Matrix Audio TS-1 Music Streamer & DAC with Headphone Amplifier

Description

The Matrix Audio TS-1 is a new-generation all-in-one solution for headphone and active monitor enthusiasts. It combines a streamer, DAC, and headphone amplifier in one compact device, delivering studio-quality sound with simplicity and elegance. Designed under the philosophy of “simplifying complexity,” the TS-1 connects seamlessly to your headphones or active speakers to create a complete Hi-Fi system.

Stream, Connect, and Control

Powered by Matrix Audio’s M-Series streaming platform and the MA Player Hi-Fi OS, the TS-1 integrates streaming services such as TIDAL, Qobuz, and HIGHRESAUDIO, as well as internet radio. It supports Roon Ready, Audirvana, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, QPlay, and UPnP/DLNA. Control is intuitive with the MA Remote App for iOS and Android.

Complete Audio Center

The TS-1 is equipped with five inputs: optical, coaxial, USB Audio, HDMI ARC, and RCA analog. It also provides balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs with two selectable output voltage levels to match different active speaker gains.
A dedicated subwoofer output handles frequencies below 150 Hz and maintains synchronized volume control with the main outputs.

High-Bias Headphone Amplifier

The fully balanced discrete headphone amplifier features 6.35 mm unbalanced and 4.4 mm balanced outputs with an output impedance of just 1 Ω. With two-level output voltage control, it drives both sensitive IEMs and high-impedance headphones effortlessly, maintaining clarity, smoothness, and comfort during long listening sessions.

Dual DAC & Clock Architecture

Each channel uses an AK4493SEQ DAC chip operating in parallel for improved dynamic range and detail. The DACs have independent low-noise power regulation.
Two femtosecond clocks—one for 44.1 kHz and one for 48 kHz domains—are governed by FPGA control, reducing jitter and ensuring precise timing.

Layered Circuit Design

The analog and digital circuits are built on separate PCB layers to minimize interference, with a fully symmetrical left/right layout for stable, accurate signal transmission. This structure also aids heat dissipation for the high-bias amplifier.

Local & Cloud Music

The TS-1 can mount NAS drives or cloud storage directly, allowing you to copy files to internal storage. It supports USB CD ripping through the MA Remote App, converting albums into digital files automatically.

SSD Storage & Networking

An NVMe SSD slot (with ultra-low-noise power design) expands internal storage. The device supports Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit Ethernet, ensuring fast and stable network playback.

Power Design

The TS-1 includes both AC input and a 12 V DC input for connection to an external linear power supply. When both are connected, it prioritizes the external supply, providing cleaner and more stable power to each circuit through multiple low-noise regulators.

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Specifications

Digital Inputs

• Coaxial / Optical: PCM 16–24 bit / 44.1–192 kHz; DSD 2.8 MHz (DoP)

• HDMI ARC: PCM 16–24 bit / 44.1–192 kHz

• USB Audio: PCM 16–24 bit / 44.1–768 kHz; DSD 2.8–11.2 MHz (DoP); DSD 2.8–22.4 MHz (Native)

Aux In

• SNR: 100 dB (A-weighted)

• THD+N: < 0.004 % @ 1 kHz, < 0.004 % (20 Hz–20 kHz)

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz–20 kHz ±0.1 dB (−3 dB @ 40 kHz)