Welcome to our Matrix Audio element X2 Music Streamer Review, where we dive deep into the latest evolution in streaming audio from Matrix Audio. As an all-in-one stand-alone source device, the element X2 simplifies your audio system while delivering exceptional high-res performance. Read on to discover why this is the perfect audiophile-grade hub for your home setup.

Design and User Interface

The element X2 boasts a sleek, minimalist chassis crafted from brushed aluminium, centred around a vibrant 3.46" TFT LCD touchscreen that makes system navigation effortless. The new UI presents detailed track metadata, album artwork and intuitive playback controls at your fingertips. For added convenience, the updated RM4 remote control features dedicated play/pause and track-skip buttons plus two programmable keys that you can assign via our MA Remote App – perfect for one-touch access to your favourite streaming service or input.

Streaming and Playback Capabilities

Under the hood, the element X2 runs on an NXP i.MX6 Quad Cortex-A9 CPU powered by Matrix Audio’s custom MA Player OS. It’s Roon Ready and supports UPnP/DLNA, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, Baidu Cloud, QQ Music and Internet Radio. Local playback is equally impressive: the comprehensive USB and NAS implementation handles FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, DSF, DFF, MQA and more, up to PCM 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512.

Digital-to-Analog Conversion Excellence

Matrix Audio has equipped the element X2 with the flagship ESS ES9038PRO DAC, clocked by a Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond reference. The result is razor-sharp transients, rock-solid timing and an ultra-low noise floor that reveals every nuance in your recordings. Asynchronous USB and LVDS I²S inputs support DSD64 through DSD512 and PCM up to 768kHz, ensuring bit-perfect playback from virtually any digital source.

Built-In Preamplifier and Headphone Amplifier

The element X2’s onboard analogue preamplifier delivers up to +10dB of gain, outputting 15.8VRMS through balanced XLRs and 7.5VRMS via RCAs. Thanks to Hyper-Control technology, distortion is kept below 0.00012% THD+N, eliminating the need for an external preamp. For private listening, the full-balanced headphone amp employs eight independent amplification units in parallel, offering 2.6W into 33Ω and 580mW into 600Ω—all at very low distortion. Whether you favour planar magnetics, dynamic drivers or high-impedance orthodynamics, the X2 drives them with aplomb.

Connectivity and Integration

• Digital Inputs: Coaxial, Optical, asynchronous USB, LVDS I²S
• HDMI ARC: Stream TV audio in full hi-fi quality
• Analog Inputs: Dual RCA for turntables, CD players and legacy sources
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet plus integrated 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi
• Trigger I/O: Auto on/off control for power amplifiers

Who Should Consider the element X2?

If you’re an audiophile seeking a clutter-free rig without compromising on performance, the element X2 is your ideal solution. It excels in two-channel systems, headphone listening stations and home cinema set-ups via HDMI ARC. Vinyl enthusiasts can connect a turntable through the analogue inputs, while digital fans benefit from the extensive high-res streaming options and Roon compatibility.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Flagship ES9038PRO DAC and femtosecond clock for peerless clarity
  • All-in-one design with built-in preamp and powerful headphone amplifier
  • Extensive streaming support: Roon Ready, TIDAL, Qobuz, AirPlay 2, UPnP
  • Intuitive touchscreen interface and versatile RM4 remote
  • Asynchronous USB & LVDS I²S up to PCM768kHz & DSD512
• Cons:
  • Premium feature set commands a premium price
  • Touchscreen may require brief acclimation for remote-only users

Elevate Your Audio Journey with element X2

The Matrix Audio element X2 Music Streamer redefines what an all-in-one source component can achieve. Its combination of high-end DAC architecture, flexible analogue stage and expansive software feature set makes it a standout choice for discerning listeners. Ready to integrate the element X2 into your system? Speak with our team at The Audio Tailor on 1300 308 711 or email us for expert advice. You can also explore full specifications and secure yours online at our product page.