Matrix Audio MA-1: Heavy class AB bridgeable power amplifier

Matrix Audio started out as a builder of streamers but also makes amplifiers. The all-new M-series marks a milestone for Matrix Audio, according to the manufacturer. The series includes the music streamer MS-1, the preamplifier MP-1 and the power amplifier MA-1, which together form a complete flagship of Matrix Audio. The M-series is the first line-up to embrace the new Matrix design language, and serves as a precursor to the future evolution of Matrix Audio products.

Flagship with very generously sized power supply

The new MA-1 is Matrix Audio’s first Class AB amplifier. The industrial design of the cabinet shows the concept of simplicity. The hundreds of circular CNC-machined perforations of different sizes and depths arranged in an array on the simple hexahedron, resemble rhythmic beats that dance and appear on the surface, according to Matrix Audio.

Matrix Audio has not only looked at the outside. After all, an amplifier must sound good above all else. In order to reduce the output impedance, the manufacturer has placed ten ONSEMI high-power transistors in each channel to create a push-pull amplification circuit, which operates at a high bias current state. At a speaker load of eight ohms, the MA-1 delivers 250 watts of output power per channel and at four ohms this is 450 watts per channel. The two output stages can be bridged to create a large mono amplifier that can deliver 500 watts into eight ohms.

Independent transformers for the left and right channels allow for a fully independent dual mono design, with a total supply of 1250VA. Each channel has fourteen 6800 µF capacitors in parallel for 50Hz ripple smoothing. Each channel therefore has a smoothing capacity of over 95,000 µF. Compared to a single capacitor of the same capacity, multiple capacitors in parallel have a lower equivalent internal resistance, which provides greater flexibility when handling large current outputs.

Silent cooling

A measuring and control circuit continuously measures the temperature with two sensors on the main heat sink and constantly monitors the temperature of the heat sink. When the temperature exceeds the preset value, a 7.4-inch ultra-quiet fan automatically starts spinning and dynamically adjusts the fan speed. According to the designers, the listener will hardly notice the fan running, even when the volume is low or muted. The isolated duct design ensures that no electronic components are in the airflow path, preventing dust accumulation during long-term use.

Matrix Audio claims a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz at -0.15 dB level. The -3 dB point is at the top end at 142 kHz. The S/N ratio is at least 118 dB (A-weighted) and crosstalk is better than 120 dB. Dimensions are 430 x 518 x 201 millimeters and the MA-1 weighs 42.4 kilograms.

Official pricing information has yet to be announced.