Fostex FD-8 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Model

Digital Multitracker

0000

AUX1

AUX2

EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID SHIFT

300

200

LOW

INPUT TRK 1

PAN

10 10 10

MID

900

SHIFT

300

5k200

LOW

INPUT TRK 2

PAN

MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L

PAN PAN

LR LR

INPUT

OFF

TRK 2

TRK 1

HIGH

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

LOW

PAN

AUX2

900

300

5k200

INPUT TRK 3

PAN

INPUT

OFF

TRK 3

3 4

HIGH

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

LOW

PAN

AUX1

300

INPUT TRK 4

0000

AUX1

300

INPUT TRK 6

AUX1

AUX2

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

5k200

LOW

INPUT TRK 7

PAN

INPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SEL

INPUT

OFF

TRK 7

7 8

GAIN

MID SHIFT

LOW

PAN

H M L

LEVEL

900

5k200

INPUT

OFF

TRK 6

AUX2

900

5k200

0000

PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN

INPUT

OFF

TRK 4

AUX2

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

200

LOW

INPUT TRK 5

PAN

MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L

LR LR

INPUT

OFF

TRK 5

10 10

AUX1

300

MON MON SECTIONMONMONMONMONMONMONMON

INPUT TRK 8

INPUT SEL

AUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUX

AUX RTN

AUX2

100

900

5k200

0000

MASTER

100

SELECTOR

INPUT

L/R

OFF

L/R+MON

TRK 8

MON

L/R

H M L

LEVEL

OL 0

6 12 24

1/L

2/R 3/L 4/R

AUTO PUNCH

AUTO RTN

STOREHOLD/ /YES

PGM SEL

AUTO RTN

VARI

AUTO PLAY

PITCH

SHIFT

P.EDIT

CLIPBOARD PLAY

AUTO

LOCATE ABS 0

PUNCH

LOCATE REC END

RL4321

8765

RECORD TRACK

PREVIEW

UNDO/

REDO

LOCATE

LOC MEM

PLAYSTOPRECORD

OUTINEND

CLIPBOARD

REWIND/ F FWD/

DIGITAL MULTITRACKER

OUTINSTART

EDIT

SCRUB

8/R7/L6/R5/L

TIME BASE

SELSETUP

DISP SEL

EXIT

EXECUTE

/NO

EJECT

ACCESS

SHUTTLE

JOG

Safety Instructions

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

NO USER - SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

"WARNING"

"TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE."

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read Instructions - All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is operated.

2. Retain Instructions - The safety and operating instructions

should be retained for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance and in the

operating instructions should be adhered to.

4. Follow Instructions - All operating and use instructions should be followed.

5. Water and Moisture - The appliance should not be used near water - for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.

6. Carts and Stands - The appliance should be used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer.

An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.

7. Wall or Ceiling Mounting - The appliance should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.

8. Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so that its location or position dose not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation

openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

ATTENTION:

POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, INTRODUIRE LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE ET POUSSER JUSQU' AU FOND.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

9. Heat - The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

10. Power Sources - The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.

11. Grounding or Polarization - The precautions that should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not defeated.

12. Power Cord Protection - Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.

13. Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.

14. Nonuse Periods - The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.

15. Object and Liquid Entry - Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.

16. Damage Requiring Service - The appliance should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:

A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the

appliance; or C. The appliance has been exposed to rain; or D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance; or E. The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.

17. Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service

personnel.

Table of contents

Introduction.............................................................................4

Main features...........................................................................4

Precautions..................................................................................5

Names and Functions...............................................................6

Control Panel (Mixer section)...............................................7

Control Panel (Recorder section)........................................9

Front Panel (Input/output section)................................15

Rear Panel (Input/output section).................................15

Display Section...................................................................17

Before Starting..........................................................................21

Time Base.............................................................................21

Recording method and REMAIN indicator...................22

Managing songs by Program Change function............23

Real tracks and Additional tracks.....................................24

Input monitoring and playback monitoring................25

Signal flow (The PAN knob function and stereo bus)...26

Audio file and event.............................................................27

Formatting a Disk.....................................................................28

Recording mode....................................................................28

Formatting a current drive disk (SCSI disk)....................29

Formatting a current drive disk (2.5 inch hard disk)...31

Formatting a backup disk (SCSI disk)...............................31

Formatting a backup disk (fixed hard disk)...................32

Handling Programs..................................................................33

Creating a new Program....................................................33

Using a Program Change function....................................34

Deleting a Program...........................................................35

Editing a Program title......................................................36

Playback in Vari Pitch Mode...................................................37

Recording to a Metronome Sound.......................................38

Punch In/Out Recording.........................................................41

What is Punch In/Out recording?.....................................41

Auto Punch In/Out recording............................................41

Manual Punch In/Out recording......................................45

Digital Recording......................................................................48

Digital recording from an external digital device..........48

Digital recording to an external device............................49

Digital mixdown....................................................................50

Digital and analog simultaneous recording...................52

How to use the RECORDER IN jack......................................54

Editing Tracks...........................................................................56

Copy & Paste and Move & Paste......................................56

Erase..................................................................................59

Track Exchange.................................................................61

Cue & Review Function...........................................................63

Cue & Review function using

the REWIND and F FWD button............................63

Digital scrubbing using SCRUB mode..............................64

Cue & Review function using the SHUTTLE feature......65

Storing a Locate Point (Edit Point)........................................67

Storing and editing the locate points

to the memory key ..............................................67

Storing in real-time...........................................................67

Editing and storing locate data......................................68

Editing and storing data..................................................68

Editing the data stored in the LOCATE key..................69

Locate Function........................................................................70

Direct Locate.......................................................................70

Auto Play............................................................................70

Auto Return........................................................................71

Auto Repeat........................................................................72

Preview Function......................................................................74

Executing the Preview function.........................................75

Trimming the sound while previewing...........................75

MIDI Synchronization..............................................................77

MIDI clock sync system....................................................77

MTC sync/Machine Control system...............................79

SYNC system in Slave mode..............................................81

SYNC system with “adat” by the slave mode..................83

Saving and Loading Song Data.............................................85

Outline of the save/load operation..................................85

Saving and loading data using a SCSI drive

as the current drive......................................................87

Saving and loading data using an 2.5 inch

internal hard disk as the current drive....................91

Changing the Initial Settings (SETUP mode).....................97

Selecting SETUP mode.....................................................97

Setting a time signature....................................................98

Setting a Tempo.................................................................100

Setting the Metronome function....................................101

Setting a preroll value......................................................102

Setting MIDI sync output signal.....................................103

Setting an MTC frame rate.............................................104

Setting an MTC offset value...........................................104

Setting Offset mode..........................................................105

Setting the Slave mode....................................................106

Setting the Slave type......................................................107

Setting the Record Protection function........................108

Setting digital input tracks.............................................109

Setting digital output tracks...........................................110

Setting BAR/BEAT resolution mode..............................111

Setting the MIDI device number....................................112

Checking the number of track events............................112

MIDI Implementation Chart...................................................1 14

MMC Command List/Inquiry Message List....................1 15

Maintenance/Specifications..............................................1 16

Block Diagram......................................................................1 18

Introduction/Main features/Precautions

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Fostex FD-8. The FD-8 is a eight-track multitracker equipped with sixteen additional virtual tracks. It uses a SCSI removable disk, such as a Zip cartridge or an MO disk, or a fixed SCSI hard disk, optional 2.5 inch internal hard disk as a recording media to perform eight-track recording and eight-track playback.

Main features

Mixer section

The FD-8 is equipped with a eight-channel analog mixer that achieves the high tonal quality required by stateof-the-art digital recording.

• The mixer section features eight input channels. Inputs 1 to 6 supports line level input and Inputs 7 and 8 support a wide range of input sources, from line level to mic level.

• Inputs 7 and 8 are equipped with a microphone amplifier, a three-stage trim switch, and an insert jack, as well as a balanced XLR connector.

• All input channels have a three-point equalizer (two channels: shelving, one channel: parametric), that allow for a sharp and high-responsive tone adjustment.

• Two AUX sends and returns allows for flexible sound processing. You can connect two ambient-type signal processors with stereo outputs.

• The mixer section also features an “All Stereo Mix function” that facilitates producing a stereo masterpiece and allows you to master all sources in stereo, including synchronizing MIDI sound sources.

• The FD-8 has a “digital input track setup” function that enables you to input S/P DIF or adat digital signals and record them on any two tracks or all eight tracks.

• The FD-8 has a “digital output track setup” function that enables you to output digital data as S/P DIF or adat digital signals and record them on an external digital device (DAT, MD, adat, etc.).

• You can also use the DATA IN/OUT jacks to mix down digital signals to an external DAT or adat, and to save and load song data (audio data and SETUP mode settings) to and from the DAT or adat.

• You can connect a backup SCSI drive to the unit for the save and load operation.

• A “Digital Remix function” allows for digital output of all twenty sources remixed in the mixer section.

• MIDI clock and Song Position Pointer can be transmitted according to the internal programmable Tempo Map. You can set up a synchronization system with a sequencer or a rhythm machine without wasting a track.

• You can use the FD-8 as a sync slave machine by sending MTC from a connected device.

• The FD-8 supports MTC, MMC, and Fostex System Exclusive Message, which allows for advanced control and highprecision synchronization from external sequencing software. You can set the device number and MTC frame rate for MMC and Fostex System Exclusive Message. Also, “MTC Offset function” and “Offset Mode function” are useful for setting up a sync environment using an external sequencing software.

• Auto Punch In/Out and Manual Punch In/Out functions offer two modes: “Take” for a real recording, and “Rehearsal” for monitoring the part between the in and out points.

• The “Program Select function” enables you to select a song from up to 99 songs and name the songs.

Recorder section

The FD-8’s recorder section uses a recording format called FDMS-3 (Fostex Disk Management System-3). It uses an external SCSI device (stationary disk or removable disk) as the recording media.

• The FD-8 features non-destructive audio editing (a great advantage of digital recording) such as Copy & Paste, Move & Paste, Erase, etc. You can choose Time Base (ABS or MTC) or MIDI bar/beat/clock as the unit.

• Two recording modes: Normal mode, Mastering mode, to support various recording media.

• A “Preview function” allows for an intuitive fine-adjustment of an editing point (locate point).

• An “Undo/Redo function” enables you to easily correct recording and editing mistakes.

• A “Vari Pitch function” allows you to fine-tune the pitch.

• Recorder In jacks (L/R) are used to record audio directly to the recorder section, bypassing the mixer section.

• A “Bar/Beat Resolution function” is used to edit audio at the beginning of the beat (round up or round off to a beat).

• The “Metronome function” can be used as a rhythm guide for recording.

• Various edit functions using an edit point (locate point), such as Copy & Paste, Move & Paste, Erase, Auto Punch In/Out, Auto Locate, are available. You can also locate ABS 0 or REC END regardless of the edit point (locate point).

• You can set a preroll time of 0 to 10 seconds.

• A “Disk Remain Display function” offers a clear indication of available recording time and disk space (in mono track recording). You can choose the Time Base from ABS, MTC, and BAR/BEAT/CLK.

Introduction/Main features/Precautions

Precautions

• Be sure to connect the FD-8 to the power supply specified in the Specifications section of this Owner’s Manual. Do not use an AC outlet of any other voltage.

• Do not connect the FD-8 to the same AC outlet to which devices that could generate noise (such as a large motor or dimmer), or the devices that consume a large amount of power (such as an air conditioning system or large electric heater) are connected.

• If you use the unit in an area with a different power voltage, first consult your dealer or the nearest FOSTEX service station. You can use the unit with a power frequency of 50Hz or 60Hz.

• It is very dangerous to use a power cord that is frayed or damage. In such a case, stop using the unit immediately and ask your dealer to repair the cord.

• To avoid possible electric shock and damage to the FD-8, avoid contact with water or other liquids, or do not handle the power plug while your hands are wet.

• To prevent possible electric shock and damage to the FD-8, do not remove the main unit cover or reach the inside the unit.

• Do not let water or other liquid, or metal objects such as pins, accidentally enter the inside of the unit because this may lead to electric shock or damage. Should water enter the inside of the unit, remove the power plug from the AC outlet, and consult your dealer or the nearest FOSTEX service station.

• If you move the unit from a place with an excessively low temperature to a warm place, or if you use the unit in a room in which the temperature varies significantly during winter, condensation may occur on the hard disk or other parts. In such cases, leave the unit for about an hour in the new location before you turn on the power.

Note on repair

• This unit does not use any parts that users can repair easily. Contact your dealer or the nearest FOSTEX service station to ask about repairs.

• Use the packing carton designed for the FD-8 when you transport the unit to the dealer for repair or return. If you have discarded the packing box, try to pack the unit completely using shock absorbing materials. Fostex is not responsible for malfunction or damage due to incomplete packaging or caused during transport.

About copyrights

• It is prohibited by law to use any part of a CD recording or video images or audio data for which copyright is possessed by a third party for commercial purposes such as contents, broadcasts, sales, or distribution- any purpose other than for your personal pleasure.

About damage

• FOSTEX is not responsible for any “direct damage” or “indirect damage” caused by using the FD-8.

• To prevent damage to the FD-8, be sure to power on the connected devices first, then turn on the power to the FD-8. When you remove or connect the cables to the input/output connectors on the FD-8, make sure that the channel INPUT faders and volume controls are set “0.”

• Before turning the power off to the FD-8, first quit Setup mode and make sure that the recorder section is stopped. Especially, never attempt to turn off the power to the unit while the hard disk is accessing data (the HD ACCESS LED is lit or flashing). Otherwise, not only will you lose recorded data, but you may damage to the unit. FOSTEX is not responsible for the data lost during operation of the unit.

• Before you change the location of the FD-8, pack the unit in the shipping carton or an impact-resistant case. Make sure that the unit is kept free from external vibration or impact since the unit is very sensitive to vibration.

• Do not install the unit in locations subject to the following: * Extremely high or low temperature, or significant changes

in temperature. * Excessive humidity or dust. * Excessive changes in power supply voltage * Unstable or significantly vibrating or shaking surfaces. * Near a strong magnetic field (such as a TV or speaker).

Names and Functions

Rear panel

Names and Functions

Control panel

0000

AUX1

AUX2

EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ

HIGH

MID

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

300

200

LOW

INPUT TRK 1

PAN

10 10 10

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

LOW

INPUT TRK 2

PAN

MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L

PAN PAN

LR LR

INPUT

OFF

TRK 2

TRK 1

AUX2

5k200

OFF

R MON OUT L

AUX1

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

LOW

INPUT TRK 3

PAN

INPUT

TRK 3

3 4

R ST OUT L

R MONO/L2 AUX SEND 1

AUX RTN 2

POWER

0000

AUX1

AUX2

HIGH

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

300

5k200

LOW

INPUT TRK 4

PAN

PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN

OFF

AUX2

900

5k200

0000

INPUT

OFF

TRK 4

AUX1

AUX2

HIGH

MID

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

300

200

LOW

INPUT TRK 5

PAN

LR LR

10 10

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

LOW

INPUT TRK 6

PAN

MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L

INPUT

OFF

TRK 6

TRK 5

R MONO/L

AUX2

5k200

OFF

AUX RTN 1

AUX1

HIGH

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

300

LOW

INPUT TRK 7

PAN

INPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SEL

7 8

8 INSERT 7

AUX2

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

5k200

LOW

PAN

INPUT

OFF

TRK 7

AUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUX

AUX1

AUX2

900

300

5k200

0000

MON MON SECTIONMONMONMONMONMONMONMON

0000

INPUT TRK 8

INPUT SEL

INPUT

OFF

TRK 8

INPUT 8 INPUT 7

SCSI

AUX RTN

100

MASTER

100

SELECTOR

L/R

L/R+MON

MON

L/R

DATA

DATA PUNCH

OUT

MIDI

IN/OUT

6 12 24

1/L

2/R 3/L 4/R

PREVIEW

OUTINSTART

AUTO PUNCH AUTO RTN

STOREHOLD/ /YES

EDIT

PGM SEL

AUTO RTN

VARI

AUTO PLAY

PITCH

SHIFT

P.EDIT

CLIPBOARD PLAY

AUTO

LOCATE ABS 0

PUNCH

LOCATE REC END

PLAYSTOPRECORD

UNDO/

LOCATE

LOC MEM

RECORD TRACK

REDO

MIDI OUT

RL4321

8765

CLIPBOARD

REWIND/ F FWD/

RECORDER IN

8/R7/L6/R5/L

SCRUB

TIME BASE

OUTINEND

SELSETUP

DISP SEL

EXIT

EXECUTE

/NO

EJECT

ACCESS

SHUTTLE

JOG

LEVEL

H M L

LEVEL

DIGITAL MULTITRACKER

Front panel

8761234 5

Control Panel (Mixer Section)

0000

7 6 5

AUX1

AUX2

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

200

LOW

INPUT TRK 1

PAN

PAN PAN

INPUT

TRK 1

10 10 10

AUX2

EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ EQ

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

5k200

LOW

INPUT TRK 2

PAN

MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L

LR LR

INPUT

OFF

TRK 2

AUX1

AUX2

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

5k200

LOW

INPUT TRK 3

PAN

INPUT

OFF

TRK 3

3 4

AUX1

AUX2

HIGH

MID

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

5k200

0000

LOW

0000

INPUT TRK 4

PAN

PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN

INPUT

OFF

TRK 4

Letters in brackets ([ ]) are labels on the panel.

0000

AUX1

AUX2

HIGH

MID

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

300

200

LOW

INPUT TRK 5

PAN

LR LR

10 10

GAIN

MID

900

SHIFT

300

5k200

LOW

INPUT TRK 6

PAN

MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L MON RMON L

INPUT

OFF

TRK 6

TRK 5

HIGH

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

LOW

PAN

7 8

AUX2

900

300

5k200

INPUT TRK 7

INPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SELINPUT SEL

INPUT

OFF

TRK 7

HIGH

MID GAIN

MID SHIFT

LOW

PAN

AUX1

300

INPUT TRK 8

INPUT SEL

AUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUXAUX

AUX2

900

5k200

0000

MON MON SECTIONMONMONMONMONMONMONMON

0000

INPUT

OFF

TRK 8

MASTER

SELECTOR

L/R

AUX RTN

L/R+MON

Names and Functions

100

L/R

MON

1. Input faders [1-8]

These faders allow you to control the input level of signals selected via the INPUT SEL switch [2] (that is, the input signals from the INPUT jacks or the recorder output signals). Nominal level is obtained at fader position of 7-8, and the fader achieves approximately 6dB of gain at the 10 position.

2. Input select switches [INPUT SEL (INPUT/OFF/TRK)]

These switches allow you to select signals to be routed to the input faders. The following options are available:

“INPUT” Signals from instruments and microphones connected

to the INPUT jacks are routed to the channel faders.

“OFF” The switch is turned off. No signals are routed.

“TRK” Recorder output signals (TRK 1-8) are routed to the

channel faders, with Track 1 output routed to Channel 1, Track 2 routed to channel 2, etc.

3. Panpot knobs [P AN (L/R)]

Panpot knobs have the following two functions:

LEVEL

H M L

LEVEL

During recording, you can use them to pan channel signals of the sound sources connected to the INPUT jacks to Tracks 1-8 . Turn the knobs all the way to L or R. If you turn the knob to L, the

corresponding channel signal is recorded to Tracks 1 , 3 , 5 and 7. If you turn the knob to R, the corresponding channel signal is recorded to Tracks 2 , 4, 6 and 8.

For mixdown, use these knobs to determine the stereo image of

the playback sound of Tracks 1-8. Turn the knobs to the desired position.

4. Monitor panpot knobs [P AN (MON L/MON R)]

These knobs allow you to adjust the balance of the signals that were level-adjusted for the level via the MON knob [5] before you send them to the monitor section L and R. The following options are available.

“MON L” The signal routed to the MON knob will be sent only to

monitor section “L.”

“Center” The signal routed to the MON knob will be sent to both

monitor section “R” and “L” at the same level.

“MON R” The signal routed to the MON knob will be sent only to

monitor section “R.”

Names and Functions

5. Monitor level control knob [MON (INPUT/TRK)]

These knobs are used to select signals sent to monitor sections L and R, and to adjust the level of those signals. The following options are available.

“TRK” The recorder output signals are sent to the monitor

section. As you turn the knob to the right, the signal level becomes higher.

“0” No signals are sent. “INPUT” Pre-fader signals* from the INPUT jacks are sent to the

monitor section. As you turn the knob to the left, the signal level becomes higher.

* Pre-fader signal: Input signals before reaching the input faders

6. Equalizer control knobs [EQ (HIGH/MID/LOW)]

These knobs are used to adjust tonal quality of the signals routed to the channel faders. The following settings are available.

“HIGH” Signals with a frequency of 12kHz will be boosted/cut up

to +/-15dB.

“MID GAIN” The frequency range selected via the MID SHIFT knob

(200Hz-5kHz) will be boosted/cut up to +/-15dB.

