NA-1
Infinite Musical Enjoyment
The N Series inherits Matrix Audio's signature design aesthetic and is dedicated to premium desktop audio systems. Created for discerning audiophiles, this range of Hi-Fi separates comprises three core models: the NT-1 Digital Audio Transport, the ND-1 Audio DAC and the NA-1 Headphone Amplifier. With versatile combination options, the N Series caters to those with uncompromising standards, bringing greater refinement, presence and a true sense of occasion to the desktop Hi-Fi experience.
The Texture of Fidelity
As the latest addition to Matrix Audio's N Series separates Hi-Fi system, the NA-1 Headphone Amplifier delivers ample driving power, precise control and a pure, transparent sonic presentation. Whether driving full-size flagship headphones or serving as a preamplifier in a Hi-Fi system with active speakers, the NA-1 performs with effortless authority and composure, adapting seamlessly to a wide range of listening scenarios.
The Discrete Class A Core
The NA-1 features a fully discrete, pure Class A circuit design. Its fully balanced architecture employs four independent amplification units to effectively suppress common-mode interference during amplification. Building on an excellent signal-to-noise ratio and expansive dynamic range, the NA-1 further minimises distortion to ensure that every musical passage is reproduced with purity, infusing each performance with full-bodied, unrestrained energy.
Order in Layers
The NA-1 adopts a vertically layered circuit architecture. The preamplifier circuitry, along with the linear power supply and filter capacitor array, is located on the lower PCB, while the headphone amplification stage resides on the upper PCB. By physically isolating the voltage and current amplification stages, the NA-1 effectively reduces interference and optimises thermal distribution. This enhances operational stability and heat dissipation, allowing the unit to perform consistently throughout every listening session.
Dual Gain Modes
Both the preamplifier and headphone outputs of the NA-1 feature independent dual-gain control. The high-gain headphone mode provides increased voltage swing, allowing high-impedance headphones to reach their full performance potential. Meanwhile, the high-gain preamplifier mode is ideal for power amplifiers and active speakers with lower input sensitivity, providing ample drive to reproduce authentic musical dynamics and reveal the purity of the sound.
Diverse Connections
The NA-1 is equipped with one balanced input and two single-ended inputs, allowing up to three audio sources to be connected simultaneously.
On the output side, the NA-1 features 6.35 mm single-ended, 4.4 mm and four-pin XLR balanced headphone outputs, providing flexible compatibility with a wide range of headphones.
It also provides one XLR and one RCA pre-out, enabling seamless connections to a power amplifier or active speakers to accommodate diverse listening setups.
Effortless Control
With its high damping factor and ample power reserves, the NA-1 maintains substantial drive capability and sufficient power headroom, even during large-scale musical passages with a wide dynamic range. Its precise control allows the NA-1 to drive a variety of flagship full-size headphones with ease, reproducing the full tension and grandeur of the music with authority.
The Analogue Soul
The NA-1 embodies the distinctive, mellow sound signature of a pure Class A amplifier, delivering a balanced and fluid presentation across the frequency range. Its highs are open and delicate without harshness, the midrange is full-bodied and richly textured, and the lows are solid and well-defined. Faithfully reproducing the layers and textures within each melody, the NA-1 delivers outstanding resolution and dynamic expression while maintaining a relaxed, comfortable character for extended listening sessions.
The Power of Poise
The NA-1 features an independent, high-performance preamplifier circuit powered by 60 V rails. This high-voltage design provides exceptional voltage swing and headroom, allowing the sound to remain effortless and spacious while maintaining a steady sense of power. Even at low volume levels, the audio remains rich in detail and full of dynamic impact.
Seamless Volume Control
Equipped with a motor-driven, quad-unit Type 27 potentiometer from ALPS, the NA-1 preserves the traditional approach to analogue volume control, offering intuitive and straightforward operation. When the volume is adjusted using the infrared remote control, the knob rotates smoothly and automatically, adding a tangible sense of occasion to every adjustment. Renowned for its excellent channel-matching accuracy, the Type 27 potentiometer ensures consistent attenuation and stable dynamic performance across different volume levels.
80 W Potted Toroidal Transformer
The NA-1 features an 80 W potted toroidal transformer. Its potting construction effectively suppresses mechanical vibration and acoustic noise, while the metal magnetic shielding enclosure helps prevent electromagnetic leakage. This reduces noise at the source and creates an exceptionally quiet background for listening.
Capacitor Array with Up to 39,000 µF
The NA-1's independent power supply design provides dedicated, low-ripple and highly stable power for both the preamplifier and power amplification circuits, establishing a robust electrical foundation for outstanding sonic performance.
Rock-Solid Stability
The NA-1 is equipped with the MA-DAMPER PRO isolation damper, jointly developed by Matrix Audio and Audio Bastion. Constructed from five materials, aluminium, stainless steel, rubber, isolation beads and composite cork, it forms a multi-layer damping and vibration-control system. This effectively absorbs and counteracts external mechanical interference. When paired with Matrix Audio's custom TEMPO DX RACK, the system works in precise synergy to create a comprehensive vibration-control solution.
Masterful Engineering
The N Series is not only a feast for the ears but also a masterpiece of design. Inheriting the design language of the Matrix Audio family, its precision-crafted CNC-machined aluminium chassis brings tactile and visual refinement to every detail. The result is a restrained expression of craftsmanship and a profound tribute to the art of listening.
Versatile Combinations
The NA-1 integrates with the Matrix Audio NT-1 Digital Audio Transport and ND-1 Audio DAC to form a complete desktop Hi-Fi separates system, combining playback, digital-to-analogue conversion and amplification in one setup. It can also be paired with third-party music players, DACs, amplifiers or active speakers. Flexible in configuration and highly versatile, the NA-1 allows audiophiles to build a personalised, high-performance audio system with ease.
