Стримеры — Matrix Audio element X2

The element X2 is a streamer, DAC and headphone amplifier made by Matrix Audio in China, a specialist in converters and network players. It combines network streaming, several digital inputs, an analogue input and HDMI ARC with a fully balanced headphone amplifier and line outputs, so it can serve as the digital hub of a system or as a desktop headphone source. Its DAC is built around the ESS ES9038PRO.

Key specs that matter

Conversion relies on an ESS ES9038PRO, driven by an NXP i.MX 6Quad processor and a Crystek CCHD-950 clock. USB accepts PCM up to 768 kHz, MQA and DSD up to 22.4 MHz native. HDMI ARC accepts PCM up to 192 kHz. The XLR line output delivers 4.5 Vrms, or 15.8 Vrms with +10 dB of gain, with signal-to-noise above 131 dB and THD+N below 0.00012% at 1 kHz. The RCA output delivers 2.2 Vrms. The 4.4 mm balanced headphone output delivers 2600 mW into 33 ohms and 580 mW into 600 ohms, with output impedance below 12 ohms. Frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 0.05 dB, -3 dB at 85 kHz.

Engineering and use context

Digital inputs are USB, two coaxial, two optical, I2S over HDMI and HDMI ARC, alongside one RCA analogue input. The analogue RCA input lets a turntable with its own phono stage or a CD player join the system. In asynchronous mode, the DAC's master clock comes from the internal Crystek femtosecond oscillator and the source clock is discarded. In synchronous mode, the internal clock is switched off and the DAC follows the source. Two independent power supplies serve the ARM processor and the digital audio section, linked by optocouplers for complete electrical isolation, and the audio circuit has its own linear supply. HDMI ARC takes the audio from a television or projector, and HDMI CEC lets the display's remote control playback. The headphone amplifier is fully balanced, with a 6.35 mm single-ended output alongside the 4.4 mm balanced socket and two gain settings of +18 and +28 dB. Network connection is by Gigabit Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi, and the MA Remote App controls playback. A trigger input accepting 6 to 12 V DC and a 12 V trigger output connect other components.

Pairing

With its variable balanced line output, the element X2 can feed power amps or powered monitors on its own. The headphone output drives demanding planar and high-impedance headphones.

Alternatives

Matrix Audio's element S is the brand's smaller network streamer with digital outputs only.