Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Excellent sonic performance, characterized by neutrality, transparency, and detail retrieval
- The MA Remote app is intuitive and feature-rich, offering access to various streaming services and settings
- Solid build quality with an aluminum chassis, though the sides are plastic, and a bright, clear LCD screen
- Versatile connectivity with a wide array of inputs, including USB-C for external storage, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and analog RCA inputs
Product Considerations
- Lacks wireless connectivity—no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- Does not come with a physical remote, the RM5 is sold separately
- Some users have experienced issues with navigating large local music libraries
- Some reviews mention the touch screen controls being a bit fiddly
- No digital output to support an external DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Node (2021): Mini-i 4 has better detail retrieval and is cleaner sounding
- Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: DMP-A6 sounds more natural with bolder bass and better soundstaging, while Mini-i 4 sounds tonally and spatially flatter
- Vs Matrix Audio Mini-i 3 Pro: Mini-i 4 has a wider range of source repositories and USB storage reader
Takeaway: The Matrix Audio Mini-i 4 is a great sounding device for anyone wanting a DAC and streamer that can do it all. With its comprehensive set of features and focus on audio quality, enjoying music becomes easy.
All
Mini-i 4
reviews
Manufacturer details
- CPU: Quad Cortex-A55 2.0GHz
- D/A Chip: ES9039Q2M
- Line Output XLR SNR: 127dB A-weighting
- Line Output XLR THD+N: <0.00015%@1k, <0.00018%@20Hz-20kHz
- Line Output XLR Output Level: 4.4VRMS@0dB
- Line Output RCA SNR: 121dB A-weighting
- Line Output RCA THD+N: <0.00015%@1k, <0.00030%@20Hz-20kHz
- Line Output RCA Output Level: 2.2VRMS@0dB
- Network: LAN 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Power Consumption: < 20W maximum, < 5W standby
- Power Supply: AC 100V-240V 50/60Hz
- Weight: 1.3 kg (2.87 pounds)
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 224 x 186 x 53 mm (8.80 x 7.32 x 2.07 inches)
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- 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.
Select products
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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Used
Matrix Audio
What if you spend more?
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Product Strengths
- Top-of-the-line streaming features in a well-constructed package
- Built-in preamp with 10dB analog gain resulting in great measurements for dynamic listening sessions
- Offers comprehensive streaming functionality with Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Internet Radio, Podcast, VTuner, External Library Access via network or USB, RuneReady, DLNA, Airplay 2, and more
- Improved I/O including a new ARC HDMI port and a USB-C port for external storage
Product Considerations
- The remote that comes with the X2 doesn't come paired already to the device, it requires manual pairing
- Instructions on how to pair the remote to the device are not very clear and might be difficult to find
- The sound signature might be too forward for some listeners, requiring pairing with warmer headphones for genres like R&B, EDM, or heavy metal
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Element X (original), the Element X2 has increased streaming functionality, added touchscreen, improved power measurements, and better I/O
- Compared to the Element M2, the Element X2 has a better DAC chip, better CPU, a built-in pre-amp, and the RCA input feature
- Compared to the Element i2, the Element X2 has a better DAC chip, better CPU, and a built-in preamp
Takeaway: The Element X2 is a feature-rich music streamer with a detailed and forward sound signature, offering a wide range of streaming options and improved power. It is a great choice for those seeking a top-tier all-in-one streaming experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
We shouldn't have favourites but CXN100 is something else. Hi-fi specialists and our listeners alike loved its predecessor CXN V2 – just wait until they hear this.
CXN100 will instantly transform a classic hi-fi stack into a system with a bright future. And because it's a network device, CXN100's firmware can be upgraded remotely, via our StreamMagic app, to receive the latest services. CXN100 Network Player's screen
Forever Changes
The first thing you'll notice is the big hi-res colour screen – all the better for album artwork. We've changed the volume control too, to do one thing well with a reassuringly tactile response. Inside, we take things up a level with a new ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 DAC and our Gen 4 StreamMagic module. Redesigned, expertly tuned, and simplified circuitry for a purer signal path, complete the picture. Smartphone playing music through the CXN100
Ready for the Revolution?
