Matrix Audio NT-1 and TT-1 – New Upper Echelon Network Streamers

Matrix Audio has introduced two new network streamers with transport functionality – devoid of a digital-to-analog converter and designed for use with external DACs. Both models are designed in a recognizable futuristic aesthetic and are equipped with large touch screens on the front panel. The streamers are also Roon certified.

The Matrix Audio TT-1, offered for 2,249 euros, has a wide switching set - a coaxial digital output (RCA), optical (Toslink) and balanced AES/EBU, as well as a USB-DAC output, and an IIS-LVDS port, implemented on the HDMI connector. The latter option is interesting in combination with a Matrix Audio DAC with an IIS-LVDS input, where the I2S connection provides the shortest signal path to the chip.

In addition to digital outputs, the Matrix Audio TT-1 network streamer is equipped with an Ethernet RJ45 port and two USB ports for connecting external storage media, and uses an impulse power supply.

Traditionally for the brand's products, TT-1 allows the use of an external power supply of higher quality. This approach improves sound quality by moving sensitive circuits away from potentially noisy circuits.

The Matrix Audio NT-1 is noticeably more expensive – 4,899 euros. The larger case size provides space for a linear power supply. Matrix Audio NT-1 is equipped with a similar switching arsenal, and music can be stored on an additional internal NVMe SSD drive. As in the case of TT-1, NT-1 can be connected to the network via Ethernet RJ45, or wirelessly via Wi-Fi.

A distinctive feature of Matrix Audio NT-1 is the presence of an SFP network optical port. Such a fiber optic network connection provides additional quality, since the audio device can be completely electrically isolated from the rest of the computer network. The Matrix Audio NT-1 streamer also features a 10 MHz external clock generator connector.

Both network streamers are now available in Europe.