Clock Output
The number of outputs provided to send a clock or reference signal to another component.
Clock outputs carry timing rather than music. Their count is separate from frequency, level and impedance; audio outputs and reference inputs should not be included.
Clock Output — CD Transport
On a CD Transport, a clock output sends the transport’s timing reference to a compatible DAC or other receiving component. It is separate from the output carrying the disc’s music data.
Read the count for explicitly identified timing outputs. The same BNC connector style can be used for S/PDIF audio or clock signals, so the label and specification determine which role applies.
Compare the transmitted clock frequency, level and impedance with the receiver’s requirements. The output count does not establish which component should lead every system or whether several rates can be sent simultaneously. Use the supported clocking arrangement for the specific pair.
Clock Output — DAC
On a DAC, a clock output can allow a compatible transport or other component to follow the DAC’s timing. This is a different direction from connecting an external clock to the DAC.
Read the count of timing outputs and the signals each sends. A BNC audio output is not a clock output, and a socket accepting several external reference frequencies is still an input rather than an output.
Compare the DAC’s clock format with the receiving component’s accepted reference and the supported system arrangement. More outputs do not establish better conversion quality, and the clock cable does not replace the separate digital-audio connection between components.
Clock Output — SACD Transport
On an SACD Transport, a clock output provides a timing signal for compatible equipment in a supported synchronized system. Audio delivery and clock delivery are distinct connections with separate format requirements.
Check the stated outputs and which playback modes use them. A reference input is not an output, and a digital-audio connection carrying timing within its data stream is not automatically a dedicated clock output.
Compare each output signal with the receiving device’s clock input. The count alone does not establish native DSD transfer, multichannel playback or simultaneous independent clock rates. A complete compatible arrangement depends on both devices and the chosen operating mode.
Clock Output — External Clock
On an External Clock, output count indicates how many timing connections are available for the intended system. Different outputs may send 10 MHz references, word clock or other supported master-clock signals.
Read counts with their signal groups. Four 10 MHz outputs and two word-clock outputs describe different capacities; a socket switchable between frequencies remains one physical output. Impedance variants may also divide a group of sockets.
Compare the available connections and simultaneous settings with the devices you need to synchronize. AES3 or S/PDIF blank-frame sync outputs are separate interfaces. A larger socket count does not establish better accuracy, lower phase noise or compatibility with every receiving component.