Introduction Matrix Audio ND-1 DAC and NA-1 Headphone Amplifier

With the introduction of the T- and N-Series, Matrix Audio extended the design language of the prestigious M-Series to the more compact series with a lower price point. In doing so, Matrix Audio slowly but surely began the refresh of its Element Series. Following the introduction of the TT-1 Streamer without a DAC, the T-Series was expanded with the TS-1 Streamer with DAC. However, in the superior N-Series, there was only one model that focused purely on digital outputs – the NT-1. Until now. Today, we are introducing not one, but two new models in this beautiful N-Series: the ND-1 DAC and the NA-1 Headphone Amp!

The N-Series positions itself between the compact T-Series and the full-size M-Series. At 33cm wide, however, the N-Series can still be considered modest in size. The performance, however, is not, as with the Matrix Audio N-Series scales down the typical High-End approach of the M-Series to its essence. Until now, the N-Series was limited to a single model: the NT-1. A Digital Streaming Transport optimized to deliver a perfect digital audio signal from internal or external music storage and streaming services.

Matrix Audio NT-1 Digital Streaming Transport

Compared to the TT-1, its slightly smaller counterpart, the NT-1 is built on better components and much more optimized signal processing. It features a fully linear power supply with extensive low-noise regulators, a much more accurate clock oscillator with the option for further upgrade via the external SC-1 Reference Clock, and comprehensive isolation against interference. Matrix Audio is now extending that class in two completely new models that perfectly complement the NT-1 and make the N-Series a very serious line.

ND-1 DAC

The NT-1 was developed to extract the most from digital data. Whether you choose Matrix Audio’s fantastic Remote App, Tidal or Qobuz Connect or ROON, the NT-1 delivers the played digital music files to its digital outputs with the greatest accuracy. Naturally, the next step in the reconstruction of the music signal is the conversion of the digital file into an analog music signal. This is exactly what the ND-1 was developed for. With digital inputs in the form of AES/EBU, RCA, Optical via Toslink, IIS-LVDS, and USB Audio, you can easily connect the ND-1 to the NT-1 or other digital source, allowing the ND-1 to focus purely on the conversion to the analog domain.

The core of the ND-1 is formed by one of the best DAC chipsets available, the AK4191 and AK4499. The AK4191 focuses on the digital processing stage with its digital filtering and Delta-Sigma modulator, while two AK4499 chips handle the actual DA conversion. Coupled with Matrix Audio’s linear power supply featuring separate circuits for analog and digital signal processing, a low-jitter clock circuit, and extensive isolation, the ND-1 achieves exceptionally low distortion and an extreme signal-to-noise ratio. Completely unique is the user choice between conventional, directly coupled analog outputs or a transformer-coupled output. With the push of a button, you switch the ND-1 from the Op-Amp coupled output to special Lundahl output transformers for an even more intimate and smooth sound character. This allows the ND-1 to be personalized to your taste and musical preference. If you want to go a step further, there is the option to expand the ND-1 with Matrix Audio’s own SC-1 Reference Clock. The temperature-controlled clock oscillator in the SC-1 thereby bypasses the function of the internal clock. This further minimizes time based errors, digital smear and jitter, elevating the performance of the ND-1 to an extremely high level.

Pair the ND-1 with the NT-1 as a streaming source via IIS/LVDS for the purest digital audio connection, transmitting I2S signals via differential signaling over an HDMI cable. This bypasses the SPDIF interfaces and minimizes potential jitter by coupling the digital audio path to the DAC chips as direct as possible. Expand the set with the SC-1 Reference Clock for optimally synchronized timing for both the NT-1 and the ND-1, and then isolate the NT-1 streamer from disruptive interference and ground noise with Matrix Audio’s SI-1 Optical Network Isolator.

This is how you build a music source of unprecedented sonic quality in a price segment that rivals the established order!

We have embraced Matrix Audio for its brilliant streamers and equally brilliant interface. Over the years, however, Matrix has also built a strong reputation in the headphone community. Streamers such as the current TS-1, Mini-i Pro 4, and the discontinued Element X2 are equipped with high-quality headphone drivers, including balanced output. With the introduction of the specialized NA-1, Matrix Audio goes a step further and has developed a high-end headphone amp with a massive 20 watts of power in a full Class A design.

The NA-1 is a Headphone amp in it’s purest and most potent form. Build with Matrix Audio’s exceptional attention to detail and design philosophy it resembles old school High End engineering combined with deep understanding of maintaining ultimate signal integrity. The small yet massive NA-1 receives its music signal from an analog source via RCA or XLR connections. Input selection and volume are easily controlled from the sleek yet impressive front panel. Here we also find the 6.35mm unbalanced headphone jack as well as a balanced output in the form of a 4.4mm jack and 4-pin XLR.

Internally, we find a generous linear power supply with separate regulation circuits for the voltage-amplifying and current-amplifying sections of the Class A amplifier. Four independent, fully balanced amplifier stages deliver a maximum output power of 20 Watts and a (selectable) maximum gain of 21 dB. Unprecedented! With this, Matrix Audio achieves an exceptionally stable output with a very high damping factor, allowing any headphone, regardless of impedance, to be driven optimally.

Together with the selection of the highest quality components and highly discrete construction, the NA-1 forms Matrix Audio’s very best Headphone Amp ever. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that, thanks to the RCA and Balanced Pre-Out function, the NA-1 can also serve as a high-end preamplifier.

Both N-Seies models will be available from April. The ND-1 DAC has a salesprice of € 3.599,- and the NA-1 Headphone amp is priced at €2.999,-. The NT-1 Digital Streaming Transport is available from stock with a salesprice of € 4.899,-.

With the recent introduction of the SI-1 Audio Grade Network Isolator and the arrival of the ND-1 and NA-1, Matrix Audio once again underscores its class and position in the market. Moreover, we know that it will not end here. 2026 will be the year of Matrix Audio – promised!

Attached you will find the current price list. With the introduction of the N-series, production of the Element series and the X Sabre has come to an end. We still have a limited stock that we can offer at special prices. You can find these models and prices on the last page of the price list.