Welcome to our Matrix Audio - TS-1 Music Streamer Review, where we delve into Matrix Audio’s latest all-in-one solution for audiophiles seeking exceptional streaming, digital-to-analogue conversion, and headphone amplification in a single compact chassis. Whether you’re curating playlists on Matrix Audio TS-1 Music Streamer or powering studio-grade active monitors, this is your next HiFi upgrade.

Streamlined All-In-One Hi-Fi Centre

Building on the ‘simplifying complexity’ philosophy, the TS-1 integrates a high-resolution streamer, fully balanced AK4493SEQ DAC, and discrete high-bias headphone amplifier into one refined aluminium enclosure. Five input interfaces—optical, coaxial, USB Audio, HDMI ARC, and RCA analogue—cover every source you own, from digital transports to TV audio. Switching between sources is seamless via the supplied IR remote or the MA Remote App, keeping your desktop or living room uncluttered.

Stream Your Way with MA Player

The custom MA Player Hi-Fi Streaming OS, paired with the MA Remote App on iOS and Android, provides an intuitive interface for TIDAL, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, internet radio, and more. Supported streaming protocols include Roon Ready, Audirvana, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay2, QPlay, and UPnP/DLNA, giving you effortless access to millions of tracks in native high-resolution formats.

Blindfolded Pure Audio Performance

It’s the internal engineering that sets the TS-1 apart. Dual femtosecond clocks dedicated to the 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling families virtually eliminate jitter, while independent low-noise linear regulators feed each AK4493SEQ DAC chip. The fully balanced DAC architecture delivers an expansive soundstage, precise imaging and exceptional micro-detail retrieval, with a dynamic range that reveals nuances previously hidden in your favourite recordings.

The discrete headphone amplifier, with dedicated 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm unbalanced outputs, boasts a high-bias design and output impedance under 1Ω, ensuring robust drive for both low-impedance IEMs and high-impedance over-ear headphones. Whether you’re listening at whisper-quiet levels or pushing 1000mW into 33Ω, the TS-1 maintains pitch-black silences and controlled, expressive transients.

Design and Connectivity Harmony

With high-standard XLR and RCA line outputs and a dedicated subwoofer out, the TS-1 serves as a complete audio centre for a 2.1 desktop setup or a minimalist living room rig. Adjustable output voltage settings accommodate a wide range of active speakers and subwoofers. For those seeking local file playback, mount your NAS or cloud drive, expand internal storage with an NVMe SSD, and even rip CDs to the internal library—all from the MA Remote App.

Who Should Consider the TS-1?

From desktop enthusiasts craving no-compromise headphone listening to space-conscious audiophiles building a living room 2.1 system around active monitors, the TS-1 answers the call. It’s ideal for digital-first listeners, busy professionals, and anyone ready to consolidate multiple HiFi components into a single, elegant device without sacrificing performance.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Versatile I/O for every source, pristine balanced DAC, discrete high-bias headphone amp, full streaming suite (Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, UPnP/DLNA), dual femtosecond clocks, NVMe SSD expansion, optional linear power support.
• Pros: Integrated subwoofer output and adjustable voltage settings for active speakers.
• Pros: Ultra-low noise floor with >120dB SNR and THD+N under 0.0004% across outputs.
• Cons: Built-in storage may require NVMe SSD for large libraries.
• Cons: Dedicated linear power supply sold separately to unlock maximum potential.
• Cons: MA Player OS has a slight learning curve for advanced features.

Time to Upgrade Your Audio Setup

The Matrix Audio TS-1 Music Streamer redefines what an all-in-one HiFi component can achieve, marrying refined engineering, workflow flexibility and top-tier sound quality. Ready to elevate your listening experience? Speak with our team at The Audio Tailor on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au to explore how the TS-1 can transform your sound.