Network noise isolator

The Matrix Audio SI-1 is an active audio-grade network isolator designed to reduce electrical noise and interference between network equipment and high-resolution audio components. Dual-channel optical-electrical isolation, two femtosecond clocks, a linear power supply, and dual Gigabit Ethernet ports provide a carefully controlled connection for network streamers, music players, and DACs.

Active network isolation

The SI-1 uses active optical-electrical isolation to separate connected network devices electrically. This architecture helps block electromagnetic interference generated by routers and network switches while breaking ground loops caused by differences in grounding potential between components.

Independent optical transmission

Separate optical channels handle sending and receiving data independently. Keeping these transmission paths isolated helps reduce crosstalk while maintaining signal integrity across the network connection.

Dual femtosecond clocks

Two femtosecond clocks provide precise timing within the SI-1 network architecture. Matrix Audio combines this clocking system with optical transmission to minimize timing errors and support consistent data transfer for demanding network audio systems.

Linear power supply

A dual-winding potted toroidal transformer and multiple low-dropout regulators provide stable power to the SI-1 circuitry. The linear supply is designed to keep electrical noise under control throughout the isolation and transmission stages.

Gigabit Ethernet connectivity

The SI-1 provides two RJ45 Ethernet ports supporting 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and 1 Gbps connections. One port accepts the network input while the second provides the photoelectrically isolated output. The ports are physically separated, and the isolated output incorporates an electrical isolation washer to reinforce separation between connected devices.

Electrical protection

By eliminating direct electrical continuity across the network connection, the SI-1 provides an additional layer of separation between network infrastructure and connected audio equipment. Its isolation architecture is designed to help protect equipment from electrical disturbances including surges, electrostatic discharge, and noise carried through interconnected devices.

CNC aluminum enclosure

The SI-1 uses a CNC-machined unibody aluminum enclosure consistent with Matrix Audio’s industrial design. The metal chassis provides a rigid housing while helping shield the internal circuitry from external electromagnetic interference.

Clear status indicators

Front-panel LEDs provide power and network link status at a glance. Additional Ethernet indicators on the rear panel display speed, link, and activity information.

Switchable Ethernet LEDs

The rear Ethernet port LEDs can be switched off when visual distractions are undesirable. This is useful in dedicated listening rooms and other low-light installations where unnecessary indicator lighting can be distracting.

Product highlights

• Active optical-electrical network isolation
  
• Dual-channel independent optical transmission
  
• Two femtosecond clocks
  
• Linear power supply with dual-winding potted toroidal transformer
  
• Multiple LDO voltage regulators
  
• One standard RJ45 network input
  
• One photoelectrically isolated RJ45 output
  
• 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and 1 Gbps Ethernet support
  
• Switchable rear Ethernet LEDs
  
• Front-panel power and link indicators
  
• CNC unibody aluminum enclosure
  
• 2K MAC address table

Specs

• Network standards: IEEE 802.3 10BASE-T, IEEE 802.3u 100BASE-X, IEEE 802.3z, IEEE 802.3ab 1000BASE-T
  
• Network input: 1 x RJ45, 10 Mbps/100 Mbps/1 Gbps
  
• Isolated network output: 1 x RJ45, 10 Mbps/100 Mbps/1 Gbps with photoelectric isolation
  
• Front indicators: 1 x power status LED, 2 x link status LEDs
  
• Rear indicators: 2 LEDs per LAN port for speed, link, and activity
  
• MAC address table: 2K entries
  
• Power voltage: AC 100–120 V, 50/60 Hz or AC 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz, factory-fixed
  
• Power consumption: Less than 15 W
  
• Dimensions: 4.72 in W x 8.07 in D x 1.73 in H (120 mm x 205 mm x 44 mm)
  
• Weight: 3.39 lb (1.54 kg)

What’s included

• Matrix Audio SI-1 network isolator
  
• Power cable
  
• User manual
  
• Warranty card