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Matrix Audio Element S In the House

Just received the new Matrix Audio Element S streamer drop shipped from China.

Size is similar to the Element I2 minus the volume dial and headphone jacks.

One surprise - they apparently are not including a remote (cheap move)? Also it does not yet work with Roon so I had to test it with Tidal Connect.

How does it sound? I2S into R2R Pontus II DAC, Woo Audio WA22 balanced tube headphone amp XLR in, and Meze Elite with balanced cable:

Compared to Lumin U1 Mini with linear power supply upgrade using USB it sounds clearer, a little more depth, punchier....but mainly clearer like the Lumin has just a slight veil on it or is just slightly rolled off.

Compared to PI 2 Design Mercury 2 with linear power supply - it sounds exactly the same thru I2S connection. So why buy the more expensive Element? Nicer package all in one versus black box with external power supply.

Compared to anything else I have without the I2S connection - there is no comparison. Lots of gear up for sale soon.

Will report more later after it runs for a few days.

 

calieng

Showing 1 response by jrodude

jrodude
8 posts
 

I bought the Element S for the purpose of using it with i2s specifically through Roon.  It's been 5 months since its release and Matrix Audio is struggling to get the Element S Roon Ready certified.  

MA has been awful in communicating updates about the issues keeping the Element S from being certified.  In mid-August, MA said they were working with Roon to work out "one small bug".  Since then MA has not responded to multiple requests for updates. Obviously, the problem involves more than one small bug; otherwise MA is very inept.

It's a real shame how MA has chosen to deal with the situation. Frankly, I suspect there are multiple issues with the Element S and I have doubts it will be as Roon Ready by Roon any time soon.  MA has lost my trust and my business.  There are plenty of alternative streamer options in this price range, and I will look elsewhere.

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