The convenience of streamed music was once let-down by its quality. That's no longer the case – thanks to better CODECS, broadband speeds and products like CXN100. It's designed to deliver the effortless accessibility of the digital format, but with the uncompromised sonic excellence that comes with over 55 years of designing hi-fi, and well over a decade perfecting our StreamMagic platform. StreamMagic app screenshots
Whatever you Want
CXN100 has free and subscription hi-res streaming services, like internet radio, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect with MQA, Qobuz, and Deezer on board for the best available sound quality. With Apple Airplay2 and Chromecast built-in, you can access Apple Music, Amazon Music, BBC Sounds and more. CXN100 is also Roon Ready, consolidating your digital music browsing experience in one place. CXN100 internal circuit board
The Whole Story
CXN100's circuitry has been totally re-designed to capitalise on the ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Digital Analogue Converter's 32-bit capabilities. We've been able to simplify the audio signal path and tune our carefully chosen components' performance to make sure that nothing comes between you and the original recording. The result? A warmth, depth and nuance not often associated with digital audio. CXN100's StreamMagic Gen4 Module
StreamMagic
If the DAC is the CXN100's heart, then our StreamMagic Gen 4 module is its brain. It runs our custom-made streaming platform and app, which we've perfected for well-over a decade. It's responsible for the network player's slick, seamless and stable listening experience from any digital source. CXN100's firmware can also be upgraded over-the-air to receive updates and access to new services. Young man enjoying the sound of a CX range stack, including the CXN100 Network Player
Control. Pure and Simple
A beautifully smooth volume dial and large colour display take the experience of playing music from CXN100 up a level. The StreamMagic app is your remote control, giving you intuitive command of connected sources – curate playlists, program pre-sets or browse albums from the comfort of your listening position. CXN100 also works with the physical remote control supplied with CXC and CXA components. Remote control available here
CX stack on an hi-fi rack, including the CXN100 Network Player, CXC and CXA81
Designed for Life
With elegant, minimalistic lines, crafted from aluminium and steel, CXN100 will endure physically and aesthetically for many years to come. Its ability to receive over-air updates should repay your investment too. Making products that last is just one of the ways that we can minimise our impact on the planet and maximise your listening pleasure. After all, great sound shouldn't cost the Earth.
Product Strengths
- Clean, precise, and articulate sound with ample detail
- Expansive and open soundstage
- StreamMagic control app is stable, logical, user-friendly, and easy to navigate
- Features AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio
Product Considerations
- Loses a touch of its predecessor's sonic solidity and warmth
- Does not include HDMI ARC
- Bluetooth is only compatible with SBC and AAC codecs
- Can be provoked by careless system-matching with bright, treble-centric equipment
- Volume is not controlled through the StreamMagic app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- CXN100 has improved clarity, precision, and spaciousness, but is missing some of the CXN (V2)'s sonic solidity and warmth, compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2)
- CXN100 trades off detail functionality to offer a user experience that is polished and genuinely pleasurable, and is able to take less than stellar recordings and avoid sounding strident or aggressive a little better than the EverSolo DMP-A6
- CXN100 has better low end and a slightly greater perception of space, compared to the Cambridge Audio MXN10
- CXN100 has a more natural quality to vocals with better realism and less fatigue, compared to the Bluesound Node
Takeaway: The CXN100 is a user-friendly and feature-rich music streamer that provides clear and detailed sound. It is an excellent choice for those seeking to add modern streaming capabilities to a classic hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Solid digital sound, good authority, solid bass, and a weighty sound with good scale
- Excellent clarity, very good timing, and a very good soundstage
- Outstanding build quality—solidly made and near indestructible
- Versatile unit that can become the hub of the digital audio world
- Clean and effortless digital processing
- Connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available for iOS
- The 4-inch non-touch screen is adequate, but not exceptional
- When written instructions feature on the screen, the words can be small and difficult to see
- The alphabetical order of the albums is not followed when used with an external hard drive
- Some reviewers felt a need for a high-end turntable setup, as the analog input feeds directly to the analog output stage—bypassing the digital stage altogether
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M10 V2: The Altair offers a step up in sound quality
- Vs AURALiC Aries G1: The Altair G2.1 chassis is a significant upgrade with an internal copper sub-chassis, tuned feet, and a solid steel base
Takeaway: The AURALiC Altair G2.1 is a versatile and well-built streaming DAC preamplifier that offers a clean and detailed sound. Comprehensive features and excellent sound quality make it a great choice for audiophiles looking for an all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EX-Stream Excellence
EXN100 is the music-streaming brains of your new EX system, delivering an experience that goes beyond CX. Expertly refined at our London HQ, the EX range is a leap forward – its performance is rivalled only by our flagship Edge series.
