Clock Source: Word or Optical ADAT?

[RobMacki]

I'm loading into 192 from MX2424 via Optical ADAT.
What is the best clock source?

Word Clock
ADAT 1-8
Optical (ADAT)

Inputs on 192 are set for Optical ADAT.

[minister]

Word

[1m1]

Could you please expand on why word clock is better than locking to ADAT?

[minister]

WC operates at a higher resolution (between signals) than just the digital source. also, there is less chance that jitter is introduced becasue no audio is present. when audio is present, it can effect the signal (preamble) used to synchronize the AD conversion. the PLL, or Phase Lock Loop, uses this preamble. if it there is less jitter than less potential for problems.

WC is also less suceptible to cable issues as long as your lengths are not too long.

[RobMacki]

Thanks Tom
I went with WC after reading that it is better for higher SR etc. (I had to make a decision before any replies)
Everything went flawless.

[minister]

Thanks Tom
I went with WC

ah, yes, my little chickadee!

[LukeHoward]

Does it actually matter for digital-digital transfers?

eg. see http://emusician.com/mag/emusic_debu...alaudio_myths/

[minister]

Does it actually matter for digital-digital transfers?

eg. see http://emusician.com/mag/emusic_debu...alaudio_myths/

no. digital to digital is just pushing the 1's an 0's around. clocking affects A/D and D/A (where you can record jitter), not D/D

but for reliable SPEED, use Word Clock, even in D/D. gotta make sure everybody is at the right sample rate. if it didn't matter, than you could clock something to 48 and try to digtially pass a 44.1k signal. Black Burst also makes sure that the decks and DAW's are operating at the right speed.

once it is on the hard drive, the file's 1's and 0's are set in stone.