JCAT Master OCXO Clock Upgrade
Best precision upgrade for audiophiles seeking ultimate digital playback clarity.
Unlock the full potential of your JCAT USB XE EVO card with the Master OCXO Clock Upgrade. This high-precision, ultra-low noise Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator is JCAT’s first in-house developed master clock generator, designed for unparalleled musical playback quality. Developed with a radiophysics specialist, it delivers exceptional stability and purity to your audio system. The unit features a superior power supply section based on the OPTIMO series, utilizing two separate phases for the OCXO and the clock buffer, ensuring peak performance and minimizing interference.
$1598.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 186
#2 in Electronic Oscillators
Price vs Category Average
-23%
Below average
Technology
OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator)
/ OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator)
Who it's for
- System builders looking to elevate their entire digital chain
- Audiophiles seeking a natural, analog-like soundstage
- Listeners demanding consistent performance in varying room temperatures
Who should skip it
- Mainstream enthusiasts on a limited budget
- Owners of equipment lacking external clock input ports
- Listeners with non-optimized audio chains seeking dramatic upgrades
Performance breakdown
Frequency Stability
The 5 ppb stability ensures jitter-free timing for high-fidelity audio streams.
Noise Floor
Ultra-low phase noise delivers a remarkably clean and transparent sonic background.
Power Delivery
OPTIMO-based dual-phase power supply effectively isolates sensitive clock components from interference.
Build Precision
Gold-plated circuitry and MIL-SPEC components reflect a high-end engineering standard.
Thermal Management
Oven-controlled design maintains optimal operating temperatures for consistent long-term performance.
Integration Versatility
Dual SMA outputs and flexible power options simplify complex high-end audio setups.
Key Specs
Technology
OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator)
RF Output Frequency
20 MHz
Frequency Stability
± 5 ppb
Phase Noise
< -135 dBc/Hz @ 100Hz offset (typ.)
Output Level
2.2 Vpp (at 50Ω load)
Dimensions
86 x 49 x 23 mm
Weight
90 g
DC Supply Voltage
5 ± 5% V
Features
- In-house developed OCXO Master Clock Generator
- Replaces onboard clock on JCAT USB XE EVO card
- Ultra-low noise and exceptional stability
- Superior OPTIMO power supply technology
- Meticulously gold-plated board
- Designed with radiophysics specialist input
- Two female SMA clock outputs
- Flexible 5V external power options
What customers say
Audiophiles overwhelmingly praise the JCAT Master OCXO Clock Upgrade for delivering fundamental sound quality improvements in high fidelity digital audio. The core benefit centers on exceptional timing precision from the OCXO technology, which users report dramatically reduces jitter and noise. This precision translates into a vastly expanded, stable soundstage and a heightened sense of musical realism. Listeners frequently note the elimination of harsh digital glare, resulting in a presentation that feels more fluid and analog. While a significant investment, the consensus is that the performance gains fully justify the premium cost for high-end systems. It is considered a foundational component for unlocking the full potential of high resolution playback.
Know before you buy
This upgrade replaces the standard onboard clock with a high-precision Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator. By providing a more stable and lower-noise timing signal, it significantly reduces jitter, which translates to improved clarity and detail in your digital audio playback.
Yes, the unit requires a 5V DC power source. You can connect it using either the 5.5/2.5mm DC barrel connector or the LP4 Molex connector, depending on your system's configuration.
The OCXO requires a warm-up period to stabilize its internal temperature. Under typical room temperature conditions, it reaches its steady operating state in approximately 5 minutes.
The unit features two female SMA clock outputs, making it versatile for various setups. However, it is specifically engineered to integrate with the JCAT USB XE EVO card, so ensure your other equipment is compatible with a 20 MHz CMOS signal at 50Ω impedance.
Parts per billion (ppb) refers to the precision of the clock's frequency. A stability of ± 5 ppb indicates extremely low drift, ensuring that the timing of your digital data remains consistent and accurate, which is essential for minimizing phase noise and maintaining signal integrity.
The installation involves replacing the onboard clock of your JCAT USB XE EVO card and connecting the provided SMA cables. While it is a straightforward procedure for those comfortable with internal PC audio components, it requires careful handling of the card's delicate electronics.
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