OCK-2P – Master clock

LHY Audio OCK-2P Platinum Edition

10 MHz master reference clock

The LHY Audio OCK-2P Platinum Edition is a high-precision master clock designed to improve the synchronisation of the most demanding digital systems. It can be used with streamers, digital transports, switches, DACs and clock distributors that feature a compatible 10 MHz input.

In any digital system, temporal precision is fundamental. Small clock deviations — commonly known as jitter— can affect the stability, definition and naturalness of the playback. The OCK-2P provides an extremely stable external 10 MHz reference so that the various compatible components work with a common and precise time base.

Ultra-low phase noise OCXO oscillator

At the heart of the OCK-2P lies a carefully selected oven-controlled crystal oscillator — OCXO. Its phase noise reaches values of up to –115 dBc at 1 Hz and –140 dBc at 10 Hz, with a frequency stability of less than ±5 ppb.

In a correctly adjusted system, this greater temporal precision can translate into a more stable soundstage, better focus of voices and instruments, greater clarity in small details and a sense of a quieter background.

The oscillator is housed in an independent thermal chamber, responsible for maintaining a stable operating temperature. A front indicator informs when the warm-up process has finished. Although the clock begins delivering a signal from switch-on, it reaches its optimum performance once stabilised.

Six independent 10 MHz outputs

The OCK-2P features six synchronised BNC outputs:

• Three sine-wave outputs.
• Three square-wave outputs.
• Four 50 Ω connections.
• Two 75 Ω connections.

Each output features its own isolation and amplification circuit. This allows multiple components to be synchronised simultaneously, reducing electrical interaction between the various outputs and maintaining the integrity of the clock signal.

Completely overhauled linear power supply

The Platinum edition incorporates a 30 VA Noratel toroidal transformer, doubling the power reserve used in the OCK-2S. The power supply uses EMI filtering, high-speed rectification and two-stage linear regulation via LM350T and LT3041.

This architecture provides a particularly clean and stable power supply to both the oscillator and the distribution circuitry. In a reference clock, where any minor interference can compromise precision, the quality of the power supply is just as important as the oscillator itself.

CNC-machined chassis with five independent chambers

The enclosure is machined from a block of aluminium and internally divided into five functional compartments. The transformer, power inlet, linear power supply, oscillator and output board remain physically separated to reduce electromagnetic interference, vibrations and cross-contamination between circuits.

Furthermore, it incorporates a dedicated earth terminal and a selector that allows choosing between earthed or floating operation, facilitating its adaptation to the needs of each installation.

Installation and compatibility

The OCK-2P connects via a BNC coaxial cable to the 10 MHz external clock input of the component you wish to synchronise. It is essential to check beforehand the required impedance — 50 or 75 Ω — and the type of signal supported — sinusoidal or square.

For optimum performance, it is recommended to allow at least 15–30 minutes from a cold start. Full thermal stabilisation is reached in approximately 60 minutes.

Important: this product can only be used with equipment that incorporates a compatible 10 MHz external clock input. Before placing your order, it is advisable to check the impedance and wave type accepted by the component.

Technical specifications

• Type: external reference master clock.
• Output frequency: 10.000 MHz.
• Oscillator: Temperature-controlled OCXO.
• Number of outputs: 6 independent BNC outputs.
• Sine wave: 2 outputs of 50 Ω and 1 of 75 Ω.
• Square wave: 2 outputs of 50 Ω and 1 of 75 Ω.
• Sinusoidal output level: 2.8 Vpp / 1 Vrms / 13 dBm into 50 Ω.
• Square wave output level: 2 Vpp / 1 Vrms / 13 dBm at 50 Ω.
• Typical phase noise:
  • ≤ –115 dBc at 1 Hz.
  • ≤ –140 dBc at 10 Hz.
  • ≤ –150 dBc at 100 Hz.
  • ≤ –158 dBc at 1 kHz.
  • ≤ –160 dBc at 10 kHz.
• Frequency accuracy: less than ±0.05 ppm.
• Frequency stability: less than ±5 ppb.
• Short-term stability: 2 × 10⁻¹² at 1 second.
• Transformer: 30 VA Noratel toroidal transformer.
• Regulation: dual-stage LM350T + LT3041.
• Basic warm-up: approximately 15 minutes.
• Full stabilisation: approximately 60 minutes.
• Power supply: 220–240 V AC.
• Power consumption: approximately 10 W during warm-up and 5 W during stable operation.
• Dimensions: 240 × 175 × 50 mm.
• Weight: 2 kg.
• Available finishes: black or silver.

Information cross-checked with the official datasheet for the LHY Audio OCK-2P and his user manual.