Eventide VR204HF, VR204HF-PB Installation And Operation Manual

Installation and Operation Guide

for the

Eventide VR204HF

Hi-Fi Broadcast Logging Recorder

and the

Eventide VR204HF-PB

Hi-Fi Broadcast Logging Player

(A supplement to the VR204 Installation & Operation Manual)

Eventide

Model VR204

BUSY TAPE

REC

STATUS

PLAY/PAUSE

EJECT

REW

FF

STOP/EJECT

Prev

CHANNEL STATUS

A B

C

D

current rev 2: preliminary date: 03 August 1998
original rev 1: preliminary date: 31 July 1998
eventide doc#: 141030

Eventide Inc.

One Alsan Way, Little Ferry, NJ 07643
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
http://www.eventide.com

Soft Keys

TAPE ALMOST FULL/FULL

Broadcast Quality Audio
DDS-3 Tape Technology

Digital Audio Logging System

Next

1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9

0

MUTE

(BLANK)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Topic page

Table of Contents .............................................................. i

About This Manual ............................................................v

Part 1 - General Description of the VR204HF .....................................1

What is the VR204HF? .........................................................1

What options are available? ......................................................1

Can I play tapes recorded in other Eventide loggers? ..................................1

Part 2 - Operation & Configuration User Interface Screens ..........................3

Before You Begin .............................................................3

Power-Up Screen Sequence ......................................................3

Boot-Up Screen .........................................................3

No Tape In Drive Screen ..................................................3

Insert Tape Screen .......................................................3

Tape Loaded Successfully Screen ...........................................4

Write-Protected Tape Loaded Successfully Screen ..............................4

New or Unformatted Tape Loaded Successfully Screen ..........................4

Eject Tape Screen ........................................................4

Main Menu Screens ............................................................4

Main Menu - No Tape In Drive .............................................4

Main Menu - Tape In Drive, write-protected ...................................5

Main Menu - Tape In Drive, not write-protected ................................5

Main Menu Choices - [Resume], [PrepTape], [GoTo], [Disk] ...........................6

Main Menu Choice - [Controls] Controls ...........................................7

[Volume] ..............................................................7

[Labels] ...............................................................7

[Security] ..............................................................7

[Channel] ..............................................................7

[Single] ..........................................................7

[Multiple] for hi-fi tapes ............................................8

[Multiple] for non-hi-fi tapes .........................................8

[Monitor] ..............................................................9

[Mode] ..........................................................9

Mode Example - Digital Loopback ...................................10

Mode Example - Enable Digital Loopback for Channels A,C,D (1,3,4) .......10

Mode Example - Selecting Confidence Mode Monitoring .................10

Mode Example - Confidence Mode, Enable Channels ....................11

Main Menu Choice - System Information ..........................................12

[Quit] ...............................................................12

[DrvInfo] .............................................................12

[SysLogs] .............................................................12

[Internal] .............................................................12

[Bandwidth] .....................................................12

[Descrip] .......................................................12

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ i ]

[UnitNum] ......................................................12

Main Menu Choice - Configuration Menu .........................................13

[Quit] ...............................................................13

[Clock] ...............................................................13

[Relay] ...............................................................13

[RecTimers] ...........................................................13

[Label] ...............................................................13

[Descriptors] ..........................................................13

[Inpt/Outpt] ...........................................................13

[Quit] .........................................................13

[RecEnable] .....................................................13

[InputGain] ......................................................14

[Done] ...................................................14

[Channel] .................................................14

[Decrease] ................................................14

[Increase] .................................................14

Clipping Indicator ..........................................14

Example - Input Clipping Indicator .............................15

[OutputAttn] .....................................................15

[Done] ...................................................15

[Channel] .................................................15

[Decrease] ................................................15

[Increase] .................................................15

[Record] ..............................................................16

[BANDWIDTH] .................................................16

[REC OVER] ....................................................16

[C3ECC] .......................................................16

[TIME TRACK] ..................................................16

[REC VERIFY] ..................................................16

Main Menu Choice - [TapeInfo] Tape Information ...................................18

TapeInfo Screen for a hi-fi format tape ......................................18

TapeInfo Screen for a standard format tape ...................................18

[Quit] ...............................................................18

[Descrip] .............................................................18

[Position] .............................................................18

[Rewrites] .............................................................18

[Bandwidth] ...........................................................18

Example - Bandwidth Screen ..............................................19

[Quit] ..........................................................19

[Sampling] ............................................................19

Example - Sampling Screen ...............................................19

[Quit] ..........................................................19

Part 3 - Recording and Playback ...............................................21

Compatibility ...............................................................21

Recording ...............................................................21

Standard format record warning screen ......................................21

Playback ...............................................................21

Reconfigure for hi-fi screen ...............................................22

Play/Pause with Reconfigure for hi-fi screen sequence ..........................22

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ ii ]

Playback While Recording ......................................................22

Playback while record warning screen .......................................23

Part 4 - Recommended Tapes ..................................................25

Part 5 - Connecting the VR204HF and VR204HF-PB ..............................27

Connections ...............................................................27

Balanced Audio Input and Output ................................................27

Speaker Output ...............................................................28

Headphone Output ............................................................28

Line Out ...............................................................28

Part 6 - Technical Specifications ...............................................29

Illustrations

Fig 1.1 The VR204HF Front Panel ................................................1

Fig 1.2 The VR204HF Rear Panel ................................................2

Fig 5.1 Pinout, Hi-Fi Audio Connector ...........................................27

------

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ iii ]

NOTES:

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ iv ]

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

This manual is a supplement to the standard VR204 Installation and Operation Manual, the
VR204 Quick Reference Guide, and the VP204 Operating Manual.

