External Clock Input
The number of inputs provided for an external timing reference or clock signal.
Clock inputs receive timing; clock outputs send it. The connector count is separate from accepted frequencies and electrical requirements, and an internal oscillator does not establish an external input.
External Clock Input — Streamer
On a Streamer, an external clock input provides a connection for a supported timing reference. It is separate from Ethernet, USB and digital-audio inputs used to receive music.
Check the number of actual timing inputs and the operating modes that use them. A claim about internal clock quality does not establish an input, and several accepted frequencies on one socket still represent one physical connection.
Compare the reference source with the streamer’s supported input frequencies and electrical requirements. A clock input does not create a network synchronization feature for every room, and its presence alone does not rank playback quality or establish a benefit from another clock.
External Clock Input — SACD Transport
On an SACD Transport, an external clock input can synchronize supported playback operation to another timing source. It does not carry the disc’s audio to the receiving DAC.
Read the count with the transport’s supported reference formats and disc modes. A BNC socket carrying digital audio is a different connection. Several accepted frequencies at one socket do not represent several physical inputs.
Compare the intended clock source with the transport’s electrical and operating requirements. Reference compatibility is separate from DSD or multichannel output support. The existence of a clock input alone does not establish that an external clock improves playback or is required for normal operation.
External Clock Input — DAC
On a DAC, an external clock input allows a compatible reference to participate in the DAC’s timing arrangement. The manufacturer’s design and settings determine which conversion modes can use it.
Read the count of dedicated clock-input connections. A BNC digital-audio input or a description of a precise internal oscillator is not an additional clock input. One socket may accept several reference types without becoming several inputs.
Compare the required reference frequency, level and termination with the proposed clock source. The count does not establish universal clock compatibility, simultaneous use of multiple references or an audible improvement over the DAC’s internal timing.
External Clock Input — Turntable
On a Turntable, this input belongs to the motor drive or its power supply and accepts an external timing reference for the speed-control system. It is separate from cartridge audio connections.
Read the number of stated clock inputs and their accepted reference signal. A quartz-controlled motor or an external speed-controller box does not by itself establish a clock-input socket. A DC power input is a different connection.
Compare the source clock with the motor controller’s exact frequency, level and termination requirements. The input count does not describe selectable platter speeds or establish improved speed accuracy. Normal operation and any optional external-reference mode should follow the deck’s instructions.
External Clock Input — CD Transport
On a CD Transport, a clock input lets its supported timing system follow a compatible external reference or a paired DAC’s clock output. The music data still travels through the digital-audio connection.
Read the number of reference inputs separately from BNC audio outputs. A single socket may support more than one reference format, but the formats and required settings must be explicitly stated.
Compare the transport and source clock specifications before planning a synchronized connection. The count does not specify the accepted rate or determine which component should be master. Follow the supported system arrangement rather than connecting clock outputs to each other.
External Clock Input — External Clock
On an External Clock, a reference input lets the unit follow an upstream frequency standard or house clock. Its own outputs may then provide different supported timing signals to connected equipment.
Count explicitly provided reference-clock inputs. A GPS antenna socket, audio input or DC power connector is not included. The accepted frequency, termination and reference level are separate specifications that must accompany the connection count.
Compare the upstream source with those requirements and the clock’s operating modes. An input does not make a generator merely a distributor, nor does it establish automatic switching between several references. Behaviour during loss of reference also requires its own specification.