“MID SHIFT” Use this setting to select a frequency range to boost or

cut using the MID GAIN knob. Y ou can set the frequency in the range of 200Hz-5kHz.

“LOW” Signals with a frequency of 80Hz will be boosted/cut up

to +/-15dB.

8. AUX return knobs [AUX RTN (1, 2)]

These knobs allow you to adjust the input level of processed signals from a connected external effect unit.

AUX RTN 1 These knobs enable you to adjust the input level of

processed signals from an external effect unit connected to the AUX RTN jack 1. The level of both signals input to AUX RTN 1 L/MONO and R will be adjusted equally.

AUX RTN 2 These knobs enable you to adjust the input level of

processed signals from an external effect unit connected to the AUX RTN jack 2. The level of both signals input to AUX RTN 2 L/MONO and R will be adjusted equally.

9. Monitor master knob [MONITOR SECTION (MASTER)]

This knob allows you to adjust the final level of monitoring signals, that is, the headphone volume and the level of signals output from the MON OUT L/R jacks.

10. Monitor select switch [SELECTOR (L/R, L/R+MON, MON)]

This switch allows you to select a signal to be routed to the MON OUT L/R and PHONES jacks. The following options are available.

“L/R” This selects signals output from the STEREO OUT L/R

jacks (stereo bus L/R signals).

“L/R+MON” This selects both signals output from the STEREO OUT

L/R jacks and signals routed to channel monitor buses L/R.

“MON” This selects signals routed to channel monitor buses L/

+15dB

-15dB

80Hz

200Hz

5kHz 12kHz

7. AUX send knobs [AUX (AUX 1/AUX 2)]

These knobs are used to select whether the channel fader signals are output from the AUX SEND 1 jack or AUX SEND 2 jack, and to adjust the level of those signals. That is, the signals selected and adjusted via these knobs will be sent from the AUX SEND jack 1 or 2 to an external device, such as an effect unit.

“AUX 1” Signals are sent to the AUX SEND jack 1. T urning the knob

to the left will increase the output level.

“0” No signals are sent. “AUX 2” Signals are sent to the AUX SEND jack 2. T urning the knob

to the right will increase the output level.

11. Master fader [L/R]

The master fader allows you to adjust the level of signals output from the STEREO OUT L/R jacks (stereo bus L/R output signal). The fader setting will affect the level of recorder input signals.

12. Input level switches [LEVEL (H/M/L)]

Set these switches to appropriate positions according to the output level of the devices connected to input jacks 7 and 8 (the phone jacks on the front panel or the XLR connector on the rear panel). Connect a microphone or other low-output device to input jacks 7 and 8 (on the front panel or rear panel) that have the input level switch. Refer to the example below.

<Example> “L (-50dB)” Set the switch to this position when you connect

a microphone.

“M (-30dB)” Set the switch to this position when you connect

a single-coil or humbucking type electric guitar or bass.

“H (-10dB)” Set the switch to this position when you connect

a keyboard or drum machine.

Control Panel (Recorder Section)

37 33

0 6 12 24

1/L

2/R 3/L 4/R

OUTINSTART

AUTO PUNCH

AUTO RTN

STOREHOLD/ /YES

EDIT

PGM SEL

AUTO RTN

VARI

AUTO PLAY

PITCH

SHIFT

P.EDIT

CLIPBOARD PLAY

AUTO

LOCATE ABS 0

PUNCH

LOCATE REC END

PREVIEW

PLAYSTOPRECORD

LOCATE

LOC MEM

UNDO/ REDO

RECORD TRACK

RL4321

8765

CLIPBOARD

REWIND/ F FWD/

OUTINEND

Names and Functions

Letters in brackets ([ ]) are labels on the panel.

14 15

SCRUB

DISP SEL

8/R7/L6/R5/L

TIME BASE

SELSETUP

EXIT

EXECUTE

/NO

EJECT

ACCESS

SHUTTLE

JOG

19 20

21 22

29 30

DIGITAL MULTITRACKER

13. Record track select keys [RECORD TRACK (1/L, 2/R, 3/L, 4/R, 5/L, 6/R, 7/L, 8/R)]

These keys enable you to select “SAFE” or “READY” for a recording track. Pressing the key once will cause the corresponding track to enter READY mode, and the LED of the key you pressed to flash. Pressing the key again will cause the corresponding track to enter “SAFE” mode, and the LED to turn off. When you start recording on a track in READY mode, the flashing LED remains lit. If you press only the RECORD button with a track in READY mode, you can monitor the signal input to the READY track so that you can adjust the recording level. To cancel this input monitoring status, press the RECORD button again. (This causes the FD-8 to enter playback monitoring mode.) You can also use these select keys to select tracks to edit for Copy & Paste, Move & Paste, Erase, etc.

14. LCD

The LCD indicates signal levels and various settings.

Refer to “Display Section” on page 17 for more information on the display.

15. Contrast adjustment knob

Use this knob to adjust the contrast of the LCD. Turning this knob clockwise will increase the contrast, and turning it counter-clockwise will decrease the contrast.

Note:

counter-clockwise all the way .

The display is not illegible if you leave the knob

Note:

You can record on Real tracks 1–8 in real-time, but not on Additional tracks 9–24. If you are using an MO drive as the current drive, you can record only two tracks simultaneously. If you try to record more than two tracks by setting them to READY mode, [track Over !] appears and READY mode will be cancelled.

Refer to page 25 for more information on playback monitoring and input monitoring.

16. Scrub key [SCRUB]

Pressing this key causes its LED to light up as the FD-8 enters Digital Scrub mode. At this point, press the desired RECORD RACK select key to digitally scrub the selected track playback using the JOG dial.

Refer to page 64 for more information on Digital Scrub mode.

Names and Functions

17. Display indication select key [DISP SEL]

Pressing this key each time will change the display indication as follows:

Currently-selected Time Base indication *1

Currently-selected Time Base REMAIN indication *2

External MTC IN indication *3

*1 The current position in terms of Time Base selected via the TIME

BASE SEL key appears. ABS time, MTC time, or BAR/BEAT/CLK is used.

*2 Available recording time and space on the current SCSI disk appears. Time indication uses the currently-selected T ime Base (ABS, MTC, or BAR/BEAT/CLK). The space indication uses MB (Megabyte). (The values are based on mono track recording.)

*3 MTC being input from an external MIDI device to the FD-8 appears. If no MTC is input, the display shows “00H 00M 00S 00F .”

22. Access LED [ACCESS]

This LED lights up or flashes when data is being written to or read from an external SCSI current drive disk, or optional

2.5-inch internal hard disk.

Note:

Do not turn off the power to the unit when this LED

lights up or flashes. Otherwise you may lose data on the hard disk connected to the unit.

23. JOG dial [JOG/ SHUTTLE ]

When the FD-8 is stopped, use the JOG dial to perform a jog operation (forward or reverse) for audio scrubbing without pitch change. You can also use this dial to increase and decrease the numeric values or input alphabetical characters in edit mode. Rotating the JOG dial while holding down the SHIFT key will enable you to perform the shuttle operation with different speeds ranging from normal speed to 64-times speed.

Refer to page 63 for more information on the cue/review function and the shuttle function.

18. Setup key [SETUP]

Press this key to set the FD-8 in SETUP mode to execute various menus. This key works only when the FD-8 is stopped.

Refer to page 97 for more information on SETUP mode.

19. Time Base select key [TIME BASE SEL]

Pressing this key repeatedly will switch Time Base as follows:

ABS time

BAR/BEAT/CLK

MTC time

20. Execute/Yes key [EXECUTE/YES]

Press this key to confirm the edit operations, such as Copy & Paste, Move & Paste, and Erase, and to set the parameters of SETUP menus.

24. Fast forward button [F FWD]

Pressing this button while the FD-8 is stopped will start fast forwarding at low speed at first, then gradually accelerate to 30-times speed. If you press this button while the FD-8 is playing, cueing (fast forwarding with sound) starts at threetime speed. Pressing this button while holding down the STOP button will activate the “LOCATE REC END” operation, which will locate the end point of the recording on the Real track in the current Program. You can also use this button to locate an edit point in edit mode.

Refer to the “STOP button” section and page 66 for more information on the “LOCATE ABS 0” operation.

25. Rewind button [REWIND]

Pressing this button while the FD-8 is stopped will start rewinding at low speed at first, then gradually increase the speed up to 30-times speed. If you press this button while the FD-8 is playing, cueing (rewinding with sound) starts at three-times speed. Pressing this button while holding down the STOP button will activate the “LOCATE ABS 0” operation, which will locate the beginning of the current Program (ABS time: 00m 00s 00f). You can also use this button to locate an edit point in edit mode.

21. Exit/No key [EXIT/NO/ EJECT ]

This key is the counterpart of the EXECUTE/YES key. Press this key to cancel an operation. When you use a removable SCSI disk, pressing this key while holding down the SHIFT key will eject the disk.

Refer to the “STOP button” section and page 66 for more information on the “LOCATE ABS 0” operation.

Names and Functions

26. Play button [PLA Y]

Pressing this button causes the recorder section to play back. Pressing this button while holding down the RECORD button when a track is in READY mode will cause the FD-8 to start recording on the READY track. Pressing only this button during the recording operation will punch-out (cancel) recording. Pressing this button while holding down the STOP button will cause the “CLIPBOARD PLAY” operation to start.

* Refer to the “STOP button” section and page 57 for more information on the “CLIPBOARD PLAY” operation.

* Refer to page 47 for more information on the Punch Out operation using the PLAY button.

27. Stop button [STOP]

Pressing this button during the playback, recording, fast forward, or rewind operation will stop the recorder transport operation. Pressing this button while the FD-8 is in SETUP mode will cause the unit to exit SETUP mode. Pressing the PLAY, REWIND, or F FWD button while holding down the STOP button will cause the following operations to start. If you wish to rehearse the Manual Punch In/Out operation using the foot switch, press the foot switch while holding down this button to enter Rehearsal mode.

STOP

PLAY

REWIND/

“CLIPBOARD PLAY” operation starts. (See below.) . During the operation, the STOP LED flashes and the PLAY LED lights up.

ABS 0 is located. (See below.)

* Refer to page 70 for more information on these operations. * Refer to page 45 for more information on the Punch In/Out operation using a foot switch.

28. Record button [RECORD/ AUTO PUNCH ]

Pressing the PLAY button while holding down this button will cause the FD-8 to start recording on any READY tracks. At this time, the flashing LED of the RECORD TRACK select key for the corresponding READY track lights up steadily, and the PLAY LED and the RECORD LED light up. If you press only the RECORD button, a READY Real track enters input monitoring mode (The RECORD LED flashes.). At this time, pressing the RECORD button again will cancel the input monitoring mode, and the track will return to playback monitoring mode. Pressing the RECORD button while holding down the SHIFT key will toggle between AUTO PUNCH on and off.

