Using an external word clock with Esoteric cd/sacd players

Why not just use a good DAC? Any good DAC reduces jitter (clocks not synced) to well below audibility.

I’m using a 10mhz Stanford Research Systems Perfection 10 with a K-01X. The Mutec is also well regarded. Be sure to get one with the correct impedance for your player. Some Esoterics call for 75 ohm, others 50 ohm.

I can endorse the Mutec, which handily comes with both 50 and 75 ohm outputs. It does really benefit from a good power cord, footers and of course a superb BNC!

But if you’re feeling speedy there’s always this 😁
https://www.monoandstereo.com/2018/01/abendrot-audio-44k-stute-master-clock.html

And for @mzkmxcv a good external clock will transform even the best DAC, my Vivaldi benefitted enormously from a 10 MHz Reference clock, even though I already have the Vivaldi clock as well. And those I know with the astute would never go back ...

Yikes, for $44K I'd like to see more than two outputs on that.  I'm using five outputs on my Perf 10: K01X, two SOtM endpoints, one SOtM ethernet hub, and an Antelope frequency divider into a Tascam DSD recorder.  

So, the answer is, this depends.

Generally, you want an internal clock on the Esoteric because, being closest to the spinning disc, and DAC, an internal clock has the shortest trace route, and will have the best chance at having a great signal.

The main reason to use an external clock is when using an external DAC. Some external DAC’s even provide their own clock out.

Second main reason to use an external clock is if a device has a poor one to start with. Clocks and their circuitry over the past 10 years are VERY VERY good though.


Best,
E