Clock Output Frequencies
The clock frequencies or signal families available at the product’s timing outputs.
Word clock follows audio-rate timing, while a reference such as 10 MHz serves a different role. Output frequency is separate from the signal’s waveform, level, impedance and connector count.
Clock Output Frequencies — SACD Transport
On an SACD Transport, clock-output frequencies identify the references available for synchronized operation with compatible equipment. Availability may depend on the selected playback or system mode.
Read the exact output signal rather than inferring it from the transport’s DSD or PCM capability. An audio master-clock rate and the digital-audio stream’s sample rate describe different signals. Input-reference support does not establish the same output support.
Compare the required mode and clock signal with the receiving DAC or processor. A familiar BNC connector does not establish compatibility. The frequency list alone does not indicate native SACD output, multichannel support or which rates can be supplied simultaneously.
Clock Output Frequencies — CD Transport
On a CD Transport, output frequencies describe the timing references it can send to compatible equipment. They are separate from the PCM rate carried by the digital-audio output.
Check which signal is available in the intended playback mode. Word clock, a 10 MHz reference and higher-rate audio master clocks are not interchangeable merely because their connectors match. A listed family does not imply every possible multiple.
Compare the transport’s output with the DAC or other receiver’s accepted reference. The correct rate must be accompanied by suitable level, waveform and impedance. A clock-frequency specification alone does not describe audio resolution or establish a sonic improvement.
Clock Output Frequencies — External Clock
On an External Clock, output frequencies determine which timing needs the unit can serve. A generator may provide word clock, a 10 MHz reference, higher-rate audio master clocks or a combination.
Read the exact rates and selectable output groups. A word-clock family can contain several selectable multiples, while 22.5792/24.576 MHz and 45.1584/49.152 MHz represent distinct master-clock families. Support for one does not establish the other.
Compare the available simultaneous outputs with each receiving device’s reference requirements. Also check waveform, level and impedance. The frequency list does not specify the number of sockets or prove lower timing noise, and accepting a reference frequency does not necessarily mean the clock outputs it.
Clock Output Frequencies — DAC
On a DAC, clock-output frequencies identify the timing signals it can supply to a compatible transport or other component. They do not describe the sample rates the DAC can decode at its audio inputs.
Read each frequency with its output and operating mode. A fixed reference and a word clock that follows the current sample rate are different arrangements. The accepted frequencies of a clock input should not be copied to the output list.
Compare the transmitted signal with the receiving device’s required clock format and electrical limits. A higher clock frequency is not automatically better, and the list alone does not establish simultaneous output of every supported rate.