Matrix Audio Element I2 Streamer

Matrix Audio Element I 2 streamer is the entry model in their range of streamers but has a wide range of features. It's a versatile and flexible unit that makes a great hub for music, gaming and more.

The Element I 2 is good for local music files as well as streaming audio over the internet. There is also a good selection of digital inputs, including optical, coaxial, and USB as well as an IIS-LVDS connector. Output connectivity allows the unit to be used on its own as a headphone amp. Additionally, you can connect it to active speakers or an amplifier. Finally, the UI interface screen makes it easy to use the I2 streamer.

What is IIS-LVDS

IIS-LVDS is a circuit-level audio data interchange format. In effect, it can bypass the input circuity used before the DAC, such as coaxial, optical or USB. It connects directly to the DAC chip for the purest signal possible. LVDS stands for Low Voltage Differential Signalling.

New LCD screen

A new LCD touchscreen had been added to the gen 2 Element streamer. It is a 3.46” unit with a rich information display. Whether you are playing from the network or local files, the touch screen allows you to see track and format details. Playback touch keys also make using and configuring the unit easy.

Play local music files with ease

The USB port makes it easy to connect your treasured music archive. You can use NAS or a USB drive along with the Matrix MA player app to access the files. Moreover, you can also perform hi-res online streaming from sources such as TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify and Internet radio.

The Matrix I 2 is also Roon-ready and can connect with Apple devices with DLNA/UPnP and Airplay 2. The Matrix MA remote app can be installed on iPhone, iPad or Android devices. You can then browse your local music files as well as stream from a range of services. The app also manages firmware updates.

Upgraded headphone amp

The I 2 has an upgraded headphone amplifier over the prior model. It now has a balanced 4.4mm output connector as well as a 4-channel full balanced architecture. This means that the left and right channels use a nearly perfect symmetrical amplification circuit. The result is a very low distortion signal with negligible noise. The 4.4mm socket is a 4-way unit for balanced headphones.

Fully featured remote control

As well as the colour display screen you can control the unit with the fully featured remote control. The RM7 remote now has playback control functions, so it is convenient to switch tracks, play and pause. There are also two programmable buttons that can be used for your favourite radio station or podcast. The remote is made of aluminium for robustness.

Powerful quad core processor

Even the entry level I 2 has the same quad-core CPU and digital audio interface chip as the higher end models. The powerful processor makes it easy to decode any possible sampling rate with ease. Even complex and demanding MQA files. Making the unit a comprehensive player. MQA stands for Master Quality Assured and brings studio quality files into the home.

High precision clock

At The heart of any digital audio system is the clock signal. This has to be accurate and precise to prevent jitter. The I 2 uses the CCHD-950 ultra-low phase noise femtosecond clock from Crystek. This high-end clock circuit will ensure the sound is realistic and accurate. Finally, the Element I 2 has a gigabit ethernet port as well as good Wi-Fi capability.