Matrix Audio MP-1 Class A Pre-Amplifier

Matrix Audio MP-1 Class A Pre-Amplifier

The all-new M series marks a milestone for Matrix Audio as it advances towards traditional Hi-Fi systems. This series includes the MS-1 music streamer, the MP-1 preamplifier and the MA-1 power amplifier, forming a complete flagship system of Matrix Audio that presents their deep understanding and love of 2 channel Hi-Fi audio. The M series is the first line-up to adopt the new "Matrix Design" language, serving as an introduction to the future evolution of Matrix Audio devices.

The preamplifier acts as the commander in the audio system. Only precise orders can bring out the best performance from the audio source and power amplifier. The MP-1 is the key point in the chain, it needs to process the input signal accurately, allowing you to hear every detail of the music.

Key Features:

• High Quality Class-A Preamplifier
• Dual Mono Design with Separate Left/Right Channel PCBs
• Precision Resistor Array Volume Control for Lossless Attenuation & Consistent Volume
• Dual 60W Toroidal Transformers with Square Copper Wire
• German Made MUNDORF M-Lytic AG Series Filter Capacitors
• Triple XLR and RCA analogue inputs
• RCA and Dual XLR analogue outputs
• H-Shaped Chassis Structure for Rigidity and Better Layout
• Includes Remote Control
• Trigger In & Out
• New "Matrix Design" language
• Elegant Industrial Design & Refined Build Quality

User Manual (PDF, 925KB)

Matrix Design

The MP-1 is Matrix Audio's first Class A preamplifier. It's industrial design showcases a new concept of simplicity. With hundreds of circular perforations of varying sizes and depths arranged in an array on the simple hexahedron, resembling rhythmic beats dancing and emerging on the surface.

"Evaluating audio products from the dimensions of 'listening' and 'looking' has always been our consistent philosophy. From concept to design, every step contains the love for music and the pursuit of beauty."

Warm & Mellow - In & Out

The fully differential transistor input stage circuit design features extremely low noise and excellent linearity.

The output stage is designed as a high-bias current pure Class A output, free from crossover distortion. It operates under a low-noise power supply of up to 60V to achieve extraordinary dynamic range. The output DC servo circuit keeps the output midpoint offset within 1mV, and no coupling capacitors ensures a flat frequency response, allowing the original sound to be presented in it's purest form.

United Efforts

The main amplifier of MP-1 consists of four independent fully balanced amplification units. Each channel has two amplification units working together, responsible for amplifying the in-phase and inverted signals.

Even in RCA input mode, the signal will be converted into a bipolar signal for amplification, effectively suppressing common-mode noise and improving dynamic performance.

Multiple Analogue Inputs

The MP-1 features 3 pairs of RCA inputs and 3 pairs of XLR inputs, with the ability to independently set level attenuation and compensation for each input. This ensures that the amplitude of all input signals remains at a consistent level, avoiding the volume differences when switching between different audio sources.

Flexible Application

The MP-1 has 1 pair of RCA outputs and 2 pairs of XLR outputs, capable of output simultaneously or separately. When outputting separately, the volume for each output can be adjusted individually, making it easier to achieve comfortable volume levels when connecting multiple power amplifiers and different speakers. When both XLR outputs are used at the same time, it's possible to connect four power amplifiers to drive the mid-high range drivers and low-range drivers of the speakers separately, to achieve a bi-amping mode.

Precision In Detail

MP-1 features a voltage-divider volume control using a precision resistor array. Four high-quality volume control units composed of 64 precision resistors with 0.001 accuracy and 32 fully sealed reed relays which are switched rapidly by the MCU. This control method not only minimises any impact on sound quality but also ensures excellent consistency between the two channels.

Square Copper Wire Transformer & Linear Power Supply

Power is the starting point of an audio device, and even the preamplifier needs to have enough clean power reserves on demand. The MP-1 is equipped with two 60W high-power square copper wire toroidal transformers, providing power separately to the volume control unit of the left and right channels and the main amplification unit, achieving independent dual-channel design from the source.

Compared to traditional toroidal transformers with circular cross-section wire, square copper wire has a larger conductor surface, higher current capacity, and lower resistance, resulting in better transient response and richer low frequencies. Paired with the German made M-Lytic AG series filter capacitors from MUNDORF, it adds a mellow and silky smoothness to the sound.

H-Shaped Chassis Structure

The H-shaped structure is a unique design created by Matrix Audio for the M Series products, born from two years of continuous optimisation and improvement considering various aspects such as mechanics relationship, circuit layout, and exterior appearance.

The 20mm CNC aluminium plate become the support structure of the entire device after dozens of procedures, serving as the core of the H-shaped structure. All components are mounted on the aluminium plate, and the entire weight is supported by heavy-duty feet installed on the main beam, making it solid and stable. After the panels are installed, multiple isolated cavities are formed with the main beam. Different circuit modules are properly placed in each cavity, effectively reducing interference between circuit modules. The circuit modules for the left and right channels are symmetrically arranged on both sides, creating a balanced visual impression.

Elegant Industrial Design & Refined Build Quality

The ingenious industrial design is an indispensable part of the MP-1, flowing out of the brand-new 'Matrix Design' language from dots, lines and surfaces. Each component undergoes multiple delicate CNC machining and surface treatments, providing a exquisite and comfortable matte texture, allowing you to feel the unique craftsmanship in operation, displaying a distinctive elegant temperament.

"We persevere tirelessly, striving to make things more beautiful and the sound more captivating."

Pure & Clear

The Matrix Audio MP-1 Class A Pre-Amplifier has a pure sound with natural and balanced tone that remains true to the source music. It accurately interprets every detail in the music with a rational and neutral attitude, providing your system with a clear source. Every detail of the M Series embodies Matrix Audio's pursuit of excellence. Everything you hear, see and touch is the final presentation by team Matrix Audio through continuous trial and fail, meticulous polishing, and careful calibration.