Internal Clock Frequencies
The stated operating frequencies of the product’s own internal audio-clock oscillators.
Internal oscillator frequency is separate from audio sample rate and external-clock compatibility. Multiple oscillators may serve different sample-rate families; a higher oscillator frequency is not inherently a higher-quality design.
Internal Clock Frequencies — Music Server
On a Music Server, this entry identifies stated internal audio-clock frequencies rather than CPU speed, storage timing or network bandwidth. The clock’s role depends on the server’s audio-output implementation.
Read the frequencies the manufacturer assigns to the audio clock. A named component without a frequency is insufficient, and an optional external reference’s rate should not be substituted for the internal oscillator.
Compare the clock arrangement with the output path and supported playback modes. A higher internal rate does not establish quicker library operations or better sound, and it does not prove that the server transmits that frequency through an external clock connector.
Internal Clock Frequencies — SACD Transport
On an SACD Transport, internal clock frequencies describe the audio-timing oscillators identified within the player. Different oscillator rates may serve different playback paths, but that relationship must be stated rather than assumed.
Read internal frequencies separately from supported DSD rates, PCM output rates and external-reference inputs. A high-rate master clock is not itself evidence that the corresponding audio format is available through a digital output.
Compare the timing architecture and measurements relevant to the intended disc mode. The frequency alone does not establish low jitter or better sound, and a part number without a published frequency should not be used to fill missing information.
Internal Clock Frequencies — Streamer
On a Streamer, internal clock frequencies describe the audio-timing oscillators identified by the manufacturer. They are not the network link speed or a list of file sample rates.
Read the stated oscillator rates and any sample-rate-family role. Distinct master-clock pairs should remain distinct; support for one does not imply another. A frequency accepted through an external input is a different specification.
Compare the internal arrangement with the supported output path, not simply the largest frequency number. The rate alone does not establish lower phase noise or an audible improvement, and no external clock output should be inferred unless it is separately specified.
Internal Clock Frequencies — CD Transport
On a CD Transport, internal clock frequencies describe the oscillators used in its audio-timing design. They are separate from the 44.1 kHz CD sample rate and any upsampled digital-output rate.
Read explicitly published internal frequencies. A drive mechanism name, crystal supplier or external-reference specification does not establish them. A transport can use an internal master clock at a multiple of the audio rate.
Compare the stated architecture with relevant timing measurements and operating modes. A larger oscillator frequency does not by itself imply better disc reading or sound. It also does not establish that the clock is available externally for synchronizing another component.
Internal Clock Frequencies — DAC
On a DAC, internal clock frequencies describe part of the timing system used for conversion. Separate oscillators may support the 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sample-rate families without those oscillators running at the sample rates themselves.
Read the frequencies explicitly stated for the internal audio clocks. A crystal part number, a supported file rate or an accepted external reference does not establish an internal oscillator frequency.
Compare the architecture and supported operating modes rather than ranking the highest number. The frequency alone does not describe phase noise, jitter or analogue performance, and it does not mean that the same signal is available at a clock output.