The purpose of this supplement is to detail features that are unique to the VR204HF Hi-Fi
Broadcast Logging Recorder. Because the basic operation of the VR204HF is similar to the
standard VR204 unit, you should review the "Installation and Operation of the Eventide VR204
Digital Audio Logging System" manual for information about features not specifically addressed
in this supplement.

A very brief overview of the VR204HF series of hi-fi logging recorders is given in PART 1 -
General Description of the VR204HF.

The differences between the hi-fi VR204HF and the telephone/audio VR204 form a front panel
setup and use perspective are covered in Part 2 - Operation & Configuration User Interface
Screens.

Specific details regarding recording and playback are given in Part 3 - Recording and
Playback. Also covered in Part 3 are compatibility issues regarding hi-fi format tapes versus
standard format tapes.

Part 4 - Recommended Tapes provides a list of tapes that Eventide recommends for use in
Eventide Logging Recorders.

The only specific hardware connection difference between the VR204HF recorders and the
standard VR204 is in the hi-fi audio inputs and outputs. This is covered in Part 5 - Connecting
the VR204HF and VR204HF-PB.

Technical Specifications are detailed in Part 6 - Technical Specifications.

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ v ]

NOTES

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ vi ]

PART 1 ­General Description of the VR204HF

What is the VR204HF?

The Eventide VR204HF is a 4-channel high-fidelity ("hi-fi") Broadcast Logging Recorder. It is
capable of recording as much as 200 channel hours of hi-fi audio (20Hz-14KHz) onto a single
DDS-3 DAT tape. Longer recording times are possible by selecting reduced bandwidth. The
unit's hi-fi audio connections are balanced and designed to handle +24dBu (max) signals. The
VR204HF also includes a variety of features, such as Record Timers, to allow unattended
operation. An internal 2GB hard disk is used for record bufferring and instant recall of data.

What options are available?

The VR204HF is available with three different input options--- dc-coupled (standard,
VR204HF), transformer-coupled (VR204HF-X), and ac-coupled (VR204HF-AC). A Playback
only version, the VR204HF-PB, is also available. To avoid confusion in the manual, the hi-fi
recorders will be referred to as "VR204HF"--- regardless of the input configuration, while the
play only unit will be specified as VR204HF-PB. The non-hi-fi 4-channel telephone or audio
recorders will be referred to as "VR204."

Broadcast Quality Audio
DDS-3 Tape Technology

Digital Audio Logging System

Next

1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9

0

MUTE

BUSY TAPE

REC

STATUS

PLAY/PAUSE

Eventide

Model VR204

EJECT

REW

FF

STOP/EJECT

Prev

CHANNEL STATUS

A B

Soft Keys

D

TAPE ALMOST FULL/FULL

C

Figure 1.1 The VR204HF Front Panel

Can I play tapes recorded in other Eventide loggers?

Yes and no. Early VR204HF production units do not have the ability to playback non-hi-fi tapes.
VR204HF Recorders with serial number 20010493, or newer, are capable of playing both hi-fi
and standard telephone/audio tapes recorded on any of Eventide's logging recorders---VR204,
VR240, VR320.

All VR204HF-PB (Playback Only) units are capable of playing hi-fi and standard
telephone/audio tapes from any Eventide logging recorder.

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 1 ]

MEGAFAN CORP.

MODEL:FAN6025

DC 12V 0.14A

BALL BEARING

Eventide Inc.

Little Ferry, New Jersey USA

LABEL PRINTER

OUT IN

3 1

G

+ -G+

-

3 1

- G + - G

+

VR204HF

HI-FI AUDIO

EXTERNAL

SPEAKER

RELAY

OUT-L

FOOT

SWITCH

MIC

R

-LINE

AC INPUT: 100-240 VAC 47-63 Hz, 5

A

Figure 1.2 The VR204HF Rear Panel

--

G +-G+- G+- G +

4 2

CAUTION:
TO P REVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT RMOVE
COV ER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN.

4 2

Compli

es with Part 68, FCC R

FC

C Reg

ist

Ri

nger E

qui

-

ration Number 4D2USA­val

ence 0.0 B

ules

21480-RC-N

MADE IN USA

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 2 ]

PART 2 ­Operation & Configuration User Interface Screens

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Please refer to VR204 Install & Operate Manual for information regarding ac power
requirements and connections.

This section of the manual details the differences in the menu operations of the VR204HF versus
the standard VR204. When VR204HF menu items function identically to the VR204, it is
indicated with "Same as VR204," refer to the VR204 Install and Operate Manual for further
information.

POWER-UP SCREEN SEQUENCE

After the VR204HF has been properly connected to a source of ac power, and the unit turned on,
the display shows the "boot-up" screen:

---------------------------------------­Eventide VR204HF HIFI LOGGING RECORDER
System Start V6.00

----------------------------------------

The unit will then perform a series of self-diagnostic tests. The results of each test will be shown
briefly on the display. Once power-up testing is complete, then the unit will display the MAIN
Menu screen...

... if no tape is in the drive, the display will show---

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Not Ready
Controls SysInfo Disk Config

----------------------------------------

When insert a tape---

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Loading Tape
Controls SysInfo Disk Config

----------------------------------------

When a tape has loaded successfully---

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 3 ]

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ready
< Controls GoTo Disk Resume >

----------------------------------------

When a write-protected tape has loaded successfully---

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ready, write-protected
< Controls GoTo Disk SysInfo >

----------------------------------------

When a new or unformatted tape has loaded succesfully---

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Tape unreadable
< Controls GoTo Disk Resume >

----------------------------------------

When eject a tape---

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ejecting
Controls SysInfo Disk Config

----------------------------------------

MAIN MENU SCREENS

After the power-on tests have been completed, the VR204HF screen shows the Main Menu. The
Main Menu screen choices, or position of the choices, varies depending on whether a tape is
loaded or not and whether it is write protected. Expect to see the following Main Menu screens
for the indicated conditions.

MAIN MENU - No Tape In Drive

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Not Ready
Controls SysInfo Disk Config

----------------------------------------

MAIN MENU - Tape In Drive, write-protected

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ready, write-protected

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 4 ]

< Controls GoTo Disk SysInfo >

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ( [PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to access additional menu items---

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ready, write-protected
< TapeInfo Config >

----------------------------------------

MAIN MENU - Tape In Drive, not write-protected

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ready
< Controls GoTo Disk Resume >

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ( [PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to access additional menu items---

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ready
< SysInfo TapeInfo Config PrepTape >

----------------------------------------

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 5 ]

MAIN MENU CHOICES - [RESUME], [PREPTAPE], [GOTO], [DISK]

[Resume] - Same as VR204

DRIVE: Resume Recording? [Record] [Cancel]

[PrepTape] - Same as VR204

PREPARE TAPE: [Format] [MakeIndex] [Quit]

[GoTo] - Same as VR204

GO TO: [Time/Date] [Chan#] [Mem#] [Quit]

[Disk] - Same as VR204 (Toggles between Drive/Disk and related menu choices.)

[Disk] adds the following disk related choices to the Main Menu:

[SaveMsg] - Same as VR204

[TimeAdj] - Same as VR204

[Playback] - Same as Vr204

[StopRec] - Same as VR204

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 6 ]

MAIN MENU CHOICE - [Controls] CONTROLS

[Controls] - Same response with/without a tape loaded.

---------------------------------------­CONTROLS:
< Volume Channel Monitor Quit >

----------------------------------------

Pressing " <" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) gives these additional choices---

---------------------------------------­CONTROLS:
< Labels Security Quit >

----------------------------------------

All choices and operation for Volume, Labels, and Security are identical the standard (non-hi-fi)
VR204 unit. The VR204HF has new choices and/or operation for Channel and Monitor.

[Volume] - Same as VR204
[Labels] - Same as VR204
[Security] - Same as VR204

[Channel]

---------------------------------------­CHANNEL SELECTION:
Single Multiple Quit

----------------------------------------

[Single]

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: CH 01: {channel descriptor} >
ChanDown ChanUp Quit

----------------------------------------

Single allows you to step through the various available channels--- from 1 to 8. Although the
VR204HF can only record on channels 1 through 4, it allows you to select upto channel 8
because it can play-back 8-channel hi-fi tapes recorded on Eventide VR240/VR320 Hi-Fi
Recorders. (When a non hi-fi tape from any standard Eventide Logging Recorder, including the
VR320's 32-channel (non-hi-fi) tapes, is loaded, you can select channels from 1 to 32.)
The [PREV] and [NEXT] keys are used to scroll through the characters of the indicated channel's
descriptor. The "<" and ">" arrow symbols at the end and/or beginning of the descriptor area
indicate that the descriptor text extends beyond that shown on the display.

[Multiple] for hi-fi tapes

----------------------------------------

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 7 ]

SELECT CHANNEL: A=01 B=02
< Decrease Increase Save Quit >

----------------------------------------

The "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT]) keys move the underline cursor. This shows which
"channel" is being selected.

[Quit] - Exit back to previous "Channel Selection" Menu.

[Decrease] - Decreases the channel number selected (underlined).

[Increase] - Increases the channel number selected (underlined).

