






Matrix Audio
Element X2 Music Streamer
$4,399.00 USD
Features
Amazing Updated Design
New Large LCD Screen and Touch-sensitive Buttons
Dual ESS Flagship DAC Chips
Roon Ready
MA Remote App Integration
Video
What's in the Box?
Warranty
The Element series of music streamers from Matrix Audio are among the most popular desktop music streamers on the market, and for good reason. The Element series is extremely user-friendly, and equipped with numerous premium features, and the MA Remote App offers an excellent way to access all your content remotely from your favorite mobile device. The Element i2 represents an amazing entry point for the Element series, providing access to Matrix Audio's premium streaming experience with an integrated DAC and headphone amplifier.
The Element X2 is the latest generation flagship music streamer from Matrix Audio, effectively redefining what premium music streaming can sound like. This updated model features a 4.4mm balanced headphone jack, a new full-color touch LCD, and a stylish design that complements any high-end audio system. If you seek the best music sound quality in streaming, the Element X2 headphone amp and music streamer from Matrix Audio is a top choice.
With support for Toslink, X-SPDIF, USB input, DSD, iis-lvds, and Spotify Connect, the Element X2 ensures comprehensive compatibility with various audio formats and sources. The Pro specs, X-Sabre 3, and MQA support further elevate its performance, making the Matrix Element X2 a must-have for hi-fi enthusiasts. This exceptional audio device delivers unparalleled sound quality and versatility, perfect for those who demand the best from their audio products and headphone output.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: The Silver Dragon USB Cable is our best-selling cable at Moon Audio and the perfect companion for the Element X2. The Silver Dragon USB transfers digital audio from a computer or portable device such as a Phone, Tablet, or DAP (digital audio player) to a USB-capable DAC.
The Next Generation of Music Streamer
The Element series of music streamers by Matrix Audio is a new design concept for their popular streamers that have taken the audiophile industry by storm. The Element X2 is the latest flagship - a full-featured standalone source device for your audio system. You can now easily bring your existing traditional two-channel system into the world of high-resolution music streaming.
A New UI for a New Generation of Music Streamers
The 2nd generation Element series of music streamers from Matrix Audio are equipped with a 3.46-inch LCD touch screen. The vibrant screen is able to display rich amounts of information regarding the track, artist, album, and more when playing over the network or playing local music via MA Player. The touch screen allows you to perform various operations from navigating track playback, the menu, and configuring settings. The newly added touch keys are also integrated into the glass panel and makes for a sleek and sophisticated user experience.
A Music Streaming Powerhouse - Everything In One Place
If you have a large digital audio library, then MA Player allows you to browse and play your music from USB external storage or NAS with ease. If you prefer high-resolution online music streaming, then streaming programs like TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, and Internet Radio will provide a massive amount of content for you, if you have a subscription (TIDAL and Qobuz specifically). The Element i2 is also equipped with Roon Ready, DLNA/UPnP, and AirPlay 2 which bring you different music streaming experiences.
Control at Your Fingertips - MA Remote APP
MA Remote App is the control app used by Matrix Audio music streamers. You can browse and playback your local music files, online music streaming from apps like TIDAL and Qobuz, and even free radio internet stations through the app interface, bringing all your favorite music sources together under one roof. The MA Remote App is available for iOS on iPhone and iPad, as well as Android and all compatible Android OS devices. You can control and manage features like device configurations, firmware updates, and more straight from the MA Remote App interface.
More Power, More Gain, More Music
The Element X2 has built-in a superb pre-amplifier with +10dB analog gain. When the pre-amp is enabled, it can output high-quality audio signals up to 15.8VRMS. Combined with Hyper-Control technology, the entire output range of the Element X2 provides ultra-low noise and distortion. The Element X2 has some of the best measurements for a music streamer on the market. It will power just about every headphone and/or IEM out there with the exception of electrostatics. When paired with the brand-new audio power amplifier Element P2, there is no need to add a standalone pre-amp to the system. The matching design satisfies you with both visual and listening, providing abundant power to various speakers.
A New Fully-Balanced Amplifier
The Element X2 has a built-in fully-balanced, headphone amplifier, which is composed of 8 independent amplification units. Every two units are connected in parallel, providing higher drive current and output power with very low distortion and noise, as well as better control of micro-details to the headphone drivers. For the Element X2, there are no hard-to-drive headphones, just plug-and-play.