* Refer to page 41 for more information on AUTO PUNCH mode.

* Refer to page 25 for more information on input monitoring and playback monitoring.

29. Shift key [ SHIFT ]

Press a key, button, or turn the dial while holding down the SHIFT key to activate the following “shift-invoked” functions.

You can audition the data at edit points (locate points) stored in the memory keys. (For more information, refer to “Preview function” on page 74.)

The removable SCSI disk is ejected. (Refer to “Formatting a disk” on page 29.)

F FWD/

REC END is located. (See below.)

* CLIPBOARD PLAY operation

The CLIPBOARD PLAY operation plays back data on the clipboard. (If the clipboard does not contain any data, the display shows [Void Data !] and nothing happens.). During this operation, the display indicates the type of the data (“Copy Clip” for copy data, and “Move Clip” for move data), and the duration. The indicator of the copy source or move source track flashes. In this way, you will know which track the currently playing data comes from and why the data is on the clipboard.

* ABS 0 locate operation

This operation locates the beginning of the current Program (ABS time: 00m 00s 00f).

* REC END locate operation

This operation locates the end of the audio recording (REC END) on the Real track in the current Program.

1/L

2/R 3/L 4/R

AUTO PUNCH

AUTO RTN

STOREHOLD/ /YES

PGM SEL

AUTO RTN

VARI

AUTO PLAY

PITCH

SHIFT

P.EDIT

CLIPBOARD PLAY

AUTO

LOCATE ABS 0

PUNCH

LOCATE REC END

Auto Punch mode is turned on and off. (Refer to “Punch In/Out” on page 41.)

You can edit Vari Pitch data. (Refer to “Playback in Vari Pitch mode” on page 37 for more information.)

RECORD TRACK

PREVIEW

OUTINSTART

UNDO/ REDO

EDIT

LOCATE

LOC MEM

REWIND/ F FWD/

PLAYSTOPRECORD

You can edit locate data stored in the LOCATE key. (Refer to “Storing an edit point (locate point)” on page 66 for more information.

CLIPBOARD

8/R7/L6/R5/L

SCRUB

TIME BASE

OUTINEND

DISP SEL

SELSETUP

EXIT

EXECUTE

/NO

EJECT

ACCESS

SHUTTLE

JOG

The SHUTTLE dial function is activated. (Refer to “JOG dial/ SHUTTLE dial cueing” on page 65 for more information.)

Names and Functions

30.Vari Pitch key [VARI PITCH/ P.EDIT ]

This key toggles Vari Pitch mode on and off. When Vari Pitch mode is on, the “VARI PITCH” indicator lights up on the display, and the FD-8 plays using the current pitch data. Pressing the VARI PITCH key while holding down the SHIFT key will cause the FD-8 to enter edit mode, in which you can change pitch data in real-time. To exit edit mode, press the EXIT/NO key.

Refer to page 37 for more information on playing with Vari Pitch and editing Vari Pitch data.

31.Auto Return/Auto Play mode on/off key [AUTO RTN/AUTO PLAY]

Use this key to turn on and off Auto Return mode, Auto Play mode, and Auto Repeat mode. Each time you press the key, the mode will change and the following indication will be displayed.

AUTO

PLAY

AUTO

RTN

Auto Return/Play mode is OFF . (No indication)

Auto Play mode is ON. (“PLAY” lights up.)

Auto Return mode is ON. (“RTN” lights up.)

32. Locate key [LOCA TE/ LOC MEM ]

Use this key to locate a point. Press a key that stores locate points, such as the CLIPBOARD IN/OUT keys, AUTO PUNCH IN/OUT keys, and AUTO RTN START/END keys, then press the LOCATE key to locate a point stored in the corresponding key. The last locate data will replace the data stored in the LOCATE key. Therefore, pressing only the LOCATE key will locate the last locate point. If you have set Auto Play mode, the FD-8 will start playing from the located point. Pressing the LOCATE key while holding down the SHIFT key will cause the FD-8 to enter edit mode, in which you can edit data stored in the LOCATE key.

* Refer to page 70 for more information on the Locate function. * Refer to page 69 for more information on editing data using

the LOCATE key.

33. Hold/> key [HOLD/>]

Pressing the HOLD/> key while the recorder is operating will cause the FD-8 to capture the time at which you pressed the key (or bar/beat/clock value), display it, then enter edit mode. (If you press the HOLD/> key while the recorder section is stopped, the FD-8 enters edit mode directly.) To cancel edit mode, press the STOP button, DISP SEL key, or the EXIT/NO key. In edit mode, you can use this key to select a digit of the value to edit (edit point). You can select a digit which flashes on the display) in the following order.

AUTO

PLAY

* Auto Play mode

The FD-8 locates a point and starts playing from the locate point.

* Auto Return mode

When the AUTO RTN END point is reached while the recorder section is playing, the FD-8 automatically locates the AUTO R TN START point. This mode is effective only if the AUTO RTN START point and the AUTO RTN END point have already been specified.

Note:

FD-8 is playing. While the FD-8 is recording, the FD-8 will not locate the STAR T point after it reaches the AUTO RTN END point.

*Auto Repeat mode

This mode is effective only when Auto Play mode and Auto Return mode are turned on. The FD-8 will play the part between the AUTO R TN ST ART point and the AUTO RTN END point repeatedly. This mode is also effective only if the AUTO RTN START point and the AUTO RTN END point have already been specified.

Refer to page 70 for more information on each mode.

Auto Repeat mode is ON.

RTN

(Both “PLAY” and “R TN” light up.)

The Auto Return function is enabled only when the

ABS or MTC is used as Time Base:

First, “S” (second) flashes. Each time you press the HOLD/> key, the flashing characters change in this order: F -> SF -> H -> M-> S.

BAR/BEAT/CLK is used as T ime Base:

First, “BAR” flashes. Each time you press the HOLD/> key, the flashing indicator changes in this order: -> CLK -> BAR.

If you press the HOLD/> key and the STORE key simultaneously while the recorder is stopped, the FD-8 enters Program Select mode, in which you can select a Program or set up a new Program.

* Refer to page 66 for more information on editing memory. * Refer to page 33 for more information on the Program

Select function.

Names and Functions

34. Store key [STORE]

This key is used to store time values (or bar/beat/clock values) in the memory keys. Press this key, then one of the following keys to store data indicated on the display (including edit data) in the corresponding memory key. If you press the STORE key and the HOLD/> key simultaneously while the recorder is stopped, the FD-8 enters Program Select mode, in which you can select a Program or set up a new Program.

Press the STORE key , and press the CLIPBOARD IN key.

The CLIPBOARD IN point is stored.

This data can be used as locate data.

Press the STORE key , and press the CLIPBOARD OUT key.

The CLIPBOARD OUT point is stored.

This data can be used as locate data.

Press the STORE key , and press the AUTO PUNCH IN key.

The AUTO PUNCH IN point is stored. This data can be used as locate data.

Press the STORE key , and press the AUTO PUNCH OUT key.

The AUTO PUNCH OUT point is stored.

This data can be used as locate data.

Press the STORE key , and press the AUT O RTN START key .

The AUTO R TN START point is stored.

This data can be used as locate data.

36. Edit key [EDIT]

Pressing this key causes the FD-8 to enter menu selection mode for editing tracks, and displays the title of the menu you used last time. Press this key repeatedly or turn the JOG dial to select a menu. The edit menus appear in the following order. To execute a desired menu, select the menu, then press the EXECUTE/YES key. To exit selection mode, press the EXIT/NO key.

Copy Clip

Move Clip

Copy Paste (or Move Paste *)

Erase

TRK Exchange

(*) After you execute Copy Clip, “Copy Paste” appears. After you execute Move Clip, “Move Paste” appears.

* Refer to page 56 for more information on Copy & Paste and Move & Paste.

* Refer to page 59 for more information on Erase.

Press the STORE key , and press the AUTO RTN END key.

The AUTO R TN END point is stored.

This data can be used as locate data.

To cancel the store operation after you have pressed this key, press the EXIT/NO key.

* Refer to page 70 for more information on the Locate function. * Refer to page 66 for more information on storing edit points

(locate points). * Refer to page 33 for more information on the Program Select

function.

35. Undo/Redo key [UNDO/REDO]

If you wish to restore the status prior to editing, recording, or performing a punch in/out take, press the UNDO/REDO key. Pressing the UNDO/REDO key again will restore the status obtained before you pressed the [UNDO/REDO] key the first time. When you undo the operation, [Undo!] appears. When you redo the operation, [Redo!] appears on the display for a short moment.

Note:

The Undo/Redo function is enabled only when the

FD-8 is stopped.

* Refer to page 61 for more information on Track Exchange.

37. Auto Return Start key [AUTO RTN ST ART/ PREVIEW ]

Use this key to store the start point (AUTO RTN START point) for the Auto Return function and the Auto Repeat function. When you press this key, the FD-8 displays the currentlystored data, which you can edit. After editing the data, press the STORE key, then the AUTO RTN START/PREVIEW key to store the edited data in this key. The stored data can be used as locate data. This memory is reset to the factory default value when you turn off the power to the FD-8. If you press the AUTO RTN START/PREVIEW key while holding down the SHIFT key when the recorder is stopped, you can preview the fade-in part at the stored AUTO RTN START point.

* Refer to page 66 for more information on setting and editing the AUTO R TN START point.

* Refer to page 70 for more information on the Auto Return and Auto Repeat functions.

* Refer to page 74 for more information on previewing data at the AUTO R TN START point.

Refer to pages 44, 47, 58, 60 and “Quick operation guide” for more information on the Undo/Redo function.

Names and Functions

38. Auto Return End key [AUTO RTN END/ PREVIEW ]

Use this key to store the start point (AUTO RTN END point) for the Auto Return function and the Auto Repeat function. When you press this key, the FD-8 displays currently-stored data, which you can edit. After editing the data, press the STORE key, then press the AUTO RTN END/PREVIEW key to store the edited data in this key. The stored data can be used as locate data. If you press the AUTO RTN END/PREVIEW key while holding down the SHIFT key when the recorder is stopped, you can preview the fade-out part at the stored AUTO RTN END point.

* Refer to page 66 for more information on setting and editing the locate point.

* Refer to page 70 for more information on the Auto Return and Auto Repeat functions.

* Refer to page 74 for more information on previewing data at the AUTO R TN END point.

