Matrix Audio
Amplifiers
DACs
Digital Sources
Preamplifiers
Best Known For
DACs
/
Used Products
18
 Available
Average Price
$2,501-$5,000
Brand Popularity
136
 of 900+
Products Listed
14
Review Count
58
Founding Year
2013
Headquarters
China
Matrix Audio
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What's unique about the brand

Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.

What reviewers are saying

We read all the reviews. Here's what reviewers feel most strongly about:

  • Matrix Audio prioritizes comprehensive connectivity in its products, offering a wide array of digital inputs, including less common options like IIS-LVDS and HDMI ARC, alongside traditional connections.
  • The brand is recognized for its well-designed and user-friendly MA Remote app, which provides intuitive control over their streaming devices, offering access to various streaming services, local files, and device settings.

Our favorite reviewer quotes:

  • "Well my friends, when I pressed play my jaw hit the floor as this level of performance was unheard of so far in my setup. It outperformed any other DAC + headphone amp I had the pleasure of listening." (https://soundnews.net/sources/dacs/matrix-audio-element-x-review-ultimate-all-in-one-audiophile-hub)
  • "The X-SABRE 3 allows for a new level of transparency for me - like I can hear micro detailing through the wall of noise. For instance, I can still hear rhythmic strumming in a softer guitar, variations in the pitch when the lead vocals are doubled, and even the clean "ting" of the cymbals at times." (https://www.moon-audio.com/blogs/expert-advice/matrix-audio-x-sabre-3-pro-mqa-dac-review?srsltid=AfmBOorxZ71E1SyZOvNUlCYPsuzNzV2A6fdBYCA-6MqiWMRFHgge5UfD)
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Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From Julian's interview with
.

Lineup comparison

We think it's helpful to understand how their products compare. To learn more about each, scroll to the section above to click through to individual product pages.

MA-PLAYER & MA-REMOTE APP:

  • Positioning: An entry-level streaming and remote-control solution designed for simple digital connectivity.
  • Description: Offers essential network streaming and remote-control features that are easy to use and set up in small or casual spaces. Stands apart from the more advanced processing units in the lineup by focusing on affordability and basic functionality rather than extended technical and connectivity features.

X-SABRE_3:

  • Positioning: A mid-range digital audio component aimed at users looking for refined signal processing without the highest price tag.
  • Description: Brings a well-balanced digital processing engine that improves clarity and noise performance compared to the entry-level solution. It is positioned between the simpler MA-PLAYER and the premium units, offering robust performance and connectivity.

ELEMENT X2 PURE:

  • Positioning: A high-performance digital processor focused on delivering a very pure sound signal with low noise characteristics.
  • Description: Uses a digital architecture that is designed for audio enthusiasts who demand extremely clean signal transfer in more controlled environments. Compared to the X-SABRE_3, it targets users with a slightly higher budget and refined sonic goals while not reaching the full suite of advanced features of the flagship system.

MS-1:

  • Positioning: A flagship system built for advanced digital processing with comprehensive connectivity and high-end build quality.
  • Description: Offers sophisticated digital audio performance with extensive connectivity options that make it ideal for premium environments requiring maximum technical capabilities such as support for higher resolution video interfaces. It clearly outperforms the Element X2 Pure and other products in the lineup.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer

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What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

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What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

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Our interview with the brand

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What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

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Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
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