MP-1
Perfect Creation
The all-new M series marks a milestone for Matrix Audio as the brand advances towards traditional hi-fi systems. The series includes the MS-1 music streamer, MP-1 preamplifier and MA-1 power amplifier, forming a complete Matrix Audio flagship system that reflects the brand’s understanding of hi-fi audio. The M series is the first range to adopt the new Matrix Design language, offering a preview of the future evolution of Matrix Audio products.
Matrix Design
Evaluating audio products through both listening and visual appreciation has always been central to Matrix Audio’s philosophy. From concept to design, every step reflects the brand’s love of music and pursuit of beauty. The MP-1 is Matrix Audio’s first Class A preamplifier. Its industrial design expresses the brand’s vision of simplicity, with hundreds of circular perforations of varying sizes and depths arranged across a clean hexahedral form, resembling rhythmic beats dancing across the surface.
Key Point of Audio System
The preamplifier acts as the commander of an audio system: only precise instructions can bring out the best performance from the source and power amplifier. As the key point in the chain, the MP-1 must process the incoming music accurately, enriching it with tone and texture so that listeners can hear the sound, see the character and feel the soul of the music. It is also a sculptor of music.
Warm & Mellow
The fully differential transistor input-stage circuit offers extremely low noise and excellent linearity. The output stage uses a high-bias-current, pure Class A design that is free from crossover distortion. Operating from a low-noise power supply of up to 60 V, it achieves an exceptional dynamic range. The output DC servo circuit keeps midpoint offset within 1 mV, while the absence of coupling capacitors ensures a flatter frequency response and allows the original sound to be presented faithfully.
United Efforts
The MP-1’s main amplifier comprises four independent, fully balanced amplification units. Each channel uses two units working together to amplify the in-phase and inverted signals. Even in RCA input mode, the signal is converted into a bipolar signal for amplification, effectively suppressing common-mode noise and improving dynamic performance.
Multiple Analogue Inputs
The MP-1 features three pairs of RCA inputs and three pairs of XLR inputs, with independent level attenuation and compensation available for each input. This keeps all input signals at a consistent amplitude and avoids changes in volume when switching between audio sources.
Flexible Application
The MP-1 has one pair of RCA outputs and two pairs of XLR outputs, which can operate simultaneously or separately. When used separately, the volume of each output can be adjusted independently, making it easier to achieve comfortable listening levels with multiple power amplifiers and different loudspeakers. When both XLR outputs are used together, four power amplifiers can be connected to drive the mid/high-frequency and low-frequency drivers separately in a bi-amplified configuration.
Precision in Detail
The MP-1 uses a resistor-array voltage-divider volume control. Four high-quality control units each comprise 64 precision resistors with 0.001 accuracy and 32 fully sealed reed relays, switched rapidly by the MCU. This method minimises any effect on sound quality while ensuring excellent consistency between the two channels. The operating noise of the reed relays is almost inaudible, even during continuous volume adjustment.
Square Copper Wire Transformer & Linear Power
Power is the starting point of any audio device, and even a preamplifier needs sufficient reserve. The MP-1 is equipped with two 60 W high-power toroidal transformers wound with square copper wire. They supply the left- and right-channel volume-control units and main amplification units separately, creating an independent dual-channel design from the source. Compared with conventional toroidal transformers that use wire with a circular cross-section, square copper wire provides a larger conductor surface, greater current capacity and lower resistance, resulting in a better transient response and richer low frequencies. Paired with MUNDORF M-Lytic AG series filter capacitors, the design adds silky smoothness and warmth to the sound.
H-Shaped Chassis Structure
The H-shaped structure is a unique Matrix Audio design created for the M series and refined through two years of continuous optimisation and improvement across mechanical relationships, circuit layout and exterior appearance. After dozens of processes, the 20 mm CNC-machined aluminium plate becomes the support structure for the entire device and forms the core of the H-shaped design. All components are mounted on this plate, while heavy-duty feet fitted to the main beam support the full weight of the unit, making it solid and stable. Once the panels are installed, the main beam creates multiple isolated cavities. Different circuit modules are positioned within each cavity to reduce interference effectively. The left- and right-channel circuit modules are arranged symmetrically on either side, creating a balanced visual impression.
Elegant Industrial Design & Refined Build Quality
Ingenious industrial design is an indispensable part of every Matrix Audio product, with the new Matrix Design language flowing through its use of dots, lines and surfaces. Each component undergoes multiple precision CNC-machining and surface-treatment processes to create an exquisite, comfortable matt texture. This allows listeners to experience the brand’s distinctive craftsmanship in use and gives the product an elegant character.
Warm & Delicate Sound
The MP-1 preamplifier delivers a warm, delicate sound, with powerful low frequencies that do not sacrifice high-frequency detail. Whether the listener chooses chamber music or a symphony orchestra, the MP-1 presents every element with precision and control. Every detail of the M series embodies Matrix Audio’s pursuit of excellence. Everything heard, seen and touched is the result of the Matrix Audio team’s continuous experimentation, meticulous refinement and careful calibration. The brand remains committed to making each product more beautiful and its sound more captivating.
