Master Clock for the SOtM SMS-200 Ultra Neo SE


Hi guys

I have the SOtM SMS-200 Ultra Neo SE in a rig with a very well treated digital signal. It sounds very nice, but it doesn't have a Master Clock input because I did not wanted to pay that aditional cost back then (now I kind of regret it as I have a Master Clock).

 

Has anyone of you tried this device with and without a Master Clock feeding it? Does it really make a noticeable difference? My experience has been that the further the device from the DAC, the less impact the Master Clock makes. The biggest impact is feeding the DAC. I have it also feeding a DDC before the DAC and the Uptone ER and I don't find a big difference, mostly on the ER.

 

​Please answer if you had a real listening experience. I don't want to start a technical debate. 

plga

Answer is yes.  I have SOtM SMS-200, USBultra, Estoteric K-01X, and EtherREGEN all clocked to a 10mHz Stanford Research PERF-10.  The synergy of the whole is greater than its parts. 

@dgarretson That sounds like an amazing setup.

@plga What was your final decision? I am in the same boat as you. I bought the SOtM sMS-200 ultra Neo 2 years ago with no clock input. I am considering adding a 10 MHz external master clock which means I need to replace the Ultra Neo and buy a DAC with clock input. I am also looking at the Gustard R26 streamer / DAC as well.

Well, SOtM USA quoted me $350 for the aditional master clock input and I won’t do it. Originally was $200 when I bough the SMS-200 Ultra Neo.

My experience is that the closer the clock to the DAC the more impact it makes. So, I use the three outputs of the master clock for the DAC, the DDC and the Uptone ER.

I think there are better ways to improve sound for the money as I would also need to spend on a clock with more outputs.

$350 + a new clock is too much.

Well, I think it is a bit excessive but they have to open up your unit, make sure they do not cause any damage, add the clock input, then close up right? So it should cost more than $200 but that's almost double. I will pay the $350 or get another Ultra Neo with all the bells and whistles (Special Edition). I plan to get a clock with 3 or more outputs. Thanks so much for the info!

I have the Special Edition without clock input as it was an open unit with lower price.

Be sure to get it with clock input.