The New RM4 Remote Control
Matrix Audio has designed a new remote control for their second-generation music streamer. The new RM4 remote control has added playback control functions, making it more convenient and easier to switch tracks, play, pause, and other operations. With two programmable buttons, the RM4 can be set to control whatever you want - like frequently used functions through the MA Remote App. The RM4 remote is made with the same care and craftsmanship as the Element series streamers.
Digital and Analog Sources All-in-One
The Element X2 not only has multiple digital input ports, it also has added analog input ports. Vinyl turntables with phono outputs, CD players, or other devices with analog outputs can be connected to your modern digital audio system through the Element X2. There are high, medium and low input gain options available to adapt to the different output levels of the front-end device.
HDMI ARC - What is it?
Matrix added HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) input port to the Element X2. When connected to display devices such as TVs and projectors with HDMI ARC functionality, the digital audio from the HDMI signal can be transferred to the Element X2 for higher-quality playback. If the display device supports HDMI CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) protocol, the playback on the Element X2 can be controlled by this display device.
High-End Femtosecond Clock
Digital audio is the art of time and timing, and a high-precision clock is the basis for accurate playback of all your favorite digital music. Matrix Audio has designed the Element X2 with the CCHD-950 ultra-low phase noise femtosecond clock from Crystek, reducing jitter generated in the transmission and processing of digital audio signals. This makes the sound more realistic and the details more accurate.
Asynchronous and Synchronous Modes
The Element X2 offers both async and sync modes for your playback. In async mode, the master clock of the D/A chip is sourced by the built-in Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock, resulting in the clock from the front-end device being disengaged. In sync mode, the built-in femtosecond clock will be turned off, and the D/A chip works off the clock in the front end of the device.
Isolated Design
There are 2 independent power supplies dedicated to the ARM processor and the digital audio processing part of the Element X2. Matrix Audio put the 2 parts in independent circuit units and joined them with several optocouplers to achieve complete electrical isolation. The audio circuit part uses an independent linear power supply to give you complete silence in the background so nothing gets in the way of your music.
High-Speed Gigabit Ethernet Port
The element X2 is equipped with a Gigabit Ethernet port to ensure a more stable connection when streaming high sampling rate audio files.
Dual Band Wi-Fi
The integrated 2.4GHz and 5GHz dual-band Wi-Fi antenna gives the Element X2 a tidy and clean appearance and flexible connection options.
Trigger Functionality
The newly added trigger ports allow you no need to turn the amplifier on or off manually, just let the element X2 work as a control center, and enjoy the music with a single touch.
Features:
- All-in-One DAC, AMP, Music Streamer, Preamp
- Amazing Updated Design
- New Large LCD Screen and Touch-sensitive Buttons
- Dual ESS Flagship DAC Chips
- Roon Ready
- MA Remote App Integration
What's in the Box?
- Element X2 Music Streamer
- RM4 remote control
- Power cable
- Quick start guide
- Warranty card
FAQ
What are the key features of the Matrix Audio Element X2?
The Matrix Audio Element X2 features high-resolution audio playback, a built-in DAC, headphone amplifier, network streaming capabilities, and support for various digital audio formats. It also includes a touch screen for easy navigation, balanced and unbalanced outputs, and compatibility with major streaming services.
How does the Element X2 compare to the previous Element X model?
The Element X2 offers several improvements over the original Element X, including a more powerful DAC, better power supply design, enhanced network streaming capabilities, and a more user-friendly interface. The touch screen is also a notable addition for easier control and navigation.
What DAC chip does the Element X2 use?
The Element X2 uses the ESS ES9038PRO DAC chip, known for its high performance and ability to handle high-resolution audio with excellent detail and accuracy.
Is the Element X2 compatible with Roon?
Yes, the Matrix Audio Element X2 is Roon Ready, which means it can integrate seamlessly with Roon's music management software, offering a superior user experience for music streaming and management.
What types of inputs and outputs are available on the Element X2?
The Element X2 offers a wide range of inputs and outputs, including USB, optical, coaxial, and Ethernet inputs, as well as balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) analog outputs. It also includes a 6.35mm headphone jack for headphone listening.
Can the Element X2 be used as a preamplifier?
Yes, the Element X2 can function as a preamplifier. It has volume control and can be connected directly to a power amplifier or active speakers.
What streaming services are supported by the Element X2?