NOTE: The numeric keypad may be used to directly enter the channel numbers. The
cursor automatically advances to the next character after each number is pressed.

[Save] - Assigns the"new" channels to the outputs-- "A" goes to output 1, "B" to output 2.

After input channel numbers and press [Save], the Channel Allocation screen is displayed to
show the newly assigned values---

---------------------------------------­ *** CHANNEL ALLOCATION ***
A=03 B=04

----------------------------------------

After displaying the "Channel Allocation" screen for a few seconds, the unit returns to the
"Channel Selection" menu screen.

For hi-fi tapes, legal values are from 01-08. If [Save] is pressed while an illegal channel value is
shown for either "A" or "B", the channel will be cleared to 00 (or forced to 01 if its "A").

---------------------------------------­ *** CHANNEL ALLOCATION ***
A=01 B=00

----------------------------------------

[Multiple] for non-hi-fi tapes

For standard, non-hi-fi tapes, the [Multiple] screen allows four channels to be selected and the
acceptable channel values are from 01 to 32. (Non-hi-fi tapes can have up to 32 channels.)

---------------------------------------­SELECT CHANNEL: A=01 B=02 C=12 D=29
< Decrease Increase Save Quit >

----------------------------------------

Pressing [Save] shows the Channel Allocation screen

---------------------------------------­ *** CHANNEL ALLOCATION ***
A=01 B=02 C=12 D=29

----------------------------------------

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 8 ]

[Monitor]

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Digital Loopback)
< A:off B:off C:off D:off >

----------------------------------------

Monitor in the VR204HF has two modes of operation--- Digital Loopback and Confidence. The
current monitor mode is shown on the top line of the display, either "(Digital Loopback)" or,
"(Confidence, 2 Channels MAX)." In this screen, you can turn the channel monitors on/off by
pressing the coresponding softkey.

Pressing "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) reveals the Mode and Quit choices.

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Digital Loopback)
< Mode Quit >

----------------------------------------

Pressing "Mode" toggles between the two monitoring modes--- Digital Loopback and
Confidence.
Pressing "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) returns you to the on/off choices.
Quit returns to the CONTROLS: (selection) screen.

[Mode]

Selects between Digital Loopback

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Digital Loopback)
< Mode Quit >

----------------------------------------

and Confidence monitoring modes.

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Confidence, 2 Channels MAX)
< Mode Quit >

----------------------------------------

Example - Digital Loopback

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Digital Loopback)
< A:off B:off C:off D:off >

----------------------------------------

When in Digital Loopback, any combination of inputs (or all four) may be selected for "live"

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 9 ]

monitoring of the incoming audio. In Digital LoopBack monitoring, the incoming audio samples
are immediately sent to the audio outputs. The effects of the bandwidth selection (sample rate)
will be heard in the monitored audio. Pressing the softkey under each of the channel indicators
toggles that channel's monitor on/off.

Example - Enable Digital LoopBack Monitoring for Channels A, C, D (1, 3, 4)

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Digital Loopback)
< A:on B:off C:on D:on >

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to return to the Mode and Quit choices.

Example - Selecting Confidence Mode Monitoring

Press "Mode" to toggle the monitoring mode between Digital Loopback and Confidence.

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Confidence, 2 Channels MAX)
< Mode Quit >

----------------------------------------

Confidence Monitoring allows you to hear the full effects of both the recording and playback
processing on the audio signals being monitored. On the recording side, this includes the effects
of the bandwidth selection (sampling rate) and the effects of the digital data compression
algorithm. On the playback side, it is the effects of the data expansion algorithm. Because this is
a very complex data processing task, Confidence Monitoring is limited to two channels.

To select the channels--­Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to return to the on/off choices screen.

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Confidence, 2 Channels MAX)
< A:off B:off C:off D:off >

----------------------------------------

Selecting CONFIDENCE automatically sets all channel monitors to "off."
Enable the desired channels by pressing the corresponding softkeys. Because Confidence only
allows two channel monitors to be on, trying to enable a third channel monitor turns OFF the first
two because it assumes that you want to select a new "pair" of channels to monitor. (It's a lot
quicker to just enable two new channels than to first have to turn off the original choices, then
enable the new choices!)

Example - Confidence Mode, Enable Channels

Channels A & B (1 & 2) are enabled---

----------------------------------------

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 10 ]

MONITORING: (Confidence, 2 Channels MAX)
< A:on B:on C:off D:off >

----------------------------------------

Now, enable Channel C (3)---

---------------------------------------­MONITORING: (Confidence, 2 Channels MAX)
< A:off B:off C:on D:off >

----------------------------------------

Notice that Channels A & B (1 & 2) have been turned off.

The VR204HF will not allow more than two channels to be enabled during Confidence
Monitoring.

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 11 ]

MAIN MENU CHOICE - [SysInfo] SYSTEM INFORMATION

[SysInfo]

---------------------------------------­SYSTEM INFORMATION:
Internal DrvInfo SysLogs Quit

----------------------------------------

The System Information screen provides the same choices as the standard VR204. There is a
slight difference in operation under the Internal screen.

