A digital audio stream consists of two parts: the data and the clock. Generally speaking, the data is not too problematic. The clock signal, on the other hand, is not perfect and introduces jitter (or phase noise). This is the main reason why different digital audio sources sound different, even when using the same audio stream.

The Ian Canada McFIFO module is an asynchronous multi-channel I2S/DSD FIFO buffer, allowing the digital audio stream to be buffered and the data to pass through while isolating the clock and replacing it with a more accurate signal from an external generator (sold separately). If the new clock signal provides lower phase noise, then the digital audio stream after the McFIFO will offer lower jitter, thereby improving the final sound quality.

The McFIFO is a kit based on Ian Canada's third generation FIFO buffer. Combined with a low jitter clock, it becomes an excellent solution to improve the sound reproduction of an audio system such as a home theater, a digital crossover, a multi-DAC system or a stereo I2S/DSD DAC.

Key features:

• 256Mb buffer memory.
• Audio MCLK up to 98.3040MHz.
• Multi-channel I2S support from 44.1kHz/16bit to 384kHz/32bit; Multi-channel DSD support from DSD64 to DSD512. Automatically detecting I2S/DSD.
• Seven data signals for I2S and eight data signals for DSD. Capable for 14 channels when play I2S and 8 channels when play DSD.
• Built in multi-channel digital isolator.
• Adjustable McFIFO delay time. Can be set to 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8 second by setting jumpers
• Dispose à la fois d'un mode de contrôle d'horloge maître et esclave. Le MCLK peut être renvoyé vers des sources numériques telles qu'un streamer USB, un récepteur SPDIF, un Raspberry Pi...
• Peut être associé à un panneau de contrôle et écran externes (vendus séparément). Il peut s'agir d'un projet Arduino open source.
• Signal de détection DSD isolé.
• Isolateur I2S optionnel (non fourni) pour contrôle DAC.
• Fonctionne avec le module d'horloge Ian Canada McDualXO, des modules d'horloge tiers ou une horloge locale de DAC.