Matrix Audio Element X2 Pure - Hi-Res Streamer DAC
The Matrix Audio element X2 Pure is a high-end music streamer, DAC and digital preamplifier designed for demanding two-channel Hi-Fi systems. Developed as part of Matrix Audio's element series, it combines network streaming, high-resolution digital conversion, analogue and digital inputs, HDMI ARC, balanced analogue outputs and a built-in preamplifier in a compact chassis.
The "Pure" concept focuses on a simplified signal path and careful separation of digital and analogue circuitry. At its heart are two ESS ES9039PRO DAC chips, each operating in mono mode, with symmetrical left/right analogue circuitry and dedicated low-noise power regulation.
Key Features
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High-End Music Streamer & DAC – Combines network streaming, local playback, digital conversion and preamplifier functionality in one component.
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Dual ES9039PRO DAC Architecture – Two flagship ESS ES9039PRO DAC chips operate independently in mono mode for the left and right channels.
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PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz – Supports high-resolution PCM through compatible digital interfaces.
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Native DSD up to DSD512 – Supports native DSD up to 22.4 MHz through compatible inputs.
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IIS-LVDS Connectivity – Provides high-resolution digital input capability up to PCM 32-bit/768 kHz and native DSD512.
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HDMI ARC – Allows a compatible TV or projector to become part of a high-quality stereo system.
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Analogue Input – RCA analogue input allows CD players, turntables with line-level output and other analogue sources to be integrated.
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Balanced XLR & RCA Outputs – Provides both balanced and single-ended analogue connectivity.
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Built-In Preamplifier – Includes +10 dB analogue gain and high-output capability for direct connection to a power amplifier or active speakers.
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MA Player Hi-Fi Streamer OS – Provides local music playback and access to supported streaming platforms.
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MA Remote App – Allows control of playback, music libraries and hardware configuration from compatible mobile devices.
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Roon Ready, AirPlay 2 & Connect Services – Supports Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP and other streaming platforms.
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Dual-Band Wi-Fi & Gigabit Ethernet – Provides both wireless and wired network connectivity.
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Crystek CCHD-950 Clock – Uses a precision Crystek clock source for digital timing.
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Ceramic Ball Vibration Buffer – Matrix Audio's CBVB isolation feet use ceramic balls and silicone rubber to reduce mechanical vibration.
Dual Es9039pro Dac Architecture
The element X2 Pure uses two ES9039PRO DAC chips, with each chip operating in mono mode. Matrix Audio uses the eight conversion units within each DAC in parallel, increasing conversion capability while supporting improved dynamic performance and lower distortion.
The left and right analogue circuits are laid out symmetrically and physically separated. The analogue section is enclosed by CNC-machined aluminium shielding to reduce interference and assist thermal management.
Electrical Isolation & Low-Noise Design
Matrix Audio separates the digital processing and D/A conversion sections electrically, including independent digital and analogue ground paths.
The DAC and analogue circuits use ultra-low-noise LDO regulators, with the objective of maintaining a very low noise floor and high dynamic range.
High-Resolution Digital Playback
The element X2 Pure supports PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz through IIS-LVDS and USB Audio, while native DSD is supported up to DSD512 / 22.4 MHz. Coaxial and optical inputs support PCM up to 24-bit/192 kHz and DSD64 through DoP.
USB Audio additionally supports compatible MQA and MQA Studio streams.
Streaming & Ma Player
Matrix Audio's MA Player Hi-Fi Streamer OS provides access to local music stored on USB drives or NAS devices, while supported online services include TIDAL, Qobuz, HIGHRESAUDIO, Spotify and internet radio.
The platform also supports Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, AirPlay 2, DLNA/UPnP and Audirvāna, giving users multiple ways to integrate the element X2 Pure into an existing digital music ecosystem.
Analogue & Digital Sources
The element X2 Pure is designed to bring both modern digital and conventional analogue sources into one system.
Digital sources can be connected through USB Audio, optical, coaxial, IIS-LVDS and HDMI ARC. An RCA analogue input is also provided, allowing line-level sources such as CD players or turntables with suitable line output to be connected.