[Quit] - Return to previous (Main) menu

[DrvInfo] - Same as VR204

[SysLogs] - Same as VR204

[Internal]

---------------------------------------­INTERNAL SYSTEM INFORMATION:
Bandwidth Descrip UnitNum Quit

----------------------------------------

Because the VR204HF allows the user to select the audio "bandwidth," the present setting for
bandwidth is made available under the Internal System Information screen. (On the standard
VR204, this was the "Sampling" choice--- the sampling rate in kbps.)

[Bandwidth]

Shows unit's current Bandwidth setting. (14 KHZ, 7 KHZ, or 3.5 KHZ)

---------------------------------------­BANDWIDTH SETTING: 14 KHZ
Quit

----------------------------------------

NOTE: The BANDWIDTH value does not indicate the tape bandwidth or sample rate.

[Descrip] - Same as VR204

[UnitNum] - Same as VR204

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 12 ]

MAIN MENU CHOICE - [Config] CONFIGURATION MENU

[Config]

The Configuration screens are were all operating parameters for the VR204HF are set-up.

---------------------------------------­CONFIGURATION:
< Clock Inpt/Outpt Record Relay >

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to access additional Configuration choices---

---------------------------------------­CONFIGURATION:
< RecTimers Label Descriptors Quit >

----------------------------------------

[Quit] - Exit Configuration Screen and return to Main Menu

The Clock, Relay, RecTimers, Label, and Descriptors choices operate the same as on the
standard VR204.

[Clock] - Same as VR204
[Relay] - Same as VR204
[RecTimers] - Same as VR204
[Label] - Same as Vr204
[Descriptors] - Same as VR204

[Inpt/Outpt]

---------------------------------------­CONFIGURE INPUTS:
RecEnable InputGain OutputAttn Quit

----------------------------------------

[Quit] - returns to "CONFIGURATION:" screen.

[RecEnable]

---------------------------------------­RECORD ENABLE MODE:
< A:On B:On C:On D:On >

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to access additional Record Enable choices---

---------------------------------------­RECORD ENABLE MODE:
< Quit >

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 13 ]

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to return to previous choices.

[Quit] returns to "CONFIGURE INPUTS:" screen.

[InputGain]

---------------------------------------­INPUT GAIN:>A:23 B:23 C:23 D:23 dB
Channel Decrease Increase Done

----------------------------------------

The Input Gain screen allows the input gain for all four channels to be adjusted. The input gain
can be adjusted from 0 dB to +23 dB in 1-2 dB increments. There is also an "input clipping"
indication for each input.

[Done] - Return to "CONFIGURE INPUTS:" screen.

[Channel] - Selects channel to be adjusted. The > points to the selected channel.

[Decrease] - Causes the input's gain value to decrease. When it gets to 0, it wraps to 23.

Successive presses of "Decrease" step through the gain values--

23, 21, 20, 18, 17, 15, 14, 12,11, 9, 8, 6, 5, 3, 2, 0, 23, 21, 20 ... ...

[Increase] - Causes the input's gain value to increase. When it gets to 23, it wraps to 0.

Successive presses of "Increase" step through the gain values--

0, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 23, 0, 2, 3, 5 ... ...

Clipping Indicator

Input Clipping is indicated by an "*" (asterisk) replacing the ":" (colon) that separates the channel
letter from its gain setting. The "Input Clipping" indicator appears whenever the input to the
internal audio codec (A/D) is within -1.5 dB of full scale. The input levels are measured
constantly while in the INPUT GAIN screen. Because the clipping indicator comes on slightly
before actual clipping occurs, acceptable performance will be obtained if the gain for each
channel is adjusted so that the clipping indicator just starts to flicker at the loudest part of the
audio program material. It is important to also listen to the monitored audio, using either Digital
LoopBack or Confidence Mode, when adjusting the input levels to ensure optimum performance.

NOTE: Because the VR204HF is a logging recorder, it is designed to be configured once,
set to record, locked, then left un-attended while it records. This means that the
input/output levels (or any other configuration items) can NOT be changed while
recording is in process. Therefore, it is extremely important that the input/output levels
be set correctly before recording your program.

Example--- Input Clipping Indicator

VR204HF/VR204HF-PB Operator Manual Supplement >Preliminary< rv2 03 August 1998

[ 14 ]

---------------------------------------­INPUT GAIN: A:21 B*23 >C:23 D:23 dB
Channel Decrease Increase Done

----------------------------------------

This example shows that input B (2) is clipping. (The colon is replaced by an asterisk.) To
change the input level for B, press Channel softkey to get ">" to point to "B", then press Decrease
softkey until ":" (colon) replaces "*" (asterisk). Remember, if the "*" stays on, the input is
clipping. The "*" should only flicker on briefly at the loudest part of the audio material.

