Matrix Audio ND-1 Audio DAC

The Matrix Audio ND-1 takes a single-minded approach to D/A conversion: strip everything away except the signal path, then build that signal path with the best components available. At its core, AKM's flagship AK4191EQ delta-sigma modulator feeds dual AK4499EX DAC chips in a dedicated left/right channel architecture, delivering >127dB SNR and vanishingly low distortion. But the real trick is the output stage, where Lundahl precision transformers let you switch between warm analog-flavored sound and razor-sharp op-amp clarity on the fly.

Key Features of the Matrix Audio ND-1

• AKM Flagship "1+2" DAC Architecture: AK4191EQ modulator paired with dual AK4499EX converters, one per channel, for maximum separation and >127dB SNR
• Lundahl Transformer Output Stage: Toggle between Transformer mode (warm, analog character) and Op-Amp mode (speed, resolution) via timbre switching
• Femtosecond Clock with External Reference: Custom ultra-low phase noise clock with DPLL synthesis circuit, plus 10MHz external clock input for SC-1 pairing
• Six Digital Inputs, All Isolated: Optical, coaxial, AES/EBU, IIS-LVDS, USB Type B, USB Type C, each with electrical isolation to block interference
• Dual Output Levels: Selectable RCA (2V/2.25V) and XLR (4V/4.5V) to match any amplifier's input sensitivity
• 100-Step Digital Volume Control: Connect directly to a power amp or active speakers without a separate preamp
• PCM Resampling and DSD Conversion Engine: Asynchronous upsampling to 768kHz PCM or native DSD up to 49.15MHz via IIS-LVDS
• Dual-PCB Separated Architecture: Digital circuitry on the lower board, D/A conversion on the upper, powered by a multi-winding toroidal transformer with dedicated LDO regulation
• MA-DAMPER PRO Isolation: Five-material damping system (aluminum, stainless steel, rubber, isolation beads, composite cork) co-developed with Audio Bastion
• CNC Aluminum Chassis: Full N-Series design language with precision-machined ventilation pattern and gold MA logo accent

AKM's Flagship "1+2" Dual-Engine DAC in the Matrix Audio ND-1

Most DACs use a single conversion chip handling both channels. The ND-1 takes a fundamentally different approach with what Matrix calls their "1+2" array: one AK4191EQ delta-sigma modulator handles all the high-precision digital processing and reclocking, then hands off to two separate AK4499EX DAC chips, each dedicated to a single channel. This isn't just spec-sheet padding. Independent channel conversion eliminates crosstalk at the silicon level, tightens phase consistency between left and right, and pushes dynamic range into territory where the electronics disappear and the recording takes over. The result is >127dB SNR on the XLR outputs and THD+N below 0.0002% in op-amp mode.

Lundahl Transformers and Timbre Switching

Here's where the ND-1 gets genuinely interesting. Matrix fitted the output stage with Lundahl precision transformers, the same Swedish iron trusted by mastering studios worldwide, and gave you a switch to choose how the signal leaves the box. In Transformer mode, the sound carries that distinctive warmth and body that analog lovers chase: slightly rounded transients, rich harmonic texture, music that breathes. Flip to Op-Amp mode and the presentation sharpens. Transients snap, spatial cues crystallize, and fine detail comes into sharp focus. Same DAC, same recording, two genuinely different listening experiences. It's like having two high-end DACs in one chassis.

Femtosecond Clock Precision

Jitter is the enemy of clean D/A conversion, and the ND-1 attacks it at the source. A custom-built ultra-low phase noise femtosecond clock provides the reference signal for the entire conversion circuit. The high-performance DPLL (Digital Phase-Locked Loop) clock synthesis circuit is derived directly from Matrix's flagship MS-1, which costs considerably more. For those who want to go further, a rear-panel 10MHz BNC input accepts an external reference clock. Pair the ND-1 with the Matrix Audio SC-1 Reference Clock and the system locks to an even more precise timebase, tightening imaging and pulling out the finest micro-dynamic contrasts in complex passages.

Connect Any Source to the Matrix Audio ND-1

Six digital inputs cover every source you're likely to own, now and in the future. S/PDIF comes in three flavors: optical (TOSLINK), coaxial (75 ohm BNC), and AES/EBU (110 ohm XLR). For high-resolution playback from a computer, there's both USB Type B (standard audiophile DAC connection) and USB Type C. The IIS-LVDS input is the heavy hitter, supporting native DSD all the way up to 49.15MHz and PCM to 768kHz, making it the ideal connection for the Matrix Audio NT-1 Digital Audio Transport. Every input is electrically isolated, blocking common-mode interference and ground loop noise between your source device and the DAC circuitry. That isolation isn't optional or gimmicky. It's the reason you can plug in a noisy laptop via USB-C and still get clean, quiet conversion.

Dual Output Levels and Volume Control

The ND-1 outputs both XLR (balanced) and RCA (single-ended), with two selectable output levels on each: 4V or 4.5V on XLR, 2V or 2.25V on RCA. That flexibility matters because input sensitivity varies widely between amplifiers and active speakers. Feeding a 4.5V signal into an amp that clips at 2V means distortion before you've touched the volume knob. The lower setting handles sensitive inputs cleanly, while the higher setting maximizes dynamic range with less sensitive gear. On top of that, a 100-step high-precision digital volume control means you can run the ND-1 directly into a power amplifier or active speakers, skipping the preamp entirely. For a desktop system or a minimalist two-box setup, that's a real simplifier.

PCM Resampling and DSD Conversion Engine

The ND-1 includes a built-in asynchronous upsampling and DSD conversion engine that processes all incoming audio in the digital domain before it hits the DAC chips. Asynchronous resampling isolates jitter from the source and can improve detail retrieval, particularly on older or lower-resolution recordings. The DSD converter transforms any incoming signal into DSD format, adding sound density and smoothness that some listeners prefer for acoustic and vocal material. Both processes are fully adjustable: you can set PCM upsampling targets, DSD conversion rates, or bypass the processing entirely. It's your signal path, configured your way.

Separated PCB Architecture and Linear Power Supply

Inside the ND-1, digital and analog circuits live on two physically separated PCBs. The digital processing board sits on the lower level, the D/A conversion stage occupies the upper level, and the distance between them is intentional. High-speed digital switching generates electromagnetic interference that bleeds into analog circuits if they're too close. Separate boards with dedicated power regulation eliminate that contamination at the source. Power comes from a multi-winding toroidal transformer feeding multiple LDO (Low Dropout) regulators, each supplying clean, stable voltage to its own circuit segment. No switching power supply noise, no shared rails. Every section of the ND-1 gets exactly the power it needs.

MA-DAMPER PRO Vibration Isolation

The four MA-DAMPER PRO feet are co-developed with Audio Bastion and constructed from five different materials stacked in a precise sequence: aluminum housing, rubber isolation layer, stainless steel weight, isolation beads for micro-vibration absorption, and composite cork at the contact point. Each material targets a different frequency range of mechanical interference. Desktop environments are noisy, subwoofer rumble travels through furniture, hard drives spin, keyboards hammer. The MA-DAMPER PRO system absorbs and dissipates that energy before it reaches the sensitive DAC circuitry. For dedicated rack installations, the ND-1 pairs with the Matrix Audio TEMPO DX rack for a comprehensive vibration-control solution.

CNC Aluminum Chassis and N-Series Design

The N-Series shares a design language across all three components: precision CNC-machined aluminum panels, the distinctive perforated ventilation pattern with the MA logo rendered in negative space on the top panel, and a compact 330 x 267 x 97mm footprint designed for desktop use. The front panel features a high-contrast display showing input source, sample rate, and bit depth at a glance, with touch controls for source selection, settings, and volume. Build quality is exactly what you'd expect from a chassis this heavy (5.6kg for a desktop DAC): solid, resonance-free, and built to last decades.

Explore the Matrix Audio N-Series Desktop Separates

The ND-1 is part of the Matrix Audio N-Series, a desktop separates system designed to be mixed, matched, and expanded. The NT-1 Digital Audio Transport handles network streaming and digital playback, feeding the ND-1 via IIS-LVDS for maximum resolution. The NA-1 Headphone Amplifier takes the ND-1's analog output and drives any headphone with 20W of pure Class A power. Stack all three on the TEMPO DX rack and you have a complete, purpose-built desktop system where each component does one thing extraordinarily well. For even higher performance, add the SC-1 Reference Clock for an external 10MHz reference, or the SS-1 PRO Network Switch to clean up your network signal before it reaches the NT-1.

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.

Matrix Audio ND-1 Specifications