The Dutch importer Reference Sounds is now representing the Matrix Audio brand in our region, a great addition for them.
Reference Sounds about their new acquisition: “Matrix Audio was born from the friendship of three classmates in Xi’an, China, who shared a passion for high-end audio. After several hobby projects during their studies, they decided to turn their dream into reality upon graduation in 2006. With their combined knowledge in digital signal processing and extreme enthusiasm, the start of Matrix Audio and the introduction of their first DAC became a reality. Now, 18 years later, Matrix Audio is a mature brand with a huge focus on streaming audio and top-class digital-to-analog conversion with an almost holistic approach. Everything has to be perfect, from sound to user interface. That balance is Matrix Audio’s main goal, and we can tell you – they make truly amazing products.”
The Matrix Audio range now includes ten models divided into three series. The new importer, Reference Sounds, lists them below in their own words.
Matrix Audio mini-i Pro and mini-i Pro 4
The mini-i Pro at €949 and mini-i Pro 4 at €1,199 are super compact music streamers with a width of about 22 cm, boasting serious sound qualities thanks to the ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC. These models check off almost every conceivable streaming function you could wish for!
Matrix Audio’s X-SABRE 3
The X-SABRE 3 has been a benchmark in the lineup for years. Initially launched as a DAC, this generation of the X-SABRE has been technically perfected over the years and remains a favorite among designers. Besides being a pure DAC, the X-SABRE 3 is an amazing streamer with stunning sound quality. The tough X-SABRE 3 has a recommended retail price of €3,349 and comes in silver or black.
Matrix Audio’s Element Series
The Element Series consists of six family members ranging from the Element S at €1,799, a streamer/USB interface with purely digital outputs, and Element i2 at €1,999, a streamer with DAC, to the top-class Element X2 Pure at €5,099, a streamer with DAC featuring two ESS Sabre ES9039PRO DAC chips in Dual Mono Mode. This is truly a high-end DAC by all standards and also a fantastic preamplifier with analog (!) volume control. Besides the Element S and i2, there’s also an Element M2 priced at €3,749 and an X2 priced at €4,999.
Element P2 Power Amp
The range of Element M Series streamers is completed with the sleek Element P2 power amplifier. With 230 Watts @ 4 Ohms, we can confirm that this subtly designed power amplifier has serious drive and finesse. Considering its recommended price of €2,099, it’s quite impressive. Need a bit more? Switch the P2 to Bridge Mono Mode for an output power of 850 Watts @ 4 Ohms and add a second unit.
In the very near future, we expect to expand the Matrix Audio family upwards with the M-Series, combining all knowledge and experience in digital signal processing, analog preamplification, and power amplification in four new Matrix Audio models.
Matrix Audio MA Player App
Ease of use and simplicity are central to every model. Intuitive operation via clear touchscreen color displays on the front, easy-to-navigate menus, and simple network setup make it quick to enjoy music. You have access to virtually every streaming function you could wish for, including ROON Endpoint, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, High Res Audio, Airplay, MQA, and audio from the TV via HDMI eARC – Matrix Audio does it all. All models can be wonderfully controlled via the MA Player Remote App – Matrix’s own app for streaming audio with a beautiful interface and control of your device’s main functions. The three wise men from Xi’an have created something truly complete, and it sounds fantastic too.