[OutputAttn]

---------------------------------------­OUTPT ATTN:>A:0 B:0 C:-93 D:-45dB
Channel Decrease Increase Done

----------------------------------------

[Done] - Return to "CONFIGURE INPUTS:" screen.

[Channel] - Selects channel to be adjusted. The > points to the selected channel.

[Decrease] - Causes the output's attenuation value to decrease. When it gets to 0, it wraps to -93.

Successive presses of "Decrease" step through the attenuation values--

-93, -90, -87, -84, -81, -78, -75, -72, -69, -66, -63, -60, -57, -54, -51, -48, -45, -42,

-39, -36, -33, -30, -27, -24, -21, -18, -15, -12, -9, -6, -3, 0, -93, -90, ... ...

[Increase] - Causes the output's attenuation value to increase. When it gets to -93, it wraps to 0.

Successive presses of "Increase" step through the attenuation values-­ 0, -3, -6, -9, -12, -15, -18, -21, -24, -27, -30, -33, -36, -39, -42, -45, -48, -51, -54, -57,

-60, -63, -66, -69, -72, -75, -78, -81, -84, -87, -90, -93, 0, -3, ... ...

[Record]

---------------------------------------­BANDWIDTH REC OVER C3ECC TIME TRACK
< 14 KHZ enabled enabled off >

----------------------------------------

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Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to access more choices---

---------------------------------------­ REC VERIFY
< enabled Quit >

----------------------------------------

All of these menus operate the same as on the standard VR204.
Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to return to previous choices.
"Quit" will exit "Record" screens and return to "CONFIGURATION:" screen.

[BANDWIDTH] - Steps through the three available bandwidth settings for the VR204HF---

3.5 KHZ, 7 KHZ, 14 KHZ

- 3.5 KHZ is typical "telephone" quality (similar to most voice logging recorders)

- 7 KHZ is typical "AM Radio" quality

- 14 KHZ is typical "FM Radio" quality

[REC OVER] - Same as VR204

Enables or disables the "record over" function. When disabled, the unit will not record
over any previously recorded tape-- regardless of the tape cartidge's write protect tab
position. When enabled, the unit will record over previously recorded material if the
tapes cartridge write protect tab is not set to the "protect" position.

[C3ECC] - Same as VR204

Enables or disables the Level 3 Error Correction Coding on the tape. Although it uses
slightly more tape, it is strongly recommended that C3ECC be enabled because it will
increase the integrity of the recorded data.

[TIME TRACK] - Enables or disables the Time Track feature. This function is redundant on the

VR204HF, since the unit does not have "VOX" recording. When the unit is set to record,
it automatically records the time and date information. Also, Time Track has no effect
when record timers are set. It is recommended that TIME TRACK be Disabled.

[REC VERIFY] - Same as VR204

Enables or disables the Record Verify feature. When disabled, pressing the RECORD
Button causes the unit to begin recording immediately. When enabled, pressing the
RECORD Button generates a prompt on the display to confirm the record process. This
is another safe-guard against accidentally recording over valuable data.

The REC VERIFY prompt screen is shown below:

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Start Recording?
Record Cancel

----------------------------------------

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MAIN MENU CHOICE - [TapeInfo] TAPE INFORMATION

[TapeInfo] - This choice is only available when a tape is loaded.

The actual menu choices are determined by the format of the tape--- either hi-fi or stnadard.

TapeInfo Screen for a "hi-fi" format tape---

---------------------------------------­TAPE INFORMATION:
< Bandwidth Descrip Position Quit >

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to access more choices---

---------------------------------------­TAPE INFORMATION:
< Rewrites Quit >

----------------------------------------

TapeInfo Screen for a "standard" format tape---

---------------------------------------­TAPE INFORMATION:
< Sampling Descrip Position Quit >

----------------------------------------

Press "<" or ">" ([PREV] or [NEXT] keys) to access more choices---

---------------------------------------­TAPE INFORMATION:
< Rewrites Quit >

----------------------------------------

[Quit] - Exit TAPE INFORMATION Screen and return to Main Menu

[Descrip] - Same as VR204

[Position] - Same as VR204

[Rewrites] - Same as VR204

[ Bandwidth] - Choice available when "hi-fi" format tape is loaded.

Shows the BANDWIDTH Setting of the tape currently loaded in the VR204HF.

Example---

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---------------------------------------­TAPE BANDWIDTH SETTING: 14 KHZ
Quit

----------------------------------------

[Quit] - Exit BANDWIDTH Screen and return to TAPE INFORMATION Screen.

NOTE: For an unformatted tape, the bandwidth setting is indicated as 3.5 KHZ.

For hi-fi tapes, settings may be: 14 KHZ, 7 KHZ, 3.5 KHZ

[ Sampling] - Choice available when a "standard" format tape is loaded.

Shows the ADPCM Sample Rate Setting of the tape currently loaded in the VR204HF.

Example---

---------------------------------------­TAPE TRANSCODING RATE: 32 KBPS
Quit

----------------------------------------

[Quit] - Exit SAMPLING Screen and return to TAPE INFORMATION Screen.

