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Satisfactory hard drive8/6/2023 ![]() Matrix instead recommends using the dedicated iPhone/Android apps for Spotify or Tidal etc, or else something like mConnect for DLNA playback. The unit offers wired or wifi connectivity, but does not work with the existing Matrix app (that's for their Element series). Streaming options include Roon, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and DLNA/UPnP. The USB and I2S (over HDMI) options are capable of handling up to native DSD512, plus 768kHz PCM. With the X-Sabre 3, we get a high-end fully balanced DAC with integrated volume control, XLR and RCA outputs, and a wide variety of inputs. Let's explore what this thing has to offer. It's their latest top-of-the-line dedicated DAC which also does streaming, and as such acts as a worthy replacement for the old unreleased X-Server. The reason I bring all this up is to give some context regarding the Matrix X-Sabre 3. The experience is seamless and ends up sounding great regardless of source, so I really don't have much use for internal SSD storage or USB attached drives. I personally use Roon which integrates Qobuz and Tidal alongside the roughly 5GB personal collection living on my Asustor NAS. In that context, the X-Server made perfect sense, with its multiple USB inputs and internal SSD storage.īut now, many (most?) of us do a significant portion of our listening via streaming services. Music was ripped from CD or purchased/downloaded from places like HDtracks. ![]() Spotify and Apple Music were considered acceptable for "music discovery" or "background music" but not for critical listening on quality audio gear.Īt that time, myself and most of my friends used file-based playback involving some sort of music server, grabbing lossless files either from a local network drive or directly from an attached hard drive, SD card, etc. Qobuz wasn't available in most regions yet, and Apple Music was still strictly lossy. In 2016 Tidal was still somewhat new (as far as being available in the USA at least). Despite a decent contingent of HeadFi users showing interest in the X-Server, Matrix probably figured the DAC market was more lucrative, and less of a hassle in terms of software development (which is a fair point).Īn interesting thing happened between then and now regarding the number of audiophiles doing their "serious listening" via streaming services. I don't know the exact reasoning behind it, but the firm instead focused on their growing line of dedicated DACs, integrated DAC/amp/pre devices, and other related gear. The X-Server never ended up coming to market. I spent some time with the prototype model and came away impressed by the overall experience. It was slated to be a dedicated music server with integrated DAC, Roon capability, robust connectivity, absurdly solid build quality, and stunning dCS-style looks to match. Way back in 2016 - an eternity in audiophile years - Matrix Audio teased HeadFiers with news of an upcoming device called the X-Server.
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