39. Auto Punch In key [AUTO PUNCH IN/ PREVIEW ]

Use this key to store the punch in (recording start) point for the Auto Punch In/Out function The stored data is also used as a paste start point (for Copy & Paste, Move & Paste) and as an erase start point. When you press this key, the FD-8 displays currently-stored data, which you can edit. After editing the data, press the STORE key, then press the AUTO PUNCH IN/PREVIEW key to store the edited data in this key. The stored data can be used as locate data. If you press the AUTO PUNCH IN/PREVIEW key while holding down the SHIFT key when the recorder is stopped, you can preview the fade-out part at the stored AUTO PUNCH IN point.

* Refer to page 66 for more information on setting and editing the locate point.

* Refer to page 41 for more information on the Auto Punch In/ Out functions.

* Refer to page 74 for more information on previewing data at the AUTO PUNCH IN point.

40. Auto Punch Out key [AUTO PUNCH OUT/ PREVIEW ]

Use this key to store the punch out (recording end) point for the Auto Punch In/Out function The stored data is also used as an erase end point. When you press this key, the FD-8 displays currently-stored data, which you can edit. After editing the data, press the STORE key, then press the AUTO PUNCH OUT/PREVIEW key to store the edited data in this key. The stored data can be used as locate data.

If you press the AUTO PUNCH OUT/PREVIEW key while holding down the SHIFT key when the recorder is stopped, you can preview the fade-in part at the stored AUTO PUNCH OUT point.

* Refer to page 66 for more information on setting and editing the locate point.

* Refer to page 41 for more information on the Auto Punch In/ Out functions.

* Refer to page 74 for more information on previewing data at the AUTO PUNCH OUT point.

41. Clipboard In key [CLIPBOARD IN/ PREVIEW ]

Use this key to store the start point of audio data to be copied or moved. When you press this key, the FD-8 displays data currently stored, and you can edit the data. After editing the data, press the STORE key, then press the CLIPBOARD IN/PREVIEW key to store the edited data in this key. The stored data can be used as locate data. If you press the CLIPBOARD IN/PREVIEW key while holding down the SHIFT key when the recorder is stopped, you can preview the fade-in part at the stored CLIPBOARD IN point.

* Refer to page 66 for more information on setting and editing the locate point.

* Refer to page 56 for more information on the Copy & Paste/ Move & Paste functions.

* Refer to page 74 for more information on previewing data at the CLIPBOARD IN point

42. Clipboard Out key [CLIPBOARD OUT/ PREVIEW ]

Use this key to store the end point of audio data to be copied or moved. When you press this key, the FD-8 displays currently-stored data, which you can edit. After editing the data, press the STORE key, then press the CLIPBOARD OUT/PREVIEW key to store the edited data in this key. The stored data can be used as locate data. If you press the CLIPBOARD OUT/PREVIEW key while holding down the SHIFT key when the recorder is stopped, you can preview the fade-out part at the stored CLIPBOARD OUT point.

* Refer to page 66 for more information on setting and editing the locate point.

* Refer to page 56 for more information on the Copy & Paste/ Move & Paste functions.

* Refer to page 74 for more information on previewing data at the CLIPBOARD OUT point

Front Panel (Input/Output Section)

R ST OUT L

Names and Functions

1.Input jacks [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8] (Connector: phone)

Connect sound sources, such as musical instruments and microphones, here. Connect a microphone to input jacks 7 and 8, which are equipped with TRIM switches that allow you to switch according to the connected microphone output level. Input channels 7 and 8 also support balanced XLR connectors on the rear panel.

8761234 5

The phone jacks for input channels 7 and 8 on the front panel have priority. If you connect sound sources to these jacks, the balanced XLR jacks for input channels 7 and 8 on the rear panel will be disabled.

2.Headphone jack [PHONES] (Connector: stereo TRS phone)

Connect headphones here. You can adjust the headphone volume using the MASTER knob in the monitor section.

Rear Panel (Input/Output Section)

23 4 5 6

POWER

AUX RTN 2

R MONO/L2 AUX SEND 1

R MONO/L

R ST OUT L

R MON OUT L

1. Monitor Out jacks [MON OUT L, R] (Connector: RCA pin)

Connect monitoring speakers and amplifier or powered speakers here. These jacks output signals selected by the SELECTOR in the monitor section (L/R, L/R+MON, or MON). Use the MASTER knob in the monitor section to adjust the output level.

AUX RTN 1

8 INSERT 7

INPUT 8 INPUT 7

SCSI

DATA

DATA PUNCH

OUT

IN/OUT

MIDI

MIDI OUT

RECORDER IN

2. Stereo Out jacks [ST. OUT L, R] (Connector: RCA pin)

These jacks output stereo bus L/R signals. Connect these jacks to the input jacks of a master recorder. You can adjust the output level using the master fader L/R.

R MON OUT L

Names and Functions

RECORDER IN R

3. AUX Send jacks 1, 2 [AUX SEND 1, 2]

(Connector: phone)

Connect these jacks to the input of an effect unit. The AUX SEND jacks send out signals selected and adjusted by the AUX send knobs to the connected effect unit.

2 AUX SEND 1

4. AUX Return jacks 1, 2 [AUX RTN 1, 2]

(Connector: phone)

Connect these jacks to the output of an effect unit. You can also use these jacks as auxiliary inputs. If a connected effect unit has a mono output, connect the output to the L/MONO jack of the FD-8. The right channel will also receive the same signal. Adjust the level of processed signals using AUX RTN knobs 1 and 2.

AUX RTN 1

MONO/L

AUX RTN 2

MONO/L

5. Insert jacks 7, 8 [INSERT 7, 8]

(Connector: stereo TRS phone)

Use these jacks when you wish to apply an effect to the signal input at input jacks 7 and 8 (unbalanced inputs on the front panel or balanced inputs on the rear panel). In particular, use them when you wish to apply a compressor/limiter.

7. Recorder in jacks L, R [RECORDER IN L, R]

(Connector: RCA pin)

These jacks are used to route analog signals input from an external device directly to the recorder section. Using these jacks enables you to use only the recorder section, bypassing the mixer section. Signals input from these jacks are recorded to the tracks selected by the RECORD TRACK select keys.

Refer to page 54 for more information on using the RECORDER IN jacks.

8. MIDI OUT jack [MIDI OUT] (Connector: DIN 5-pin)

Connect this jack to the MIDI OUT jack of an external MIDI device. This jack transmits MTC (MIDI timecode), MIDI clock & Song Position Pointer, MMC (MIDI Machine Control) command, response, and FEX (Fostex System Exclusive Message) response.

MIDI OUT

Refer to page 77 for more information on the example of using the MIDI OUT jack.

Refer to page 38 for more information on examples of using the INSERT jacks.

6. Balanced input connectors 7, 8 [INPUT 7, 8]

(Connector: balanced XLR)

Connect sound sources that have balanced outputs, such as musical instruments and microphones. Input channels 7 and 8 also support phone jacks on the front panel. The phone jacks for input channels 7 and 8 on the front panel have priority. If you connect sound sources to these jacks, the balanced XLR jacks for input channels 7 and 8 on the rear panel will be disabled.

INPUT 7INPUT 8

Pin 1: GND Pin 2: HOT Pin 3: COLD

9. MIDI IN jack [MIDI IN] (Connector: DIN 5-pin)

Connect this jack to the MIDI IN jack of an external MIDI device. You can control the FD-8 remotely by inputting MMC (MIDI Machine Control) command or FEX (Fostex System Exclusive Message) here.

MIDI

Refer to page 77 for more information on using the MIDI IN jack.

10. Punch in/out jack [PUNCH IN/OUT]

(Connector: phone)

Using an optional foot switch connected to this jack enables you to perform the Manual Punch In/Out operation (including rehearsal) using your foot. Connect an optional Fostex foot switch, Model 8051.

PUNCH IN/OUT

Refer to page 45 for more information on using the PUNCH IN/OUT jack.

Names and Functions

DRIVE

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

SCSI

44.1kHz

SYNC OUT DRIVE

SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

44.1kHz

DRIVE

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

CLK

SCSI

SMF

PGM

ABS

44.1kHz

11. Data output jack [DATA OUT] (Connector: OPTICAL)

Connect this jack to the OPTICAL digital input (or adat In) of an external digital device to save song data to a DAT or an adat, or to record digitally to a digital device (MD, DAT, CD-R, or adat).

DATA

OUT

Refer to page 48 for more information on using the DAT A OUT jack.

Note:

You can save only the data recorded on the current drive formatted in [Master] mode to a DAT or adat. You cannot save data recorded in [Normal] mode.

12. Data input jack [DA T A IN] (Connector: OPTICAL)

Connect this jack to the OPTICAL digital output (or adat Out) of an external digital device to load song data from a DAT or an adat, or to record data digitally from a digital device (MD, DAT, CD-R, or adat) to the FD-8.

DATA

Display Section

The FD-8 uses a liquid crystal display which integrates a 9digit/35-dot message section, 7-segment display section, and level meters. The level meters indicate the output level of tracks 1-8 and stereo out L/R. The time display shows various temporal information in different units, such as ABS time (absolute time), MTC (MIDI timecode), BAR/BEAT/CLK (bar/beat/clock), and makes it easy to check the recorder’s current time. The message display shows various messages required to operate the FD-8, and offers interactive operation. This section describes display functions along with examples.

Display when the power is turned on

When you turn on the power to the FD-8 and the connected external SCSI drive (a formatted removable disk or hard disk), the display shows the [Initial...] message, [Current Dr], the name of the connected current drive, then recording mode (Master or Normal), and finally the top position of the disk in the Time Base (ABS, MTC, or BAR/BEAT/CLK) used in the last Program before you turned the power off. The following example indicates that the FD-8 started with the ABS Time Base used in Program 1.

Refer to page 48 for more information on using the DATA IN jack.

Note:

You can load the data only to the current drive

formatted in [Master] mode. You cannot load data recorded in [Normal] mode.

13. SCSI connector [SCSI] (Connector: D-SUB 25-pin)

Connect an external current SCSI drive as the recording media or as a backup SCSI drive for the FD-8.

SCSI

Refer to the “Quick Operation Guide” for information on connecting an external SCSI drive.

14. AC IN connector

The power cable packaged with this recorder ia connected here.

Note:

Always plug the power cable to the recorder before

plugging the cable into the wall outlet.

The current drive is recognized. (If the current drive is a SCSI device, [SCSI] lights up. If the current drive is an optional internal hard disk, [IDE] lights up.)

Indicating a recording mode used during formatting.

Indicating Time Base ABS 0 (top of the disk)

The name of the SCSI drive (The name is different, depending on the type of device.)

