Clock Connections
Digital audio devices that exchange audio data must be synchronized to the same clock reference. This clock reference
signal can either be a ‘WordClock’ signal, transmitted and received via dedicated coaxial connectors (BNC or RCA), or an
embedded clock signal transmitted via a digital audio connection such as TDIF Clock, ADAT Clock, MADI Clock, etc.
The device that provides the clock reference signal for the whole system is called the clock master, and any device that
locks to this signal is called a clock slave. The SSL MadiXtreme can operate either as clock master or clock slave:
• When MadiXtreme is used as a clock master, the BNC WordClock connector functions as an output, providing a reference
signal for external devices.
• In all other cases, the BNC WordClock connector functions as an input, with the MadiXtreme locking to the incoming
clock signal (or to the MADI clock).
Use a 75 Ohm WordClock cable to connect the MadiXtreme’s BNC WordClock connector to the BNC WordClock input or
output connector of the Alpha-Link (or other device).
If you are using a MadiXtreme 64 with an Alpha-Link MADI AX or Alpha-Link MADI SX, either device may be the clock
master.
If you are using two Alpha-Links with a MadiXtreme 128, or a combination of several MadiXtremes and external MADI
devices, please make sure that all the devices are locked to the same clock signal.
WordClock connections should always be ‘point to point’. When a signal is distributed to multiple devices, a
distribution amplifier must be used to guarantee reliable operation.
WARNING
Do not enable the monitoring system before the Clock connections have been made and the appropriate
clock settings selected for both MadiXtreme and the external device(s). Failure to do so may result in full-
scale digital audio noise which could cause damage to your monitors and/or your hearing!
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