An audio grade network isolator using active optical isolation and two femtosecond clocks to break ground loops and keep router and switch noise out of your streamer. An audio grade network isolator using active optical isolation and two femtosecond clocks to break ground loops and keep router and switch noise out of your streamer.Every network streamer is connected to the noisiest device in the house: the router. The SI-1 sits between them and breaks that link electrically, using active optical to electrical isolation to block the electromagnetic interference generated by routers and switches, and to break the ground loops that form when two mains powered devices share a network cable.Inside, a dual channel optical architecture gives the send and receive paths their own routes, so they cannot interfere with each other or cross talk. Two femtosecond clocks handle timing, fed by a linear power supply built around a potted dual winding toroidal transformer and multiple low noise regulators. The result is fewer transmission errors, lower jitter and, in listening terms, a noticeably darker background.The two gigabit RJ45 ports are physically separated on the chassis, with an isolation washer on the output port that cuts electrical continuity between devices completely. That also makes the SI-1 a protective barrier for expensive equipment against lightning strikes, power surges and static discharge reaching your streamer or DAC through the network cable.The CNC machined unibody aluminium enclosure follows the Matrix Audio family design and adds shielding against external interference. Front LED indicators show power and link status, and the rear Ethernet port LEDs can be switched off entirely so nothing blinks at you during a late night listening session.Main featuresActive optical to electrical isolation between router and audio systemBreaks ground loops and blocks router and switch interferenceDual channel optical architecture with independent send and receive pathsTwo femtosecond clocks for accurate timing and reduced jitterLinear power supply, potted dual winding toroidal transformer and multiple LDOsTwo gigabit RJ45 ports, physically separated, isolation washer on the outputSurge, lightning and static protection for connected equipmentCNC machined unibody aluminium enclosureSwitchable rear Ethernet port LEDs to remove light pollutionTechnical specificationsTypeAudio grade network isolatorIsolationActive optical to electrical, dual channel architecturePorts2 x RJ45, 1 Gbps / 100 Mbps / 10 Mbps, output photoelectrically isolatedStandardsIEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3z, 802.3abClocksTwo femtosecond clocksPower supplyLinear, potted dual winding toroidal transformer, multiple LDOsMAC table2K MAC address entriesLED indicatorsFront power and link status, switchable rear port LEDsEnclosureCNC machined unibody aluminiumPower consumptionUnder 15 WDimensions120 x 205 x 44 mmWeight1.54 kgBuying from Dreamcrest AudioDreamcrest Audio Fidelity Ltd is an authorised Matrix Audio dealer with around twenty years in the high end audio business. Every unit is supplied new and boxed with full manufacturer warranty, and we can arrange a demonstration and system matching advice before you commit. Use the Enquire button for current availability, delivery time and a firm quotation.
Dreamcrest Audio Fidelity Ltd, Nicosia. Specialist hi-fi and high end audio, 20+ years in the audio business. Full details and photos: https://www.dreamcrestaudio.com/product/matrix-audio-si-1-audio-grade-network-isolator/
