Aurender dCS Dongle

Automatic Clock Selection Between Aurender and dCS

The Aurender dCS Dongle is a specialized USB-to-RS232 control adapter that allows a compatible Aurender music server to coordinate clock-frequency selection with a supported dCS digital system. In a properly configured word-clock installation, sample rates can change from album to album or track to track. The dongle passes control commands that let the dCS component select the appropriate clock setting automatically, removing a repetitive manual step from everyday listening.

This is a control accessory, not a USB audio converter. Music continues to travel through the digital-audio connection selected for the system, and clock synchronization continues through the required word-clock cable. The dongle uses an Aurender USB data port for control communication and an RS232 cable for communication with the dCS component.

Compatible Aurender Models

• Aurender W20
• Aurender W20SE
• Aurender N20
• Aurender N30SA
• Future Aurender models specifically supporting an external word clock and this control function

dCS models, RS232 wiring, and clock configurations vary. Confirm the exact dCS component, control cable, and firmware requirements with the dealer before ordering.

Who Is This Adapter Best For?

• Owners of a compatible Aurender server used with a clock-capable dCS digital system.
• Listeners who regularly move between files with different sample-rate families.
• Systems already using, or being configured for, an external word clock.
• Installations where automatic clock selection is preferable to front-panel changes.

It is not needed for a conventional USB-DAC connection without an external clock, and it does not add word-clock capability to an Aurender or dCS model that does not already support the required arrangement.

How (and Where) Does It Connect to Your System?

1. Confirm that the Aurender and dCS models support the intended clock-control configuration.
2. Power down the components before making rear-panel connections.
3. Connect the dongle to the designated USB data/control port on the Aurender. Do not confuse this with the USB audio output used for music playback.
4. Connect the correct RS232 control cable between the dongle and the supported RS232 connection on the dCS component.
5. Install the required BNC word-clock cable separately between the clock output and input specified for the system.
6. Power the components on and configure the Aurender/dCS clock settings according to their current documentation.

The dongle should remain behind the equipment with enough clearance that neither its USB connection nor the RS232 cable is under strain. Secure and route the control and clock cables separately from AC power cords where practical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does audio pass through the dongle?

No. It carries control communication. Audio and word clock use their own separate connections.

Does the dongle replace a word-clock cable?

No. A compatible BNC word-clock connection is still required.

Will it work with every Aurender?

No. Aurender specifically identifies external-clock-capable models such as the W20, W20SE, N20, and N30SA. Verify future-model compatibility before purchase.

Will it work with every dCS product?

Not necessarily. The dCS component must support the required RS232 control and clock arrangement. Cable pinout and system configuration should be confirmed.

Why use it?

Its benefit is operational convenience: the system can coordinate clock selection as music sample rates change instead of requiring repeated manual switching.