44.1kHz

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

DRIVE

SCSI

15. Power switch [POWER]

This switch turns power on and off to the FD-8.

Names and Functions

Preset display

The display below shows all preset items for explanation purposes.

DIGITAL

REMAIN

ABS

LOC

MTC IN

1234

The level meter shows the recorder output level and the recording level for tracks 1~8 and stereo bus L, R.

ABS

MTC

REMAIN

SETUP

COMPLETED !

SURE ?

MTC OFFSET

PGM

TEMPO

V ARI PITCH

44.1kHz

MTC IN

MTC

MIDI

BAR

5678

Lights up when ABS is selected as Time Base.

Lights up when MTC is selected as Time Base. Lights up to indicate available recording time and

space on the disk.

Lights up when the FD-8 enters SETUP mode.

Lights up when an edit operation (copy, move, paste, or erase) is completed.

Lights up to confirm or cancel the operation when you are making settings or edits.

Lights up when the MTC Offset menu is selected in SETUP mode.

Lights up to indicate the current Program number.

Lights up when the tempo setting menu is selected in SETUP mode.

Lights up when Vari Pitch mode is turned on.

Indicates a sampling rate of the corresponding Recording mode. It does not light up when the disk is formatted in Normal mode.

Lights up to indicate that MTC is input from an external MIDI device to the FD-8.

32kHz 44.1kHz 48kHz

SLAVE

SETUP

OFFSET

MTC

CLKDFMB

SMH

VARI PITCH

SURE ? COMPLETED!

SYNC OUT DRIVE

CLK MTC

AUTO A.PUNCH

PLAY RTN

TEMPO

IDE SCSI

RHSL TAKE

SF %

PGM

MTC

H, M, S, F , SF

BAR,

, CLK

Lights up when the FD-8 receives MTC (MIDI Time Code) from an external device.

Lights up when the FD-8 enters Vari Pitch data edit mode.

Indicates available disk space on the disk in megabytes when the REMAIN indicator appears.

Lights up to indicate a time value when ABS or MTC is used as Time Base.

Lights up to indicate a bar/beat/clock value when BAR/BEAT/CLK is selected as T ime Base.

Indicates a Program title, edit parameters, and SETUP mode parameters.

SYNC OUT

Indicates the “SYNC OUT settings” in SETUP mode.

AUTO

Indicates the AUTO PLAY/AUTO RTN mode settings.

DRIVE

The current drive that the FD-8 recognizes (SCSI or IDE) appears on the display. (See the following note.)

A.PUNCH

Note:

If only a SCSI drive is connected to the FD-8, [SCSI] lights up. If an optional

2.5-inch internal IDE hard disk has been installed but no external SCSI device is connected as the current drive, [IDE] lights up. If a SCSI drive is connected, turned on, and specified as the current drive, and an internal hard disk is also connected, only [SCSI] will light up.

Indicates the AUTO PUNCH mode settings.

Display examples for Time Base selected via the TIME BASE SEL key

You can use the TIME BASE SEL key to select ABS, BAR/ BEAT/CLK, or MTC as Time Base. The following examples show the displays when you select a Time Base at the beginning of the disk of Program 1.

Time Base is ABS.

44.1kHz

ABS

PGM

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

DRIVE

LOC

DIGIT AL

SLAVE

MIDI

Lights up when the FD-8 enters locate point (edit point) edit mode.

Lights up when the digital input track settings are made in SETUP mode and the FD-8 is receiving digital signals correctly. However , if the FD-8 is not receiving digital signals correctly, or if there is a connection problem, this indicator flashes.

Flashes when Slave mode in SETUP mode is turned on. When a signal is locked, the flashing indicator lights up steadily.

Lights up when the FD-8 is receiving effective MIDI messages (MMC or FEX) from an external device.

Time Base is BAR/BEAT/CLK.

Time Base is MTC.

MTC

BAR

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

44.1kHz

CLK

44.1kHz

PGM

DRIVE

PGM

DRIVE

Names and Functions

Selecting Time Base using the DISP SEL key

When you press the DISP SEL key after you select a Time Base using the TIME BASE SEL key, the display changes as follows:

Time Base is ABS.

44.1kHz

REMAIN

ABS

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

44.1kHz

PGM

DRIVE

Time Base is MTC.

MTC

REMAIN

MTC IN

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

44.1kHz

PGM

DRIVE

MTC IN

Time Base is BAR/BEA T/CLK.

BAR

REMAIN

BAR

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

DRIVE

44.1kHz

CLK

PGM

DRIVE

44.1kHz

DRIVE

44.1kHz

The REMAIN display

The REMAIN display usually shows available recording space and time on the disk, calculated based on mono track recording. That is, it indicates how much space and time are available for recording on a track. Therefore, if you wish to know how much time is available for multiple-track recording, you need to divide the REMAIN value by the number of tracks you wish to record. The value calculation includes all data from Real tracks and Additional tracks. If some data exists on the Additional tracks, but not on the Real tracks, the space and time consumed by the Additional tracks are considered during the calculation. For more information on the REMAIN display, refer to “Recording method and REMAIN display” in the “Before Starting” chapter on page 22.

REMAIN

This number indicates available recording space on the disk for recording on a track.

44.1kHz

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

DRIVE

MTC IN

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

DRIVE

This number indicates available recording time on the disk for recording on a track. For example, if you record on eight tracks, one-eighth of the indicated duration is the available recording time for each track.

Names and Functions

Warning messages

The following warnings are shown operating mistakes are made, an unsuitable editing point (= locate point) is input, or when errors occur. If any of these warnings appear, refer to information detailed below.

<Void Data> message

This means registered data necessary for the selected

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

operation is incorrect.

SCSI

Action to take: Re-register the correct data.

<Void Out !> message

This means the registered in/ out point is wrong.

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

SCSI

Action to take: Re-register the correct data.

<Select Trk> message

This means a track has not been specified.

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

SCSI

Action to take: Select any one track with the RECORD TRACK

select key.

<Over !> message

This means that disk space necessary for recording and

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

editing is insufficient.

SCSI

Action to take: Before proceeding to the next operation,

temporarily data in order to source empty space necessary for the next operation.

<Load Err > message

This means that loading is impossible because there is

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

SCSI

the DATA IN connector from

an error in data applied to

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

the external DAT, or adat.

Action to take: Check the external DAT or adat connected to

the DATA IN connector and be sure there is no problem with the DAT, or adat tape. Then, try loading again.

<Track Over> message

This message appears when trying to record more than 2

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

tracks of signals

SCSI

simultaneously using a MO drive/disk as a Current Drive.

Action to take: The MO drive only allows to record up to 2

tracks at a time. After changing the RECORD TRACK select key setting, please record signals.

SETUP

SURE ?

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

<Rec + Y es !> message

This is displayed when formatting. This means press

DRIVE

SCSI

the EXECUTE/YES key while pressing the RECORD button.

Action to take:

Press the EXECUTE/YES key while pressing the RECORD button.

<Protected> message

This means the disk inserted in the drive cannot be used

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

SCSI

because it is write-protected. The disk will be ejected automatically.

Action to take:

Release the write-protect and re-insert it.

<Acc Error> message

This message indicates that

SYNC OUT DRIVE

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

an error occurs when

SCSI

accessing the disk. With this message, no keys and buttons do not function at all.

Action to take: If this message appears, please follow the

following procedures.

1. Leave the disk inside the SCSI drive and turn off the power to

the FD-8 and all connected devices.

2. Turn on the power to the SCSI drive.

3. Make sure that the orange LED on the SCSI drive lights up in

green and that the disk is not being accessed, turn on the power to the FD-8.

<Unformat !> message

An unformatted or crashed SCSI disk. After a few

DRIVE

SYNC OUT

AUTO A.PUNCH

seconds of this display, the FD-8 automatically enters the SETUP mode [Format ?] menu.

Action to take: Press the EXECUTE/YES key while pressing the

RECORD button.

Note:

Any sound data recorded up to this point on the disk

will be lost.

Before Starting

This chapter describes some basic items that you need to know before you start operating the FD-8. All users, including those who are familiar with using tape-based multitrackers and those who are new to multitrackers, should read this chapter thoroughly to understand the functions of the FD-8.

1. Time Base

2. Recording method and REMAIN indicator

3. Managing songs by Program Change function

4. Real tracks and Additional tracks

5. Input monitoring and playback monitoring

6. Signal flow (The P AN knob function and Stereo Bus)

7. Audio file and Event

Time Base

The word “Time Base” appears frequently in this manual. The concept of Time Base is similar to a “tape counter” on a conventional tape-based multitracker in that it indicates the precise position of the recorder transport section (the current position). The FD-8 offers three types of Time Base: ABS (Absolute type), MTC (MIDI time code), and BAR/BEAT/CLK (bar/ beat/clock). ABS indicates an absolute time on the disk. MTC indicates a relative time that is obtained by adding a certain value (MTC offset value) to the ABS value. BAR/BEAT/CLK indicates the position in a song created in the internal Tempo Map according to MIDI clock and Song Position Pointer. The following diagrams depict the relationship among these three types of the Time Base.

00M, 00S, 00F

ABS

BAR/BEAT/CLK

BAR = 001BAR, 0404 TEMPO=001BAR, 1 , 60

MTC

MTC OFFSET=01H, 00M, 00S, 00F

MTC OFFSET MODE=ABS This shall be assumed to be the MTC OFFSET time set for the ABS 00M, 00S, and 00F positions.

MTC

MTC OFFSET=01H, 00M, 00S, 00F MTC OFFSET MODE=BAR

This shall be assumed to be the MTC OFFSET time set for the 00 BAR, 1

and 00 CLK positions.

ABS 0

-002 BAR, 1 , 00 CLK

01H, 00M, 00S, 00F

00H, 59M, 52S, 00F

00M, 08S, 00F REC END

001 BAR, 1 , 00 CLK

01H, 00M, 08S, 00F

01H, 00M, 00S, 00F

recorded area

non recorded area

DISK END

23H, 59M, 59S

00H, 59M, 59S

00H, 59M, 51S

Y ou can switch between these three types of T ime Base to suit your purpose. (Refer to the explanation in “Display Section” on page 17 for more information on switching Time Base.)

Note:

When BAR/BEAT/CLK is selected as Time Base,

the position for ABS 0 (top of the disk) is always “-2 BAR, 1 , 00 CLK” and you cannot modify this value.

Before Starting

Recording method and REMAIN indicator

Recording method

The FD-8 uses a SCSI removable disk (such as an MO disk, EZ disk, or Zip disk) instead of a cassette tape. You can start recording sound sources from any point on a formatted disk as long as the point is within the range of 24 hours in ABS time, as described in the previous “Time Base” section. (Refer to the following diagram.)

