Introduction Matrix Audio SI-1 Network Isolator

When you think about it, it’s quite remarkable, that inexhaustible wealth of music from the internet. With a network connection, a subscription, and a suitable streamer, you have access to all the music you can dream of. Initially, we were skeptical and perceived inferior quality. Now, streaming audio is the standard, high-quality streamers abundant, and convenience is teamed up with musical excellence. The music streamer converts the data collected via the network into music. For maximum resolution and stability, we prefer to do this with a wired network connection. This directly or indirectly connects your music streamer to all other networked equipment in the home. Besides the desirable electrical connection, this also creates a path for contamination and potential differences on the ground plane, which can limit the final quality of the signal processing. From an absolute musical experience, this is, of course, far from desirable. That’s why Matrix Audio developed the SS-1 Network Audio Isolator: an active, optical network isolator for the purest network audio.

Matrix Audio has been specialized in high-quality music streamers and DACs for years. Thanks to research and extensive measuring equipment, they understand the impact of unwanted interference like no other. With a music streamer, the network connection is not only the source of music but also of potential interference. This interference affects the reconstruction of our music signal, no matter how good the streamer is. Minimizing susceptibility to interference is therefore the foundation of every Matrix Audio design. Yet, the quality of the chain remains dependent on its weakest link. That’s precisely why Matrix Audio developed the SS-1 and SS-1 Pro: Audio-Grade Network Switches that prove that Matrix Audio knows exactly how to tackle this interference. The new Matrix Audio SI-1 takes the next step towards purism with complete galvanic isolation between the music streamer and the network. The SI-1 fulfills three core functions: galvanic isolation against network interference, optimization of data transmission, and protection against surges.

The Matrix Audio SI-1 is unique. Simply because it offers the most complete network isolation and optimization in its class. At the heart of the SI-1 is its active, optical-electrical isolation technology. The input is electrically connected to the home network via an RJ45 network cable. Internally, the electrical signal is converted into an optical signal by specialized optical transmitters. Two, to be precise: one for upstream and one for downstream. This galvanic isolation breaks the electrical connection between the input and output, thus preventing any contamination, ensuring the purest network transmission.

Unlike other network isolation products, which often rely on a simpel (external) switching power supply, the Matrix Audio SI-1 features an internal linear power supply. A toroidal transformer with multiple, independent DC regulation circuits forms the foundation for a clean and stable DC power supply feeding the optical transmitters and femtosecond clock circuits. The clock circuits ensure optimal timing of the digital data, minimizing transmission errors and jitter. In this way, the SI-1 guarantees data integrity while actively blocking contamination, all in one package.

The SI-1 features two 1 Gbps RJ45 ports of which the output is fully isolated from the input. This optical isolation not only eliminates polluting interference but also protects the connected streamer from harmful surges. Whether it’s lightning strikes, power surges, electrostatic discharge, or persistent mains noise, the SI-1 provides a robust protective barrier for the connected equipment.

In many systems, the SI-1 will fulfill it’s task in anonymity. However, with its beautiful design and build quality, it wouldn’t be out of place in the spotlight either. The enclosure is milled from solid aluminum and features the signature Matrix Audio perforation pattern. It measures 12cm wide, over 20cm deep, and a good 4.5cm high. At 1.5kg, you don’t have to worry about it getting upset if you connect it to the mains with a high-quality powercable either. This makes the SI-1 not only beautiful to look at but also impervious to external radiation, which once again emphasizes Matrix Audio’s passion for achieving the purest sound possible.

The impact the SI-1 has on a balanced hi-fi system is far from subtle. It’s like watching TV through cleaner glasses. Nothing is exaggerated or overstated, but everything is simply more clearly defined and richer in contrast. Sounds appear smoother, less angular or sharp, and the spatial image becomes significantly more realistic. You’re simply more immersed in the music, and that, in our opinion, is what it’s all about!

The Matrix Audio SI-1 Optical Network Isolator is available from stock with a suggested retail price of €899,- including VAT.