Matrix Audio NT-1 Reference Digital Audio Transport

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$3,999.00

Add-Ons

Matrix Audio CAT6A Network Patch Cord

+$159.00

Matrix Audio OFC Hi-Fi Power Cable

+$169.00

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The Matrix Audio NT-1 is a reference-grade digital audio transport that works as a dedicated, jitter-free source for a high-end DAC. It pairs the hardware of Matrix Audio’s flagship M-series streamers with an audio-optimized OS, a full linear power supply, and an advanced clocking system with a 10MHz external clock input. Network streaming, local NVMe storage, and NAS playback all feed a suite of pristine digital outputs.

For the bigger picture, read our guide to how the Matrix N-Series builds a complete hi-fi front end in three small boxes.

Key Features:

Dedicated Digital Transport: A pure digital source with Optical, Coaxial, AES/EBU, IIS-LVDS, and an isolated USB DAC output for universal DAC compatibility.
Flagship Clocking System: Incorporates a high-precision internal clock and a 10MHz external clock input, allowing synchronization with a master clock for the lowest possible jitter.
Full Linear Power Supply: A 60W toroidal transformer and multiple LDOs provide clean, isolated power to every critical component.
Versatile Storage Options: Features an internal NVMe SSD slot (up to 4TB) and dual USB 3.0 ports for external drives, with full NAS sharing capabilities.
Flexible Network Connectivity: Equipped with both Gigabit Ethernet and a 10Gbps SFP port for noise-free fiber optic network connections.
Roon Ready & Multi-Platform Streaming: Works as a Roon Ready endpoint and supports TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, and DLNA/UPnP.

The Purity of a Dedicated Source

In a high-performance audio system, every component should have a singular focus. The NT-1 is engineered exclusively to be the best possible digital source. By omitting any internal D/A conversion, its entire architecture is optimized for one purpose: delivering a flawless digital audio stream. This includes an audio-specific USB DAC port that is electrically isolated and powered by its own independent linear power supply, eliminating noise and interference from the main processor. From the quiet operation of the NVMe SSD bay to the advanced clocking system, every detail serves to protect the integrity of the digital signal on its way to your DAC.

Matrix Audio NT-1 rear panel with 10MHz clock input, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical, IIS-LVDS, and isolated USB DAC outputs

The Heart of Your Music Library

The NT-1 is built to manage your entire digital music collection, no matter where it lives. The powerful MA Player OS allows you to connect to local NAS drives, mount cloud storage services, and play files directly from external USB drives. For a fully integrated library, an internal M.2 NVMe SSD slot allows you to create a silent, high-speed local server with up to 4TB of storage. Once your music is connected, the NT-1 can even act as a NAS, sharing its connected storage with other streamers on your network, making it a true central hub for your home audio.

Matrix Audio NT-1 three-quarter view showing the perforated top panel and front display

Precision Timing, Perfect Sound

At the heart of any digital transport is its clock. The NT-1 inherits the exceptional clock system from Matrix Audio’s flagship models, ensuring an incredibly stable and low-phase-noise signal for all its digital outputs. For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of performance, a 10MHz external clock input allows the NT-1 to be synchronized with a high-precision master clock like the Matrix Audio SC-1. This bypasses the internal clock and locks the NT-1 to an even more stable reference, resulting in a noticeably more focused soundstage and sharper imaging.

Matrix Audio NT-1 interior showing the toroidal linear power supply, filter capacitors, and low-phase-noise clock board

Comparing Matrix Audio Digital Sources

Where the NT-1 sits among Matrix’s transports and streaming DACs. A transport feeds a separate DAC; a streaming DAC does the conversion itself.

Digital transports: no DAC, pair with your own converter

Matrix Audio TT-1

$1,999

Compact transport with the M-Series streaming hardware and dual Accusilicon clocks. Fewer outputs than the NT-1.

Matrix Audio NT-1 You're viewing

$3,999

Reference transport. Adds AES/EBU and IIS-LVDS outputs, a 10 MHz external clock input, and a 10G SFP fiber network port for the cleanest possible feed to your DAC.

Streaming DACs: streamer + DAC in one (some also drive headphones)

Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4

$999

Compact streaming DAC built on an ES9039Q2M, with a balanced headphone stage.

Matrix Audio TS-1

$2,499

Streaming DAC and preamp on an AK4493SEQ, with a discrete headphone stage.

Matrix Audio MS-1c

$5,499

Reference streaming DAC: AK4191 plus dual AK4499EX, with Lundahl transformer-coupled output for a warmer voice.

Matrix Audio MS-1

$9,999

Flagship streaming DAC with a dual-mono AK4191 / AK4499 conversion stage.

Choose the NT-1 when you already own a DAC you love and want the purest signal reaching it. If you would rather have conversion built in, the streaming DACs step up from the compact mini-i Pro 4 to the flagship MS-1. Browse them all in Matrix Audio.

Build the Matrix N-Series System

The NT-1 is the source in Matrix’s N-Series desktop separates. Add the pieces that complete the stack:

Matrix Audio N-Series desktop system with NT-1 transport, ND-1 DAC, and NA-1 headphone amplifier

ND-1 Audio DAC: converts the NT-1’s digital output through dual AKM chips and switchable Lundahl transformer output.
NA-1 Headphone Amplifier: 20 watts of pure Class A to drive headphones or powered monitors from the ND-1.
SC-1 Reference Clock: a 10 MHz master clock that locks the whole chain to one timebase.
Tempo DX Audio Rack: the N-Series stand that houses the stack.

