If you think about it, it's actually quite remarkable: that inexhaustible wealth of music at your fingertips via the internet. With a network connection, a subscription, and a suitable streamer, you have access to virtually all the music in the world. While we used to question the supposedly inferior sound quality of streaming, streaming audio is now the standard. High-quality streamers are plentiful, and ease of use blends seamlessly with musical excellence.
A music streamer converts data collected via the network into music. For maximum resolution and stability, we prefer to do this via a wired network connection. However, this also connects the streamer directly or indirectly to all other equipment in the house. Besides the desired electrical connection, this also creates a potential path for contamination and unwanted potential differences on the ground.
This can limit the final quality of the signal processing – and from the perspective of pure music enjoyment, that's a shame. That's why Matrix Audio developed the SI-1 Network Audio Isolator: an active, optical network isolator designed for the purest network audio.
Matrix Audio the SI-1 Network Audio Isolator
The Matrix Audio SI-1 is a high-performance network isolator with one RJ-45 1Gb input and one RJ-45 output, fully isolated internally via a unique dual-channel optical isolation. Featuring an internal linear power supply, dual femtosecond clock circuits, and an all-aluminum enclosure, the SI-1 works tirelessly to optimally isolate your music streamer from pollution and interference.
Matrix Audio has specialized in high-quality music streamers and DACs for years. Thanks to extensive research and advanced measurement equipment, they understand the impact of unwanted interference like no other. With a music streamer, the network connection is not only the source of the music but also a potential source of noise. This noise can affect the reconstruction of the music signal, regardless of the quality of the streamer itself. Minimizing susceptibility to interference is therefore the foundation of every Matrix Audio design. However, the quality of a chain still depends on its weakest link. That's why Matrix Audio previously developed the SS-1 and SS-1 Pro: audiophile network switches that demonstrate the brand's serious approach to network noise.
With the new SI-1, Matrix Audio takes the next step toward ultimate purism by opting for complete galvanic isolation between the music streamer and the network. The SI-1 fulfills three core functions: galvanic isolation against network noise, data transmission optimization, and surge protection.
What makes the SI-1 truly unique is its active optical-electrical isolation technology. The input is electrically connected to the home network via an RJ45 network cable. Internally, this electrical signal is converted into an optical signal via specialized optical transmitters—two to be precise: one for upstream and one for downstream. This galvanic isolation breaks the direct electrical connection between the input and output, thus eliminating the path for contamination. The result is exceptionally clean network transmission.
Unlike many other network isolation products, which rely on an external switching power supply, the Matrix Audio SI-1 features an internal linear power supply. A toroidal transformer with multiple independent DC regulation circuits provides the basis for a clean and stable DC voltage supply to the optical transmitters and the femtosecond clock circuits. These clock circuits ensure optimal timing of the digital data, minimizing transmission errors and jitter. In this way, the SI-1 guarantees data integrity while actively blocking contamination.
The SI-1 features two 1 Gbps RJ45 ports, with the output fully isolated from the input. Optical isolation not only eliminates harmful interference but also provides protection against harmful surges. Whether it's lightning strikes, power surges, electrostatic discharge, or persistent mains noise, the SI-1 provides a robust protective barrier for the connected equipment.
In many systems, the SI-1 will operate quietly and anonymously. Yet, it deserves to be seen. The enclosure is milled from solid aluminum and features the signature Matrix Audio perforation pattern. Measuring 12 cm wide, over 20 cm deep, and approximately 4.5 cm high, and weighing 1.5 kg, it stands firmly in place—even when connected with a high-quality power cable. Its solid construction makes it not only aesthetically pleasing but also impervious to external radiation. This is a clear choice that underscores the lengths Matrix Audio is willing to go to achieve the purest possible sound reproduction.
The SI-1's impact on a balanced hi-fi system is anything but subtle. It's like looking at your television with cleaner glasses—but for your audio system.
Nothing is added or exaggerated; everything is simply more clearly defined and presented with greater contrast. Sounds flow more naturally, lose their sharpness, and the spatial image gains in realism. You're more immersed in the music, and that's ultimately what it's all about. The Matrix Audio SI-1 Optical Network Isolator is available immediately from stock with a suggested retail price of €899.