Matrix Audio X Sabre Pro 3 DAC Streamer

Matrix Audio X-SABRE 3 streaming DAC is the result of four years of research and is Matrix Audio’s latest version of this flagship model. It has had a sonic upgrade, in addition to a brand new chassis and new UI. X-SABRE 3 is a capable streaming host for your music.

Setup is easy with the remote app, designed by Matrix Audio. There is also a new circular LCD display that shows the album art and more, during playback. The Matrix Audio MA APP can be installed on any device to control the X-SABRE 3. The sound is rich and detailed to highlight every moment of the music.

Good connectivity

Connectivity is good with optical, coaxial and USB inputs. There is also IIS-LVDS connectivity. The X-SABRE 3 also adds hi-res streaming and a DAC to your existing system. The built-in Wi-Fi has two powerful aerials hidden under the tempered glass top. This maintains the elegant lines without compromising range. You can be sure of a strong signal, that can handle hi-res formats without dropouts. There is also an Gigabit wired network connector.

New chassis and LCD display

The X-SABRE 3 has been redesigned without shortcuts. It has a brand new chassis that is 10mm wider and 2mm shorter giving the unit a sleek look. There is also a new circular LCD display that gives a clear indication of the track being played and more. While playing, the album art will be displayed, making this unit much more of a pleasure to use.

The MA remote app

The X-SABRE 3 now has support for the Matrix Audio MA remote App. This allows you to browse and play your music collection in a UPnP server, which is a plug and play service that allows devices to discover each other and connect automatically. They have to be on the same local network. You can also stream from online services such as TIDAL or Qobuz. The App can be installed on any Apple or Android device. You can also adjust hardware settings via the MA App.

Roon ready

The streamer is Roon certified so that you can control the playback, volume and output from inside Roon. There is support for UPnP and DLNA so you can stream with the original sampling rate to the X-SABRE 3. Moreover, this is the first Matrix streamer to include TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect. Airplay 2 is also supported.

Switchable sync modes

The streamer has two sync modes for the DAC chip. This is easily controlled through the touch panel. In Asynch mode the clock is controlled by the Crystek CCHD-950 femtosecond clock inside the X-SABRE 3. As a result, the clock on the connected device is not used. On the other hand, in synch mode the DAC uses the clock of the connected device. The main advantage of synch mode is jitter free transfer.

Trigger and cabinet design

This streamer has a trigger port that will turn on or off, any other trigger connected device. This is useful to turn on the main power amplifier, for example. Finally, there has been an upgrade to the processing speed and clock frequency. These higher rates have resulted in an upgrade that separates the DAC stages from the power supply. These are now housed in independent shielded chambers. As a result noise and interference have been eliminated.

Who are Matrix Audio?

Matrix Audio was founded in 2001. The Ethos of the brand is form as well as function. Not only do the components perform well, but look beautiful as well. Matrix is a mathematical concept that is the balance of two dimensions. Matrix Audio also has its own R&D department that features constant innovation and the use of new technologies.