Do I need a seperate word clock?
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Posted on Jan 15, 2012 10:20 am
Indellable
Music Afficionado
Member Since: Aug 12, 2008
Never used an external word clock or paid much attention to the ones embedded in my interfaces over the years (I'm probably missing out). If it wasnt broke, I didnt try to fix it.
I currently use an RME FF800 and am getting ready to add at 8+ channels via ADAT (I assume) from an 8ch mic pre and might also use SPDIF for a seperate Pre. Not sure exactly which ones yet so if you have any auggestions on that front, feel free to share However, the reason for my post is to ask if I need to invest in an individual word clock if I am going to start recording 16+ tracks at once from 2 - 3 difference pieces of equipment, i.e. RME FF800, 8ch pre and single channel pre, etc.
Am I right in thinking the word clock just syncs all the signals and helps make everything uniform when going into the DAW?
The FF800 (link below) states:
"The SteadyClock sync and clock technology enable the unit to be used as a sync reference for your whole studio. SteadyClock refreshes clock signals and removes jitter. A time code option (TCO) for synchronizing to LTC, video and VITC can be added with the insert slot on the back.The Fireface 800 has a second port for hub functionality, a bi-lingual mode for full FireWire 400 compatibility, and an additional FW 400 port. With the multi-ports, several Fireface 800s can be used in parallel and at the same time with no problems. "
I dont have the $ for several FF800s so I dont think daisy chaining is an option. Any advise is much appreciated.
www.rme-audio.de/en_products_fireface_800.php
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Jan 15, 2012 11:52 am Quote:
Am I right in thinking the word clock just syncs all the signals and helps make everything uniform when going into the DAW?
Yes -
But you can use the clock from the FF to sync everything else (you aren't using time code sync or chaining FF's - You're just chaining clocks).
With some gear, you can simply choose the clock via the digital connection. In your case, you're probably going to need to get a few (75-ohm?) BNC cables and then "force" it (WC out to WC in on the ADAT machine, etc.).