Close-up of a sleek black and silver device knob labeled EXN
Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger
Our team of audio experts pushed the ESS Reference DAC from the celebrated CXN100 to its limits, meticulously fine-tuning every element of the signal path. Put simply: we took the best and made it breathtaking.
Cambridge Audio music streamer displayed on a wooden cabinet
Wirelessly Stream a World of Music
Effortlessly explore a universe of sound with seamless support for Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Internet Radio, and more – thanks to our cutting-edge StreamMagic platform. It's Roon Ready, too. Whatever your playlist, the EXN100 reveals new depths to every note.
Get Yourself Connected
EXN100 makes connecting a variety of sources simple, with HDMI eARC too – so you can elevate the audio from your favourite TV shows and movies. It's a sound upgrade you'll feel as much as hear.
Cambridge Audio setup in a modern living room
Cambridge Audio amplifier and turntable with vinyl record on a wooden surface
In the Air Tonight
Cut the cords without cutting the quality. Enjoy aptX HD Bluetooth for rich, wireless streaming from devices such as an Alva turntable. With Chromecast built-in and AirPlay 2, streaming directly from your phone or laptop is just as effortless – and just as stunning.
Close-up of a textured control knob on a Cambridge Audio device
A Design For Life
It's not just performance and features that make the EX range exceptional: the design is a cut above, too. Enjoy style and substance, with premium aluminium casework and a gloriously tactile knurled control knob.
Cambridge Audio music streamer with Spotify interface on display
I Can See Clearly Now
Enjoy a larger, clearer view of album artwork – or our iconic VU meters option – with EXN100's large hi-res display screen. It's never been easier to see what you're hearing!
StreamMagic app displaying preset radio stations and audio sources
You've Got The Magic Touch
The StreamMagic App gives you full control of EXN100 and is a gateway to discovering more of the music, podcasts and radio stations you love. Your next great listen is just a swipe away.
Pump Up The Volume
Activate EXN100's Preamp Mode to make it a digital hub, with volume control via the StreamMagic App, remote or rotary dial. It's a versatile partner for any power amp or vintage system.
Product Strengths
- Features-packed and slick to use, designed to be a versatile streaming source for home audio set-up
- Offers clear, spacious, and balanced sound
- App (StreamMagic) is easy to use, responsive, smooth, clean and intuitive
- Solid build quality, with a slightly taller and thicker casing than previous models, and a larger screen
- Good selection of inputs and features, with an exhaustive streaming feature set, including HDMI eARC
Product Considerations
- No analogue input
- The EXN100 does not come with a remote control
- The matching EXA100 amp has a lot of functionality overlap with the EXN100
- The CXN100 can do many of the same things as the EXN100
- The better the quality of the music tracks, the better it performs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs CXN100: Better build quality, better DAC, eARC, and a better screen
- Vs HiFi Rose 250: A better price point and a better DAC (ESS Sabre reference vs ESS Sabre pro)
- Vs WiiM Ultra: A full-size hifi component with better build quality and preamp functionality
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio EXN100 is a well-built and easy-to-use streamer with great sound quality and a comprehensive set of features, making it an ideal versatile streaming source. Its clear presentation and ease of use make it a good choice for those looking for a top-tier streamer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile all-in-one unit combining a DAC, balanced headphone amplifier, and music streamer
- Delivers a natural and organic sound that is easy to love for casual listening sessions
- Compact form factor and sleek aesthetic allows it to blend perfectly into existing audio setups
- Able to drive most headphones on the market, with 2,200mW output power (33 Ohms; balanced) and 1,200mW (33 Ohms; single ended)
- Features a wide selection of digital inputs, including Coax, Optical, HDMI (ARC), and USB
Product Considerations
- The MA Remote App is basic compared to some more sophisticated apps
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- A USB cable is not included
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Mini-i Pro 4 has no noise over the headphone outputs, while the Matrix Element E does
- Mini-i Pro 4 is much sleeker and more compact than the FIIO K9 Pro
Takeaway: The Matrix Audio Mini-i Pro 4 is a versatile and easy-to-use device that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification into one compact unit, making it a great choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. It offers flexible connectivity options and delivers a natural sound, making it perfect for everyday listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent and responsive touchscreen display, and user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate
- Versatile as an all-in-one device, functioning as a streamer, DAC, pre-amp, and media storage server with a competitive price point
- High build quality, featuring a solid aluminum alloy chassis
- Supports a wide variety of streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and more
- Rock solid as a streamer, especially when going into a separate DAC
Product Considerations
