@audphile1 I ordered the Si-1 yesterday and it was shipped within a couple of hours. Moon Audio sent me the tracking number; shipped via FedEx and tracking shows it was picked up and already on to the next FedEx distribution facility. If you have not yet received a tracking notification from the retailer you purchased it from then I suggest you may want to inquire if they have it in stock. If not, simply cancel the order and buy if from Moon Audio. My two cents... I look forward to using this device in my system. Simplicity and quality both play a big role in overall system performance. Enjoy yours in good health.
Matrix Audio SI-1 Network Isolator
A recent discussion on the value of network switches by @fire_water rekindled my curiosity about revisiting optical isolation. As someone who leans toward minimalism, a single-box optical isolator was the prime draw and to see if newer devices offering further improvements over my existing optical isolator.
For context, my front end is built around 3 chassis Merging Technologies +PLAYER / Merging Technologies +CLOCK / Merging Technologies +POWER which is already extremely low noise, highly resolving, and very “studio honest,” reflecting its roots in professional high-resolution recording and editing. It doesn’t gloss over upstream shortcomings—if anything, it exposes them. As a result, any change ahead of it is easy to evaluate.
To be fair, my existing Telegärtner OPTO BRIDGE 1000M already performs very well—delivering a cleaner background, lower noise, and solid isolation. No complaints there except it is powered by an external LHY linear power supply…extra cables plus more real estate :-)
So how does the SI-1 compare?
In my system, the SI-1 builds on Opto Bridge foundation with:
- A further reduction in noise floor
- Greater image density and depth
- Improved microdynamics and sense of flow
- A more natural tonal presentation without sacrificing resolution
The biggest difference?
With the Telegärtner, the presentation was clean and relaxed.
With the SI-1, it becomes more organic, fluid, and musically coherent.
My take:
Telegärtner = excellent isolation
SI-1 = isolation plus signal refinement (regeneration) by breaking ground noise and eliminating EMI/RFI riding on Ethernet.
In a highly resolving system, that extra layer makes a meaningful difference.
Here’s the rub guys, not every system truly benefits from an audiophile Ethernet switch or an overbuilt router. That’s been my experience after introducing optical isolation into the chain. Once I did, even a high-quality switch like the Telegärtner M12 Gold Switch became redundant.
IMHO, optical isolation is essential for any serious streaming setup. The SI-1 doesn’t feel like a tweak, it comes across as a final-stage refinement, allowing your streamer to perform at its full potential and reveal what it’s genuinely capable of.
Here is my signal chain,
Apple Router → SI-1 → Streamer (Merging stack) using a pair of FTA Métis LAN cables.
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@mammothguy54 I canceled my order. Dedicated Audio did not have it in stock and neither did the distributor. None of which was relayed to me until I inquired on the ETA for shipping. Funny that I spoke with a sales person prior to ordering and not a mention of it being out of stock. Unorganized chaos. They did cancel and refunded me promptly though. |
@lalitk Hi Lalit! I hope all is well with you! I did. Mullard long plates (Blackburn late 50's) but not the 10M which I think you have? I tried various tubes including some nice RCAs which were close to the Mullard’s as well as NOS tele’s. Surprisingly I really like the tele’s in my DAC. So it goes to show, it’s not just the tubes. At some point I’d like to upgrade my digital source but it’s a daunting task with so many options. |
I am doing well and wish the same for you. I remember those late-’50s Blackburn Mullard long plates for their density and texture, so your experience makes sense. That said, I’m not surprised by your preference for Telefunkens; your T+A is highly revealing, and Tele’s speed, low noise, and precision can really shine through a phono stage like Model 4. I do have the 10M, and I absolutely love what they bring to my Accuphase integrated. I hear you on digital, it can feel like a maze. The key in my experience, is finding a source that complements your system’s tonal balance rather than chasing specs. Once that clicks, everything else downstream tends to fall into place. I’ll let you know if I pull the trigger on NT-1. I’ll mention another interesting product that’s been on my radar, Wattson Audio Emerson Analog Bridge. Add a nice LPS + high quality LAN & IC and you’re in business, https://www.wattson.audio/emerson-analog https://highfidelity.pl/@main-1243&lang=en
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