questions — Matrix Audio MS-1 What is the Matrix Audio MS-1 and what does it do? The Matrix Audio MS-1 is Matrix Audio's flagship music streamer, DAC, and source component — the centerpiece of the M Series reference system. It streams from TIDAL, Qobuz, and other services over Gigabit Ethernet or SFP fiber, manages local libraries from an internal NVMe SSD or network-attached storage, and converts digital audio using dual AKM AK4191 + AK4499 flagship DAC chipsets in a true dual-mono configuration with 45 femtosecond DPLL clock precision. It accepts two pairs of balanced and unbalanced analog line inputs, MM/MC phono, and multiple digital inputs. It outputs analog through fixed-level balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA (or through the MS-1 Pre's variable preamplifier stage), and can output any source — including digitized analog and phono inputs — as a high-resolution digital stream via IIS-LVDS. What makes the dual-mono architecture in the MS-1 significant? True dual-mono means the left and right channel signal paths are not just electrically separated — the left and right channel PCB assemblies are physically mounted on opposite sides of the MS-1's internal chassis. Each channel has its own AK4191 + AK4499 DAC pair, its own dedicated power supply winding from the toroidal transformer, and its own Mundorf foil oil-filled coupling capacitors. No signal, power supply noise, or thermal coupling can cross between channels. This architecture is the foundation of the MS-1's channel separation, dynamic range, and low noise floor performance. What is the DPLL clock system and why does 45 femtosecond jitter matter? The MS-1 uses a DPLL — Digital Phase-Locked Loop — clock synthesis circuit driven by an ultra-low phase noise reference oscillator. The DPLL generates the audio clock in real time with 45 femtoseconds of jitter — an extremely low figure that represents near-theoretical timing precision for a digital audio system. Lower jitter means each audio sample is more precisely timed during conversion, resulting in cleaner transients, more stable stereo imaging, and a lower noise floor. A 10 MHz external clock input allows the DPLL to lock to an external reference such as the Matrix Audio SC-1 for even more precise synchronization. What is the difference between the standard MS-1 and the MS-1 Pre? Both variants share identical DAC architecture, clock system, streaming platform, analog inputs, digital inputs, and chassis. The standard MS-1 provides fixed-level balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs — intended for use with a separate analog preamplifier such as the Matrix Audio MP-1. The MS-1 Pre adds a precision resistor array volume control with a multi-stage op-amp preamplifier stage, providing +10 dB of gain and a maximum output of 16 Vrms balanced. The MS-1 Pre can drive a power amplifier or active speaker directly at any volume. It also provides a pair of fixed-level balanced XLR outputs simultaneously with the variable preamp outputs. Choose the standard MS-1 if you already own or plan to use a dedicated analog preamplifier. Choose the MS-1 Pre if you want the MS-1 to be the sole volume control in the system, feeding directly into a power amplifier. How does the MS-1 handle analog and phono inputs? All analog inputs on the MS-1 — both pairs of line inputs and the MM/MC phono input — are converted to digital audio through a high-precision ADC before being fed into the MS-1's digital processing unit and DAC stage. This means every analog source benefits from the MS-1's full clock precision, digital filtering, and upsampling pipeline. The converted digital signal can also be output through the IIS-LVDS port as a high-resolution digital stream, making the MS-1 capable of digitizing and re-distributing any analog or phono source in the system to a second DAC or digital recording device. What is the SFP port and how does fiber network connection work? The SFP port accepts standard SFP optical transceiver modules, allowing the MS-1 to receive its network connection via fiber optic cable rather than standard Ethernet. A fiber connection creates complete galvanic isolation between the home network and the MS-1's internal circuitry — no electrical continuity, no conducted noise, no ground loops from the network side. This is the most thorough form of network isolation available and pairs naturally with the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro's SFP output for a dedicated audio fiber network chain. The standard Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port remains available for conventional wired connection. What upsampling and digital filter options does the MS-1 offer? The MS-1 includes a hardware asynchronous PCM upsampling and DSD conversion engine built on the AKM AK4191 and AK4137 chipset, supporting high-specification multi-mode upsampling. Six selectable PCM digital filters are available, accessible from the front panel display and the MA Remote app. These filters allow listeners to adjust the digital filtering characteristic — from minimum-phase to linear-phase options — to suit their preference or the recording type. How does the MS-1 fit into the Matrix Audio M Series system? The M Series is Matrix Audio's complete reference system comprising three components: the MS-1 music streamer/DAC (source and conversion), the MP-1 analog preamplifier (volume control and input switching), and the MA-1 power amplifier (power amplification). The MS-1 serves as the digital front end, feeding fixed-level analog outputs to the MP-1, which controls the system volume and feeds the MA-1. The three components share the same chassis dimensions, design language, and power supply topology, forming a visually and sonically coherent reference stack. What streaming services does the MS-1 support? The MS-1 supports TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, DLNA, UPnP, and internet radio natively through MA Player 4.0. High-resolution formats up to PCM 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD1024 are fully supported across all sources. The MA Remote 4.0 app on iOS and Android provides full control of playback, streaming services, digital filter selection, upsampling settings, phono input mode, and all other settings. What warranty does the Matrix Audio MS-1 include? The Matrix Audio MS-1 carries a one-year manufacturer warranty. All Elite Audio is a fully authorized Matrix Audio dealer, ensuring your warranty is valid and supported. Where can I buy the Matrix Audio MS-1 and hear it in person? All Elite Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer with a full home audio showroom located at 1921 York Rd, Timonium, Maryland 21093. We carry the complete Matrix Audio M Series and can demonstrate the MS-1 in the context of a full reference system. Call us at 443-402-5055 or text 443-402-5064. We also ship nationwide. Show more