DDC, Digital to Digital Converters

[M0N]

@Polygonhell

Should be noted that some manufacturers (DCS at least), their external clock is a Wordclock.
But it isn’t common.

That, or they offer both a reference and wordclock input

@Polygonhell

I’ve never understood how outside a studio setting where a central clock is really a requirement, a 10MHz external clock is in any way a benefit, the Jitter when directly deriving from that at 44.1 or 48KHz would be terrible. And the device itself would pretty much have to be generating the clock or deriving it from the input signal.

For most all hifi stuff it’s absolutely not a requirement, it’s only there as an extra which may or may not be worth using.

@Polygonhell

There is also the issue with running external clocks over long wires, there is a reason you generally position Xtals next to the thing that requires the clock signal.

The quality standards for that cable are also pretty high, very important and added cost to the entire setup as well

@Polygonhell

But again I’ve always put it down to it must do something I’m missing, some people love them on some equipment.

It really does come down to having equipment that’s designed to use one to full capacity, otherwise it’s just not worth touching. Personally I wouldn’t bother unless what you have specifically calls attention to the suggested use of a ref clock, because otherwise it might just be there for the sake of being there lol. Personally I’ve only really thought it maybe worthwhile with a handful of specific digital sources like streamers or reclockers, maybe one or two dacs, but I’ve largely not bothered with them in most things

[dB_Cooper]

@M0N

I’ve only really thought it maybe worthwhile with a handful of specific digital sources like streamers or reclockers, maybe one or two dacs

…and in the end, after being relatively settled with my 2-CH system I decided to go back and re-evaluate things I’ve done with both my room and speaker/sub layout and I’ve had a blast listening to music over the last week or so having made changes that cost me only my time.

It’s a funny little hobby.