We always get a slight tickle in the belly when one of our suppliers announces a new product. Especially when the product comes from our relatively new partner Matrix Audio and is described as a benchmark for everything that will follow from now on. You could say Matrix Audio 2.0. And it starts today, with the introduction of two completely new Streaming Audio Transports focused on digital outputs in style with Matrix Audio’s ultimate M-series. The new TT-1 and NT-1.
Digital only
The Matrix Audio TT-1 and NT-1 are pure Streaming Audio sources with optimized digital outputs. So no DA conversion, but purely digital. Call it a streaming bridge, Transport or streamer without DAC. It doesn’t really matter to Matrix Audio, as long as you know that the TT-1 and NT-1 offer you a path to an ultimate streaming audio experience, Matrix Style. Connect them to an existing digital input of a DAC and enjoy the audiophile and unprecedented smart technology that Matrix Audio has hidden in these beautiful boxes, including the fantastic MA Remote app.
Designed to be proud
As far as we are concerned, Matrix Audio is rightly proud of its capabilities. The recently introduced M-series, which represents Matrix Audio’s uncompromising High-End philosophy, carries the initials indelibly on the top plate of the chassis. Together with the decorative perforation pattern for much-needed cooling and the large touchscreen display, the stylish M-series sets the standard for what is to come: super high-quality audio products with a stylish and unique signature that is recognizably different. Symbolic for Matrix Audio’s big thinking where all elements must fit together seamlessly. From the feeling when connecting, the interaction with the controls and of course the sound. Everything has to be right. That’s exactly what we love about Matrix Audio and the M-series in particular. We think it is worth a round of applause that this design language is further implemented in underlying models with the TT-1 and NT-1 as the start point!
Matrix Audio TT-1
The TT-1 and NT-1 Streaming Audo Transport models are the first models to return the design language of the M-series to a more compact class with a lower price point. Of these two, the Matrix Audio TT-1 with a price tag of € 2.249,- is the entry-level model. With a width of 28cm, the TT-1 measures as wide as Matrix Audio’s SS-1 Audio Grade Network Switch. The T in the type number betrays a new line to which Matrix Audio will later add more products with the same beautiful construction style. Nice!
SS1-Pro and SS-1 Audio Grade Network Switch
Back to the TT-1. A music streamer with only digital outputs, namely the following: Coaxial (RCA), Optical (Toslink) and AES/EBU, a dedicated USB-DAC Output and an IIS-LVDS output with HDMI connector. The latter, for example, is super interesting in combination with a Matrix Audio DAC with IIS-LVDS input where the I2S audio connection enables the shortest signal path directly to the DAC Chip. In addition to the digital outputs, we find a network port and two USB connections for external hard drives with music or, for example, a CD drive. This way you can easily rip your own CDs with the TT-1. Connect a separate CD-Drive via the USB connection, select the recording function via the Touchscreen and off-you-go! Where to then, I hear you ask. Matrix Audio has also thought of that. At the bottom of the TT-1 we find an SSD slot where you can insert a separate NVMe-Protocol SSD storage. You can then easily play your own music from the internal hard drive via the Matrix Audio Control app.
The Matrix Audio TT-1 is an incredibly beautiful music streamer that is visually reminiscent of the flagship MS-1, but a bit smaller and without the DAC. The large touchscreen is easy to operate and shows all relevant information about the music being played. Of course, the TT-1 can be fully controlled via the MA Remote app and is a ROON endpoint. The internal structure with Matrix Audio’s signature focus on isolation and shielding provides a solid foundation for a pure digital audio signal. The TT-1 is equipped with an internal, switching power supply. Also typical Matrix; the TT-1 is prepared for an external, even higher quality 12V DC power supply to take performance to an even higher level. We can also expect this from Matrix Audio in the future.
The Matrix Audio TT-1 music streamer is available immediately and has a recommended retail price of € 2.249,- inc VAT
Matrix Audio NT-1
With a suggested retail price of € 4.899,- the Matrix Audio NT-1 is in a slightly higher segment, with the N in the type number being the prelude to more products in this class. In terms of size, the NT-1 shares its shoulder width with the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro Audio Grade Network Switch – being 33cm wide. The slightly larger size offers room for an optimized, linear power supply that gives the NT-1 an even more stable basis for its digital signal processing.
Like the TT-1, the NT-1 has five digital outputs: Coaxial (RCA), Optical (Toslink) and AES/EBU, a dedicated USB-DAC Output and an IIS-LVDS output. Here too, there are two USB ports for an external CD Drive or Hard Disc and music can be stored directly in the NT-1 using the optional SSD storage connection at the bottom. Of course, just like with the TT-1, we also find a tightly integrated WiFi antenna and an RJ-45 Network connection.
However, unique to the NT-1 is the SFP port. In our experiences, this fiber optic network connection offers extreme added value because the audio source can be completely electrically isolated from the rest of the network. The increase in sense of ease and freedom from harshness in the music stream is really mindblowing! It is nice that Matrix Audio’s SS-1 and SS-1 Pro Network Switches have the same SFP connection. Even if you only have a copper RJ-45 network connection in your home, you can enjoy optimal insulation. A huge ear-opener for us!
To further pamper the purist (and his ears), the NT-1 is equipped with a connection for an external clock. When using this 10MHz clock input, the NT-1’s internal clock is bypassed to further optimize the crucial timing reference of all digital signal processing. Because timing is everything, your search for the ideal companion clock doesn’t have to be long (we have already received a pun intended award for 2025!). Matrix Audio has developed the ideal partner for this with inf form of the SC-1. This is also available immediately, but for the sake of clarity we will introduce it in another email.
The NT-1 unites Matrix Audio’s Streaming Audio skills and puristic digital signal processing in a stunningly beautiful housing and is immediately available with a suggested retail price of € 4.899,- including VAT.
Would you like to learn more about Matrix Audio in general or about the TT-1 or NT-1? Please don’t hasitate to contact us either by phone +31(0)36-3031880 or through a reply on this email.