NOTE: Refer to VR204 Install/Operate Manual for available Transcoding Rates.

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NOTES

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Part 3 - RECORDING AND PLAYBACK

COMPATIBILITY

The VR204HF is capable of recording hi-fi format tapes and playing both hi-fi and standard
format tapes that were recorded on the VR204, VR240, or VR320 digital logging recorders from
Eventide. (It is also capable of playing tapes recorded on the Dictaphone 9800.)

The VR204HF-PB is a playback only machine capable of playing both hi-fi and standard format
tapes that were recorded on the VR204, VR240, or VR320 digital logging recorders from
Eventide. (It is also capable of playing tapes recorded on the Dictaphone 9800.)

The VR204HF, and VR204HF-PB, tape drive is a DDS-3 type drive. It is compatible with
DDS-1, DDS-2, and DDS-3 tapes.

RECORDING

The VR204HF will record to hi-fi format tapes only.
To guard against accidentally recording over standard format tapes when using the VR204HF,
the unit does not allow direct recording to standard format tapes. Tapes must be formatted as hi­fi tapes for the VR204HF to record to them. If you wish to record over a standard format tape, it
must first be reformatted as a hi-fi tape using the PrepTape/Format function.

When attempting to record on a standard format tape, the following warning message is
displayed:

---------------------------------------­ Standard format tape can NOT be
recorded on in HIFI unit

----------------------------------------

PLAYBACK

The VR204HF and VR204HF-PB will playback hi-fi and standard format tapes. The unit
automatically selects the correct playback algorithm based upon format information stored on the
tape.

NOTE: When playing back non-hi-fi tapes, the audio will only be output via the headphones,
lineouts, and speakers. It will NOT be sent to the balanced hi-fi outputs!

When playing a non-hi-fi tape, stopping or pausing the tape causes the unit to automatically
reconfigure for hi-fi operation.

For STOP the display shows the following:

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---------------------------------------­ Reconfiguring for HIFI, Please Wait...
< Controls GoTo Disk Resume >

----------------------------------------

Then finally (typical example, write-protected tape):

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Ready, write-protected
< Controls GoTo Disk SysInfo >

----------------------------------------

For PAUSE the display shows (briefly) the following:

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Wait...
< Controls GoTo NextMsg Scan >

----------------------------------------

followed by:

---------------------------------------­ Reconfiguring for HIFI, Please Wait...
< Controls GoTo Disk Resume >

----------------------------------------

And finally (typical example):

---------------------------------------­DRIVE: Paused 0026 14:30:34 19-Sep-91
< Controls GoTo NextMsg Scan >

----------------------------------------

PLAYBACK WHILE RECORDING

The VR204HF, like the VR204, allows the record to tape operation to be interrupted, so that the
tape can be ejected, another tape loaded, played, and ejected, then the original tape re-loaded to
resume the recording--- all without missing any data. The unit continues to record data to the
hard disk buffer while the tape drive is being used for playback, then, once the tape is re-loaded,
the data buffered on the hard disk is recorded to the tape.

There are some limitations to be aware of when playing back tapes while recording. They are:

1. For hi-fi tapes, the bandwidth setting of the tape to be played MUST BE THE SAME
as the bandwidth setting being used for recording. If is is not, the tape will play at the
wrong speed.

2. A standard format tape CAN NOT be played while hi-fi recording is in process. The
following warning screen is displayed:

---------------------------------------­ Standard format tape can NOT be played
while HIFI unit is recording

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----------------------------------------

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NOTES

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Part 4 - RECOMMENDED TAPES

The following tapes are recommended for use in your VR204HF Digital Logging Recorder:

DDS-3 125M
Sony: DGD125M (Eventide p/n: 427136)

DDS-2 120M
Maxell: HS-4/120s (Eventide p/n: 427111)

DDS-1 90M
Maxell: HS-4/90s (Eventide p/n: 427041)

Cleaning Tape
Sony: DG5CL (Eventide p/n: 427040)

The use of tapes other than those listed above or the use of "audio" DAT tapes is NOT
recommended. Proper operation and reliable data storage can not be expected when non­approved tapes are used in the VR204HF (and other Eventide logging recorders). Some tapes
from manufacturers other than those listed above have been found to be extremely abrasive and
may cause drive failure due to excessive head wear.

--------

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NOTES

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Part 5 - CONNECTING THE VR204HF

CONNECTIONS

The VR204HF has rear panel connections for four balanced inputs, four balanced outputs, an
external speaker, footswitch, relay contact, audio line out (l/r stereo), and a microphone input.
There is a headphone (stereo) jack located on the front panel.

BALANCED AUDIO INPUT and OUTPUT

The balanced audio connections are made via a 25-position female D-connector. The inputs and
outputs may be wired as balanced or single-ended.

On the VR204HF, only balanced outputs 1 and 2 are used when playing back hi-fi tapes.
Outputs 3 and 4 are only used for monitoring inputs 3 and 4. During playback, outputs 3 and 4
are not used. Only Hi-Fi audio is sent to the balanced outputs. When playing back non-hi-fi
tapes, no audio is sent to the balanced outputs.