ABS 0

recorded area (3 min.)

The area actually used on the disk.

03M 00S 00F 10M 00S 00F

unrecorded area

You can record at any point within 24 hours in ABS time.

recorded area (5 min.) unrecorded area (25 min.)

recorded area (2 min.)

REC END

12M 00S 00F

23H, 59M, 59S

unrecorded area

You can record at any point within 24 hours in ABS time.

White areas are unrecorded areas.

recordable disk area (e.g.: 30 minutes)

Gray areas are recorded areas.

For example, if you record three minutes of data starting from ABS 0 (top of the disk) to ABS 03M 00S 00F on a disk that has a recordable space of thirty minutes, as shown in the diagram, then if you record two minutes starting at the 10-minute point in ABS time (ABS 10M 00S 00F) to ABS 12M 00S 00F, the recording end point (REC END) is 12 minutes (ABS 12M 00S 00F) in ABS time. However, this does not mean that the entire recording duration is 12 minutes. The disk space actually used for recording is five minutes (3 minutes + 2 minutes). That is, the area between three minutes and ten minutes (that corresponds to 25 minutes of recording space) in terms of ABS time is still unrecorded. When you try to play or fast forward this unrecorded area, the time counter on the display will count, but the FD-8 will not access the disk. However, MTC will be output when you try to play this area. On the FD-8, the top of the disk is called “ABS 0” and the recording end point is called “REC END.”

REMAIN indicator

The REMAIN indicator displays available recording time expressed in time value (ABS or MTC) or bar/beat/ clock (BAR/BEAT/CLI) value, depending on the currently selected Time Base. It also indicates the available disk space. Right after you format the disk, the REMAIN indicator will show the maximum recordable time and space on the disk. The following example shows that the disk had about 20 minutes or 100MB recordable space after the disk format operation, and has recorded data of 4 minutes 27 seconds (or 19MB).

recorded area (4 min. 27 sec./19MB)

recordable disk area (20 min./100MB)

The REMAIN indicator displays the amount of unrecorded area.

unrecorded area (15 min. 33 sec./81MB)

REMAIN

44.1kHz

SYNC OUT

CLK SCSI

AUTO A.PUNCH

DRIVE

The REMAIN value is calculated on a mono-track basis. That is, the value indicates available recording time and space if you record on one mono track. For example, if you wish to know how much you can record on four tracks, you need to divide the current REMAIN value by eight. The REMAIN value is also calculated by deducting the time and space of all data on the Real tracks and Additional tracks from the original available recording time and space. Therefore, even if there is no recording on Real tracks, but there is data on Additional tracks, the REMAIN time will consider the time and space used by the data to calculate available time and space.

Before Starting

As described in “Managing the song by Program,” the FD-8 can set up as many as 99 Programs on the disk. Setting up a Program requires a small amount of disk space. In other words, disk space is used not only for storing recorded data but also for storing all setup data. Therefore, make sure that you have enough space on the disk before you start recording to avoid running out of space (the [OVER !] message flashes in that case).

Managing songs by Program Change function

The FD-8 features Program Select function, which enables you to set up to 99 Programs on the disk. When you format a disk, one Program will be automatically created on the disk. You may create more Programs, if necessary. You may also delete unnecessary Programs. The FD-8 also features Program Change function that enables you to select one of the Programs set on the disk. Programs on the disk are something like independent containers. You can record, play, and edit each container without affecting other containers. You can also name Programs, which is useful for managing songs.

You can name a Program. (This example shows a “temporary title” automatically named to Program 1 right after you format the disk.)

program 1

program 4

program 7

program 2

program 5

program 8

program 3

You can set up to 99 programs (independent containers).

ABS

SMF

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

DRIVE

program 6

program 9

This indicates the number of the currently selected Program. (In this example, Program 1 is selected.)

PGM

SCSI

Refer to page 33 for more information on the program select function.

Refer to page 35 for more information on the program delete function.

Refer to page 36 for more information on the editing a program title.

Note:

Total available recording time is always the

maximum available recording time on the disk, regardless of the number of Programs you set on the disk. That is, if you use up the maximum recording time for one Program, you will not be able to record any data in other Programs.

Note:

As described in the “REMAIN indicator,”

creating additional Programs will consume a small amount of disk space.

Before Starting

Real tracks and Additional tracks

The FD-8 features eight Real tracks (1-8) and sixteen Additional tracks (9-24), for a total of twenty-four tracks. Real tracks are used to record sound sources in real-time. Additional tracks are used to temporarily store the sound recorded in the Real tracks. This is useful since you can move data from Real tracks to Additional tracks to clear tracks for fresh recording. The Track Exchange function of the FD-8 handles this operation. This function allows you to swap data freely between twenty-four mono tracks. You can also swap data between multiple Real tracks and Additional tracks as an eight-track unit.

Real tracks (Trk 1 - Trk 8)

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3

Track 4

Track 12

Track 13

Track 20

Track 5

Track 21

Track 6

Track 14

Track 15

Track 22

Track 7

Track 23

Track 8

Track 16

Track 24

Additional tracks (Trk 9 - TRK 16)

Additional tracks (Trk 17 - Trk 24)

Track 9

Track 17

Track 10

Track 18

Track 11

Track 19

You can swap data between twenty-four mono tracks.

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3

Track 4

Track 5

Track 6

Track 7

Track 8

Track 9

Track 10

Track 11

Track 12

Track 13

Track 14

Track 15

Track 16

Track 17

Track 18

Track 19

Track 20

Track 21

Track 22

Track 23

Track 24

Note:

You cannot record data on Additional tracks in real-time. Also, you cannot play back data on Additional tracks as is in real-time. If you wish to play back data on an Additional track, first use the Track Exchange function to move the data to a Real track. Also, you need to move the data to a Real track if you wish to check the REC END point of a song on an Additional track.

You can also swap data between Real tracks and Additional tracks in units of eight tracks.

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3

Track 4

Track 5

Track 6

Track 7

Track 8

Track 9

Track 10

Track 11

Track 12

Track 13

Track 14

Track 15

Track 16

Track 17

Track 18

Track 19

Track 20

Track 21

Track 22

Track 23

Track 24

Note:

Data on the Additional tracks also affects the REMAIN value. If Real tracks contain no data, but Additional tracks contain data, the amount of data (time and space) will be reflected in the REMAIN value.

Refer to page 61 for more information on the Track Exchange function.

Before Starting

Input monitoring and playback monitoring

There are two methods for monitoring track sound (only on the Real tracks): input monitoring and playback monitoring. They are defined as follows:

Input monitoring

Input monitoring means to monitor via track output the recording signal sent to the Real tracks of the recorder. That is, you are monitoring a post-recorder signal, not a pre-recorder signal. The FD-8 enters input monitoring status when you perform one of the following operations.

• When you set a track to recording mode

To set a track to recording mode, press the RECORD TRACK select key to set the track READY, then press the PLAY

buttonwhile holding down the RECORD button.

When recording starts on the READY track, the FD-8 automatically enters input monitoring status.

• When you set a track to recording stand-by mode

To set a track to recording stand-by mode, press the RECORD TRACK select key to set the track READY, then press only the RECORD button. (Pressing the RECORD button again will cause the FD-8 to enter playback monitoring mode.) Under this condition, only the READY track enters input monitoring mode, on stand-by for recording.

* The following example shows track 5 in Input Monitoring mode and other tracks in Playback Monitoring mode.

Keyboard

Mixer section

Track 8 Track 7 Track 6

Track 5

Track 4 (Vocal) Track 3 (Guitar) Track 2 (Bass)

Track 1 (Drum machine)

Recorder section

Monitoring

section

This example shows overdubbing in which the keyboard is recorded on track 5 while tracks 1-4 are being played. Tracks 1-4 are in Playback Monitoring mode and used to check the playback sound. Track 5 is in Input Monitoring mode. You can monitor the recorded sound.

Playback monitoring

“Playback monitoring” means to monitor the playback sound of the tracks (only Real tracks). That is, you are monitoring the playback sound on the track, not the sound being recorded to the track.

* The following example shows that all tracks are in Playback Monitoring mode.

Track 8 (Piano) Track 7 (Keyboard) Track 6 (Vocal) Track 5 (Vocal)

Track 4 (Guitar-2) Track 3 (Guitar-1) Track 2 (Bass)

Track 1 (Drum machine)

Recorder section

Monitoring section

In this example, all tracks 1-8 are playing the recorded sound in Playback Monitoring mode.

* T o play the sound on an Additional track, you need to move the data from the Additional track to a Real track. Refer to “Track Exchange function” on page 61 for more information.

Before Starting

Signal flow (The PAN knob function and Stereo Bus)

The FD-8 is equipped with an eight-channel mixer function, which enables you to mix and record eight sound sources into stereo signal. The following diagram is designed to help you visualize the signal flow of the FD-8. It illustrates how input signals are routed through the mixer and sent to the recorder section.

The thick pipes in the diagram are called the “Stereo Bus,” which collects input channel signals passing through the equalizers and distributes them to L or R via the PAN knobs. The signal is adjusted for final output by the master faders L/R, then output from the STEREO OUT L/R jacks. At the same time, the signal is sent to the recorder (external SCSI disk) and recorded onto the tracks selected by the RECORD RACK select keys. The PAN knobs function as a “turning signal” to Stereo Bus L or R. That is, turning the PAN knob toward L will send signals to Stereo Bus L, and turning the PAN knob toward R will send signals to Stereo Bus R. If you set the PAN knob in the center, signals are sent equally to Stereo Bus L and R. At the same time, Stereo Bus L signals are finally sent to Real tracks 1, 3, 5, and 7, and Stereo Bus R signals are sent to Real tracks 2, 4, 6, and 8. Recording tracks are selected via the RECORD RACK select keys. For example, if you input three sound sources (guitar, vocal, and keyboard), set the channel PAN knobs as shown below, and press the RECORD RACK select keys 1/L and 2/R to record the sources to tracks 1 and 2, the sound sources are recorded to tracks 1 and 2 as shown below. If you wish to record all eight sources input to Channels 1-8, turn all channel PAN knobs toward L, and press the RECORD TRACK select key 1/L to select track 1 as a recording track.

STEREO BUS L

STEREO BUS R

Note:

number to two tracks.) For example, if you connect all instruments to the input channels as shown above and select all tracks for recording, guitar and vocal sounds will be recorded on tracks 1, 3, 5, and 7, and keyboard and vocal sounds to tracks 2, 4, 6, and 8.

