Matrix Audio Element Series Manual

Introduction to the Element Series

The Matrix Audio Element Series comprises four distinct devices: the Element X, Element P, Element M, and Element I. These devices share similar setup and usage principles, making it practical to cover them within a single manual. They are designed to provide high-quality audio experiences for audiophiles and music lovers.

The Matrix Audio Element X

Introduced in summer 2019, the Element X is Matrix Audio's flagship headphone amplifier, pre-amplifier, DAC, DAP, and music streamer. It features the ES9038 PRO+ DAC chip and an ES9311 low-noise voltage regulator for high performance. It includes a Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock and offers versatile output options: dual 3-pin and 4-pin XLR for balanced listening, and 1/4-inch outputs for unbalanced listening. The device boasts a double-shell construction with an inner galvanized steel shell and a 4mm aluminum outer shell to minimize resonance. Its volume control combines analog and digital audio control through a cluster of relays. It is powered by a 40W linear power supply, features linear regulators, and a 4-layered PCB for accurate sound playback. The design is minimalist and sleek.

The Matrix Audio Element P

The Element P is the Element Series streamer designed for speaker connections and playback, functioning as a 3-in-1 audio source, DAC, and speaker amplifier. It allows users to connect to passive speakers for a complete Hi-Fi stereo system. It shares key components with the Element X, including the timing clock, digital inputs, and sampling rates (PCM up to 768kHz/DSD up to 22.4MHz), and supports MQA decoding. It features an ES9028 Pro DAC, offering high quality at a more economical price point than the Element X. Its volume control uses a MUSES 73720 Resistor Divider for low noise and distortion. The Element P is powered by a custom 25W linear power supply with Nichicon capacitors and uses an ICEpower 250ASX2 class D amplifier module, capable of delivering 230 Watts per channel at 4 Ohms, suitable for bookshelf or medium standing speakers. It also features a double-shell construction for resonance reduction.

The Matrix Audio Element M

The Element M builds upon the Element I's design, offering improved performance and functionality at a competitive price. It is a versatile music streamer supporting sampling rates up to 768 kHz and DSD up to 22.4 MHz. It includes a TF card slot for storage, providing three storage options. The Element M is powered by a 30W linear power supply with low noise floor characteristics. It is optimized for MQA decoding and rendering. The headphone amplifier features an input stage that rejects common-mode distortion and an output stage designed for mellow sound performance. It uses an ES9028 PRO DAC, providing high quality at an economical price. Like other Element models, it has a double-shell construction (galvanized steel inner, 4mm aluminum outer) to minimize vibrations and case resonance. It is positioned as Matrix Audio's mid-range, cost-effective network streamer.

The Matrix Audio Element I

The Element I is the entry-level streamer in the Matrix Audio Element Series. It offers a cost-effective solution for listening to music, supporting streaming via Tidal or Qobuz, external hard drives, Airplay, and Roon. It integrates the audio circuits of the Element P and Element M streamers, aiming to provide a quality streamer and headphone amp under $1000. It features the ES9028 Pro DAC chip and an XMOS XU208 USB controller, supporting input resolutions up to 24-bit/384 kHz. The headphone amp is rated at 1300 megawatts, capable of driving various hi-res audio headphones and IEMs. It is powered by an external 20W AC adapter. The Element I is designed for users beginning their journey into audiophilia.

Comparison Specifications

Additional Element Series Features

• AirPlay and DLNA Support (Element X, P, M, I)
• MQA Decoding and Rendering (Element X, P, M, I)
• New USB Interface (Element X, P, M)
• Built-in Pre-amplifier (Element X)
• ICEpower Digital Amplifier Module (Element P)
• High Performance Power Supply System (Element X)
• Double Shell Structure (Element X, P, M)
• Hybrid Digital Volume Control (Element X)
• Digital Volume Control (Element P, M, I)
• Roon Ready (Element X, P, M, I)
• MA Remote Compatible (Element X, P, M, I)

Main Set Up

Before proceeding with setup, note the voltage options for the X, P, and M devices. Units may arrive set to 220VAC. Check the bottom of the device for a red switch labeled "230" (for 220-240VAC) or "115" (for 110-120VAC). For use in North America, ensure the switch is set to "115" before powering on. The Element I uses an external power adapter and does not have this switch.

