Matrix Audio
Matrix Audio MS-1c Music Streamer
$5,899.00 USDFeatures
Dual femtosecond clock architecture for precise timing and reduced jitter
LUNDAHL precision audio transformers deliver a warm, full-bodied analog stage
Supports PCM up to 32-Bit/768kHz and DSD up to 1-Bit/24.58MHz
Dual analog outputs (XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced) with selectable output levels
High-precision 100-step digital volume control for direct amp connection
Extensive streaming support: Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, UPnP/DLNA
NVMe SSD slot for flexible internal storage expansion
CD ripping and playback via external USB CD drive
CNC-machined aluminum chassis with MA-DAMPER STD vibration isolation
What's in the Box?
Warranty
Discover the Matrix Audio MS-1c, a premium audiophile streamer with a flagship AKM DAC and warm LUNDAHL transformers, delivering a rich, detailed sound quality with zero fatigue. As the newest entry-level model in Matrix Audio's flagship M Series, the MS-1c inherits the meticulous hardware design and the philosophy of harmonizing exceptional aesthetics and superior sound quality. Powered by Matrix Audio's own MA Player Hi-Fi Streamer OS–built on Linux–it's designed to slot seamlessly into modern Hi-Fi systems.
The MS-1c integrates both analog and digital outputs. Featuring a built-in high-quality DAC, it delivers both refined detail and a warm, musical sound signature, while also supporting external DAC expansion for greater flexibility. It's an ideal choice for entry audiophiles exploring high-quality digital sources, as well as for advanced users looking to upgrade their system or experience streaming audio. It can function as a source into an integrated amplifier or preamplifier, or with its variable analog outputs, connect directly to power amps and active speakers.
Exceptional Sound
Built upon Matrix Audio's signature high-resolution digital architecture, the MS-1c incorporates an analog-inspired toning philosophy. The MS-1c uses Swedish LUNDAHL precision audio transformers in its analog stage for signal coupling, delivering a warm, smooth, full-bodied sound that's richly detailed yet fatigue-free. At its core is the flagship AKM VELVETSOUND DAC solution (AK4191 + AK4499EX), supporting PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to 1-bit/24.58MHz, with up to 125dB dynamic range, ultra-high SNR, and an exceptionally low noise floor. Every last micro detail is reproduced with ease.
Precision is reinforced by a dual femtosecond clock architecture paired with a high-speed FPGA running frequency division and jitter reduction algorithms, minimizing phase noise and improving data reconstruction for enhanced airiness and texture.
Connectivity & Outputs
- Digital Outputs: S/PDIF (optical, coaxial, AES/EBU), USB DAC/USB audio output, and IIS-LVDS–for broad compatibility with traditional DACs and flexible system expansion
- Analog Outputs: Dual XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced outputs with two selectable output levels to match amplifier or active speaker input sensitivity, plus 100-step digital volume control for direct connection to a power amp, active speakers, or headphone amplifier
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet for the most stable high-res PCM/DSD playback, plus Wi-Fi 6 for flexible wireless streaming with DLNA/UPnP support for network audio
Intelligent Control & Streaming
Built on the same Hi-Fi streaming hardware platform as the MS-1 and controlled via the MA Remote App (iOS, iPadOS, Android). Integrates major high-res streaming services — Apple Music, TIDAL, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, QQ Music, and internet radio — and supports Roon Ready, Audirvāna, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, UPnP/DLNA, and NAA. Build local libraries from internal SSD, USB storage, or NAS, or stream directly from Dropbox. With rich resources and broad protocol support, the MS-1c becomes a powerful and versatile audio source.
CD Ripping & Storage
Connect an external USB CD drive to the MS-1c for direct CD playback or to rip discs into digital files–combining the sound of physical media with the flexibility of a streamer. An internal NVMe SSD slot (bottom-mounted, with its own ultra-low-noise independent power supply) allows easy storage expansion, accessible over the local network. The MS-1c can also function as a NAS, serving music to other streamers.
Build & Power
A carefully engineered power architecture separates digital and analog supplies, with a dedicated linear power supply for the analog stage and multiple LDO regulators to minimize ripple and noise. The MA-DAMPER STD isolation damper (co-developed with Audio Bastion) uses an internal silicone damping structure to absorb vibration and enhance sonic accuracy. The CNC-machined aluminum chassis reflects Matrix Audio's signature aesthetic, pairing sonic performance with refined design and features such as a front-panel touchscreen.