- Customer support from Eversolo may be limited, with some reviewers noting slow or nonexistent responses to inquiries
- Internal DAC, while good, is not on par with higher-end—more expensive DACs
- Lack of a traditional I/R remote could be a drawback for some users
- Some unusual control procedures are noted, such as the inability to power on the unit from the mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The DMP-A6 sounds just as good as the Lumin U2 Mini as a streamer
- The A6 beats the Bluesound Node when used only as a streamer
- The A6 has similar features, a similar control/display, and a similar size and shape
- The Lumin U2 has more "shine", dynamics, solidity and is a touch more refined than the A6
- The Eversolo is favored over the iFi Neo Stream, especially as a streaming DAC
- Eversolo proves it can play with Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) in many ways
Takeaway: The Eversolo DMP-A6 is a versatile and user-friendly streamer that delivers great value, and it provides a great streaming experience with its screen. It is a great entry point into high-resolution digital audio and can serve as the center of a modern hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The NEO iDSD 2 functions as a versatile all-in-one (AIO) solution, working as a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier
- It has a significantly more powerful amplifier section than its predecessor, making it better at driving a wider range of headphones
- Includes sound-shaping features such as XBass and XSpace, plus selectable digital filters, allowing users to customize the sound
- Comprehensive connectivity options include USB, S/PDIF (coaxial/optical), Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs
Product Considerations
- The amplifier section may not be powerful enough to drive some very power-hungry headphones to their full potential
- The Nexis app only works with a 2.4ghz WiFi signal
- There is a slight click or noise when switching inputs as a pre-amp
- Some reviewers would have preferred the inclusion of the iPower X power adapter instead of the iPower V2, considering the unit's price
- The variable volume output may not save the last used settings
Takeaway: The iFi Audio NEO iDSD 2 combines a high-quality DAC with a significantly improved headphone amplifier, making it a good all-in-one solution for desktop audio. With its wide range of features, solid build quality, and pleasing sound, the NEO iDSD 2 is a worthwhile upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality, with a premium feel thanks to the aluminum chassis and attention to detail
- Clean, crisp, and clear sound, with a neutral presentation that resolves detail well
- Well-implemented headphone amplifier that can drive a wide range of headphones, and the headphone level reverts to the last used
- Bright and crisp LCD screen with VU meters adding to its visual appeal
- Versatile connectivity with USB-B, USB-C, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs, as well as balanced XLR and RCA outputs
Product Considerations
- Lacks HDMI ARC input, which would be useful for hybrid setups
- Some reviewers find the treble a little aggressive and fatiguing with certain recordings or speakers
- No Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity, meaning a computer or other network streaming device is needed
- No dedicated subwoofer output
- Not a tone control, those looking for a colored or editorialized sound should look elsewhere
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Z8 has a more nuanced presentation and better separation than the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M
- The Z8 is smoother with a darker background on the headphone output, but the SMSL M500 MKII is warmer and fuller sounding on the line outputs
- The Z8 has a cleaner sound, darker background, and deeper soundstage on the line-outs than the Topping DX5, but the DX5 has more powerful headphone amplification
- Java Hi-Fi gives a slightly cleaner presentation with more authority in the bass than the Z8
Takeaway: The Eversolo DAC-Z8 is a well-built and versatile DAC that delivers a clean and detailed sound. It is a great option for users looking for a high-quality DAC with a range of features, including a headphone amplifier and preamp capabilities.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Easy streaming setup
- BluOS streaming platform is stable, responsive, and organized, which allows one to access local and networked libraries
- The internal DAC allows one to run the NODE directly into a preamp, integrated amplifier, or pair of powered/active loudspeakers as a source
- Has digital and analog outputs, a USB, Optical, and COAX out, as well as a SUBWOOFER OUT
Product Considerations
- BluOS control app isn't as user-friendly as some competitors, taking time to master
- There's no supplied remote
- Tone controls remain oddly limited in variable range
- Some reviewers recommend connecting via ethernet cable for a stable connection
- The BlueOS apps have issues, and the player intermittently will not be detected in iphone, ipad and windows desktop app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Cambridge Audio MXN10 offers superior dynamic transparency and rhythmic insight, but the Bluesound Node is still an appealing affordable box
Takeaway: The Node is a great way to add streaming to an existing system and delivers high-quality audio with versatile connectivity. It offers a comprehensive set of features to turn an audio system into a modern music-streaming system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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