February 2024
REF10 NANO: “You really want this one!”
The respected audiophile website www.alpha-audio.net
intensively tested the compact 10 MHz reference master clock and came to many interesting results.
Dutch audio journalist Jaap Veenstra spoke clearly about the sonic impact of the REF10 NANO on a digital audio system:
So how can you describe the sound of a clock? Well ... that’s surprisingly easy. After all, it’s not a subtle difference that this MUTEC REF10 NANO makes. First, we hear the stereo image take a step in width, depth and height. Clearly audibly, a good deal of air is added. Ambiance. [...] A second thing that immediately stands out is the flow with which everything is presented. [...] A pleasant side effect of the flow is the quietness we hear. The highs are much, much softer and free of grain. This makes longer listening a pleasant affair because there is no listening fatigue.[...] The calmness also brings back micro detail and insight. Following multiple layers takes much less effort and therefore less energy. [...] Looking for a
more analog sound
and own a device with a 10 MHz REF input? This is step one ... really.
For an interesting side-by-side-comparison, the editor used an inexpensive clock "Made in China". The result was clear:
The clock from AliExpress not only measures worse - especially on phase noise - , but also sounds downright annoying. It is
overly sharp
and very intrusive.
At www.alpha-audio.net
they were certain that the foundation for the superior sound of the 10 MHz reference master clock REF10 NANO was based on its excellent technical data:
The MUTEC REF10 NANO measures very good. [...] All in all, a very good result. Top notch work.
This consistently positive impression of the REF10 NANO leads to a clear verdict:
What a nice little device the MUTEC REF10 NANO is! It is actually plug and play with the MUTEC MC3+ USB. And it will serve fine on other devices with a 10 MHz ref clock as well. The character is smooth and the presentation is great with great insight and layering. In short: yes ... you really want this one! Alpha Approved!