Three analogue input gain settings—high, medium and low—help accommodate different source output levels.
Hdmi Arc For Tv & Home Entertainment
The integrated HDMI ARC input allows compatible televisions and projectors to send audio directly to the element X2 Pure.
Where HDMI-CEC is supported by the display device, basic playback control can also be integrated through the television's control system, making the element X2 Pure suitable for high-quality stereo systems that also serve as the main TV audio system.
Built-In Preamplifier
The element X2 Pure incorporates a high-performance preamplifier with +10 dB analogue gain.
When the preamplifier is enabled, the unit can deliver up to 15 VRMS through its XLR output. Matrix Audio's Hyper-Control technology is designed to maintain low noise and distortion throughout the output range.
This allows the element X2 Pure to connect directly to a power amplifier or compatible active speakers, eliminating the need for a separate preamplifier in suitable systems.
Network Connectivity
The element X2 Pure includes both Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
Wired Ethernet is particularly useful for demanding high-resolution libraries and stable network streaming, while integrated Wi-Fi provides greater flexibility for installations where a network cable is not convenient.
Precision Clocking & Power Supply
A Crystek CCHD-950 clock provides the reference clock source for the digital architecture.
Matrix Audio also uses a custom O-core toroidal transformer with silver-plated output wiring and Teflon insulation. Nichicon KG-series audio capacitors are used in the main filtering stage to support the power demands of high-dynamic-range music playback.
Features
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Dual ES9039PRO DAC architecture.
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Mono-mode DAC configuration.
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Symmetrical left/right analogue circuitry.
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Crystek CCHD-950 clock.
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PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz.
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Native DSD up to DSD512 / 22.4 MHz.
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MQA and MQA Studio support through compatible inputs.
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IIS-LVDS input.
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USB Audio input.
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Optical input.
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Coaxial input.
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HDMI ARC input.
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RCA analogue input.
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Balanced XLR output.
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RCA output.
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Built-in preamplifier.
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+10 dB analogue gain.
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Up to 15 VRMS XLR output.
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MA Player Hi-Fi Streamer OS.
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MA Remote App.
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Roon Ready.
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TIDAL Connect.
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Spotify Connect.
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AirPlay 2.
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DLNA/UPnP.
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Audirvāna.
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Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz.
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Gigabit Ethernet.
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USB storage support.
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Trigger input and output.
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Ceramic Ball Vibration Buffer system.
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Specifications
Model: element X2 Pure
Type: Music Streamer / DAC / Preamplifier
CPU: NXP i.MX 6Quad Cortex-A9
DAC: 2 × ES9039PRO
Clock: Crystek CCHD-950
Digital Inputs: Coaxial, Optical, IIS-LVDS, USB Audio, HDMI ARC
Analogue Input: RCA
Analogue Outputs: XLR / RCA
XLR SNR: 131 dB A-weighted
RCA SNR: 127 dB A-weighted
XLR Output: 4.5 VRMS @ 0 dB / 15 VRMS @ +10 dB
RCA Output: 2.2 VRMS @ 0 dB / 7.5 VRMS @ +10 dB
PCM: Up to 32-bit/768 kHz
Native DSD: Up to 22.4 MHz / DSD512
Network: Gigabit Ethernet / 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Wi-Fi
USB: USB storage, 5 V / 1 A maximum
Trigger Input: DC 6–12 V
Trigger Output: DC 12 V / 50 mA maximum
Standby Consumption: <5 W
Maximum Consumption: <50 W
Dimensions: 340 × 259 × 58 mm
Weight: 3.9 kg
In The Box
Matrix Audio element X2 Pure
RM4 Remote Control
Power Cable
Quick Start Guide
Warranty Card
Why Buy From Soundtrails
Choosing a high-end streamer and DAC is about more than maximum sample-rate support. DAC architecture, network stability, analogue output capability, amplifier matching and system integration all influence the final performance of a two-channel system.
At SoundTrails, our Audio Video Architects help you design complete Hi-Fi systems around your room, equipment and listening preferences. From streamer and DAC selection to amplifier and speaker matching, network configuration, professional installation and after-sales support, we focus on creating complete systems that deliver exceptional long-term musical performance.