Input Options

For optimal network performance, a direct LAN connection is recommended. If using Wi-Fi, attach the included antennas to the antenna ports (labeled 6 in diagrams) and ensure proximity to the main router. Mesh networks or signal repeaters might cause issues; consider a direct Ethernet cable if experiencing problems. Drivers, firmware updates, and the manual PDF are available on Matrix-digi.com. The Matrix Audio app for Apple and Android devices allows for device control and firmware updates.

When connecting digital sources such as CD Transports, PCs, MCs, or Game Consoles, the following inputs are available:

• Coaxial Input (labeled 5)
• Optical Input (labeled 12)
• USB Input (labeled 10)
• IIS ("eye-Squared-ess") Low-Voltage Differential Signaling Input (labeled 11). This port resembles an HDMI port but is exclusively for IIS data streams, such as from the Matrix Audio X-SPIDF 2 or PS Audio SACD Transport. It will not work with standard HDMI audio sources.

Music files can also be stored and played directly from a Micro SD card (labeled 7) or a USB drive connected to the USB Host port (labeled 8).

Output Options

For the Element X, using the Balanced Output is strongly recommended for the best listening experience, distinguishing it from the P, M, and I models. Balanced audio cables can be purchased from moon-audio.com. The Element X also offers Unbalanced and Speaker Preouts.

• Element P: Features only speaker outputs.
• Element M: Similar to the Element X but lacks a balanced headphone output, offering only one unbalanced headphone port.
• Element I: Includes speaker pre-outs and a single 1/4-inch headphone jack on the front.

Listening to speakers via the PreOuts allows connection directly to active (powered) speakers or to a separate amplifier.

Settings Menu and Advanced Functions

The menu navigation system is consistent across all Matrix Audio Element series devices.

Using the Menu Button on the Device

1. Power on the device using the power button.
2. Press the "menu" button located to the top left of the main knob.
3. This opens the "Inputs Menu" where you select your audio source (e.g., "Network" for Ethernet/Wi-Fi). Turn the knob to highlight an option and press it to select.
4. The currently selected option is indicated by a filled circle icon, while unselected options have an open circle icon.
5. From the main screen, press the menu button twice to access the "Outputs Menu". Here, you can select between "XLR and RCA" for pre-outs, "Unbalanced" for headphones, and "Balanced" for headphones (if using the Element X).

Advanced Setting Functions

To further customize your device, access the following settings:

• PCM Filter Selection (Menu + 3 times): These options affect the audio's roll-off, influencing the sound of the high frequencies. A graph in the manual illustrates these curves. Experiment with different PCM filter options to find your preferred sound.
• DSD BW Options (Menu + 4 times): Set this to "Auto".
• In-depth Menu (Menu + 5 times): Press the knob to enter an additional settings menu. (Note: Options may vary slightly between Element X, P, M, and I models).

Detailed Settings:

1. Line Out Mode: Options for 0dB or 10dB adjustments. Use 0dB unless connecting to very quiet active speakers.
2. PCM Filter: Accessible here as well.
3. DSD: Same options as PCM.
4. Headphone Gain: Two options: Low (default) for low impedance headphones, and High for high impedance headphones.
5. Dither: Leave enabled to improve sound quality.
6. Jitter Eliminator: Leave enabled to improve audio quality.
7. DPLL Bandwidth: Leave on "normal".
8. I²S - LVDS Port Definition: For Matrix Audio or PS Audio sources, set to Type A (default). Other sources may require options B-D.
9. Dimmer: Adjust screen dimming behavior.
10. Auto Sleep: Turns the unit off after 5 minutes of inactivity. Disable if you want the unit to remain on.
11. User Defined Button: Assign a function to the button below the menu button (e.g., change inputs, outputs, filters, view device info).
12. Network Type: Select between Wi-Fi and LAN.
13. Remote Control: Set up multiple remotes.
14. Load Default: Reset all settings to system defaults.
15. Product Information: Press the knob to view hardware and software details.

For more information, refer to the Matrix Audio manuals on Matrix-Digi.com or contact Moon Audio.