Solid state transformer formed by back-to-back connection of two three-to-single-phase matrix converter, so called MC-SST, owns ac-ac power conversion in a single stage and an absence of the bulky line-frequency transformer when linking ac sources of different voltage amplitudes and frequencies. Current modulation methods for this topology include sophisticated computation of current and voltage vectors besides duty cycle composition. Moreover, extra control design is required to manage the power exchange. In this paper, the easy-to-perform finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) for this type of MC-SST is implemented in real-time platform and compared with the proportional integral control strategy. The active power changes, different voltage amplitudes and phases, and parameter variations are investigated. Simulation and real-time implementation results demonstrate the simplicity and validity of the MPC approach for power management of the MC-SST system. (C) 2017 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.