The Tascam CG-1800 is a professional-grade master clock generator designed for high-precision audio and video synchronisation in broadcast, post-production, and large-scale studio systems. At its core is a high-precision OCXO (oven-controlled crystal oscillator), delivering clock frequency accuracy of ±0.01 ppm and daily stability within ±0.005 ppm, unaffected by environmental temperature changes. This ensures stable, glitch-free operation even in demanding environments.
Engineered for maximum versatility, the Tascam CG-1800 supports NTSC, PAL, and HD Tri-level video clock formats, along with 12 word clock outputs, four video outputs, and two each of AES3/11 and S/PDIF digital outputs. The unit also supports 2×Fs, 4×Fs, and 256×Fs word clock signals, making it fully compatible with Pro Tools and other DAWs.
The Tascam CG-1800’s advanced jitter management circuit and FPGA-based clock architecture filter and stabilise incoming reference signals, reducing jitter and maintaining phase integrity across video and audio outputs. A glitch-free relocking system ensures uninterrupted clock stability during signal dropouts and recovery, effectively preventing audible or visual artefacts.
For added reliability and maintenance, the Tascam CG-1800 features a self-calibration function that allows users to calibrate the unit via an external 10MHz PPS-output oscillator with GPS antenna. Logging functions and a built-in analyser assist in troubleshooting by recording operational data and allowing for measurement of input frequency, input level, and output termination.
Robust construction enhances durability: Amphenol nut-coupling BNC connectors resist twisting and pulling, while each connector is mounted on its own independent circuit board to prevent signal interference and mechanical wear. A locking front panel switch, firmware update capability via USB, and an organic EL display add further operational convenience.
Key Features:
- Internal oscillator: High-precision OCXO, ±0.01 ppm accuracy, ±0.005 ppm/day stability
- External input: 10MHz input supported for rubidium or GPS reference
- Video formats: NTSC, PAL, HD Tri-level
- Outputs: 12 word clock, 4 video, 2 AES3/11, 2 S/PDIF
- Sampling rates: Up to 192kHz, supports 2×Fs, 4×Fs, and 256×Fs
- Pull-up/down rates: 0.1% for 24F/29.97F, 4% for 24F/25F
- Glitch-free relock: Maintains clock phase through signal dropouts
- Jitter management: FPGA + PLL circuit for low-jitter output
- Self-calibration: Via external GPS 10MHz PPS oscillator
- Analyzer function: Measures input frequency, level, and termination
- Construction: Independent PCBs per connector, Amphenol BNCs
- User settings: Save/recall up to 4 system presets via USB
- Display: 128×64 organic EL
- Power: 3-prong IEC cable, EIA 1U rackmount
- Compliance: RoHS
The Tascam CG-1800 is the result of decades of experience in digital synchronisation technology, offering unmatched precision and reliability for professionals who demand accuracy and long-term dependability.