The Listening Room Difference

We’re a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on exceptional service and relentless passion for hifi. Whether you’re visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don’t just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale.

Specifications

Specification	Detail
Digital Output (Coaxial / Optical / AES/EBU)	PCM 16-24Bit / 44.1kHz - 192kHz; DSD 2.8MHz (DoP)
Digital Output (IIS-LVDS)	PCM 16-32Bit / 44.1kHz - 768kHz; DSD 2.8MHz - 24.58MHz
USB DAC Output	Up to PCM 32Bit / 768kHz, DSD 24.58MHz (signal capability is DAC dependent)
Network (LAN)	10/100/1000 Mbps
Network (SFP)	10/100/1000 Mbps fiber optic
Internal Storage	1x M.2 NVMe SSD slot (2242/2260/2280), up to 4TB
USB Ports	2x USB 3.0 (5V/1A max power)
External Clock Input	10MHz, 50Ω impedance, sine or square wave
Local PCM Playback	16-24Bit / 44.1kHz - 768kHz
Local DSD Playback	2.8MHz - 24.58MHz
Streaming Services	AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, vTuner, Radio Paradise
Power	AC 100V-120V, 50/60Hz (auto-sensing)
Standby Power	Less than 5W
Max Power	Less than 50W
Weight	4.6kg
Dimensions (W x D x H)	330mm x 267mm x 97mm
In the Box	Power cable, printed material

Does the NT-1 have a built-in DAC?

No. The NT-1 is a dedicated streaming transport, so it has no internal DAC and is meant to feed a separate DAC through its digital outputs (coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, I2S, or its isolated USB audio output). If you want a Matrix DAC to pair with it, the Matrix Audio ND-1 is the natural match. If you would rather have streaming and conversion in one box, look at the MS-1 instead.

How is the NT-1 different from the TT-1, and which should I choose?

Both are transports with no DAC, but the NT-1 is the higher-end design. It uses a full linear power supply with a 60W toroidal transformer, adds an SFP fiber network input and a 10MHz external clock input, and is built around the timing of the flagship streamer. The TT-1 is the more compact, more affordable option and adds Wi-Fi. Choose the NT-1 if you want the linear supply, fiber input, and external-clock capability; choose the TT-1 if value and wireless flexibility matter more.

Does the NT-1 have Wi-Fi?

No. The NT-1 is wired only, with a gigabit LAN port and an SFP fiber network input for galvanic isolation. Leaving out Wi-Fi keeps the network section electrically quiet, which is the point of a reference transport. Plan on a wired connection (or an SFP fiber link) to the unit.

Is the NT-1 Roon Ready, and can I add an external clock?

Yes on both. The NT-1 is Roon Ready and also supports AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP, and TIDAL, Qobuz, and Spotify Connect through the MA Remote app. For timing, it runs from its own femtosecond clock or locks to an external 10MHz reference such as the Matrix Audio SC-1 when you want a shared master clock across your digital front end.

Will the NT-1 work on US power out of the box?

Yes. The NT-1 uses an auto-ranging power supply that accepts 100 to 120V or 220 to 240V at 50/60Hz, so a US unit is ready for US mains as shipped. Maximum draw is under 50W, so any standard outlet is fine.

Matrix NT-1 Audio Transport

I am connecting this with an AVM 90 processor via coax cable.
Initial impressions have been positive thus far, noticed improved sound quality compared to WIFI streaming through Chromecast.
You can only use certain APPS however with this unit, had to reconnect with Qobuz. It may take a while as well to get familiar with their APP (MA Remote).
Always a pleasure to work with Mike. Thank you.

Awesome Product, Even Better Service!

First let me say that there was an issue with my order and Mike was fantastic resolving everything. He truly understands real customer service! I'd recommend The Listening Room to anyone looking for great brands matched by great service! As for the Matrix NT-1, I upgraded from a Bluesound Node 2nd Gen and I was shocked. Every aspect improved by a huge factor, even my wife who loves listening but is not a critical listener was blown away at the difference. Perhaps the biggest difference we noticed is the background noise floor is so much lower that details emerge we've never been able to hear before. It's so musical that it rivals the best of analog, with all the advantages of digital. Unbelievable!

Another Step Up

I didn't know what to expect with the addition of the NT-1 to my system. In fact, I wasn't sure if it would make a difference at all. What I got was an increase in refinement of the sound, a smoothness that really enhanced the quality of the stream. And perhaps best of all, there was a marked improvement in the timbre--sax sounded more like a sax, violin was more "woody", etc. BRAVO for Matrix!!

I like it (a lot)

I came from a Hifi Rose RS130 which constantly had software issues after each upgrade. While it had more bling, larger chassis, video output, wifi, remote control, etc., I like the simplicity of the NT-1 with a pure focus on sound quality. Snappy interface, no bugs, and works great with Roon and my Lampizator DAC. Oh, and sounds at least as good as $6k Rose.