Matrix Audio SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock Source

Matrix Audio SC-1 Audio Grade Reference Clock Source

Matrix Audio proudly presents its first clock source product, meticulously designed for streamers, DACs and CD players with synchronised reference clock inputs. With outstanding performance, it will breathe new life into your audio system, unlocking a new realm of sound quality enhancement. Featuring Matrix Audio's new "Matrix Design" language it's a perfect match with other M Series devices which support external clock input such as the MS-1 Music Streamer & NT-1 Digital Transport.

Key Features:

• Audio Grade Reference Clock Source
• Custom-made OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator) module
• Four Independent Synchronised Clock Outputs
• -118dBc Ultra-low Phase Noise
• Customisable Output Waveforms (Sine Wave & Square Wave)
• 1PPS Reference Signal Input for Calibration
• Ceramic Ball Vibration Buffer (CBVB) Feet
• Automatic Linear Power Supply with Over-voltage & Under-voltage Protection
• New "Matrix Design" language
• Elegant Industrial Design & Refined Build Quality

User Manual (PDF, 8.56MB)

Matrix Design

The SC-1s industrial design showcases a new concept of simplicity. With hundreds of circular perforations of varying sizes and depths arranged in an array on the simple hexahedron, resembling rhythmic beats dancing and emerging on the surface.

"Evaluating audio products from the dimensions of 'listening' and 'looking' has always been our consistent philosophy. From concept to design, every step contains the love for music and the pursuit of beauty."

Precision OCXO At The Core

At the core of the SC-1 lies Matrix Audio's custom-made OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator) module, utilizing an SC-cut crystal. Although this cutting process is highly complex, it enables the clock module with superior phase noise and aging characteristics. With precise temperature control by the oven chamber, the crystal operates in a highly stable environment, effectively minimizing the impact of ambient temperature fluctuations on phase noise and jitter.

Four Independent Buffered Clock Outputs

The SC-1 is equipped with four independent buffered clock outputs, all derived from the same source. While ensuring synchronised output, each output is equipped with its own buffering circuit, providing not only stable output impedance but also excellent driving capabilities. Whether using a single output or multiple outputs simultaneously, the SC-1 delivers precise and stable performance, meeting your diverse requirements.

-118dBc Ultra-low Phase Noise

For a clock source device, the output noise is closely related to the internal OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator) clock module. However, the actual output noise is not exactly the same as the OCXO output noise, as the output buffering circuit introduces some performance loss. Therefore, phase noise at the output port of the device provides more practical reference value.

With the excellent design of the SC-1, it achieves an ultra-low phase noise of better than -118dBc at 1Hz frequency at the clock output ports, setting a new industry-leading standard and delivering purer, more stable clock signals.

Clear Status Indication

The SC-1 front panel features a warm-up status indicator LED. When the oven chamber is warming up, the indicator blinks; once the warm-up is complete, the indicator stays on. This simple and intuitive design allows you to instantly know the operating status of the device.

Customisable Output Waveforms

The SC-1 offers two output waveform options; sine wave and square wave, catering to diverse device requirements or your demands.

The square wave output mode is particularly recommended, as it provides higher locking accuracy compared to sine wave, delivering a more precise clock signal. The Sine wave output however, may produce better results with certain equipment, so it has been included as an option.

Constant Performance

To safeguard the longevity of the SC-1, Matrix Audio have designed a 1PPS reference signal input terminal on the rear panel. As age can affect the internal clock's accuracy - even slightly - the 1PPS input allows you to connect an external second-based reference signal source. The SC-1 will then automatically perform a re-calibration. The calibration status will be indicated by the LED on the front panel.

CBVB Vibration Absorption System

Equipped with Matrix Audio’s CBVB (Ceramic Ball Vibration Buffer) vibration absorption foot pads, the SC-1 effectively isolates external vibrations, minimising interference and ensuring the clock remains in a stable operating state. This delivers pure and stable audio clock signals for an enhanced listening experience.

Automatic Linear Power Supply

The SC-1 features an advanced linear power supply with automatic voltage detection. It is equipped with sensitive voltage detection capabilities, enabling precise transformer winding switching based on the input voltage. Additionally, over-voltage and under-voltage protection functions are always on standby, providing comprehensive protection for stable device operation. Notably, dual multi-stage regulator supplies independently power the oven control circuit and the clock circuit, effectively eliminating any interference from oven chamber power fluctuations on the clock circuit. This exceptional design ensures superior clock signal quality from every aspect.