Wireless N 2x2 (up to 300Mbps) vs. AC 2x2 (up to 867Mbps)
I purchased the MA Element X partly because it's supports the 2x2 AC WiFi radio for the smoothest usage where the Ethernet isn't available.
After few days I've tried the WiFi mode and I realized that the connection is 300Mbps between my router and the Element X. After I contacted the Matrix support, they said that the AC mode and the 867Mbps bandwidth should be available because the Element X has a discrete Intel 7260 NGFF card inside.
As I remember from the past I had a very similar problem with one of my ThinkPad laptop which had the same type of the Intel 7260 card without real AC speed connection. After some investigation I found that there're two different sub-type of Intel 7260:
a: Model: 7260NGW (Dual Band Wireless-
AC 7260)
b: Model: 7260NGW
BN (Dual Band Wireless-
N 7260)
Unfortunately despite the first/original specifications of the Element X which declared the AC speed - the supply chain of the Matrix Audio purchased and equipped
BN version cards into the Element X.
Of course I know well that the 300Mbps should be enough for playback of all audio files, but I think in case of premium WiFi network (like mine) the real 867Mbps (faster response time and buffering) can effect positively for the quality of the playback.
I purchased an AC version of Intel generic (non Lenovo/HP OEM) WiFi card and already replaced in my unit. (note: don't buy lenovo/HP card because they are modified firmware and won't work in generic applications!)
Now it's working with 867Mbps connection like a charm!
The manufacturer has been revised the specifications on the MA website to N from AC.