Intro
Contents
Chinese Matrix shows that with a sleek design and good software, you can make an excellent entry into the serious playing field. We have the Matrix TS-1 streamer, dac and headphone amplifier. A surprisingly fine device where the enthusiast can just add a nice pair of headphones or a good pair of active speakers.
The Matrix TS-1 (2699 Euros) is marketed as a streamer, pre-amp, dac and headphone amplifier. What’s nice about this model is that the user can stream from a NAS as well as numerous services and a built-in m.2 SSD. Inserting this SSD is very easy because of the SSD-slot in the bottom of the device.
Beautiful design
Matrix has recently started with a new design. All older models are now being replaced for new ones that conform to this new design. We must say: it looks very good. The build quality is top notch, but we also like the design itself.
Now your author is not necessarily a fan of large displays, as this only distracts from the music. Fortunately, Matrix does allow the software to dim the display. Or put a clock on it or something. That’s nice, because all those colors and scrolling text only distract. But then again: that’s just an opinion; maybe you like it.
Under the hood
The heart of the player is an AKM AK4493SEQ dac, driven by dual “femto-clocks”. (One for 44.1 KHz and one for 48 KHz and multiples thereof).
What is nicely done is that the whole thing is basically powered by a switching power supply (which is of very good quality). Analog and digital is of course nicely separated. Both on the pcb and from the power supply itself. If you want to go a step further, it is possible to connect an external 12V power supply (3A). This takes over the tasks of the internal power supply. However, the device remains grounded through the power cord (which you must leave connected, of course). Very cleverly done!
In terms of connections we see enough options: optical, coaxial, USB and hdmi-in (e-arc). Then rca-in and XLR and rca out to go to an amplifier or pair of active speakers. As a bonus, there is a subwoofer output (rca)
On the front of the Matrix TS-1, there are also headphone jacks: 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm unbalanced.
Software
The Matrix TS-1’s software is downright good. Adding services is easy, adding a NAS location is just a few clicks away (why can’t every manufacturer make this so easy?) and the bulk of things are in logical places. The only thing we can perhaps comment on is that there is an awful lot possible. And that some things may be a bit technical for non-technical users. But honestly: we don’t see it that well organized very often.
The app works just fine. There is an app for Apple and Android. And that is not always the case. So: well done, Matrix!
Really plug and play
Does the praise stop here? No… one more thing. Installation is really plug and play. At least via cable. We simply connected the streamer to the network with a cable and opened the app. The app instantly recognizes the player after which we can just play right away. With Tidal Connect or Spotify, it’s an equivalent story. Roon also works instantly (just add the zone and you’re done).
Thanks for the review! What are your thoughts when comparing it with the Volumio Rivo/Preciso combo?
Very different sound. The Matrix is quality wise above the Volumio combo. The Preciso is the weak link.
Interesting review,
Like Philippe,
I would like to know how the nt-1 compares with the reviewed ts-1.
I could not find a review that compares the both.
It is logical that you will not find comparative reviews. The NT-1 is a transport, so it doesn’t have a DAC like the TS-1.
Interesting review. What I miss however, is a hint of comparison to similarly priced player. Players like the Auralic Vega S1, Audiolab 9000N and this one all cost around 2k – 3k, but is there anything different apart from the outside?
Things we don’t have available we cannot compare. This question is asked many times and we always reply the same: impossible to say if we can’t compare directly.
Great review, thank you. Apparently there Matrix has another streamer one level up, the NT-1. Curious what improvements that brings for an extra 2000 eur or so.
The NT-1 is a streaming transport, without DAC. I don’t think people buying a TS-1 buy it for the streaming capabilities only. The device is positioned by Matrix Audio as a headphone streaming DAC and/or a companion for active speakers.
I think it serves a perfect role as a streaming DAC in a passive speaker system as well. It has all the (software) options you need to be one.
If we compare, we compare like-for-like. If you want to know if a TS-1 is a cheaper option against the NT-1 (meaning: you get the same results for less money, because that is what you are asking), you can locate a dealer, call them, ask if they are willing to set-up a comparison and grab your DAC to take a listen.