Aurender MC 20 Master Clock

Aurender MC20

Reference master clock for uncompromising digital signal precision

In high-quality digital audio chains, the sonic result depends not only on the quality of individual components, but also on the precise timing of all devices in the signal path. This is precisely where the Aurender MC20 comes in: As a reference master clock and word clock generator, it ensures highly accurate synchronization of music servers, DACs, upsamplers, and digital signal processors.

The goal is clear: a clean, stable clock reference for all connected components. The result is evident where discerning listeners immediately perceive differences – in more precise spatial imaging, cleaner instrument separation, more stable soundstage positioning, and a more natural reproduction without digital harshness.

Rubidium master clock for maximum precision

At the heart of the MC20 is a high-precision rubidium clock module that generates a particularly stable 10 MHz reference signal . Rubidium oscillators are considered the preferred solution in high-end audio due to their exceptional long-term and short-term stability, particularly when minimal clock deviations and extremely low jitter are required.

The MC20 reduces phase noise to an extremely low level, thus creating optimal conditions for more precise signal processing in connected components. Subtle dynamic details are better preserved, voices sound more focused, and the overall sound becomes calmer and more natural.

Instead of artificial sharpness, a digital reproduction with high transparency and natural tonal balance is created.

Separate OCXO word clocks for maximum compatibility

Not every digital audio device supports a direct 10 MHz master clock input . Many DACs and digital sources operate exclusively with classic word clock signals. Therefore, the MC20 additionally integrates two completely separate OCXO-based word clock generators .

These deliver independently of each other:

• 44.1 kHz
• 48 kHz
• as well as corresponding multiples of these frequencies

The separate clock sections allow for precise synchronization of various digital components simultaneously – regardless of whether they operate with 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz-based sampling families.

In addition, both 75-ohm and 50-ohm outputs are available, enabling seamless integration into systems from Aurender as well as numerous third-party providers.

Automatic synchronization via SPDIF Sync

An integrated SPDIF sync input significantly expands the flexibility of the MC20. This channel allows the device to automatically adjust the word clock output to the currently playing music.

This is particularly relevant for music libraries with mixed sample rates, as manual switching is eliminated and clock synchronization is always correct.

Meaningful integration into high-end systems

The Aurender MC20 unfolds its full potential when combined with an Aurender music server and a DAC with a clock input. In this configuration, all components benefit from a shared, extremely precise time reference.

Even systems without a clock-capable DAC can benefit: Simply synchronizing the digital transport can lead to a noticeably more stable and precise playback.

For ambitious listeners and demanding high-end systems, the MC20 is a technically consistent solution when digital playback at the highest level is to be achieved.

Technical data

Entrances

• SPDIF Sync Input: Coaxial BNC, 75 O

Clock outputs

Rubidium Master Clock (10MHz):

• 2 x 75 O
• 2 x 50 O
• Output voltage: 0.7 Vrms (±10%)

Word Clock:

• Channel A: 2 x 75 O
• Channel B: 2 x 75°

Connections

• USB (reserved for future features)

Operation & Display

• LED indicators for clock, sync and multiplier (10 LEDs per channel)
• Keys for:
  • Clock selection
  • Multiplier selection
  • power

Phase noise – Rubidium

• < -130 dBc/Hz (10 Hz)
• < -140 dBc/Hz (100 Hz)

Short-term stability – Rubidium

• < 2 × 10?¹¹ (1 s)
• < 1 × 10?¹¹ (10 s)
• < 2 × 10?¹² (100 s)

Phase noise – OCXO

• < -90 dB/Hz (1 Hz)
• < -115 dB/Hz (10 Hz)
• < -127 dB/Hz (100 Hz)
• < -143 dB/Hz (1 kHz)

Frequency stability – OCXO

• < 5 × 10?¹°

Dimensions

• 430 × 106 × 370 mm (without feet)
• 430 × 127 × 370 mm (with feet)

Weight

• 20.3 kg

power supply

• 110 V / 220 V

Power consumption

• Standby: 5.7 W
• Warm-up phase: 160 W
• Operating (State Lock): 58 W

The Aurender MC20 is aimed at listeners who don't judge digital audio technology by buzzwords, but by measurable precision – and by what ultimately becomes audible.