The Matrix Ecosystem
- SS-1 Pro Switch
- NT-1 Digital Audio Transport
- ND-1 DAC
- All connected to the SC-1 10mHz Reference Clock
The advantage of such an ecosystem is that all digital signals are synchronized by one reference digital clock, instead of each using their own clock. This should improve performance significantly, but what improves, and how significantly is what we are going to explore.
Additionally, the SC-1 clock has a fourth output for connecting another digital device. In this post I will be connecting My Jays Audio CDT3 MK3 CD transport to the Matrix clock as well.
Other Components
- QSA Gold 20A circuit breaker
- QSA Gold Wall Receptacle
- OnFilter Power Conditioner (for network components and Subs)
- Bybee Stealth Power Conditioner (for main audio components)
- Unison Research Pre V2 Preamplifier
- Unison Research DM V2 Power Amplifier
- ALSO: Gryphon Diablo 120 integrated amplifier
Cables
- Hapa Audio Aero AG USB Cable (NT-1 to ND-1 DAC)
- Hapa Audio Haiku 2 Interconnects (ND-1 to preamp)
- Hapa Audio Aero AG RCA interconnects (Preamp to Amp)
- Hapa Audio Torsion AG Speaker Cables
- Vessel Power Cables treated by QSA
Speakers
Reference Tracks
Without The SC-1
The Matrix components perform quite admirably not tethered to a reference clock. If I could pick 3 adjectives they would be Purity, Transparency and Neutrality. This is not sterile or analytical sound, it is alive, energetic, producing a very spacious and dimensional sound when it is in the recording. It is not void of warmth either, especially with the ND-1 DAC, which offers the choice of Lundahl transformer coupled output or opamp output. With the Lundahl output, you get a rich, analog smoothness with plenty of detail. It's my preference.
The NT-1 streamer is a solid performer with a great touch screen interface and control app that is competitive with Innuos and bests Lumin in my opinion. Setup is a breeze and sound is Matrix musically neutral all the way.
I would say that these components together compete with the likes of Lumin sonically, with a bit more resolution and richness than a T3 ($6000 msrp). As I pointed out, the T3 is $1000 less, so it makes sense.
Adding the network switch gives the impression of a lower noise floor with more subtle details emerging, and sounds less "digital" than your standard off the shelf switch. This is likely due to the linear power supply and the built in clock. Most ethernet switches do not incorporate clocks and therefore are more prone to jitter artefacts. In my opinion, if you want a truly musically satisfying streaming system, an audio grade network switch like the Matrix SS-1 pro will get you closer than you can imagine.
Adding the Clock
With the SC-1 Clock synchronizing the digital signal throughout the digital chain, resolution and analogue-ness are leveled up. There is a quiet relaxation of the notes, and the spaces that sounds more natural and engaging. There is also a wholeness to the music. The addition of the clock significantly levels up the performance of the entire system. Additionally, if you have a transport with a 10mHz clock output, you can connect it as well to improve the sound of spinning discs,
Resolution, timing, and microdetails improve, as does bass impact and dexterity. If your amps are capable (like the Gryphon was) drum strikes are very punchy and sharp. Successive, rapid strikes are not smeared, but rendered distinctly and more realistically. Bass playing is easier to follow, and more detailed. The density of the performance is more solid across the stage, with the center image and outside the speakers presenting a more realistic soundstage.
Matrix has built their reputation on products that triangulates on that sweet spot between high performance, build quality, and price. They've created a digital system that can be built over time, with products that are feature packed, flexible, and sound amazing on their own. But when tied together with the SC-1, creates a potential end-game digital playback system that rivals brands like Innuos and Lumin.