The Element X2 supports major streaming services such as TIDAL, Qobuz, and Spotify. It also supports DLNA, AirPlay, and Bluetooth for versatile streaming options.
How is the build quality of the Element X2?
The Element X2 is known for its high build quality, featuring a robust aluminum chassis, high-quality components, and a sleek, modern design. Users often praise its solid construction and premium feel.
What is the power output of the headphone amplifier in the Element X2?
The Element X2's headphone amplifier provides a maximum power output of 1.5W per channel into 32 ohms, making it capable of driving a wide range of headphones, including those with higher impedance.
How do I update the firmware on the Element X2?
Firmware updates for the Element X2 can be performed via the Matrix Audio Control App, which can be downloaded on your smartphone or tablet. The app will notify you of any available updates and guide you through the process.
Specifications
- CPU
- NXP i.MX 6Quad 4x Cortex-A9 @1.2 GHz
- D/A Chip
- ES9038PRO
- Clock Source
- Crystek CCHD-950
- Digital Inputs
-
Coaxial & Optical: PCM 16-24Bit /44.1kHz-192kHz; DSD 2.8MHz (DoP)
IIS LVDS: PCM 16-32Bit /44.1kHz-768kHz; DSD 2.8MHz-22.4MHz (Native & DoP)
USB Audio: PCM 16-24Bit /44.1kHz-768kHz; MQA up to 384kHz; DSD up to 22.4MHz (Native & DoP)
HDMI ARC: PCM 16-24Bit /44.1kHz-192kHz - AUX Input (RCA)
-
SNR: >-106dB A-weighting
THD+N: <0.0025%@1kHz, <0.0030%@20Hz-20kHz
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.07 -3dB@43kHz
Channel Crosstalk: >-102dB
Input Level: 2.1VRMS Maximum - Line Output
-
XLR:
SNR: >-131dB A-weighting
THD+N: <0.00012%@1kHz, <0.00020%@20Hz-20kHz
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.05 -3dB@85kHz
Crosstalk: >-146dB
Output Level: 4.5VRMS@0dB, 15.8VRMS@+10dB
Output Impedance: 100Ω
RCA:
SNR: >-125dB A-weighting
THD+N: <0.00012%@1kHz, <0.00020%@20Hz-20kHz
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.05 -3dB@85kHz
Channel Crosstalk: >-137dB
Output Level: 2.2VRMS@0dB, 7.5VRMS@+10dB
Output Impedance: 100Ω - Headphone Output
-
4.4 mm Balanced:
SNR: >-119dB A-weighting
THD+N: <0.00055%@20Hz-20kHz 4VRMS
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.1 -3dB@85kHz
Output Impedance: <12Ω
Output Power: 2600mW@33Ω, 1100mW@300Ω, 580mW@600Ω, 1%THD
Gain: +18dB@Low Gain, +28dB@High Gain
6.35 mm Unbalanced:
SNR: >-116dB A-weighting
THD+N: <0.00055%@20Hz-20kHz 2VRMS
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.1 -3dB@85kHz
Output Impedance: <6Ω
Output Power: 1600mW@33Ω, 290mW@300Ω, 150mW@600Ω, 1%THD
Gain: +18dB@Low Gain, +28dB@High Gain - Network
- LAN: 10/100/1000 Mbps
WLAN: 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz - USB Port
-
Max power: 5V/1A
Supports FAT, FAT32, exFAT, NTFS file formats - Trigger
- Trigger In: DC 6-12V<10mA
Trigger Out: DC 12V/50mA MAX - MA Player
-
Controller: MA Remote App
Local Playback Formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, AIF, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, OGG, APE, ALAC, M4A, DSF, DFF, CUE
PCM: 16-24Bit /44.1kHz-768kHz
MQA: up to 384kHz MQA or MQA Studio
DSD: up to 22.4MHz - Roon Ready
- Under certification test
- Streaming Protocols
- AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, vTuner
- Power Specs
-
Power Voltage: AC 100V-120V / 220V-240V 50/60Hz
Standby Power Consumption: < 5W
Maximum Power Consumption: < 50W - Weight & Size
-
Weight: 4 kg (8.82 pounds)
Size: Width: 340 mm (13.39 in), Depth: 259 mm (10.20 in), Height: 58 mm (2.28 in) - Accessory
- RM4 remote control x1, Power cable x1, Quick start guide x1, Warranty card x1