Reference Sounds introduces the new Matrix Audio SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock, an extremely stable 10MHz clock.
Matrix Audio has unveiled the SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock, as reported by its Dutch distributor, Reference Sounds. This highly stable 10MHz clock is designed for use with the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro Network Switch, NT-1 Digital Streaming Transport, and MS-1 Audio Streamer.
“The designers at Matrix Audio continue to impress us. Their deep knowledge of digital signal processing, combined with a holistic approach where every detail must be flawless, is truly remarkable. Matrix Audio firmly understands the classic principle that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. In the digital world, this means that isolating interference is one of the biggest challenges. That’s why we recently introduced the SS-1 and SS-1 Pro Audio Grade Network Switches—beautifully built Ethernet switches that focus on isolating and optimizing the network path to our music streamers. Now, we take the next step with the introduction of the Matrix Audio SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock,” states the distributor.
Timing: The Heart of Digital Audio
An analog signal theoretically has an infinite number of values, whereas the digital domain is limited to just two: 0 and 1. In digital audio, these values are assigned to as many sample points as possible to represent the original analog waveform. These samples, along with their respective bitrates, form a sequence of ones and zeros that must be accurately reconstructed by the DAC into an analog music signal.
“In our digital products, ones and zeros are moved from one processing stage to another under strict timing commands dictated by the Master Clock. Whether in simple or ultra-high-end components, every digital audio device has a built-in clock oscillator. This clock determines the timing of the samples and is therefore crucial for accurate signal reconstruction. Timing errors—known as jitter—introduce digital distortion, which becomes audible when the signal is converted back to analog. Thus, the quality of the Master Clock is directly responsible for the final sound quality,” explains the distributor.
Some digital audio components feature an external clock input, allowing synchronization with a superior, high-precision clock—such as the Matrix Audio SC-1 Reference Clock. This feature is particularly beneficial for devices like the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro Network Switch and MS-1 Music Streamer, making the SC-1 a “magical upgrade option,” according to Reference Sounds.
Matrix Audio SC-1 Reference Clock
The new Matrix Audio SC-1 is an external clock built around an “Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator” (OCXO). This design places the clock’s frequency-determining crystal oscillator in a temperature-controlled enclosure. The quartz crystal used in the SC-1 is a specialized SC-Cut Quartz, which is even more precise than conventional crystals.
While an oscillator’s accuracy depends on its core component, its stability is influenced by external factors such as power supply fluctuations and temperature variations. Any instability can directly impact the frequency and cause unwanted deviations.
“Creating the perfect clock oscillator in an audio product is a significant challenge. This is precisely why Matrix Audio has developed a dedicated, standalone solution—the SC-1 Audio Grade Master Clock,” states the distributor.
The SC-1 is engineered for extreme precision, offering a 10MHz Reference Clock with a phase noise (jitter) of ≤ -118dBc @1Hz, as measured at the clock output. This sets a new benchmark in its class, delivering superior frequency stability and ultra-low jitter in a sleek 33 cm-wide chassis.
Designed for Performance
Matrix Audio has paid meticulous attention to detail, both internally and externally. The linear power supply features a toroidal transformer with two independent circuits—one dedicated to the crystal oscillator and another for the temperature-controlled enclosure.
The SC-1 includes four independently buffered 10MHz clock outputs with BNC connectors (50 Ohm), all sourced from the same master clock to ensure optimal synchronization.
“Its chassis design is just as carefully engineered. Four specialized feet minimize mechanical vibration, while the robust metal construction shields against external interference. The SC-1 is elegantly understated and a perfect aesthetic match for the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro and NT-1 Digital Music Streamer. This is Matrix Audio’s vision of perfection—the SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock!”
The SC-1 is fully compatible with the SS-1 Pro, NT-1, and MS-1, as well as a variety of DACs from other manufacturers that support external clock synchronization.
The Matrix Audio SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock is available now at a retail price of €6,599.