September 2026
REF10 NANO Impresses in HiFi and Music Source Review
Online magazine HiFi and Music Source has reviewed the MUTEC REF10 NANO in detail and is deeply impressed by its performance.
REF10 NANO: Precise Clocking, Simple Setup
British online magazine HiFi and Music Source has conducted an in-depth review of the MUTEC REF10 NANO. Author Simon Wilce is impressed by the sonic impact of the 10 MHz reference master clock and presents it with an Editor's Pick
award.
For the listening test, the REF10 NANO was initially paired with the Eversolo T10 streaming transport. Wilce then connected an iFi Audio iDSD Phantom to the reference master clock as well, allowing both the streamer and the DAC to benefit from the precise 10 MHz clock signal.
The REF10 NANO supplies compatible audio equipment with an exceptionally stable, low-noise reference signal. Two 50-ohm and two 75-ohm BNC outputs make it suitable for use with a wide range of hi-fi components. The straightforward setup also impressed the reviewer: connect the cable, select the external clock in the Eversolo app - and you are ready to go.
Greater Space, Clarity and Naturalness
The sonic benefits were clearly audible to Wilce. With the REF10 NANO, playback gained precision and spatial depth without losing its ease or musical flow. On tracks by Dire Straits, dynamics and timing became more convincing, while instruments and voices emerged more clearly against a quieter background.
The results were particularly impressive with live recordings. Wilce heard more of the ambience of the recording venue, subtle details emerged more clearly, and individual voices were easier to distinguish.
He sums up his listening experience unequivocally: This is an in-the-room experience.
The music sounded more immediate, creating a stronger sense of being present in the room.
This impression was confirmed when the REF10 NANO was paired with the iFi Audio iDSD Phantom. Acting as the shared clock reference for the streamer and DAC, it brought additional stability, depth and naturalness to the presentation. Reverberation and subtle spatial cues were reproduced particularly convincingly.
Fluid - Vivid - Natural
Simon Wilce sums up his verdict in three words: Fluid - Vivid - Natural.
Describing the sonic impact of the REF10 NANO, he also writes: I have a more vivid, fluid soundstage with a cleaner attack and an even more natural sound.
His comments highlight the fluid, three-dimensional soundstage, cleaner transients and natural overall presentation.
The REF10 NANO impressed Wilce so much that he would like to keep the review unit permanently in his reference system. In recognition of its performance, HiFi and Music Source presents it with an Editor's Pick award.
A big thank you to Simon for the great review, the Editor's Pick Award, and for providing the images. Read the full review at HiFi and Music Source.