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Lumin T2 or Matrix Audio Element X

Hi all,
I'm using a Node 2i streamer + Matrix X-Sabre Pro Dac at the moment. I'm looking for a single box streamer/dac with MQA decoding to make proper comparisons between Qobuz Hi Rez and Tidal Mqa as I use both of them. The Lumin T2 and the Matrix Element X are two solutions that I find quite interesting for a future purchase. Lumin is a well established company in the streaming market and Matrix is building really good DACs like the X-Sabre Pro. My question is if the ES9038Pro used in the Element X might be a plus with respect to the ES9028Pro used in the T2. The streamer/dac will be connected to a McIntosh MA7900 amp and Martin Logan Ethos (electrostatic speakers). 
What do You think?

triumph900
9 responses Add your response
mike_in_nc
1,123 posts
 
I have not heard either but am familiar with the firms' reputations.

As to your question, my impression is that implementation (engineering) is more important than the chip. Both vendors are known for excellent implementations. Both are Asian firms, so if you need service, it may not be trivial to get it.

With the Lumin, you are paying about 50% more in return for the beautiful case. 
If I had to choose between them without an audition, I'd take the Matrix. But that's me -- I don't like paying extra for metalwork. Ideally, you'd listen to music through both of them before choosing.
romney80
150 posts
 
I have not heard matrix element, but used Lumin T2 in my system for 3-4 months before I upgraded to Luxman D-10x. I thoroughly enjoyed Lumin and if I had to go back, I will be happy to. Very musical and analog sounding. I loved the ease of use with roon. The separation of instruments and soundstage was top notch. You have plenty on sale right now, and you will not regret if you buy it. I believe the reason for lots on sale in used market, is not because they are bad. They are so good, you get itch to upgrade to higher Lumin like S1 or X1. I was about to do that, but went in different route. Good luck. 
big_greg
6,561 posts
 
A TEAC NT-505 is a nice step up from the Bluesound and will do MQA. And you'll save a pile of money. I've heard the T2 at a dealer, but it was with different gear than mine so it's hard to say how it compares to the NT-505. 
triumph900 OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for Your inputs. I'm going to buy one of these (or others if at the same level) within next month and every direct experience or suggestion is well appreciated. 
I can add that, as I already have two turntables (Transcriptor Hydraulic with Sme 3009 and Denon DL103 and Wilson Benesch the Full Circle), in a streamer/dac I like an open and detailed sound. 
mike_in_nc
1,123 posts
 
I'm using an Auralic Aries G1 with a Bryston BDA-2 right now. That combination would definitely meet the call for "open and detailed" but it's not a single-box solution.
cal3713's avatar
cal3713
1,421 posts
 
I think the question really is just do you like your current dac or do you want to change? 

If you like what you're getting with the matrix why not stay with them.

The fact that you're asking the question suggests that you do want to hear something new, so I say give the lumin a shot. It's always nice to hear new gear and learn.
goldprintaudio's avatar
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goldprintaudio
502 posts
 
The Lumin T2 is a nice streamer.  One of my favorite streamers that I see in terms of performance to cost.

The Matrix units look interesting.  I had actually never heard of the company until your post.
nainghsy
13 posts
 

+1 for matrix Audio. I had X-Sabre 3 and not much to complaint about. 

primetime74
12 posts
 

It sounds like you can't audition.  I say keep researching both.  What kind of sound signature each has, features, etc.

 

I have the Lumin T2 and love the sound.  It's extremely musical and pretty neutral IMO.  

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