STEREO OUT L, R

PAN

INPUT

PAN

EQ EQ

PAN

INPUT

8/R

6/R

5/L 7/L4/R

INPUT

3/L

2/R

1/L

The FD-8 is capable of eight-track simultaneous recording. (Except that using an MO disk will limit this

Before Starting

Audio file and event

During recording, the FD-8 consecutively records an independent audio file (recorded area) in each track of each Program. However, you can record data on the FD-8 at any point within 24 hours of ABS time, and you can intentionally create silence between two audio files. In this case, a silent part is counted as a 0 file. Therefore, audio files and 0 files are consecutively created as shown in the diagram below. The total number of these audio files and 0 files is called “the number of events.” The maximum number of events is 512 per track (tracks 1-24). After the number of events reaches 507, new data will not be recorded.

ABS 0

Audio File 1

Recorded area

Usually, an event is created by one recording or edit. The number of events increases or decreases depending on the number of edit points or the amount of disk free space. (FD-8 disk management operates in such way that the number of events will decrease.) The number of events does not affect usual music production. However, if a small amount of single-track data is written in many different sections on the disk, the maximum number of events may be reached. To avoid this “event number overflow,” you need to check the number of events for each track. The FD-8 provides an event check menu in Setup mode for this purpose.

Audio File 2 Audio File 3

0 File 1

Silence

0 File 2

Audio File 4

REC END

During analog recording, “0 files” are not created since silence does not create “data 0.” However, during S/P DIF and adat digital recording, the FD-8 records “data 0” (this is called “mute recording”). When one second of consecutive data 0 is input to the FD-8, it creates a “0 file” and limits the consumption of disk space. However, repeating this operation will eventually increase the number of events, leading to “event number overflow.”

Formatting a Disk

The “Quick Operation Guide” and the “Saving and Loading Song Data” chapter of this book describe how to format a disk. This chapter explains how to format an unformatted disk and how to re-format a formatted disk. Formatting a disk refers to both formatting the current drive disk and formatting a backup disk. You will use the [Format ?] and the [Bk Format?] menus in Setup Mode.

Recording mode

There are three recording Modes: “Normal mode,” “Mastering mode,” and “Backup mode.” Normal mode and Mastering mode are used to format a disk as the current disk. Backup mode is used to format a SCSI disk (removable or fixed) for saving and loading song data.

For use

Record mode

Sampling Rate

Quantumize

Available recording time

Compatible media

* Simultaneous 8 track recording by adat digital input is possible.

* 4 tracks simultaneous recording by S/P

Recording

Save/Load

(*) A.D.A.C. is the next generation digital audio coding technique maximized for multitrack recording, which has been developed by joint research of Matsushita Electric Industry Corporation and Fostex Corporation.

Note:

Available recording time varies depending on the disk capacity and type. For actual available time for a particular disk,

DIF digital signal (two inputs) and analog signal (two inputs) is possible.

Note:

is a maximum two tracks.

Save/load is possible only with external SCSI drives. Save/load is not possible with DAT and adat.

Normal mode

A.D.A.C. (*) 16bit liner

Approx. 67 minutes/100MB

(converted to one track)

MO disk, EZ disk, Zip cartridge,

Fixed hard disk,

Optional 2.5 inch IDE internal hard disk

Simultaneous recording by MO disk

Recording mode for current drive Recording mode for backup

44.1kHz

Mastering mode

44.1kHz

Approx. 17 minutes/100MB

(converted to one track)

Fixed hard disk,

Optional 2.5 inch IDE internal hard disk

* Simultaneous 8 track recording by adat digital input is possible.

* 4 tracks simultaneous recording by S/P DIF digital signal (two inputs) and analog signal (two inputs is possible.

Save/load is possible only with external SCSI drive, DAT or adat.

This is a special backup disk format for saving and loading data. Y ou cannot use a disk in this format for real-time recording/ playback.

You can save and load data between the backup disk and a current drive disk formatted in any mode (Normal or Mastering mode).

Backup mode

MO disk, EZ disk, Zip cartridge,

Fixed hard disk,

44.1kHz

please refer to the “List of the drives with guaranteed operation” in the Owner’s Manual.

Note:

You can format only a fixed disk or an optional 2.5-inch internal hard disk in Mastering or Normal modes. (The optional

2.5-inch internal hard disk must have its SCSI ID number set to any number except “6.”) T o use a removable type disk as the current drive, format the disk in Normal mode. Formatting a removable disk in Mastering mode will not provide you with enough recording space. Data recorded on a disk formatted in Normal mode cannot be saved or loaded using a DA T or adat. Those formatted in Mastering mode are capable of saving and loading data to and from a DA T or adat. You may format a disk for backup as long as the SCSI drive (fixed or removable) is set to ID number “6.” If you execute the [Format ?] menu in SETUP mode, the FD-8 will automatically recognize a connected SCSI drive or a 2.5-inch internal hard disk set to any ID number other than “6.” If you execute the [Bk Format ?] menu, the FD-8 will automatically recognize the SCSI drive set to ID number “6.”

Formatting a Disk

Formatting a current drive disk (SCSI disk)

You may use a SCSI removable disk, a fixed hard disk, or an optional 2.5-inch internal hard disk as the FD-8’s current drive. This section explains how to format a SCSI-type removable or fixed disk. Before you can format a SCSI disk, [SCSI] should appear in the [DRIVE] indication area. If you are also using an optional 2.5-inch internal hard disk, make sure that the following indication appears on the display.

44.1kHz

ABS

SMF

SYNC OUT DRIVE

AUTO A.PUNCH

PGM

SCSI

[SCSI] is lights up

ABS

CLK

44.1kHz

SMF

SYNC OUT DRIVE

AUTO A.PUNCH

PGM

SCSI

[SCSI] is lights up

Formatting a new disk

The following procedure explains how to format a new SCSI disk, and assumes that a SCSI drive (removable or fixed hard disk) is connected to the FD-8 as the current drive.

T urn on the power to the FD-8 and the current drive.

The [Initial...] message, then [No Disk] message appears on the display. (If a fixed hard disk is connected, the [Initial...] message, then the [Un Format !] message appears and the FD-8 enters SETUP mode. Skip to Step 3 below.)

Insert a new removable disk into the current drive.

The FD-8 displays the “UnFormat!” message, then automatically enters SETUP mode, and displays the “Format ?” menu. At this time, the ID number (e.g., [SCSi id-2]) of the connected SCSI drive (or fixed disk) will appear and [SURE ?] will blink on the display.

Press and hold the RECORD button and press the EXECUTE/YES key .

The FD-8 starts formatting in selected recording mode. [REMAIN] lights up on the display, and a negative value of the unformatted disk area size will count down as the format operation progresses. Please wait a while. When formatting is complete, [COMPLETED !] lights up on the display, and the FD-8 stops spinning the disk.

Press the EXIT/NO key or the STOP button to exit

SETUP mode.

Formatting will automatically create one Program 1 on the disk. The Time Base will change to ABS 0.

Make sure that the ID number is correct and the [SURE ?] message appears, then press the EXECUTE/YES key.

The FD-8 displays [Pls Wait !], then immediately displays the recording mode menu, with [Normal] (Normal mode) and [SURE ?] flashing.

Turn the JOG dial to select the desired recording

mode.

Turning the JOG dial toggles between [Normal] and [Master].

Note:

the current drive, select [Normal]. If you are using a fixed disk or optional 2.5 inch internal hard disk, select [Normal] or [Master]. Note that you cannot save or load data via a DAT or adat if you recorded the data on a disk formatted in Normal mode.

If you are using a removable MO, Zip, or EZ disk as

Press the DISP SEL key to change to the REMAIN

display and check the available recording time.

Press the DISP SEL key again to return to the Time Base display.

Press the EXIT/NO key while holding down the SHIFT key to eject the removable disk from the drive.

If you wish to format another removable disk, insert the disk and repeat the procedure described above.

Formatting a Disk

Re-formatting a formatted disk

This section explains how to re-format a current drive (Master or Normal) or backup disk as the current disk. You need to use the [Format ?] menu in SETUP mode to reformat a disk. In the following procedure, we assume that a SCSI drive is connected to the FD-8 and that the power to the FD-8 and the SCSI drive is turned on. (The same procedure also applies to a fixed disk.)

Insert a formatted disk into the SCSI drive.

The FD-8 displays the recording mode of the disk (Normal FM or Master FM), then displays ABS 0 of Program

1. If you are using a disk formatted for backup, the FD8 displays [Illegal FM], then the Time Base indication.

Press the SETUP key to enter SETUP mode and

turn the JOG dial to select [Format ?].

Press the EXECUTE/YES key .

The ID number of the connected SCSI drive appears and [SURE ?] flashes on the display.

Press the EXECUTE/YES key again.

The recording mode selection display appears. The current recording mode of the disk (Normal or Master) and [SURE ?] flash.

Use the JOG dial to select the desired recording mode. Press and hold down the RECORD button and press the EXECUTE/YES key .

The FD-8 starts formatting the disk in selected recording mode. [REMAIN] lights up on the display, and the negative value of the unformatted disk area size will count down as the format operation progresses. Please wait a while. When formatting is complete, [COMPLETED !] lights up on the display, and the FD-8 stops spinning the disk.

Press the EXIT/NO key or the STOP button to exit SETUP mode.

Formatting will automatically create one Program 1 on the disk, and the Time Base will change to ABS 0.

Press the DISP SEL key to change to the REMAIN display and check the available recording time.

Press the DISP SEL key again to return to the Time Base display.

Note:

Before re-formatting a formatted disk, first make sure that the disk does not contain data you want to keep. Otherwise, you may lose your important archives. To cancel the format operation, press the EXIT/NO key or the STOP button prior to Step 5 above to return to the previous level in the menu hierarchy and exit SETUP mode.

SETUP

44.1kHz

When you re-format a backup disk to be a current drive disk, inserting the disk in the current drive displays [Illegal FM] followed by the

SYNC OUT DRIVE

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

SCSI

ABS 0 Time Base. Although the ABS 0 Time Base appears, the disk cannot be used in its present condition as the current drive disk to perform real-time playback/recording. The display indicates the ABS 0 Time Base of the backup disk when the FD-8 enters Setup mode. Therefore, af-

44.1kHz

ABS

SMF

SYNC OUT DRIVE

CLK

AUTO A.PUNCH

PGM

SCSI

ter you insert the backup disk into the current drive, do not perform any operation other than using the [Format ?] menu in SETUP mode. Otherwise, the disk may run erratically any operations will be ignored. If this happens, turn off the power to the FD-8, then turn it on again.

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Fostex FD-8 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual