OCK-2S – Master Clock

Description

HY Audio OCK-2S – 10 MHz reference master clock

El LHY Audio OCK-2S it is a high-precision external master clock, designed to improve the synchronisation of digital components compatible with a reference input of 10 MHz. It can be used with network switches, streamers, digital transports, DACs and other devices equipped to work with an external clock.

At the heart of the OCK-2S we find an oscillator Selected OCXO SC-Cut, stabilised by thermal control and capable of achieving a typical phase noise of -110 dBc at 1 Hz. Its high stability provides a more precise time reference, helping to reduce the effects of jitter and preserve the integrity of the digital signal.

In musical terms, tighter synchronisation can translate into a more stable soundstage, greater precision in the placement of voices and instruments, better retrieval of fine details and a cleaner, quieter background. The result will always depend on the connected equipment and the quality with which it implements its clock input.

Six completely independent outputs

The OCK-2S features six 10 MHz BNC outputsthree with square wave and three with sine wave. Each output features its own drive circuit, isolation transformer and independent ground control.

This architecture enables multiple digital components to be powered simultaneously, reducing electrical interaction between them and facilitating cleaner integration into complex systems.

The standard configuration combines outputs from 50 and 75 ohms, allowing it to adapt to different manufacturers and devices. It is important to always select the output, impedance and waveform recommended by the manufacturer of the connected equipment.

Ultra-low noise linear power supply

The precision of a master clock depends directly on the cleanliness of its power supply. For this reason, LHY Audio equips the OCK-2S with a linear power supply specially developed to minimise electrical noise.

The power supply incorporates a Talema transformer, an EMI filter on the power input, high-speed rectification and three-stage CLC filtering. In addition, it uses three independent architectures LT3042 + PNP, responsible for separately powering the OCXO oscillator, the main board, and the reference circuit.

This separation helps to prevent noise produced in one section from reaching the oscillator or distribution circuits.

CNC machined construction

The OCK-2S is housed in a robust, thick-walled aluminium chassis, CNC-machined and internally divided into different functional sections.

This construction provides effective protection against vibrations, resonances and external electromagnetic interference. Its compact format facilitates installation alongside switches, streamers and other digital components.

Thermal stabilisation

After being switched on, the OCK-2S takes approximately 15 minutes to achieve basic stabilisation and around 60 minutes to deliver its full performance.

For maximum stability, it can be left switched on during normal listening sessions thanks to its low power consumption of approximately 5 W once stabilised.

Technical specifications

• Type: high-precision external master clock.
• Reference frequency: 10 MHz.
• Oscillator: Thermally controlled SC-cut OCXO.
• Close-in phase noise: −110 dBc at 1 Hz offset, typical value.
• Frequency stability: less than ±5 ppb.
• Frequency accuracy: less than ±0.05 ppm.
• Number of outputs: 6 independent BNC outputs.
• Waveforms: 3 square wave and 3 sine wave outputs.
• Square wave impedance: 2 × 50 Ω and 1 × 75 Ω.
• Sine-wave impedance: 2 × 50 Ω and 1 × 75 Ω.
• Isolation: independent transformer on all six outputs.
• Mass control: independent switch for each output.
• Regulation: three independent LT3042 + PNP rails.
• Mains transformer: Talema.
• Input filtering: EMI filter.
• Internal filtering: high-speed rectification and three-stage CLC configuration.
• Construction: CNC-machined aluminium unibody chassis.
• Basic warm-up time: approximately 15 minutes.
• Recommended time for complete stabilisation: approximately 60 minutes.
• Power consumption during warm-up: 8 W.
• Normal consumption: 5 W.
• Dimensions: 240 × 50 × 175 mm.
• Included accessories: power cord.

Important: before connecting the OCK-2S, it must be checked that the receiving device supports an external reference of 10 MHz and know the impedance —50 or 75 Ω— and the waveform recommended by its manufacturer.