Eventide VR204HF, VR204HF-PB Installation And Operation Manual

Page 1
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
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: (201) 641-1200 Fax: (201) 641-1640 Email: broadcast@eventide.com 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
Page 2
(BLANK)
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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
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[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
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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
------
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NOTES:
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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.
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NOTES
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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
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.
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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
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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---
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---------------------------------------­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
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< 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 >
----------------------------------------
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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
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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
----------------------------------------
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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
----------------------------------------
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[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"
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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---
----------------------------------------
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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.
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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
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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 >
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----------------------------------------
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
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---------------------------------------­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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