On the VR204HF-PB, only balanced outputs 1 and 2 are used when playing back hi-fi tapes. The
connections for the inputs 1 thru 4 and outputs 3 and 4 are not used. Only Hi-Fi audio is sent to
the balanced outputs. When playing back non-hi-fi tapes, no audio is sent to the balanced
outputs.

For convenience, the pinout is marked on the VR204HF's rear-panel connector plate. The pinout
is shown in figure 2.1.

OUT 3 GND

NO CONNECTION

OUT 4 GND

OUT 4-

OUT 4+

OUT 1 GND

OUT 2-

OUT 3+

OUT 3-

OUT 2 GND

OUT 2+

OUT 1+

IN 4 GNDOUT 1-

IN 4-

IN 4+

IN 3 GND

IN 3+

16171819202122232425

IN 3-

IN 2-

IN 1 GND

1415

IN 2+

IN 2 GND

12345678910111213

IN 1-

IN 1+

Figure 2.1 VR204HF "Hi-Fi" Connector Pinout

NOTE: All ground "GND" connections are common.

When using single-ended inputs, connect signal to the "+" input and ground to the "GND" input.
Also connect the "-" input to "GND."

When using single-ended outputs, connect to the "+" output and "GND" output. Leave the "-"
output unconnected.

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SPEAKER OUTPUT

The internal speakers and external speaker jack of the VR204HF receive a mono-mix of the input
channels being monitored or tape channels being played. The overall volume is adjusted via
Controls/Volume/Speaker menu.

HEADPHONE OUTPUT

The VR204HF provides a stereo output mix to the headphone and line out jacks. For
monitoring, the left channel is a mix of channels 1 and 3, while the right channel is a mix of
channels 2 and 4. The channels to be monitored are selected via the Controls/Monitor menu.
The mix levels are fixed, only the overall output volume is adjustable via the Controls/Volume
menu.

When playing back from the VR204HF or VR204HF-PB, the left channel receives the audio
when a single channel is selected. When two channels are selected, the left channel receives the
"A" channel audio and the right channel receives the "B" channel audio. Refer to
Controls/Channel/Single or Control/Channel/Multiple menus.

When playing standard non-hi-fi tapes, the line out mix is fixed but each of the playing channels,
up to four, are positioned differently in the stereo image. "A" and "B" more to the left and "C'
and "D" more to the right.

LINE OUT CONNECTIONS

The VR204HF provides a stereo output mix to the rear panel line out jacks. For monitoring, the
Left channel is a mix of input channels 1 and 3, while the Right channel is a mix of input
channels 2 and 4. The channels to be monitored are selected via the Controls/Monitor menu.
The mix levels are fixed, only the overall output volume is adjustable via the Controls/Volume
menu.

When playing back hi-fi tapes on the VR204HF or VR204HF-PB, the left channel receives the
audio when a single channel is selected. When two channels are selected, the left channel
receives the "A" channel audio and the right channel receives the "B" channel audio. Refer to
Controls/Channel/Single or Control/Channel/Multiple menus.

When playing standard non-hi-fi tapes, the line out mix is fixed but each of the playing channels,
up to four, are positioned differently in the stereo image. "A" and "B" more to the left and "C'
and "D" more to the right.

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Part 6 - TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Balanced Audio Inputs

max level: +24 dBu, typical

Balanced Audio Outputs

max level: +24 dBu, typical

Audio L & R Line Outputs:

level: 10Vp-p max, adjustable 0-10Vp-p
connections: Two (2) 1/4-inch phone jacks

tip = signal +

ring = No Connect

sleeve = ground

Front Panel Headphone Jack:

level: 10Vp-p max, adjustable 0-10Vp-p
connector: 1/4-inch phone jack, stereo

tip = audio left

ring = audio right

sleeve = ground

Microphone Input:

input impedance: 10K ohm
level adjust: AGC and front panel
connector: 1/4-inch phone jack, mono

tip = signal +

ring = no connect

sleeve = ground

External Speaker Output:

output: 1 W max into 8-ohms
connector: 1/4-inch phone jack

tip = audio (mono)

ring = No Connect

sleeve = ground
Note: Connecting an external speaker automatically disconnects internal speakers.

Relay Output:

contact ratings: 1A max @ 30Vdc
connector: 1/4-inch phone jack

tip = Normally Open Contact

ring = No Connect

sleeve = Common

Footswitch Input:

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connector: 1/4-inch phone jack

tip = +5V (0.5mA max)

ring = No Connect

sleeve = Ground

Serial Communications Connector:

connector: DB-9, socket

pin# signal description

1 Do Not Connect, Reserved (gp in)

2 label printer data in

3 label printer data out

4 label printer hs, out

5 ground

6 Do Not Connect, Reserved (dbg in)

7 status printer, input

8 Do Not Connect, Reserved (dbg out)

9 status printer, output

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