FAQs
What's the difference between the MS-1 and MS-1c?
The MS-1c Music Streamer is an entry-level, more affordable version of Matrix Audio's flagship MS-1 Music Streamer. It preserves the same M-series streaming platform, MA Player operating system, dual-femtosecond clock design, internal DAC, and the ability to function as either an analog-output streamer/DAC or a digital transport for an external DAC. The MS-1 is the broader, more configurable system hub; the MS-1c is focused on being an excellent digital music source.
Choose the MS-1c if streaming is your main source. If your system includes analog sources like a turntable, phono preamp, or tape machine, choose the MS-1. The MS-1c is the more sensible choice for a modern all-digital setup, while the MS-1 earns ts premium when you need true system-center flexibility.
Can I use the MS-1c as a standalone DAC/preamp connected directly to power amps or active speakers?
Yes. The MS-1c has dual XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced outputs with two selectable output levels to match amplifier/speaker sensitivity, enabling it to be directly connected to a power amplifier and/or active speakers.
Can the MS-1c function as a NAS for other devices in a music system?
Yes. The MS-1c's internal storage is accessible over the local network, and the device can serve music to other streamers, functioning as a NAS.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Digital Output | |
| OPTICAL, COAXIAL, AES/EBU | PCM 16-24Bit /44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz DSD 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz(DoP) |
| IIS LVDS | PCM 16-32Bit /44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz DSD 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz, 5.64MHz, 6.14MHz, 11.29MHz, 12.29MHz, 22.58MHz, 24.58MHz |
| USB DAC | Depends on the specifications supported by the connected USB DAC device. Not higher than PCM 32Bit/768kHz and DSD 24.58MHz. The USB DAC port provides a maximum of 5V/1A low-noise power supply. |
| Analog Output | |
| XLR | Output Impedance: 20Ω Output Level: 4.5VRMS / 0~4.5VRMS Adjustable SNR: >126dB A-weighting THD+N: <0.02%@1kHz Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.1 -3dB@83kHz Crosstalk: >-130dB |
| RCA | Output Impedance: 20Ω Output Level: 2.25VRMS / 0~2.25VRMS Adjustable SNR: >123dB A-weighting THD+N: <0.02%@1kHz Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz ±0.3 -3dB@83kHz Crosstalk: >-130dB |
| Network | |
| LAN | 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| Wi-Fi | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz |
| USB | |
| USB 3.0 | The USB port provides a maximum power of 5V/1A. The USB port works with devices which conform to the USB mass storage standard and supports FAT, FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS file formats, but is not guaranteed to be compatible with all storage devices. |
| MA Player | |
| Controller app | MA Remote App |
| Local Playback | Format Supported: MP3, WMA, WAV, AIF, AIFC, AIFF, AAC, FLAC, OGG, APE, ALAC, M4A, DSF, DFF, CUE, ISO PCM 16-24Bit/44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz DSD 2.82MHz, 3.07MHz, 5.64MHz, 6.14MHz, 11.29MHz, 12.29MHz, 22.58MHz, 24.58MHz |
| Roon Ready | PCM 16-24 Bit /44.1 kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz DSD 2.82MHz, 5.64MHz, 11.29MHz, 22.58MHz |
| Apple Music | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| QQ音乐 | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| AirPlay 2 | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| DLNA/UPnP | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| TIDAL Connect | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| Spotify Connect | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| Qobuz Connect | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| vTuner | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| Radio Paradise | The audio specs depend on the service provider |
| Trigger | |
| Trigger in | DC 6-12V <10mA |
| Trigger out | DC 12V/50mA MAX |
| Storage Extension | |
| M.2 Slot | M.2 2280 2242 2230 NVMe PCIe SSD slot SSD supporting PCIe 3.0/4.0/5.0 standards. The maximum power specification provided by the expansion slot is DC 3.3V 3A. |
| Power | |
| Power Voltage | AC 100V-120V 50/60Hz or AC 220V-240V 50/60Hz, factory-fixed |
| Standby Power Consumption | < 5W |
| MAX Power Consumption | < 50W |
| Weight & Dimension | |
| Weight | 6.5kg (14.33 pounds) |
| Dimension | Width: 430 mm (16.93 inches) Depth: 315 mm (12.40 inches) Height: 96 mm (3.78 inches) |
| Accessories | |
| Power cable *1 IR Remote *1 Printed material *1 | |