TLDR:

"In Eurorack, clocks are pulse signals that drive timing, usually paired with a reset to lock start points; PPQN (‘pulses per quarter note’) sets the resolution of how many clock ticks fit in each beat."

What Is a Clock?

A clock in modular synthesis is a steady pulse - a signal that goes high and low at a regular rate. It's used to sync sequencers, trigger envelopes, step random sources, and keep your whole patch ticking together.

Core Concepts

• Master Clock: The central pulse everything follows. Could be a tempo module, DAW sync, or a sequencer with clock out.
• Clock Division: Slows the clock down into slower steps (e.g. half-time, quarter notes).
• Clock Multiplication: Speeds it up (double time, triplets, ratchets).
• Trigger vs Gate: Triggers are short pulses; gates are longer and can stay high.

Use It For:

• Advancing sequencers
• Triggering envelopes or S&H
• Syncing multiple mod sources
• Creating rhythm and structure in generative patches

Clocks drive sync. Your modular groove starts here.

Great Video