Matrix Audio ND-1 DAC

The Matrix Audio ND-1 is a dedicated high-performance digital-to-analog converter built for listeners who want exceptional digital playback without unnecessary streaming or amplification circuitry packed into the same chassis.

At its heart is Matrix Audio’s flagship AKM conversion architecture, combining an AK4191EQ delta-sigma modulator with dual AK4499EX DAC chips, one dedicated to each channel. Add a custom femtosecond clock, fully linear power supply, extensive digital connectivity, and selectable Lundahl transformer or op-amp output stages, and the ND-1 offers an unusually flexible approach to reference-level digital conversion.

Whether paired with the Matrix Audio NT-1 Digital Audio Transport or used as a standalone DAC with a streamer, CD transport, computer, or other digital source, the ND-1 is designed to extract more detail, texture, space, and musical information from your system.

At a Glance

• AK4191EQ + dual AK4499EX DAC architecture

• Selectable Lundahl transformer or op-amp output modes

• Balanced XLR and RCA analog outputs

• USB-C, USB-B, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical and IIS-LVDS inputs

• PCM up to 768kHz and native DSD support

• PCM resampling and DSD conversion

• 100-step digital volume control for direct power amp connection

• 10MHz external clock input

• Fully linear power supply with toroidal transformer

• CNC aluminum chassis with MA-DAMPER PRO isolation feet

Two Distinct Ways to Listen

One of the ND-1's most distinctive features is its switchable analog output stage.

In Transformer Mode, the analog signal is coupled through premium Lundahl transformers, giving the presentation a warmer, richer and more organic character.

Switch to Op-Amp Mode for a cleaner, faster and more direct presentation with greater emphasis on resolution, transient definition and measured transparency.

Rather than committing the DAC to a single voicing, the ND-1 gives you two distinct presentations that can be selected to suit your system, recording or personal preference.

Flagship AKM 1+2 DAC Architecture

The ND-1 uses an AK4191EQ digital modulator paired with two AK4499EX DAC chips.

The AK4191EQ handles high-precision digital processing and reclocking before sending the signal to separate AK4499EX converters for the left and right channels. This dual-mono approach allows Matrix Audio to optimize channel separation, phase consistency, noise performance and dynamic range while keeping critical digital processing separate from the D/A conversion stage.

The result is a DAC engineered for high resolution without losing the natural tone and dimensionality that make music engaging.

Built for Serious Digital Sources

The ND-1 offers an unusually complete collection of digital inputs, making it equally at home with a dedicated transport, streamer, computer or mobile device.

Digital inputs include:

• USB Type B

• USB Type C

• AES/EBU

• Coaxial S/PDIF

• Optical S/PDIF

• IIS-LVDS

All digital inputs incorporate electrical isolation designed to reduce common-mode interference and ground-loop noise between the source component and DAC circuitry.

USB and IIS-LVDS support PCM playback up to 768kHz, while IIS-LVDS supports native DSD at extremely high sample rates.

Precision Clocking

Digital conversion is only as accurate as the timing behind it.

The ND-1 incorporates a custom ultra-low phase-noise femtosecond clock along with a high-performance DPLL clock synthesis circuit derived from Matrix Audio's flagship MS-1.

For systems built around an external master clock, the ND-1 also includes a 10MHz external clock input and can be paired with the Matrix Audio SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock.

Use It as a DAC or Digital Preamplifier

Along with fixed-level operation, the ND-1 includes a 100-step digital volume control, allowing it to connect directly to a power amplifier or pair of active speakers when a separate preamplifier isn't required.

Both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs are provided.

Two maximum output levels can also be selected:

• RCA: 2.0V or 2.25V RMS

• XLR: 4.0V or 4.5V RMS

This makes it easier to properly match the ND-1 with the input sensitivity and gain structure of the rest of your system.

PCM Resampling & DSD Conversion

For listeners who like to experiment with digital processing, the ND-1 includes an asynchronous processing engine capable of PCM resampling and DSD conversion.

The available processing modes let you explore different approaches to digital playback rather than locking the DAC into a single conversion method. Resampling can also help isolate incoming clock jitter before the final D/A conversion stage.

Fully Linear Power Supply

Matrix Audio separates the ND-1's digital and analog circuitry across individual PCB layers to help reduce interaction between sensitive sections of the DAC.

Power is supplied by a multi-winding toroidal transformer with multiple low-noise linear regulators, providing dedicated, stable power to the different circuit sections instead of relying on a conventional switching supply.

Designed as Part of the Matrix Audio N Series

The ND-1 can be used completely independently, but it was also developed as the conversion centerpiece of Matrix Audio's N Series separates system.

Pair it with the NT-1 Digital Audio Transport for streaming and digital source management, add the NA-1 Headphone Amplifier, or integrate the SC-1 Reference Clock for a complete Matrix Audio separates system.

Its compact 330mm-wide chassis also makes the N Series especially well suited to high-performance desktop and smaller-footprint listening systems without sacrificing the construction and circuit design expected from full-size hi-fi components.

Built Like a Reference Component

The ND-1 uses a precision-machined CNC aluminum chassis along with Matrix Audio's MA-DAMPER PRO isolation feet, developed with Audio Bastion.

The multi-material foot design combines aluminum, stainless steel, rubber, isolation beads and composite cork to help isolate the internal circuitry from external mechanical vibration.

Key Features

• AKM AK4191EQ digital modulator

• Dual AKM AK4499EX DAC chips

• Independent left and right channel D/A conversion

• Selectable Lundahl transformer and op-amp output modes

• Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs

• USB Type B and USB Type C inputs

• AES/EBU, coaxial, optical and IIS-LVDS digital inputs

• Electrical isolation on all digital inputs

• PCM support up to 768kHz

• Native DSD support

• PCM resampling and DSD conversion

• Custom ultra-low phase-noise femtosecond clock

• 10MHz external reference clock input

• 100-step digital volume control

• Selectable analog output levels

• Fully linear power supply

• Multi-winding toroidal transformer

• Separate digital and analog circuit sections

• CNC-machined aluminum chassis

• MA-DAMPER PRO isolation feet

• Designed to integrate with the Matrix Audio N Series

Why Buy the Matrix Audio ND-1 from Eardrum Audio?

Eardrum Audio is an authorized Matrix Audio dealer. Every Matrix Audio product we sell is new, sourced through official distribution channels and backed by the full manufacturer's warranty.

Need help deciding whether the ND-1 is the right match for your streamer, transport, amplifier or existing system? Contact us and we'll be happy to help with system matching and setup.