I left the PCM filter on the default MOD1, which is fast roll-off, minimum phase, Matrix include a graph in the manual which shows the differences between the filters. The mobile app lets you go into the other settings too (dimmer/dither/jitter reduction/PCM filter/line-out mode/DSD filters/DPLL Bandwidth/IIS-LVDS Port Definition/Auto Sleep/USB Audio Mode/User Defined Button Settings).
You can also change all of these via the mobile app. The included remote allows you to change the inputs, digital filter, volume up/down/mute and also to put the Element M into standby. The analogue outputs can be set as fixed (line-out) or variable so you can use the Element M as a pre-amp. There is 1 pair of RCA outputs, 1 pair of balanced XLR outputs on the back and a 3-pin XLR/6.3mm combo headphone output on the front. The Element M works as a pre-amp and it would be nice to not have to have an external analogue pre-amp if you wanted use this along with an analogue source connected to a power amp for example. I really wish all these all-in-one devices included at least 1 analogue input though. The Element M has 1 x optical input, 1 x coaxial input, 1 x USB input and 1 x IIS LVDS input.
It is rumoured that a future firmware update will bring chromecast support too, which would be great. You can stream music to it via DLNA (Bubble UPnP or similar app for android) and also AirPlay. You can set it up to locate files on a NAS that is on the same network too. You can attach a hard drive or insert a microSD into the Element M to playback local files which show up on the app.
Once setup you can change all the settings from the app, along with using it as a remote and accessing files for playback that are stored on attached storage or a NAS drive. The wireless setup needs to be done via the App and is quite a simple process, make sure to follow all the instructions of the tutorial on the app and you won’t have any issues. You can either plug in an ethernet cable and you’re done, or you can attach the WiFi antenna and set it up wirelessly. The Element M is a DAC, streamer and player with a powerful headphone amplifier too.įirst off you need to setup the network connection if you want to use the remote on the app along with the MA player for attached storage / NAS files. It doesn’t have an integrated amplifier like the Element P, instead it uses a slightly lower end DAC chip (ESS9028PRO) and has the perfect feature set for mid-range active speakers and headphone users. The Element M does not have as many inputs as the Element X, nor does it have the same DAC chip. The Element M is the newest model in the Element family and balances price/performance and functionality when compared to the other models. Overall everything you need to get set up is included. You also get a quick setup guide and manual to help get you started. I am really impressed by the finish of the Element M, gone is the more industrial design of previous Matrix models and now you have a very modern and sleek looking device that exudes quality when you see it.Īccessory wise you get a standard power cable, standard USB cable, remote and the wifi antennas. The knob and buttons on the front are aluminium and everything has been well thought out. It feels substantial in weight, the sides have heat sinks and all the connections are very solid. The outer casing is CNC machined aluminium that is thick and give the Element M a sense of solidity. The box and packaging is really high quality and you really feel like you are unboxing a very high quality piece of kit, which it is.īuild quality wise the Element M is flawless, I cannot find a single flaw on it. The unit is packed tightly in foam to reduce shipping vibrations/shock and it is also covered with a fabric bag. The Element M comes in a big box that is matte black and very sleek. You can also buy this now at Apos Audio Packaging, Build Quality and Accessories: